Chésa Abma-Slade
Lawyer
About
Chésa is a lawyer at MT+Co., returning in January 2026 after clerking at the BC Supreme Court. Upon her return, Chesa will work primarily with our Indigenous Law Group. Chésa approaches her work with dedication and compassion, bringing these qualities to her projects, teammates, and clients.
Chésa is a proud member of Xʷsepsəm (Esquimalt Nation).
EXPERTISE
Chésa is interested in all aspects of the work with Indigenous clients, including the revitalization of Indigenous legal orders, the assertion of inherent jurisdiction over areas such as services for Indigenous children and families, and UNDRIP implementation.
WORTH NOTING
Outside work, Chésa enjoys spending time outside with her family, running around with her dogs, and dancing. When she isn’t doing any of the above, you can find Chésa forever searching for the perfect bubble tea.
Credentials
- Called to the Bar in British Columbia, 2025
- Juris Doctor & Juris Indigenarum Doctor (JD/JID), University of Victoria, 2024
- Bachelor of Arts (BA), Professional Communication, Royal Roads University, 2018
- Diploma in Indigenous Studies, Camosun College, 2016
ACHIEVEMENTS
- Changemaker Award, BC Museum Association, 2018
- Annual Volunteer, Xe Xe Smun’ eem Victoria Orange Shirt Day, since 2015
LEADERSHIP + COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
- Amicus Tutor, University of Victoria Faculty of Law, 2022-2024
- Indigenous Engagement Advisory Group (New Student Housing & Dining Buildings Project), University of Victoria, 2022-2023
- Mentor, Indspire Rivers to Success: Indigenous Student Mentorship, 2021
- Presenter, Paris Generation Equality Forum, 2021
MEMBERSHIPS
- Member, Esquimalt Nation Education Committee, 2023-Present
