New Mexico Supreme Court Upholds Tribal Sovereignty

In Mendoza v. Isleta Resort and Casino, the New Mexico Supreme Court heard the case of a party who wished to circumvent tribal procedures for a worker’s compensation claim. Ultimately, the New Mexico Supreme Court’s holding is a big win for tribal sovereignty, as it requires an express waiver of sovereignty before permitting a state action to commence over a dispute arising on tribal property. Read more here and listen to the oral arguments here.

Briefs:

Mendoza Opening Brief

Tribe Brief

Mendoza Answer Brief

Tribe Reply

Mendoza Sur-Reply

Tribe Sur-Sur-Reply