Legal Research

Aboriginal groups are increasingly turning to the courts to solve disputes and define their constitutional and treaty rights.  Although the federal government is primarily the target of legal action, Alberta is also involved.

Court actions often involve years of research, lengthy trials and millions of dollars in legal costs before they are resolved.  The decision of the courts may have far-reaching effects on the business practices of the Department, the province’s resource industry or Energy’s legislation.

Aboriginal Relations monitors important legal actions and court decisions by Aboriginal groups that may impact the Department.

We provide assistance to other government departments, such as Alberta Justice and Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, through legal research and technical guidance regarding Energy’s procedures and policies. This guidance may take the form of researching past tenure or royalty regimes, or explaining the Department’s legislation.