Gowling WLG is pleased to welcome back the Honourable Robert Mainville as a partner in the firm's Montreal office. A former judge of the Quebec Court of Appeal and of the Federal Court of Appeal, Robert brings decades of legal experience to the firm, with a practice focused on national and international arbitration, high-stakes litigation and Indigenous law. His return significantly deepens the firm's capabilities in guiding clients through some of the most complex legal and constitutional issues facing Canada today.
Before his appointment to the bench in 2009, Robert was widely recognized as one of the country's preeminent Indigenous law practitioners. He previously served as lead counsel on landmark agreements such as La Paix des Braves and the Agreement Concerning a New Relationship between the Government of Canada and the Cree of Eeyou Istchee. His work has spanned litigation, negotiation and judicial decision-making at the highest levels. His cross-sector insight into public, private and Indigenous legal systems makes him a uniquely positioned advisor for governments, industry and Indigenous communities alike.
"We are honoured to welcome Robert back to the firm. As Indigenous nations continue to assert jurisdiction, build governance systems and strengthen their legal relationships with the Crown, clients are engaging with legal questions that are both layered and deeply meaningful," said Pierre Pilote, managing partner of Gowling WLG's Montreal office. "Robert's broad perspective—shaped by decades of legal advocacy and time on the bench—enhances how we support clients in pursuing solutions rooted in respect, clarity and long-term impact."