Robert (Bob) Freedman

Bob Freedman is a Co-Managing Partner of the Vancouver office of Cochrane Sinclair LLP, with more than three decades of experience practising Indigenous law, public and constitutional law, and environmental and regulatory law. He works closely with Indigenous Nations across Canada, providing strategic legal advice grounded in respect for Indigenous governance, legal orders, and nationhood. Bob is known for his ability to navigate complex legal frameworks while remaining focused on the long-term objectives and self-determined priorities of the communities he serves. Bob’s practice centres on advising Indigenous clients on Aboriginal and treaty rights, self-government, nation-to-nation and government-to-government relations, and consultation and accommodation. He regularly supports Nations in negotiations with federal and provincial governments, Crown agencies, and industry proponents, including the development and implementation of impact benefit agreements and other resource-related arrangements. His work often intersects with environmental, regulatory, and stewardship matters, particularly where major projects require approvals that affect Indigenous lands, rights, and interests. In addition to his advisory work, Bob has extensive experience as a negotiator and litigator. He has appeared before all levels of court, including the Supreme Court of Canada, as well as before administrative tribunals and regulatory bodies across multiple jurisdictions. His litigation and advocacy work is informed by a deep understanding of both Indigenous and non-Indigenous legal systems, and a commitment to advancing outcomes that are principled, durable, and aligned with Indigenous laws and worldviews. Bob is widely recognized as a leading practitioner in Indigenous law. He has been consistently ranked by Lexpert, Chambers and Partners, and Best Lawyers in Canada, and was named Lawyer of the Year for Indigenous Law in Toronto. Prior to joining Cochrane Sinclair, Bob practised at nationally recognized firms specializing in Indigenous and Aboriginal law. He is based in the Vancouver office and advises clients all across Canada.

Education

• Law Clerk to the Hon. Justice Lambert, BC Court of Appeal, 1992-1993
• LLM, University of Virginia, 1992
• LLB, Queen’s University, 1991
• MPA (Master of Public Administration Degree), Queen’s University, 1988
• BA (Hons.), New College of Florida, 1987

Leadership, Membership, and Achievements

• Included in the Lexpert Special Edition – Energy, 2022, 2023 and 2025
• Ranked as a leading practitioner in Aboriginal Law by Lexpert ("Most Frequently Recommended")
• Ranked as a leading practitioner in Aboriginal Law – Representation of Indigenous Peoples by Chambers & Partners ("Band 2")
• Ranked as a leading practitioner in Aboriginal Law by Best Lawyers
• Named "Lawyer of the Year" for Indigenous Law (Toronto) in the 2022 edition of The Best Lawyers in Canada