Indigenous Law Solutions
Legal Solutions for Indigenous Communities
Navigating the legal landscape for Indigenous communities in Alberta requires a deep understanding of Aboriginal and Treaty rights, Indigenous governance, community owned businesses, and negotiations with government entities. At Duncan Craig LLP, we are committed to helping Indigenous communities protect their rights, develop economic opportunities, and resolve legal challenges.
Our team has extensive experience assisting Indigenous governments, organizations, and businesses in managing their relationships with provincial and federal governments, corporate partners, and local communities. We provide strategic legal guidance on business organization, corporate governance structuring, employment matters and dispute resolution.
Comprehensive Legal Support for Indigenous Communities
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Indigenous Economic Development in Alberta
We help Indigenous communities establish corporate partnerships, infrastructure projects, and sustainable business ventures while ensuring compliance with government funding programs, Indigenous tax exemptions, and economic self-sufficiency strategies. -
Governance & Self-Determination
Supporting Indigenous communities in structuring governance models that reflect their traditions and legal needs. -
Employment & Human Resource Policies
Developing workplace policies, resolving employment disputes, and supporting Indigenous workforce development. -
Surface & Resource Rights
Advocating for fair agreements in land use, mineral rights, and infrastructure development. -
Construction & Infrastructure Projects
Supporting Indigenous communities with tendering, RFPs, contract negotiation, and dispute resolution for capital and infrastructure projects, while building long-term economic development through effective project planning, regulatory compliance, and capacity-building partnerships. -
Tax-exempt businesses
We assist Indigenous clients in structuring tax-exempt businesses through the use of limited partnerships and trusts and developing financial strategies that comply with Canadian tax laws while maximizing community benefits. -
Mediation & Arbitration
Facilitating alternative dispute resolution for community and business-related legal matters. -
Judicial Review & Other Litigation
We advise leadership on election disputes and judicial reviews of Council decisions through the federal court process. Our team also handles a broad range of litigation, including constitutional matters, challenges to government regulations, and contract or construction disputes.
A Relationship Built on Trust & Respect
Our relationship with Indigenous clients is built on mutual respect, cultural awareness, and an understanding of Indigenous traditions. We prioritize collaborative solutions and work to empower Indigenous communities through legal advocacy and strategic planning.
Our approach is guided by:
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Respect for Indigenous Traditions
We recognize the unique legal, cultural, and historical contexts of First Nations communities. -
Collaborative Partnerships
We emphasize negotiation and consensus-building to create long-term solutions. -
Alternative Dispute Resolution
We support mediation and arbitration to resolve legal matters efficiently and fairly.
Need Legal Guidance for Your Indigenous Community? Speak with Our Alberta Indigenous Lawyers Today!
We help Indigenous communities in Alberta navigate the legal complexities of operating businesses and leading communities in the current environment. If your community or you require legal guidance on governance, business matters or dispute resolution, our team is here to help.
Duncan Craig LLP acknowledges that we provide legal services in ᐊᒥᐢᑲᐧᒋᐋᐧᐢᑲᐦᐃᑲᐣ, Amiskwacîwâskahikan (Edmonton), on Treaty 6 Territory, the traditional and ancestral homeland of the Nehiyawak (Cree), Métis, Inuit, Dene, Blackfoot, Saulteaux, and Nakota Sioux. Indigenous peoples have lived on and stewarded these lands for thousands of years, and we recognize their enduring presence, cultures, and contributions. As legal professionals, we acknowledge our role in reconciliation and our responsibility to uphold the principles of respect, truth, and justice. We are committed to listening, learning, and working alongside Indigenous communities, deepening our understanding of Indigenous ways of knowing, being, and doing, including those we are privileged to serve through our Indigenous Law practice group.
Group Leaders
John A. Kosolowski, KC
Counsel
Phone: 780.441.4307
Fax: 780.428.9683
jkosolowski@dcllp.com
Brittany Earl
Partner
Phone: 780.409.4417
Fax: 780.428.9683
bearl@dcllp.com
Find More Solutions Today
The services highlighted above reflect just a portion of our full legal solutions.
DCLLP Cares
At Duncan Craig LLP, relationships and community are more than values—they are the foundation of who we are. For 130 years, our firm has provided trusted legal services while also dedicating time and resources to supporting Albertans and the communities we serve.
Our lawyers and staff are proud to give back by supporting charitable organizations, scholarships, and sponsoring unique community events every year. We believe in leading by example – paying attention to where immediate support is needed and help make a difference. It’s a culture of giving that extends beyond financial contributions and reflects our commitment to enhance our strong, resilient communities in Edmonton and beyond.
A donor-advised fund ensures Duncan Craig LLP will make community contributions in perpetuity. Read the article in the June edition of Business in Edmonton.