published 11/20/2025
Leading Lawyers 40 and Under in Canada
Winnipeg, MB – Thompson Dorfman Sweatman LLP (TDS) is proud to announce that Shoshanna Paul has been named among The 2025 Lexpert Rising Stars: Leading Lawyers 40 and under in Canada featured in Lexpert Special Edition Issue 26.02. This recognition highlights lawyers who demonstrate leadership and professional excellence. It also celebrates meaningful contributions to their communities. Shoshanna’s inclusion exemplifies her achievements in aboriginal law, labour and employment law, and intellectual property law.
About Shoshanna Paul
Shoshanna is a member of English River First Nation, a Dene community in Treaty 10, northern Saskatchewan. Her legal practice focuses on supporting First Nations governments and Indigenous organizations. This includes acting on complex negotiations and multi-stakeholder projects. Examples are the creation of new urban reserves, protecting First Nations Lands, resources and knowledge and providing ongoing legal support to organizations.
Shoshanna is committed to protecting Indigenous intellectual property, including traditional knowledge and cultural expressions. She advises clients on combining Indigenous laws and existing IP frameworks. Additionally, she presents internationally on these topics and assists museums with reconciliation initiatives and repatriation efforts.
Leadership and Community Impact
Recognized for her practical impact and innovative problem-solving, her work supports organizations navigating complex legal and regulatory landscapes. She promotes ethical governance and sustainable practices.
Outside of her legal practice, Shoshanna actively contributes to arts and culture in Saskatchewan. She served on the board of Saskatoon’s Remai Modern contemporary art museum, including as Chair of the Governance Committee. She helped establish a Truth and Reconciliation Committee within the board. Her efforts support reconciliation and inclusion of Indigenous perspectives in cultural institutions.
Contribution to TDS and Organizational Impact
Shoshanna became a Partner at TDS in 2024 and opened the firm’s first Saskatchewan office in Saskatoon, helping expand TDS’ corporate and commercial practice in the province. She is a trusted leader within the firm, coordinating complex matters and building client relationships. She shares knowledge across teams.
"We’re proud to see Shoshanna recognized as a Lexpert Rising Star. She brings thoughtful legal guidance, strong client focus, and a commitment to community that reflects the values we hold at TDS." — Keith LaBossiere, K.C., CEO & Managing Partner
Client Service Approach
Shoshanna emphasizes long-term relationship building, particularly with First Nations clients. Her approach combines understanding of client operations with timely, prudent legal guidance. This strategy fosters trust and consistent results over many years.
Contribution to the Legal Profession
Shoshanna serves as Vice Chair of the Intellectual Property Institute of Canada’s Indigenous Intellectual Property Committee and has held leadership roles in the Canadian Bar Association – Saskatchewan Branch. She is dedicated to mentoring and education, teaching courses on Aboriginal law, employment law, and Indigenous economic development at the University of Saskatchewan and University of Manitoba. She also has coached law students in the Kawaskimhon National Moot.
Contact Information
Shoshanna Paul
Thompson Dorfman Sweatman LLP
(306) 203-3968
syp@tdslaw.com
About Thompson Dorfman Sweatman LLP
With over 130 years of roots in Manitoba, Thompson Dorfman Sweatman LLP (TDS) is a leading full-service Canadian law firm with a global reach. The firm serves clients across more than 30 areas of practice, including corporate and commercial law, labour and employment law, and litigation. With a team of 100+ lawyers across Manitoba and Saskatchewan, TDS combines industry knowledge, collaboration, and teamwork to deliver practical, effective legal solutions.
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