Crown Attorney (Special Prosecutions) (Term)

The Government of Nova Scotia•Halifax, NS

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Nova Scotia Public Prosecution Service (PPS) is seeking a Crown Attorney for its Special Prosecutions Section. This role involves conducting prosecutions for charges laid under the Criminal Code and Nova Scotia statutes, representing the Crown in trials and appeals, developing criminal law policy, and advising police on investigations. The Crown Attorney will review evidence to determine the realistic prospect of conviction and consider the public interest in proceeding with charges. This position is based in Halifax but requires travel throughout the province for extended periods to prosecute cases. The successful applicant will report to the Chief Crown Attorney, Special Prosecutions Section, and will be responsible for prosecuting complex files including fraud, murder, sexual assaults, and cases with multiple accused or victims. Additionally, the role involves providing pre-charge advice on investigations, assisting with search warrants and production orders, and advising law enforcement on investigative techniques. Other duties will be assigned by the Chief Crown Attorney.

Requirements

At least 5 years’ experience in criminal law.
Significant experience prosecuting complex matters.
Significant experience in advising police on search and seizure law, including searches of computers, cell phones, and other electronic devices.
Thorough understanding of the prosecution process.
Competence in criminal procedure, evidence, and substantive criminal law.
Significant experience in responding to Charter challenges, including search and seizure (s.8 of the Charter).
A practicing member of the Nova Scotia Barristers Society in good standing (or eligible for practicing membership).
Ability to travel and prosecute throughout the Province, sometimes for extended periods.

Responsibilities

Conduct the prosecution of charges resulting from law enforcement agency investigations within the Public Prosecution Service mandate.
Work with police and prosecutors on cases including complex fraud, sexual assaults, and murder.
Prosecute complex files, including fraud, murder, sexual assaults, and files involving multiple accused and/or multiple victims.
Provide pre-charge advice on investigations, including assisting with search warrants and production orders.
Advise law enforcement on the legality of different investigative techniques.
Conduct other prosecutions and duties as directed by the Chief Crown Attorney, Special Prosecutions Section.
Travel to all parts of the province to prosecute cases, sometimes for extended periods.