Over the past several decades, there has been a growing recognition of the significant contributions of the Indigenous Peoples of Canada to the economic and social fabric of the country. After a long history of systematic neglect and forced assimilation, as a Nation, we have reached a turning point in history. Indigenous Peoples now have unprecedented opportunities to achieve fiscal and cultural independence as they utilize their lands, skills and rights to participate more fully in the economy.
Clark Wilson’s Indigenous Law Group possesses a unique perspective into BC’s history, culture, industry and relationships with Indigenous Peoples. With over 60 years of cumulative experience, we act as a vital resource for both industry and Indigenous Nation clients across BC and Canada to effectively and efficiently build relationships and businesses. Our team includes Indigenous and non-Indigenous lawyers who have strong community ties, extensive experience and are dedicated to developing practical business solutions in the Indigenous businesses context. We provide sophisticated advice that serves business interests and contributes to sustainable Indigenous economic development.
As one of the first regional law firms in Canada to conduct Indigenous Cultural Competency Training for all of our lawyers in early 2019, we are deepening our understanding by acknowledging the past and working to develop stronger partnerships with Indigenous Peoples. This enhanced perspective allows us to provide effective guidance and strong advocacy for each clients’ specific needs.
Our commitment to assisting businesses and Indigenous Peoples in bringing reconciliation through business solutions is reflected in Clark Wilson’s Statement of Reconciliation.
AREAS OF FOCUS
Major Projects:
- Mining, Forestry, Oil & Gas, Pipeline, Energy and Infrastructure Projects
- Duty to Consult and Accommodate
- Treaty Rights and Aboriginal Rights, including Title
- Environmental Assessments
- Permitting, Licensing, Leasing and Approvals
- Regulatory Management/Risk Assessment
- Impact Benefit Agreements/Project Agreements
- Business Procurement and Joint Ventures/LPs
- Wealth Management/Trusts
Commercial Real Estate on Indigenous Lands:
- Fee Simple Land Acquisition and Development by Indigenous Nations
- Treaty Settlement Lands Development
- Reserve Land Development (On- Reserve and Land Code Developments)
- Leasing and Sublease Structuring
- Environmental Reviews and Permitting
- Jurisdictional Reviews and Advice
- Municipal Services Agreements
- Strata Development, without a Condominium Act
Governments and their Businesses:
- Self-Government Advisory
- HR Advisory and Employment Law
- Policy and Legislative Advisory
- Land Codes and Other Land Regimes
- Procurement
- Structuring Businesses
- Taxation Agreements
- Management of Traditional Lands
- Advising Indigenous Institutions and Societies (Fisheries, Housing, Child & Family, Health)
- Litigation Support
- Specific Claims
- Indigenous Intellectual and Cultural Property
- Heritage Resources
Indigenous Entrepreneurship:
- Structuring Businesses
- Tax and Estate Planning
- Joint Ventures
- Mergers & Acquisitions
- Employment Law
- Succession
- Financing
- Family Law
We are focused on fostering successful businesses and business relations for the long term and are uniquely equipped to advance modern-day reconciliation in the business context.
