The Honourable Murray Sinclair was a visionary leader in Indigenous rights and reconciliation and a guiding force for justice in Canada. Our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, and all who were touched by his remarkable legacy.
Murray was more than a namesake to Cochrane Sinclair LLP; he was a trailblazer, a moral and intellectual giant whose work has reshaped the landscape of justice, reconciliation, and advocacy for Indigenous rights.
“Murray’s influence will continue to guide us in all we do,” said Harold (Sonny) Cochrane, Partner at Cochrane Sinclair LLP. “His presence and leadership were a light for everyone at the firm. We’re committed to carrying on his vision for fairness, respect, and equity in every legal challenge we undertake, as he taught us.”
Murray's involvement in our firm has been foundational, and the principles he lived by—fairness, respect, and equity—are woven into every aspect of our mission. His legacy has become a compass for us, guiding our commitment to reconciliation, justice, and empowerment within Indigenous communities and beyond.
“Murray’s work in the pursuit of justice and Indigenous rights has forever impacted Canada, and me personally. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to spend time with him, to know his big and gentle heart,” added Shawn Scarcello, Partner at Cochrane Sinclair LLP. “His legacy will be a guiding force as we strive to make meaningful change. I will miss him dearly.”
Max Faille, Managing Partner of the Vancouver office of Cochrane Sinclair, added: “It’s a devastating loss for our firm, our country and humanity at large. We are fortunate to have walked the earth alongside such greats, and all the more fortunate to be in a firm that he helped guide and inspire each day.” He added: “He touched the lives of countless individuals, and stirred the conscience of a nation as few have. He did so with fearless moral eloquence and clarity, but also with a warmth, compassion and an abiding sense of humour that was as true to his Cree and Anishinaabe roots as was his life’s work. He was my hero.”
Murray’s work extended far beyond the courtroom; he opened a path toward understanding and unity, advocating tirelessly for the recognition of Indigenous voices within Canada’s legal framework. His wisdom and influence will remain at the heart of Cochrane Sinclair LLP, inspiring us as we continue his life’s work. Our mission is to honour his memory by upholding these principles in all we do, carrying forward his dedication to a future where justice and equality are within reach for all.
As we move forward, Cochrane Sinclair LLP will strive to make Murray proud by embracing the responsibility to effect meaningful change, shaping a legal landscape that embodies the values of reconciliation, justice, and respect for all communities.
