The Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs (MAA) leads on Aboriginal policy development and coordination, and negotiates and settles land claims. It also manages Ontario’s relationships with First Nations, Aboriginal organizations (including Métis, Native women, off-reserve Aboriginal peoples), and the federal government.

The Legal Services Branch (LSB) provides a full range of legal services to support the work of the MAA. The branch works with counsel across the government to assist with the provision of advice on matters related to Aboriginal peoples and their rights and assertions, with a particular emphasis on consultation issues.