We are offering an exciting opportunity for two (2) highly-motivated Litigation Associates – one senior associate (5-8 years’ experience) and one junior associate (2-3 years' experience) to join our firm, to be based in either our growing Vancouver office or our longstanding Winnipeg office.
Work with Canada’s largest First Nations-led law firm and help advance complex, leading-edge cases across Indigenous, public, and constitutional law.
Our team is dedicated to impactful legal work, including class action lawsuits, public and constitutional matters, and negotiations. We are passionate about making a difference and providing exceptional legal services to our clients.
You’ll join a young, dynamic, and collegial group that values teamwork and camaraderie. We embrace flexible work options, with a hybrid schedule and a stunning heritage office in either Yaletown/Vancouver or Exchange/Winnipeg, complemented by smaller offices on the Musqueam Reserve and the Swan Lake First Nation for our lawyers with Indian status.
Responsibilities
Litigation and Advocacy:
- Represent clients in court on complex cases, including class actions, public, and constitutional law matters.
- Draft pleadings, factums, affidavits, and other litigation-related documents with precision and clarity.
- Conduct legal research and analysis to support litigation strategy and case preparation.
Indigenous Law Expertise:
- Provide legal advice and representation on matters impacting Indigenous communities, including negotiations, advocacy, and litigation.
- Collaborate on cases involving Indigenous governance, land claims, and treaty rights.
Client Relations and Communication:
- Maintain strong relationships with clients by understanding their unique needs and providing timely, strategic legal advice.
- Clearly communicate legal concepts, case updates, and recommendations to clients in a respectful and accessible manner.
Negotiations and Mediation:
- Engage in negotiations and alternative dispute resolution processes to achieve favorable outcomes for clients.
- Represent clients in mediations, settlements, and consultations with government and other stakeholders.
Collaboration and Teamwork:
- Work closely with colleagues across the Vancouver and Musqueam offices to achieve shared goals.
- Contribute to a supportive, collegial work environment, valuing teamwork and diversity.
Commitment to Excellence:
- Uphold the firm’s standards of excellence by managing multiple cases and deadlines effectively.
- Provide high-quality, impactful legal services with attention to detail and a results-oriented approach.
Cultural Sensitivity and Advocacy:
- Engage with Indigenous clients and communities in a culturally sensitive and informed manner.
- Advocate for Indigenous rights, equity, and reconciliation through legal practice and community engagement.
Professional Development and Mentorship:
- Stay informed on developments in litigation, Indigenous law, and public law through continuous learning and professional development.
- Mentor junior associates and contribute to knowledge-sharing within the firm.
This position offers a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful legal work while being part of a supportive and inclusive environment. Candidates with a passion for advocacy, justice, and community impact are encouraged to apply.
Qualifications
Educational Background:
- A Juris Doctor (JD) or Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from an accredited law school.
- Membership in good standing with the Law Society of British Columbia or eligibility to transfer membership.
Experience:
- 5–8 years of litigation experience, preferably in areas such as Indigenous law, public law, constitutional law, or class actions.
- Proven track record of managing complex cases from inception to resolution.
Legal Skills and Knowledge:
- Strong litigation skills, including drafting, research, oral advocacy, and negotiation.
- Deep understanding of Indigenous legal issues, public law, and constitutional matters, or a strong interest in these areas.
Experience with alternative dispute resolution and negotiations is an asset.
Client-Focused:
- Demonstrated ability to build and maintain client relationships, including working with Indigenous communities in a culturally informed and sensitive manner.
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to convey complex legal concepts clearly and effectively.
Teamwork and Collaboration:
- A collaborative mindset, with the ability to work effectively within a team-oriented and diverse environment.
- Willingness to mentor junior associates and contribute to a collegial workplace culture.
Passion for Justice and Impact:
- A strong commitment to advocacy, social justice, and community impact.
- Enthusiasm for working on high-profile cases that make a difference in advancing Indigenous rights and public interest issues.
Other Attributes:
- Excellent organizational and time-management skills to handle multiple cases and deadlines.
- Proactive, resourceful, and results-driven approach to legal practice.
- Indigenous candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
If you are interested in joining our team and contributing to impactful, leading-edge litigation, we’d love to hear from you. Cochrane Sinclair offers a unique opportunity to work with a dynamic,
collegial team dedicated to justice, advocacy, and reconciliation.
At Cochrane Sinclair LLP, we are proud to be a First Nations-led firm that fosters a workplace reflecting the diverse communities we live and work in. We believe in creating an inclusive, accessible, and supportive environment where every voice is heard and valued.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates can submit their resume to Max Faille (Managing Partner, Vancouver Office) mfaille@cochranesinclair.ca with "Senior Associate – Application" or "Junior Associate – Application" in the subject line.
Indigenous candidates are especially encouraged to apply. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Take the next step in your legal career with Cochrane Sinclair, where your work will have a meaningful impact on communities and the legal landscape across Canada.
