Cochrane Sinclair LLP is pleased to announce that Danielle M. B. Mercredi has joined the firm as Counsel. A member of Misipawistik Cree Nation (Treaty 5), Danielle brings more than a decade of experience representing First Nation communities across Treaties 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8 and 9, as well as non treaty and modern treaty Nations across Canada.
Danielle’s practice focuses on specific claims, governance, treaty rights, consultation and accommodation, reserve land administration, and complex Indigenous focused litigation. Her work includes historical grievance files, modern day disputes, policy development, agreement drafting, and legislative drafting processes that guide Nations through self determination and long term strategic planning.
Danielle served as legal counsel to the Specific Claims Tribunal of Canada during a one year secondment, supporting judges nationwide through case management, hearings, expert evidence review, and decision preparation. She also advised on the Tribunal’s governing Act and Rules during stakeholder consultations. This experience provides Danielle with a rare and valuable perspective on the inner workings of one of Canada’s most important Indigenous justice and reconciliation mechanisms.
During law school at the University of Toronto, Danielle held multiple leadership roles, including Chair of the Indigenous Law Students’ Association. She also served as a Teacher’s Assistant in economics during her undergraduate degree at the University of Toronto and worked as a policy analyst with the First Nations and Inuit Health Branch in Ottawa.
Her work is driven by a deep commitment to the sovereignty, priorities, and long term goals identified by the communities she serves.
“It is an honour to support First Nations in asserting their rights, advancing their goals, and protecting their lands and governance systems,” says Danielle. “I approach every file with respect for community direction and the unique histories that shape each Nation’s path forward.”
Danielle’s arrival strengthens Cochrane Sinclair’s Indigenous law group with additional national experience in specific claims, governance, treaty infringement matters, litigation strategy, and nation to nation negotiations.
“Danielle’s expertise and values align powerfully with our firm’s work,” says Sonny Cochrane, Co-Managing Partner. “Her experience across Canada brings tremendous depth to our Indigenous law practice and enhances the support we provide to Nations seeking justice, recognition, and long term prosperity.”
In joining the firm, Danielle shared her perspective on the work ahead.
“I look forward to collaborating with the team at Cochrane Sinclair and contributing to meaningful outcomes for the communities we serve,” she says. “Working with Nations to honour their histories and advance their futures is the driving force of my practice.”
Danielle resides in Winnipeg with her spouse, Michel Bruyere, and continues to contribute to Indigenous legal development in both professional and community oriented spaces.
Cochrane Sinclair is proud to welcome her to the firm.