William Taggart

Bill has dedicated his legal career to the nuanced field of Aboriginal and Indigenous law, establishing himself as a pillar within this specialized community. His journey into this realm began with his role as an in-house lawyer for the Grand Council Treaty #3, setting the stage for his deep dive into the legalities that would define his career. A key highlight of his early work includes his contribution to the legal team that played a pivotal role at the 1981 First Ministers Conference. This effort was crucial in securing the inclusion of section 35 in the Constitution Act, 1982, a milestone in the recognition and affirmation of Indigenous rights in Canada.

Bill's expertise is not confined to legislative drafting for Indigenous clients, although this remains a cornerstone of his practice. His legal acumen extends to representing First Nations in a variety of claims and other significant matters. Notably, he served as legal counsel for the Henvey Inlet First Nation, assisting in the establishment of environmental laws and a land tenure system for their 300 MW wind energy center. This project stands as one of the largest Indigenous-led initiatives in the country, showcasing Bill's ability to navigate complex legal landscapes for the benefit of Indigenous communities.

His advisory roles span across multiple provinces, offering guidance on the legislative and executive facets of Indigenous governance. His leadership and contributions were recognized when he served as Past Chair of the Ontario Bar Association's Aboriginal Law Section, further cementing his status in the legal community.

Bill's insights into Indigenous governance are widely respected, evidenced by his comprehensive review of the Anishnabek Nation Governance Agreement in "Key Developments in Aboriginal Law, Volume 2." His work in this field has garnered recognition from prestigious legal directories, marking him as a leading figure in Aboriginal and Indigenous law for 2024.

Bill's academic credentials include an LL.B. from Osgoode Hall Law School and a B.A. (Hons) from the University of Calgary. His commitment to his practice area is further demonstrated by his active participation in the Ontario Bar Association, particularly as the Technology Liaison for the Aboriginal Law Section for 2023-2024, and his membership in the Canadian Bar Association.

Acknowledged by both The Canadian Legal LEXPERT® Directory and The Best Lawyers™ in Canada for his expertise in Aboriginal law and Indigenous practice, Bill's accolades reflect his profound impact on this field.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Bill's commitment to his community is evident through his involvement with the Rotary Club of Cobourg, where he has served as a trustee and past president. He also contributes to the Town of Cobourg Heritage Advisory Committee, showcasing his dedication to preserving and promoting heritage and community values.

Bill's contributions to the legal landscape extend to educational initiatives, where he has shared his knowledge and insights through speaking engagements and as a program co-chair for events such as the OBA Aboriginal Law Update. His work in fostering understanding and progress in Aboriginal and Indigenous law has made him a respected voice and advocate for Indigenous rights and governance.