Joshua D. Sutherland

I am a member of the Red Rock Indian Band of the Lake Helen Reserve. Due to my tireless efforts in representing First Nations and their Indigenous-related organizations, I was honored to receive the traditional Blackfoot name of Awootaninaw (Shield Chief) by an Elder of the Siksika First Nation in a name-giving ceremony. Throughout my career, I have remained unafraid to tackle any legal issue or case, regardless of size or complexity. From First Nation clients (both on and off Reserve) to multinational public and private companies and local businesses, I guide federally and provincially regulated employers and provide strategic advice on all aspects of workplace law.

No stranger to the courtroom, I have acted for clients before the Supreme Court of Canada as well as every level of court in multiple provinces. I have also conducted other matters before tribunals, adjudicators, fatality inquiries, trials by judge and jury, and more. As a trusted legal advisor to Chief and Council, Boards of Directors, in-house counsel, senior management, executive leadership teams, and human resource departments, I guide my clients on best practices in all facets of workplace law.

I have extensive experience handling all aspects of employee dismissals, human rights issues, performance management, workplace investigations, drafting policies and executive and employee contracts, and presenting training modules for clients.

As a grateful survivor of the 2004 tsunami in Thailand, I have received various awards for my distinguished service in rescue efforts and for my work as a motivational speaker. Through my extraordinary background and varied life experiences, both domestic and abroad, I am able to relate to clients from all walks of life and deliver legal advice in a practical and common-sense manner, without ever losing my signature sense of humor.