The expertise of the practice group at Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP takes in litigation, M&A transactions, project and real estate financing and tax work. The team is regularly called upon by natural resources players, developers of pipelines, LNG and energy projects and consumer goods companies operating in First Nation territories, as well as First Nations governing bodies and First Nation-owned businesses. Vancouver-based Roy Millen and Sam Adkins share leadership of the department. Millen specializes in Indigenous rights, commercial litigation and international trade matters. Adkins, for his part, routinely assists natural resource-sector clients with Indigenous consultation, negotiation and regulatory matters. Also noted are Calgary-based Terri-Lee Oleniuk (regulatory, environmental and Indigenous law issues); and Vancouver-based Rochelle Collette, who is the key associate-level contact.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Key clients

  • NexGen Energy
  • Seabridge Gold
  • BC Treaty Commission
  • Fission Uranium
  • Teck Resources
  • CB Powerline
  • Conuma Resources
  • Denison Mines
  • Ashcroft Terminal
  • Burgundy Diamond Mines

Work highlights

  • Acted for NexGen Energy in its Rook I uranium project in northern Saskatchewan.
  • Acted for Teck Resources in Indigenous negotiations and litigation regarding one of its open-pit mines.
  • Acted for Seabridge Gold in its engagement with five Indigenous groups as part of the environmental assessment and permitting processes for a proposed gold-copper mine.

Lawyers

Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Roy Millen, Sam Adkins

Other key lawyers

Terri-Lee Oleniuk, Rochelle Collette