New Job Posting!!! Gladue Writer

Mi'gmaq Justice Initiative

Employment Opportunity – Gladue Writer

Overview

Over the past several years, Elsipogtog, Mi'gmawe'l Tplu'taqnn (MTI), the Peskotomuhkati Nation at Skutik Council, and the Wolastoqey Nation in New Brunswick have worked both individually and collectively to advance justice reform. Together, they have established the Gladue Program in New Brunswick.

Although the Gladue Program is new to New Brunswick, Gladue principles have been used across Canada since 1996. Following the landmark R. v. Gladue (1999) decision, the Supreme Court of Canada recognized that colonialism has contributed to the overrepresentation of Indigenous peoples within the criminal justice system.

As a result, Canadian judges are required to consider the unique circumstances and lived experiences of Indigenous offenders when making sentencing decisions. Gladue Reports help the courts explore alternatives to incarceration while recognizing the impacts of colonization and systemic barriers.

The Gladue Program is delivered regionally:

• Mi'gmaq Justice Initiative serves the Eastern Region (Bathurst, Campbellton, Moncton, and Miramichi Courts).

• Elsipogtog Healing to Wellness Court also assists the Moncton Court.

• Wolastoqey Tribal Council Inc. serves the Western Region (Edmundston, Fredericton, and Woodstock Courts).

• Mi'gmawe'l Tplu'taqnn and Wolastoqey Tribal Council Inc. jointly serve the Saint John Court.

Mi'gmaq Justice Initiative is seeking a Gladue Writer to prepare and submit Gladue Reports for Indigenous offenders as requested by Judges, Crown Attorneys, or Defence Counsel throughout New Brunswick.

Key Responsibilities

• Complete a 10-week training program to become a certified Gladue Writer (tuition covered).

• Achieve a minimum 70% grade to become certified.

• Prepare and submit Gladue Reports for Indigenous offenders awaiting sentencing.

• Attend client sentencing hearings.

• Research relevant issues and develop recommendations for court consideration.

• Meet with clients and other individuals to prepare comprehensive Gladue Reports.

• Liaise with Indigenous and non-Indigenous service providers and community resources.

• Develop and maintain knowledge of Indigenous culture, history, communities, and regional issues.

• Build collaborative relationships with Judges, Defence Counsel, Crown Attorneys, RCMP, and justice personnel.

• Maintain client files, documentation, records, and tracking systems.

• Provide education and training on Gladue principles, Indigenous culture, and history.

• Maintain professional confidentiality.

• Participate in ongoing professional development and training.

Qualifications & Attributes

Candidates should possess:

• Bachelor's degree in:

  • Criminology

  • Native Studies

  • Social Work

  • or another related field

• Strong understanding of Indigenous culture, traditions, and communities.

• Experience working effectively with Indigenous peoples.

• Knowledge of:

  • Criminal justice systems

  • Sentencing principles

  • Alternative measures

  • Restorative justice principles

  • Criminal procedures and legislation

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Experience working with:

  • First Nations communities

  • Indigenous organizations

  • Multiple levels of government (First Nations, provincial, and/or federal)

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

• Strong organizational and time management skills.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and database management systems.

• Fluency in Mi'gmaq is considered an asset.

• Must reside in New Brunswick.

• Successful candidates will be required to complete a Vulnerable Sector Criminal Record Check.

Preference will be given to individuals with an Indigenous background, as outlined in Section 42 of the Human Rights Code.

Apply

Please submit your application in confidence by email with the subject line:

"Gladue Writer"

Email:
jodymcdonald@migmawel.org

Application Deadline:
July 24, 2026

Additional Information

Candidates with knowledge of the Mi'gmaq language, culture, and Mi'gmaq First Nation communities of New Brunswick will receive the highest consideration.

Mi'gmaq Justice Initiative thanks all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for further consideration will be contacted. Applicants are responsible for ensuring their application is received by the deadline.