First Nation election appeal or governance dispute
Advice and proceedings on a custom or Indian Act election appeal, or a dispute over band governance.
What is included
- Drafts or reviews by-laws, election codes and governance policies
- Advises on election appeals and governance disputes
- Sets up economic development corporations and community trusts
- Supports self-government negotiations
- Advises First Nation employers on the employment laws that apply
What is not included
- Historical, genealogical or other research reports, and other disbursements
- Appeals, or court proceedings not covered by the lawyer's written retainer
- Work outside the scope in the lawyer's written retainer
Who this service is for
- Chief and council and First Nation administrators
- Indigenous development corporations
- Members with an election or governance concern
Information to have ready
- 1Current by-laws, election code and constitution
- 2Band council resolutions
- 3Financial and corporate documents
- 4A summary of the dispute or the goal
How a referral works
- 1Tell us in a few words what the matter is about, and who else is involved, so we can check for a conflict of interest.
- 2We recommend an Ontario lawyer for your matter, and at least one other you could choose instead.
- 3The lawyer runs their own conflict check, confirms the scope and quotes the fee, normally in a written retainer agreement.
- 4You pay the lawyer's fee to the lawyer. Any referral fee comes out of it, is disclosed to you in writing, and never increases what you pay.
NEO Legal Services Professional Corporation is a licensed paralegal firm, not a law firm. Every step of a referral, and your rights
Frequently asked questions
What does the lawyer charge?
Lawyers usually charge $350–$750/hr for this kind of work, by the hour. The lawyer quotes the actual rate and an estimate. You pay the lawyer directly; the referral itself costs you nothing.
Which employment laws apply to a First Nation?
Often federal labour and employment law applies to First Nation governments, while some related businesses may fall under Ontario law. The lawyer can confirm which applies.
Why set up a community trust?
A trust can hold settlement or revenue funds for the long term under clear rules that the community approves, with accountability to members.
General information only, not legal advice. NEO Legal Services Professional Corporation is a licensed paralegal firm regulated by the Law Society of Ontario.
Important limitations
- No outcome can be guaranteed
- Government processes and timelines are outside the lawyer's control
- The lawyer confirms the scope, fee and steps in a written retainer before starting
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