The expertise of the practice group at Torys takes in M&A transactions and energy and infrastructure projects, involving Indigenous communities, as well as related litigation. The team is regularly instructed by Indigenous communities, governments and companies alike. Toronto-based Valerie Helbronner and John Terry share leadership of the department. Helbronner specializes in the development of infrastructure projects involving Indigenous interests and parties. Terry focuses his practice on litigation for public law cases involving Indigenous issues, constitutional and treaty rights. Former Supreme Court Justice and senior counsel Frank Iacobucci KC is an additional key contact. Associate Brianne Paulin left the firm in October 2023.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Incredible bench strength and an uncommon technical and practical understanding of the implications of Indigenous law to Canadian proponents.’
‘John Terry is one of Canada's pre-eminent litigators working at the complex intersection of projects, law and Indigenous matters. Alex Bogach is a rising star, with a sound understanding of the law and an uncanny pragmatism for a lawyer of his vintage.’
‘What makes the Torys team unique is the mediation function that they offer, in particular with respect to resolving historical grievances between First Nations and the Crown. One of the strengths of the Torys team is their ability to manage relationships between the parties in a respectful, fair and objective manner.’
‘Justice Frank Iacobucci's extensive background in Indigenous law is as impressive as his thoughtfulness and compassion. With these impressive tools, he is able to work successfully with both First Nations and the Crown to develop solutions together. John Terry's focus and use of collaboration provides him with the access necessary to understand the interests of the Crown and First Nations. Alex Bogach's commitment to helping the parties develop mutually beneficial solutions is extremely beneficial.’
‘The lawyers that we work with at this firm have extensive knowledge in Indigenous law and have completed several transactions involving Indigenous communities and organizations.'
‘I have valued their frankness, their ability to synthesize very technical details into comprehensible material, and their kind demeanour.’
‘Valerie Helbronner is a very experienced partner. Always keen to assist. She is a real asset to our team.'
‘Val Helbronner has a lot of experience in commercial acquisitions and divestitures involving the Indigenous space.’
Key clients
- Nuclear Waste Management Organization
- Canada Development Investment
- Oneida Energy Storage
- Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (and Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs Secretariat and Sand Hills Casino Resort)
- Ontario First Nations (2008) Limited Partnership, a partnership of the First Nations in Ontario other than the Chippewas of Rama First Nation
Work highlights
- Negotiated an agreement on behalf of Nuclear Waste Management Organization with Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation, whose traditional territories include one of the two repository sites the NWMO is continuing to consider.
- Advised CDEV, in collaboration with the Federal Minister of Finance, in connection with the potential economic participation by over 100 Indigenous groups in TransMountain Corporation.
- Acted as counsel to the lender to Bekevar Wind, a partnership between Renewable Energy Systems Canada and Awasis Nehiyawewini Energy Development, in the project financing of the 200 MW Bekevar Wind Farm in southeastern Saskatchewan.
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Valerie Helbronner, John Terry