ELSA JOSEPH

A dedicated and passionate licensed paralegal and notary public with a background in criminology with a strong and a deep commitment to delivering accessible, fair, timely and effective services to my community, vulnerable populations such as racialize communities, Indigenous Peoples, youth and those experiencing mental health or addiction challenges and/or homelessness. Committed to applying academic training and collaborating with organizations to strengthen contributions in the public interest. Seeking a position focused on providing me with the practical experience in the Ontario Court System. Fluent in English and French.

• Canadian Lawyer - Women In Law
• Volunteer work - Food Bank
• Devoted follower of Basketball
• Access to Justice and more.

• Responsible for appearances in criminal court, client intake interviews (in-person, phone, video), day of court triage, bail court preparation, and assisting counsel with bail hearing processes, surety interviews.

• Performed administrative tasks such as providing clients with public legal information including procedural legal information, data input, data entry in People Soft, voicemail transcribing, time dockets entries, processed invoices, and provided trial preparation support.

• Prepared and drafted non-complex family court documents and pleadings, including the drafting and preparation of applications, answers, motions, affidavits, and financial statements.

• Issued Referral to obtain Legal Aid Certificate and formed entitlement decisions (including ongoing eligibility) based on financial and legal eligibility policies and guidelines by gathering necessary information (case history) required for decision-making.

• Responsible for gathering evidence, witness preparation, legal research, and preparing arbitration briefs. Assisted during mediation sessions, drafting settlements, and managing bring-forward systems. Provided office administration activities, including opening, closing, creating, and maintaining files, and being the first point of contact with clients and professionals.