BA, BEd, JD
Instructor, Paralegal Program
Faculty of Business and Professional Studies
School of Legal Studies
604.983.7594 ext. 7594
Fir Building, room FR550b
michellecasavant@capilanou.ca
Education
Mediation Certificate, Justice Institute of British Columbia, 2021.
PLTC, Law Society of British Columbia, 2010.
Juris Doctor, University of Victoria, 2008.
BEd, University of British Columbia, 2004.
BA, Studio Arts, Sociology, University of British Columbia, 2003.
"Following the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action, my focus is Indigenizing and decolonizing our education and institution of Canadian legal studies."
Bio
Michelle Casavant (JD, University of Victoria, 2008) is a member of the Métis Nation of B.C.; her family names are Vandal, Boucher, and Boyer, who took scrip in the Red River Settlement. She grew up in rural Saskatchewan and was involved in traditional Métis practices including fishing, berry picking and community life.
Casavant has been immersed in the fields of Aboriginal law, crown law and dispute resolution since 2010, showcasing a wealth of experience and expertise.
Serving as a solicitor, she is pivotal in guiding and conducting land transactions on Indian Reserves in British Columbia.
Casavant's legal practice is characterized by a nuanced understanding of the complexities within these areas of law, allowing her to provide informed and effective counsel.
With over a decade of dedicated service, she has become a trusted advisor, contributing significantly to the resolving legal matters and advancing Aboriginal rights in the realm of land transactions.
Casavant's commitment to her practice reflects a passion for justice and a deep understanding of the legal intricacies surrounding Aboriginal and crown law.
In my teaching and facilitation endeavours, feedback has described my unique and impactful approach as, "trauma-informed, sensitive, and collaborative."
This distinctive methodology underscores my commitment to effective communication and highlights my proven success in navigating diverse audiences diplomatically.
Drawing from my own trauma-informed practice and exploration of intergenerational trauma, my work demonstrates a genuine desire to contribute to the decolonization process through education.
My dedication to fostering a safe and inclusive learning environment reflects a commitment to transformative education and resonates with my broader goal of creating positive, lasting impacts in my field.
I am a dedicated legal professional whose research and focus of practice revolve around the intricate realms of Aboriginal law, crown law, dispute resolution, and constitutional law.
With a passion for promoting justice and equity, I actively engage in developing legal frameworks that address the unique challenges Indigenous communities face.
My commitment to advancing reconciliation and fostering effective dispute-resolution mechanisms underscores my contributions to the legal landscape.
My expertise enriches the academic sphere and leaves a lasting impact on the practical application of the law, reflecting a deep dedication to creating a more just, inclusive and decolonized legal system.
Regional Excellence Award, Justice Canada, January 2024.
Regional Director General Appreciation Award, May 2023.
National Policy Sector Recognition Award, Diversity and Inclusion, September 2022.