At a tribal court/state court collaboration meeting, some state court judges raised the idea of creating a national experts list that state court judges and staff can access when Tribal Law and Federal Indian Law questions arise. I realize that there are national organizations and national experts known throughout Indian Country, but they are not necessarily known to people working in state courts.
I know some tribes are putting together experts lists for specific purposes such as expert witnesses for ICWA cases. I’m not sure if anyone has put together something similar for other purposes.
I’ve been asked to explore the idea of creating a web site or database that would include a listing of groups and individuals that are willing to serve as sources of information for state courts when questions arise. (The point would be made that it is not a site for free legal advice, just a site to guide them to a better understanding of Tribal Law and Federal Indian Law principles. It would likely be made accessible only to court staff.) I’m looking for feedback on the pros and cons of doing this as well as suggestions about how it should or shouldn’t be organized. Ideas so far have ranged from having only national technical assistance providers listed to having state-by-state listings with people recommended by their own tribes.
Feedback should be sent to: expertslist@gmail.com. I’d really appreciate feedback from the community on this proposed project. Miigwech
Turtle Talk 