Nick Smith

Nick, an advocate with roots in the Ermineskin Cree Nation, dedicates his career to Indigenous business law. His clientele spans Indigenous Nations, enterprises, and charities. In his practice, Nick honors the traditions and legal frameworks of the First Nations he serves, ensuring he fully grasps their histories and values to represent them accurately.

Originally aiming for a career in civil engineering, Nick shifted his focus towards law after engaging with environmental assessments for a First Nations band in Vancouver Island. This pivotal experience underscored the importance of representing Indigenous voices in conversations with governmental bodies and industry stakeholders.

In his legal practice, Nick focuses on facilitating economic and natural resource development for First Nations. He adeptly navigates commercial dealings and governance issues, drawing upon the principles set forth in the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. His efforts extend to crafting laws, structuring agreements for projects, and forging robust corporate entities for his clients, alongside guiding them through negotiations with government and industry partners.

Nick's recent collaborations include working alongside the BC Assembly of First Nations to integrate the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA) into legislation. He lends his expertise in legal and policy matters, significantly influencing economic and resource management strategies for First Nations.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Nick thrives in competitive settings, having represented Canada in volleyball and at the Cal Ripken World Series of Baseball. His passion for sports continues with running, golf, and setting records on the Grouse Grind. Nick also has a keen interest in urban development and enjoys exploring cities, often indulging in his love for baked goods.

Holding his call to the BC Bar since 2020, Nick's academic credentials include a Juris Doctor with a specialization in Aboriginal Law from the Peter A. Allard School of Law at the University of British Columbia, where he also concentrated on Business Law. His foundation in civil engineering comes from a Bachelor of Applied Science from the same university. Further extending his commitment to community service, Nick serves on the Langara Board of Governors, appointed by the British Columbia government for a term spanning from December 2023 to July 2025.