Legal Officer I at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology

Job Purpose

• The Legal Officer shall be responsible for provision of effective and efficient management of the legal department, provision of legal advisory services and ensure effective management of legal and contractual risks within the University. The Legal Officer shall report to the Vice Chancellor.

Duties and Responsibilities include:

• Draw and review all contracts, memorandum of understanding and lease agreements concerning the university to ensure the institution is not exposed to any legal risks.
• Carry out legal audit of the university to ensure that it complies with legal statutes, policies and act of parliament.
• Review tender documents before award of the tender to ensure compliance with Public Procurement and Disposal act.
• Receive and review and all court summons to ensure that thee university prepares adequate defense in all cases filed against it.
• Attend the university disciplinary committee meetings to ensure that the students and/or employees are allowed the right to defend themselves and also ensure that the university complies with the laid down legal procedures.
• To draft memorandum to the Vice Chancellor and other head of departments to advise them on legal liabilities, omissions or commissions that they may commit in the course of their duties.
• To review all university policies, rules and regulations to ensure compliance to the law h) To conduct regular training to staff members and student leaders on emerging legal issues that may affect the university
• To appear in court and defend the university in case where the legal department does not have a conflict of interest.
• Ensure compliance with ethical standards by all university employees by keeping and monitoring the conflict of interest register and gift register that is kept by various departments k) Assist the University in adopting and propagating appropriate and effective legal strategies to limit the University's legal liability
• Prepare and manage budget for the legal department
• Any other duty as assigned from time to time.

Job Specifications
Minimum Qualifications and Experience

• Masters in Law (LLM)

OR

• Bachelors of Law (LLB)
• CPS (K) or equivalent
• Advocate of the High Court of Kenya
• At least six (6) years' experience of which at least three (3) years' experience as Legal Officer II Grade 11 or it's equivalent.
• Be a registered member of Law Society of Kenya and in good standing Proficiency in relevant computer applications