Shelby Wilson Shelby Wilson

British Columbia Court of Appeal clarifies ‘sufficient occupation’ to establish Aboriginal title in Nuchatlaht

The Court declared Aboriginal title over the entire 201-square-kilometre claim area of Nootka Island on the west coast of Vancouver Island.

Forever chemicals, forever liability? The rise of PFAS class actions in Canada

Canadian courts are now grappling with claims over alleged contamination from PFAS, or “forever chemicals.”

Aboriginal title and private property: divergent approaches in Cowichan and Wolastoqey

An examination of two decisions and implications for Canadian governments, Indigenous Nations and private property owners.

Sealing the sacred: court protects Indigenous cultural information

The Supreme Court of B.C. recognized the importance of protecting sensitive Indigenous cultural information while facilitating access to justice.

UNDRIP in B.C. law: Court of Appeal confirms immediate effect and targets mineral claim regime

B.C. has been instructed by the courts to resolve the inconsistencies between the province’s mineral claims regime and UNDRIP rights and standards.

Reconciling Aboriginal title and private property rights on unceded land

In the intersection between Aboriginal title and private property rights, the courts are addressing questions about land ownership on unceded...

The longest trial, a big impact: Cowichan’s Aboriginal title victory

A landmark decision in B.C. has created uncertainty for governments, fee simple landowners and Indigenous communities with overlapping title claims.

Some things last forever: Government of Canada proposes regulatory measures for PFAS

The Government of Canada intends to introduce additional regulatory instruments to further restrict the manufacture and use of PFAS.

Guidance published for reporting to the Federal Plastics Registry – Phase 1

We explore the Federal Plastics Registry’s and Guide for Phase 1 Reporting’s key elements, the reporting standard, and implications for industry.

Major developments in Indigenous law in 2025

2025 has already seen several important developments touching on Aboriginal rights, the duty to consult, UNDRIP, land-use planning and more.