Jackson v Piikani Nation
Brian Jackson
Law Firm / Organization
Zinner Law Office
Lawyer(s)

Gabor Zinner

Piikani Nation
Law Firm / Organization
Gowling WLG (Canada) LLP
Lawyer(s)

Caireen Hanert

Key Facts:

  • Brian Jackson, a former Piikani Nation Band Councillor, sought a fiat application to proceed with claims for indemnification based on an Indemnity Agreement signed in 2015 when he was re-elected to the Council.
  • Jackson's claim primarily concerns the reimbursement of legal costs incurred during multiple legal actions, including his involvement in a 2006 lawsuit, his defense against removal from Council, and claims of defamation.
  • The court reviewed Mr. Jackson’s complex history of litigation, much of which was covered by a 2013 Master Order managing related Piikani Nation trust matters.

Court's Decision:

  • The court denied the fiat request, determining that the issues raised by Jackson were outside the scope of the current case management proceedings.
  • The claims for indemnification did not relate to ongoing matters under case management, and some were deemed frivolous or barred by the Limitations Act.
  • Jackson was advised to pursue any potential claims through regular civil proceedings, noting that he might expose himself to costs if unsuccessful.

Conclusion:

  • No fiat was granted, and Jackson was not permitted to bypass regular litigation procedures for his claims against the Piikani Nation. No costs awarded.
Court of King's Bench of Alberta
1201 15897
Civil litigation
Respondent