Canadian Aboriginal law is a body of law in Canada that focuses on the rights and issues of Indigenous peoples (First Nations, Métis and Inuit) in Canada. Aboriginal law is different from Indigenous law. Indigenous law refers to legal traditions, customs and practices of Indigenous peoples. To further clarify, Aboriginal law is generally considered to be the law of the state (Canada), and comes from legislation and the common law through the courts and the Constitution; whereas, Indigenous law refers to Indigenous peoples’ own law, such as customs, songs, dances, stories, language, and ceremonies.

– Carlie Kane, J.D., Former Research Assistant, Centre for Human Rights Research

This document is a compilation of Indigenous legal resources from various scholars and resources. A full reference list is available at the end of the resource guide.