Lauren is a dedicated negotiator and advocate who practises at
the intersection of Aboriginal, environmental and natural resource law. She is
highly skilled at collaborating closely with Indigenous clients to help advance
their long-term goals through practical solutions that promote recognition and
respect of Indigenous rights.
Lauren is a member of the firm's Indigenous Practice Group.
She is also a member of the firm's Environmental and Energy Groups. Lauren’s
practice focuses on providing strategic advice to Indigenous communities and
governments as they navigate complex legal issues to make decisions about their
lands and resources. She regularly advises Indigenous clients on Aboriginal and
Treaty rights-related matters, including the duty to consult and accommodate. Lauren
also assists with First Nation governance and Indian Act matters, such
as trespassing on reserve lands and electoral procedures.
With a particular emphasis on economic reconciliation, Lauren
specializes in the negotiation of government-to-government agreements, impact
benefit agreements and Indigenous equity ownership of major projects. Additionally,
she advises Indigenous clients on revenue generation and revenue sharing arrangements,
impact assessments and resource development that aligns with advancing their
economic and stewardship goals.
Lauren has appeared before the Federal Court and the Supreme
Court of Canada. She has also acted as counsel for a First Nation in a Coroner’s
inquest involving Indigenous justice and policing issues.
Prior to joining Aird & Berlis, Lauren practised at a
large international law firm specializing in Aboriginal law. She was born and
raised in Alberta, and is currently based in Vancouver.
