Indigenous Governance Lawyer in British Columbia or Ontario, Canada

September 24, 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 – Lawyer, Indigenous Governance

 

Due to ongoing growth, A&B is seeking an Indigenous Governance Lawyer to join its esteemed team.

The successful candidate will have experience in Aboriginal and treaty rights matters, including working with Indigenous nations and governments in addressing their internal governance needs, designing cumulative impacts and effects strategies for participation in regulatory proceedings and the development and implementation of Indigenous laws. Demonstrated experience in Indigenous child and family services laws-related work will be prioritized.

 

Key Accountabilities and Responsibilities

 

  • Assist Indigenous communities in negotiating and implementing self-government agreements and frameworks.
  • Provide legal counsel on the development and operation of Indigenous governance structures, including constitutions, election codes, and bylaws.
  • Represent Indigenous communities in treaty negotiations, land claims, and other settlement processes.
  • Advise Indigenous communities on legal obligations related to consultation and accommodation under Canadian law, including engagement with government and industry.
  • Analyze and draft legislation or regulations affecting Indigenous governance, including representation before government bodies and advocating for legal reforms.
  • Provide training and capacity-building programs to Indigenous governance bodies to help strengthen legal and administrative systems.
  • Draft and review governance-related documents such as codes of conduct, policies, and intergovernmental agreements.
  • Support the development and implementation of policies for Indigenous governments and administrations, ensuring alignment with cultural values and legal frameworks.

 

Education and Professional Skills/Knowledge

 

  • LL.B. or J.D. degree (or equivalent).
  • Good standing with a Canadian Law Society.
  • 6+ years of Indigenous governance experience at a top tier firm, and experience working with Indigenous clients and communities.
  • 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/1178