JUNIOR LEGAL ADVISOR (100%) At TRIAL International

Founded in 2002, TRIAL International is a non-governmental organization that fights against impunity for international crimes and supports victims in their quest for justice. With programs in Switzerland, Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Democratic Republic of Congo, the organization provides legal assistance, conducts investigations and takes legal action, develops the capacities of local actors and advocates for human rights.

The International Procedures and Investigations (IEP) program aims to bring justice to the victims of international crimes and to fight against the impunity of the perpetrators of these acts through the exercise of universal or extraterritorial jurisdiction. To do this, the PEI program team conducts in-depth investigations, denounces suspects present in Switzerland or on the territory of other countries and provides legal support to victims of serious crimes allowing them to file a complaint and access the justice.

In order to strengthen our legal team in Geneva, we are currently looking for a full-time Junior Legal Advisor.

In this role, you participate in the fight against impunity for international crimes and support victims in their quest for justice by supporting the implementation of the legal activities of the PEI program.

YOUR MISSION

• Carry out any relevant legal research, analysis of the evidence collected, appropriate archiving of the information obtained, and contribute to the preparation of legal files with a view to opening procedures by the competent authorities;
• Provide legal advice, logistical support and regular updates regarding procedures to victims supported by the organization and when assisting lawyers representing victims in procedures;
• Collect all relevant information and evidence, from open sources, through interviews or during missions abroad, on natural or legal persons likely to have committed international crimes;
• Assist the Principal Legal Advisor as well as other members of the PEI team in communication and data collection activities necessary for monitoring program activities, fundraising, and advocacy;
• Participate in the organization of events, the planning of fact-finding missions, victim and witness trips, and other administrative and security-related tasks (digital and on mission).

YOUR PROFILE

• University degree and master’s degree in law, including training in the field of international criminal law, humanitarian law and/or human rights;
• Experience of at least 2 years in a field relating to national or international criminal justice, human rights and/or international humanitarian law. Training/practice as a lawyer is an important asset;
• Very good knowledge of national and international criminal law. Mastery of Swiss and/or French criminal law and criminal procedure law is an asset;
• Full command of English and French, both written and spoken, as well as very good legal writing skills. Fluency in German, Arabic, or Spanish is an asset;
• Prior experience of collaboration or work in the field of NGOs or other organizations active in documenting human rights violations and/or defending the rights of victims is an asset;
• Spirit of analysis and synthesis, creativity, ability to work independently and sense of priorities, capacity for initiative, organization and attention to detail;
• Discretion, respect for confidentiality and reserve necessary for the exercise of the function, ability to listen and empathy;
• Perfect command of IT tools (traditional office automation as well as secure communication tools).
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team and in an intercultural context;
• Strong interest in the theme of human rights and strong identification with the mandate of TRIAL International;

In order to consider your application, you must be a Swiss, European Union or EFTA national or in possession of a valid work authorization in Switzerland.

WHAT WE OFFER YOU

A position within a committed and dynamic organization as well as an exciting mission alongside victims and survivors of international crimes, within a competent and motivated team.

• Department: International Procedures and Investigations (PEI)
• Reporting to: Senior Legal Advisor
• Work locations: Geneva, Switzerland
• Activity rate: 100% (40 hours per week)
• Type of contract: Permanent contract
• Starting date: June 1, 2024 (or to be agreed)

The employment conditions offered correspond to those in force in the NGO sector, with 5 weeks of annual leave and flexible working arrangements, allowing you to find a balance between your needs and those of the organization.