Legal Coordinator

Job Title: FOI Coordinator

Length: 1-2 Month Contract (Potential for Extension)

Location: Toronto (1 Day on-site, 4 Days Remote)

Rate: $38-45/hour

The FOI Coordinator is responsible for managing and processing all Freedom of Information (FOI) requests to ensure compliance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA) and meeting the legislated 30‑day response deadlines. This role involves coordinating with internal stakeholders, reviewing records, applying legislative requirements, and supporting all stages of disclosure and appeals.

Key Responsibilities

FOI Request Processing

• Manage, track, and process all FOI requests within mandated timelines to ensure MFIPPA compliance.
• Respond to internal and external FOI inquiries within 24 hours via phone or email.
• Clarify access requests and negotiate scope reductions for large or complex (voluminous) requests.
• Transfer requests to other institutions when they have custody, control, or greater interest in the records.
• Issue third‑party notices when requested records involve third‑party information.
• Search, retrieve, and review responsive records, coordinating with internal departments as needed.

Legislative Review & Decision-Making

• Research, interpret, and apply MFIPPA legislation, IPC Orders, and case law to determine access rights and exemptions.
• Consult with Senior Legal Counsel and program areas on disclosure decisions.
• Review records and sever exempt or sensitive information prior to release.
• Prepare fee estimates and draft decision letters for requesters.

Appeals & Mediation

• Manage all stages of the appeal process.
• Participate in IPC mediations and prepare written representations during inquiry stages.

Reporting & Documentation

• Provide weekly FOI status reports to Senior Legal Counsel, including:
• Updates in FOI tracking systems
• FOI deadline calendar
• Summary of routine requests
• Summary of high-profile or sensitive requests
• Update FOI policies, procedures, and manuals in collaboration with Legal and IT.
• Prepare monthly/quarterly FOI statistical reports for internal committees and annual reports for the IPC.

Records Management

• Maintain an organized library of MFIPPA legislation, IPC guidelines, and relevant case law.
• Ensure confidentiality and secure storage of all active FOI files.
• Close and archive FOI files annually in accordance with retention requirements.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of experience handling Freedom of Information (FOI) requests.
• Knowledge of MFIPPA legislation strongly preferred.
• Background as a Legal Assistant, Law Clerk, or similar legal/government role considered an asset.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite.
• Experience in government, public sector, or legal environments is an asset.