Mary R. Chakasim, B.A., LL.B., LL.L.
Mary Chakasim is a Cree speaking member of the Attawapiskat First Nation. She is originally from Moosonee but has spent the past 17 years in Ottawa where she obtained her university degrees and completed the Bar Admissions Course of Ontario. She is a member of the Law Society of Upper Canada and is licenced to practice law in Ontario. Mary is currently accepting legal aid clients in the communities of Moosonee, Moose Factory, Fort Albany, Kashechewan, Attawapiskat and Peawanuck. Mary will also be providing services as duty counsel for the courts held in these communities through Nishnabwe-Aski Nation Legal Services beginning in January 2006.
In addition to these services Ms. Chakasim’s general law practice offers professional advice and services in the areas of preparation of wills, legal research,
mediation, program and policy development/analysis, which can include a gender-based analysis of policies and programs (will be important in the event of the lifting of the Canadian Human Rights Act section 67 exemption of the Indian Act). Mary can also draft Indian Act sections 81 and 85.1 by-laws. She is also an experienced workshop facilitator.Ms. Chakasim's background includes seven years at Indian and Northern Affairs Canada as a program officer and manager in several different areas. However, one of her most interesting learning opportunities was as a member of Canada's official delegation to the United Nations as a representative of Aboriginal Peoples in Canada in Istanbul, Turkey in 1996.
Ms. Chakasim has a strong interest in mediation, Aboriginal law enforcement issues, environmental law, and restorative justice in First Nation communities.
Mary has chosen to return home with her
twin baby girls. She hopes to utilize her education and work experience in a way that will benefit the community members of her home town and surrounding communities.For a list and description of services available, please return to the
home page.