Robert Hamilton

Robert Hamilton is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Law, University of Calgary. His research and teaching focus on Aboriginal law, constitutional law, legal history, and the relationship between Indigenous and state legal orders. He has extensive experience working with Indigenous nations on treaty rights, Aboriginal title, and self-government initiatives.

Educational Background:

• PhD in Law, University of Victoria, 2021
• LLM, Osgoode Hall Law School, 2015
• JD, University of New Brunswick, 2013
• BA (Hons) in Philosophy, St. Thomas University, 2008

Research Interests:

Robert Hamilton's research spans Aboriginal law, constitutional law, legal history, legal theory, and property law. He is particularly interested in the relationship between Indigenous legal orders and state legal systems. His work explores how Indigenous legal traditions can coexist with and influence Canadian law, especially in areas like treaty rights, Aboriginal title, and self-government. He also examines the historical context of Crown-Indigenous relations and how this history informs contemporary legal issues.

Publications Trends:

Hamilton's publications reflect a deep engagement with Indigenous legal issues in Canada. His recent work includes analysis of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and its implementation in Canadian law. He has written extensively on the duty to consult and accommodate Indigenous peoples, particularly in the context of resource development and federalism. His research also covers the legal history of Crown-Indigenous relations and the implications of this history for modern legal frameworks.

Teaching:

He teaches a variety of courses including Indigenous Peoples and the Law, Property Law, Legal Research and Writing, Modern Treaties, and Federalism.

Contact Information:

• Email: robert.hamilton1@ucalgary.ca
• Office: MFH3347
• Phone: 403.220.4401