Cochrane Sinclair welcomes four new partners

Press Release

Cochrane Sinclair is pleased to announce the admission of four new partners to the firm. Three of these appointments reflect internal promotions, recognizing years of outstanding contribution and leadership. The fourth marks a new addition to the partnership, strengthening the firm’s depth of experience and national reach.

Together, these appointments reflect Cochrane Sinclair’s continued growth across Manitoba and British Columbia, and its commitment to principled advocacy, strong relationships, and leadership grounded in service to clients and communities.

Recognizing leadership from within

The promotions of Megan Young, Alyssa Cloutier, and Stacey Soldier reflect the firm’s long-standing approach to partnership, one rooted in trust, professional judgment, and demonstrated leadership. Each has built a practice defined by excellence, care, and a deep sense of responsibility to the people they serve.

Sonny Cochrane (Co-Managing Partner), noted that partnership is earned through consistent leadership and integrity.

“These promotions reflect years of trust built with clients and colleagues alike. Megan, Alyssa, and Stacey have demonstrated not only legal excellence, but a strong commitment to leadership and responsibility. Their admission to partnership recognizes the impact they already have within the firm.”

Shawn Scarcello (Co-Managing Partner), emphasized the broader significance of the promotions.

“Partnership is about judgment, accountability, and the ability to lead through complex and often challenging work. Megan, Alyssa, and Stacey embody those qualities, and their leadership strengthens the firm in meaningful and lasting ways.”

Megan Young, counsel in our Musqueam First Nation office, has built a litigation practice focused on Aboriginal law, administrative law, environmental matters, and complex commercial disputes. As a Cree woman and band member of the Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation, she brings lived experience and strategic insight to high-stakes litigation involving Aboriginal rights, treaty rights, and regulatory decision-making across multiple jurisdictions.

Alyssa Cloutier, a lawyer in the Vancouver office, practises primarily in Indigenous law, constitutional law, class actions, and civil litigation. She has appeared before all levels of court in Manitoba, as well as the Federal Court, the Federal Court of Appeal, and the Supreme Court of Canada. Her advocacy is marked by careful preparation, clarity, and a strong focus on client outcomes.

Stacey Soldier, counsel in the Swan Lake First Nation office, brings decades of experience in criminal law and child protection. Her career includes service as a prosecutor, advocacy before national inquiries, and sustained leadership within the legal profession. Her promotion reflects both her legal expertise and her long-standing role as a mentor, educator, and community leader.

Welcoming a new partner to the firm

In addition to these promotions, Cochrane Sinclair is pleased to welcome Bob Freedman as a new partner. Bob brings decades of experience and a national reputation for thoughtful, strategic counsel across complex legal matters.

His addition reflects the firm’s approach to growth, ensuring that expansion strengthens both client service and internal collaboration.

Max Faille (Managing Partner, Vancouver office), highlighted the significance of both the promotions and Bob’s arrival.

“These promotions reflect lawyers who are already leaders within our firm. Megan, Alyssa, and Stacey lead with clarity, care, and conviction. At the same time, welcoming Bob to the partnership adds experience and perspective that aligns strongly with the firm’s values and long-term direction.”

Leadership grounded in responsibility

Aaron Christoff (Partner), noted that partnership carries responsibility as well as recognition.

“Partnership is about stewardship. It means carrying forward a culture built on respect, collaboration, and service. Megan, Stacey, Alyssa, and Bob exemplify those values in their work, and their leadership will shape the firm for years to come.”

As Cochrane Sinclair continues to grow, the firm remains grounded in the principles that guide its work: principled advocacy, strong relationships, and a commitment to serving clients and communities with care and integrity.

The firm congratulates Megan Young, Alyssa Cloutier, Stacey Soldier, and Bob Freedman on their admission to the partnership and looks forward to the continued impact of their leadership.

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