Luke R. Bernas

Luke Bernas has practiced child welfare law since 2008, serving as counsel for Indigenous child and family services agencies in Manitoba. He possesses extensive experience in child welfare legal proceedings, which includes appearances at all levels of court in Manitoba, participation in the Phoenix Sinclair Inquiry, inquests under The Fatality Inquiries Act, Foster Parent Appeal Adjudications, and appeals before The Social Services Appeal Board.

Since the implementation of Bill C-92 in 2020, Luke has collaborated with Indigenous governing bodies to assist in developing their child welfare laws and coordinating their exercise of jurisdiction over child and family services under Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982, and An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit, and Métis children, youth, and families.

In addition to child welfare law, Luke has experience in civil and commercial litigation, as well as labour and employment law.

Education

• University of Manitoba, Bachelor of Laws, 2005
• University of Manitoba, Bachelor of Arts, 2002

Leadership, Membership and Achievements

• Law Society of Manitoba
• Manitoba Bar Association
• Canadian Bar Association

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