Keith Bergner

Amidst the intricate web of legal intricacies surrounding major energy ventures, Keith stands as a seasoned advocate. His repertoire encompasses adeptly navigating the labyrinthine domains of Aboriginal law, particularly within the context of expansive energy projects. With a clientele spanning both corporate entities and governmental bodies, Keith is lauded for his strategic insights into engaging with Indigenous communities.

His advisory scope extends across the private sector, public sector, and governmental realms, encompassing Indigenous law and regulatory landscapes. Keith's courtroom prowess is evidenced by his appearances as counsel in diverse regulatory tribunals and courts, including the apex court of Canada. His portfolio of represented industries ranges from hydro-electric generation to aquaculture, traversing the natural resource spectrum.

In the realm of Indigenous law, Keith assumes a pivotal role in elucidating the contours of the duty to consult and accommodate concerning potential impacts on Indigenous rights or title. He crafts bespoke consultation frameworks and has orchestrated numerous impact-benefit agreements with First Nations entities. Keith's role as hearing counsel for project proponents seeking regulatory greenlights underscores his instrumental presence in navigating complex approval processes.

Within the regulatory and energy law domain, Keith assumes a multifaceted role as counsel for both project proponents and stakeholders. His adeptness in maneuvering administrative tribunals, such as the National Energy Board, coupled with his prowess in appellate courts, underscores his versatility in safeguarding client interests.

Keith's legal acumen has left an indelible mark on several landmark cases, particularly those at the intersection of Indigenous law and administrative jurisprudence. Notable among these is his successful representation of BC Hydro in a seminal case delineating the Crown's duty to consult Indigenous communities. Likewise, his involvement in cases pertaining to modern treaties and major pipeline projects exemplifies his nuanced grasp of evolving legal landscapes.

Beyond his courtroom endeavors, Keith's contributions extend to the realm of legal scholarship. He is a notable contributor to the Project Law Blog, a revered resource for project proponents seeking insights into Canadian legal frameworks. Moreover, as the Leader of the Indigenous Law Group at Lawson Lundell, Keith spearheads initiatives aimed at fostering a nuanced understanding of Indigenous legal dynamics.

In addition to his legal pursuits, Keith is actively engaged in professional associations, including memberships in the Canadian Bar Association and the Law Society of the Northwest Territories. Within these forums, he contributes his expertise to furthering dialogues on Aboriginal, administrative, and civil litigation fronts, underscoring his commitment to legal excellence and advocacy.