DGW and Aboriginal Law through the Eyes of an Articling Student
by Courtenay Jacklin
I first learned about DGW Law Corporation as a student in the University of Victoria Faculty of Law’s Indigenous Lands, Rights and Governance course. Instructed by John Gailus, one of DGW’s founders, I was grateful for the opportunity to learn about Aboriginal law from an experienced practitioner. Not only did we learn about the history and evolution of Aboriginal law, we also learned about what it is like to advocate on behalf of clients in this area of law at all levels of court, including at the Supreme Court of Canada. John also arranged for stimulating guest lectures by Indigenous leaders and fellow DGW directors Christopher Devlin and Tim Watson.
The following year, I applied for a co-op position at DGW and began working with DGW in January 2020. This was my first experience in private practice. I was excited to apply what I had learned in John’s course and further my understanding of Aboriginal law. As a co-op student, I was given a variety of tasks, from helping prepare affidavits to drafting a response to civil claim. My favourite task was assisting with legal research for an intervener submission to the Supreme Court of Canada.
I was fortunate to return to DGW as an articling student in August 2021. Over the past nine months, I have had meaningful and varied work. I appreciate DGW’s commitment to reconciliation, to social justice, and to developing lasting relationships with clients.
Everyday, we engage with the broader issues of Aboriginal title and the assertion of Crown sovereignty. We challenge the federal and provincial governments to follow through on their commitments to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. We work to advance self-determination, self-government, and the recognition of Indigenous law-making authority.
At the same time, we support individuals, organizations, and Indigenous governments with their day-to-day needs and operations. As an articling student, I have reviewed various types of agreements, incorporated a society, and helped Indigenous governments with policy development. I provide support on large, complex files, and also have conduct of my own files.
Despite the challenges and uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, DGW ensured that I had a positive articling experience. The small-firm atmosphere made it easy to get to know co-workers, even with work-from-home and hybrid arrangements. DGW’s directors, associates, and staff are knowledgeable, approachable, and always willing to provide support and advice. As a principal, John ensured that I had opportunities for mentorship and professional development.
I am thankful for the opportunities that DGW has offered, both as a co-op student and articling student.
I look forward to returning to DGW as an associate in May 2022!
To apply for an articling position at DGW Law, contact Ashley Cogswell.