ROSEMARY IRWIN

Rosemary has devoted her 30-year legal career exclusively to Aboriginal law, with a particular focus on the Specific Claims process. She brings extensive experience in all stages of claim development and litigation, including the analysis of historical records, legal merit assessments, preparation and critique of submissions, and advocacy before the Specific Claims Tribunal. Rosemary has developed a particular expertise in legal issues related to the Crown’s fiduciary duties, the honour of the Crown, and surrender-based claims, areas that remain central to her work and interests.

Before joining Maurice Law in 2013, Rosemary served as legal counsel with the Department of Justice Canada, where she worked in the Legal Services Unit for Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada. Her earlier legal experience includes two years as a law clerk at the Federal Court of Canada, as well as roles as a legal assistant in the Minister’s Office at what was then Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, and as a legal researcher for law professors, the Native Council of Canada, and a private law firm.

In addition to her legal qualifications, Rosemary holds a Master’s Diploma in Indigenous Policy and Administration from Carleton University, further strengthening her ability to approach Indigenous legal matters with both legal and policy insight. Her long-standing dedication to Indigenous justice and deep familiarity with the Specific Claims framework make her a trusted and valued member of the Maurice Law team.