Called to the bar in 2012, Gavin’s practice has focused on advancing environmental laws and supporting recognition of Indigenous governance through litigation, negotiations and law reform. He has worked alongside many others on: the successful legal challenge to Canada’s approval of the Northern Gateway oil pipeline (Gitxaała Nation v. Canada, 2016 FCA 187); enactment of the federal Oil Tanker Moratorium Act; reform of BC’s Environmental Assessment Act; the successful legal challenge to BC’s automated process for granting mineral claims (Gitxaała v. British Columbia (Chief Gold Commissioner), 2023 BCSC 1680); as well as an array of efforts supporting Indigenous Nations revitalizing and applying their own laws to environmental matters, from Indigenous-led assessment to Indigenous protected and conserved areas.

Prior to joining White Raven in 2026, Gavin practiced at a non-governmental organization and two firms specializing in Aboriginal law. At White Raven, Gavin supports the Haida Nation in litigation and other efforts to advance recognition of their title, rights and governance.

Gavin’s family immigrated to Canada from Britain and the United States shortly before he was born on Coast Salish territories in Vancouver, BC. He resides on Cas Yikh territory of the Gidimt’en Clan, home of the Witsuwit’en Nation, in Smithers, BC.