‘Incredibly proud’: Lead lawyer in treaty annuities case earns prestigious honour

Whitefish First Nation's David C. Nahwegahbow has been inducted as a Fellow at the American College of Trial Lawyers.

The news of the induction came from the Robinson Huron Treaty Litigation Fund this morning.

Nahwegahbow is Anishinaabe (Ojibway) from Whitefish River First Nation and is the lead counsel in the Restoule case, which resulted in the $10-billion settlement by the Federal and Provincial governments for past compensation involving a claim for annuities under the Robinson Huron Treaty of 1850.

"David's induction as a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers is not only a personal achievement, but a testament to the vital role First Nations legal professionals play in advancing justice for Indigenous peoples and in shaping the legal landscape of Canada, said Mike Restoule, chair of the Robinson Huron Treaty Litigation Fund. "We are incredibly proud of David and this well-deserved honour.”

“We have been privileged to experience firsthand David’s dedication and excellence," added Duke Peltier, Robinson Huron Treaty Litigation Fund. "As a community, we know how vital strong legal representation is in ensuring that our voices are heard and our rights are protected. David’s induction is both a reflection of his personal integrity and skill and a symbol of the resilience and strength of our people."

The American College of Trial Lawyers is considered one of the premier legal associations in North America and has approximately 5,700 members across Canada, the United States and Puerto Rico.

Fellowship into the College is extended by invitation only to trial lawyers who, throughout their career, have displayed the highest standards of advocacy, ethical conduct, professionalism, respect, and collaboration.