Our firm’s journey began with a bold purpose: to challenge injustice by focusing on Indigenous child protection, labour law, and civil litigation. What started as a small group of ten lawyers has grown into the largest Indigenous-owned law firm in Canada, with four offices now located in Manitoba and British Columbia.
By reintroducing ourselves as Cochrane Sinclair, we honour the profound leadership and impact of our general counsel, The Honourable Murray Sinclair, and our founding partner, Harold (Sonny) Cochrane, who infuse our firm with purpose and shape our commitment to Indigenous justice.
Murray Sinclair has left an indelible mark on Canada with his unparalleled legal expertise and leadership, drawing from his roots in Peguis First Nation and a distinguished career as Manitoba's first Indigenous judge, a Senator, and internationally-recognized leader on Indigenous rights and systemic reform.
His work with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission paved the way for lasting change, confronting Canada’s colonial legacy with courage. Through the 94 Calls to Action that he wrote in the TRC’s Final Report, his tireless advocacy for justice has become our firm’s rallying cry.
Our new name also recognizes the trailblazing innovation of our founder, Harold (Sonny) Cochrane. A proud Cree lawyer, he credits his leadership in legal reconciliation to the deep roots he continues to have in his home community of Fisher River, drawing a direct line from his experience of living on-reserve to his comprehensive understanding of issues facing Indigenous peoples.
Sonny saw a legal system with little Indigenous representation that failed to understand the complexities of Indigenous experiences — and worked tirelessly to change that. Now, over two decades later, he is at the at the forefront of many of the largest and most critical Indigenous law cases in Canada.
Our work today is a continuation of the paths forged by Murray and Sonny. Cochrane Sinclair LLP remains dedicated to building a Canada where Indigenous sovereignty is upheld and justice serves every community. As we advocate for change and challenge unjust systems, we create a space where tradition and innovation meet — building bridges for the generations yet to come.
Every case we take reflects a deeper responsibility — we answer the 94 Calls to Action laid out by our General Counsel, Murray Sinclair, when he was the Chief Commissioner of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. These calls shape every aspect of our work, from class actions on child welfare to the preservation of First Nation languages and redefining treaty relationships for future generations.
Once absent from the courtroom, Indigenous voices now lead in reshaping law. We lead with integrity, tackle difficult cases, and educate courts, governments, and law students to better understand Indigenous law and experiences. As Murray Sinclair reminds us, “Innovation isn’t always about creating something new… Sometimes, it involves looking back at our old ways and bringing them forward.
Our mission goes beyond litigation. Through collaboration and meaningful partnerships, we support communities, businesses, and governments in achieving their goals. By providing expert legal solutions, we empower Indigenous futures and strengthen nation-to-nation relationships.
We confront historic and current injustices — from class actions on the Millennium Scoop to challenging systemic barriers in criminal justice. Our work isn’t just about addressing the past; it’s about building relationships of mutual respect and shared responsibility that shape the future.
Cochrane Sinclair LLP is part of a larger movement for justice, driven by the legacies of our leaders and the power of Indigenous knowledge. Our work builds bridges between tradition and progress, ensuring Canada’s legal system evolves with the communities it serves.
