About Us
Legal counsel and advocacy Nations, Governments, businesses, and people across Atlantic Canada.
Our Story
At Smith Law Inc, we are dedicated to providing exceptional legal services with a deep respect for the unique cultural, social, and economic contexts of our clients. Founded in [Year], our firm has grown to become a trusted partner for Indigenous communities across [Region/Province/Country]. Our mission is to empower our clients through comprehensive legal support, advocacy, and a commitment to justice and reconciliation.
Our Mission
Our mission is to deliver high-quality legal services that respect and integrate Indigenous knowledge and values. We strive to build strong, trust-based relationships with our clients and advocate for their rights and interests in all legal matters.
Our Core Values
Integrity
We uphold the highest ethical standards in all our dealings.
Client Focus
Our clients' needs are our top priority, and we strive to provide exceptional, personalized service.
Quality
We deliver consistently high-quality legal services with a strong focus on industry expertise.
Excellence
We are committed to delivering high-quality work and continuously improving our services.
Empowerment
We support and empower our clients to achieve their legal and personal goals.
Cultural Sensitivity
We understand and respect the unique cultural backgrounds, traditions, and values of Indigenous communities.
Diversity and Inclusion
We foster an inclusive environment that values diverse perspectives and promotes equality.
Innovation
We embrace creativity and forward-thinking approaches to solve complex legal issues.
Multi-Lingual
We offer legal services in English, French, and Mi’kmaq
Our Team
Our team of dedicated attorneys brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to serving Indigenous communities. Each member of our team is not only a skilled legal professional but also an advocate for justice and equity. We pride ourselves on our collaborative approach, working together to provide the best possible outcomes for our clients.
Liam Smith
Born in Unama’ki- Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, Liam is the proud owner to a baby boy. Liam is owner of Smith Law Droit Inc., a collaborative law firm. Liam’s focus in serving Indigenous clients, Frist Nation Governments and corporations.
Liam obtained a Dîploma in French Immersion in 2012 from Université Sainte-Anne, a B.B.A. –international commerce in 2016 from Université Sainte-Anne and a J.D from Université de Moncton faculty de droit in 2018.
Tuma T.W. Young, K.C.
Tuma is a two-spirited L’nu lawyer and professor from Unama’ki- Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia.
Tuma possesses a LL.M. from the James Rogers Law Faculty at the University of Arizona. Tuma was called to the Nova Scotia Barrister’s Society Bar in 2001 as the first fluent Mi’kmaq language speaker. In 2021 Tuma was elected the first Indigenous, and first openly 2SLGBTQ+ president of the Nova Scotia Barrister’s Society.
In addition, Tuma works as a justice of the peace, small claims court adjudicator, labour arbitrator, and Assistant Professor of Mi’kmaq studies at Cape Breton University teaching Indigenous law, Aboriginal and Treaty Rights, constitutional law, language and children’s rights.
Cheryl Knockwood
Cheryl is an L’nu lawyer called to the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society Bar in 2009, becoming the first Mi’kmaq-speaking female lawyer in Nova Scotia.
Cheryl received a B.A (honours) in anthropology from the University of New Brunswick, earned a LL.B. from the University of British Columbia and completed her LL.M. in Indigenous peoples’ law and policy at the University of Arizona.
Cheryl’s focus is on Indigenous law and policy. In 2015, Cheryl was appointed to the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission and is the current chair. Cheryl is the governance co-ordinator for Membertou First Nation, working alongside the community in developing laws on lands and citizenship. Cheryl previously worked as a senior policy analyst with the Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs. Cheryl has also worked as a part-time instructor at Cape Breton University lecturing on Aboriginal and treaty rights, Mi’kmaw governance and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
Derek Yorke
Derek is a paralegal born Unama’ki- Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia.
Derek possesses a B.Sc. from St. Francis Xavier University, with an advanced diploma in Behaviour Intervention.
Derek is a community oriented individual with extensive experience owning and operating a small business in Glace Bay, NS. Derek takes pride in volunteering as a coach for adult and youth sport.
Contact Us
We invite you to learn more about our firm and how we can assist you with your legal needs. Click the link below to get in touch with us.