Impact Benefit Agreement Lawyer in British Columbia or Ontario, Canada

October 29, 2024

Aird & Berlis LLP is a leading Canadian law firm, serving clients across Canada and globally. With strong national and international expertise, the firm’s lawyers and business advisors provide strategic legal advice across all areas of business law to clients ranging from entrepreneurs to multinational corporations.

Aird & Berlis is expanding its Indigenous Practice Group in Toronto and Vancouver and is looking to add lawyers with additional corporate, litigation and Indigenous governance expertise to its growing team.

Now with 14+ lawyers, the group represents Indigenous nations, governments and organizations from across Canada in areas such as regulatory and environmental reviews, advancement of Indigenous title and rights through litigation and negotiations, including the negotiation and implementation of modern-day treaties and precedent-setting agreements tailormade for Indigenous participation in all aspects of major projects, including equity ownership.

Lawyers in the group are recognized as leading lawyers by Chambers, Best Lawyers and Lexpert. The group combines the specialized knowledge of an Aboriginal law boutique with the capacities of a full-service firm that acts on matters across Canada and internationally. This unique value proposition allows for expertise in corporate, commercial financing, real estate, tax, and intellectual property law to be provided to the firm’s clients, resulting in meaningful advancement of Indigenous rights across all areas.

If you are looking to be a part of a growing team that works to advance justice, reconciliation and make a positive societal impact, while also having the support of a 250+ lawyer firm that represents clients nationally and internationally, these opportunities may be the ideal next step in your career.

The firm is also open to discussions with existing Aboriginal law teams or small firms.

 

Job Description – Impact Benefit Agreement Lawyer

 

Due to ongoing growth, A&B is seeking an Impact Benefit Agreement Lawyer to join its esteemed team. The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting Indigenous communities by negotiating and implementing agreements that secure economic, environmental, and social benefits tied to resource development projects. They will provide legal counsel on Indigenous governance, land use, and rights, ensuring compliance with Canadian laws and consultation obligations.

The role involves collaborating with Indigenous nations, government bodies, and private industry to create mutually beneficial agreements while promoting cultural values and self-determination. This lawyer will also facilitate capacity-building initiatives to strengthen Indigenous legal frameworks.

 

 

Key Accountabilities and Responsibilities

  • Support Indigenous clients in the negotiation and implementation of IBAs, ensuring agreements foster economic, environmental, and social benefits.
  • Provide legal counsel on governance, self-determination, and land use issues, including advice on Indigenous laws, jurisdiction, and regulatory matters.
  • Advise on the legal implications of resource development projects on Indigenous lands, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and consultation obligations under Canadian law.
  • Draft and review legal documents related to IBAs, such as equity partnership agreements, resource revenue-sharing arrangements, and joint ventures.
  • Engage with government bodies, industry stakeholders, and Indigenous communities to create frameworks that respect cultural values while advancing economic development.
  • Facilitate the development of capacity-building initiatives that empower Indigenous governance and legal frameworks, supporting community-driven legal systems.
  • Provide strategic legal advice on Indigenous rights and jurisdiction, including historical grievances, land claims, and consultation and accommodation requirements.

 

Education and Professional Skills/Knowledge

  • LL.B. or J.D. degree (or equivalent).
  • Good standing with a Canadian Law Society.
  • 6+ years of experience in Aboriginal and Indigenous law, with experience negotiating IBAs and running own files.
  • Excellent drafting, analytical, and communication skills.
  • Strong interpersonal skills, sound judgment and a pragmatic approach.

 

This role offers the chance to join a best-in-class team, engage in impactful opportunities, and advance Indigenous rights, with competitive compensation and early partnership opportunities.

This is an exclusive search.

The Counsel Network – a Caldwell company is committed to building a diverse legal community through our inclusive business and recruitment practices. We value diversity of experience, expertise, and background, and strive to eliminate barriers historically encountered by marginalized groups. We recognize that an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workforce benefits and enriches both the legal profession and the greater community.

For more information or to apply for this position, contact:

Dal Bhathal, Partner
Dbhathal@caldwell.com
416.364.6654
Connect with me on LinkedIn

Miriam Leung, Principal
mleung@caldwell.com
647.317.1610
Connect with me on LinkedIn

 

To apply for this position: caldwell.thriveapp.ly/job/1190