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THE TOP 10 PRAIRIE FIRMS OF 2021-22
that have taken the place of in-person, face-
to-face matters.
Growing awareness of issues faced by
Canada's Indigenous population
In June, the Senate passed a bill to harmonize
Canada's laws with the United Nations Decla-
ration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
That same month, a bill declaring September
30 the National Day for Truth and Reconcili-
ation received Royal Assent. We have decided
to close our offices on September 30 in obser-
vance of this important day.
Many of our Top 10 Prairie firms have
represented Indigenous governments
in matters before the courts, as well as
federal and provincial regulatory tribunals.
Lawyers have played a leading role in land-
mark land claims settlements, self-govern-
ment negotiations, constitutional accords
and the development of inter-governmental
relations protocols.
MLT Aikins' Runge says the firm has
represented Indigenous governments and
Indigenous-owned entities in structuring
projects and partnerships across a broad
range of industries. These include energy,
hospitality, gaming, food processing,
agribusiness, property development and
leasing, construction, transportation and
natural resources.
LaBossiere at Thompson Dorfman
Sweatman LLP points to the development
of "urban reserves" such as the one Peguis
First Nation has established in Winnipeg.
"It's a huge land project," he says, adding it
is a "busy legal space" now that reflects the
growing importance of Indigenous groups
and their economic development ambitions.
Growing and keeping a strong talent poll
The pandemic has not only had an impact on
how lawyers deal with clients, but it has also
had ramifications for how lawyers interact
with other lawyers and their firms. Law firms
these days, our Top Prairie winners included,
recognize that there is a "war for talent" to
attract and keep the best and brightest. This
SPECIAL REPORT
