If you have a new announcement, please share it with us by uploading the information requested on this Google Form. If you have any questions, please email the MSU College of Law Indigenous Law & Policy Center at indigenous@law.msu.edu.

Clerkship

The Chambers of Judge Timothy M. Reif of the United States Court of International Trade. Clerks will work closely with Judge Reif on assigned cases. The clerks will have the opportunity to write memos and draft opinions, review briefs and pleadings, conduct legal research on the cases and administrative decisions that come before the court, edit,proofread and assemble documents, observe court proceedings, attend and assist with preparation for oral arguments and trials, and engage in various administrative duties. Working alongside Judge Reif will allow and require the clerk to understand the arguments of all of the parties and prepare impartial and carefully reasoned legal analyses of the issues in each case assigned to that clerk. Judge Reif expects that clerks will have strong written and analytical skills and will be interested to hone and strengthen those skills even further during the clerkship under his guidance and with feedback from fellow clerks. Judge Reif intends for clerks to serve as valuable assets to him and to the court. Throughout the clerkship term, clerks will gain an understanding of trial and appellate procedures at the USCIT, Federal Circuit and the other district courts on which Judge Reif sits by designation.

For more information and how to apply, click here. 

Judicial Law Clerk to Justice Elizabeth M. Welch

Michigan Supreme Court

Salary Range: $78,738.48 – $102,729.60

The Michigan Supreme Court is currently seeking qualified candidates to fill two Judicial Law Clerk positions in the Chambers of Supreme Court Justice Elizabeth M. Welch. The clerkship will begin between mid-August or early September 2026 and is expected to last for two years with satisfactory performance. Clerks report to the Justice and her Senior Law Clerk and will assist with evaluating cases filed with the Court and administrative matters within the Court’s jurisdiction. Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Review applications for leave to appeal, commissioner reports, and briefs filed in cases

scheduled for conference consideration or oral argument. As necessary, prepare summaries

and recommendations for the Justice.

• Review and summarize memos prepared by the other Justices’ chambers and prepare

responsive memos for Justice Welch.

• Confer with the Justice and other clerks on pending matters such as applications for leave to

appeal, conference items, opinions, and orders.

• As directed by the Justice, draft memos to the Court advocating her position.

• Prepare bench memos in advance of oral arguments, including reviewing the case record,

conducting required legal research, summarizing important facts and arguments, and

providing a recommendation on disposition.

• Attend and review transcripts of oral arguments for cases assigned to the clerk.

• Prepare draft orders, opinions, concurrences, and dissents. Peer review opinions prepared by

other clerks in the Justice’s chambers. Per the Justice’s instructions, advocate for proposed

changes to draft opinions or orders issued by other chambers.

• Review and analyze administrative agenda items, conduct legal research

and follow-up, and draft memos on behalf of the Justice.

Track current developments in the law, including reading United States Supreme Court and

Michigan Court of Appeals opinions, legal periodicals, and other relevant information.

• Assign research projects to and supervise research activities of student interns/externs.

• Draft speeches and perform other duties for the Justice as necessary.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, COMPENSATION: Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school. Significant experience involving legal research and writing. Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Windows. One year of post-law school legal work experience—such as with a law firm, a court, or another governmental body—is preferred. Starting salary will be commensurate with experience.

LOCATION: This position will be based at the Hall of Justice in Lansing, Michigan. In-person or hybrid (inperson/remote) work schedules are available. The candidates selected for these positions must reside in Michigan on or before their first day of employment.

TO APPLY: Please send your cover letter, résumé, transcripts (unofficial is acceptable), two to three letters of recommendation, and one writing sample (no longer than 10 pages) as a single PDF file to jobapps@courts.mi.gov. Please include “Clerkship-Justice Welch – 2026 Term” in the subject line.

POSITION DEADLINE: Open Until Filled.

First review of applications and rolling interviews may begin after July 1, 2025

Special United States Attorney General (SAUSA)

Blackfeet Tribe; Browning  Montana

The Blackfeet Tribe seeks a highly motivated attorney to serve as a tribal prosecutor who will be cross-designated as a Tribal Special Assistant US Attorney (Tribal SAUSA) with the United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) for the District of Montana.  The position would entail the investigation and prosecution of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, sex trafficking and stalking crimes that occur within the exterior boundaries of the Blackfeet Indian Reservation.   The attorney will be stationed at the Blackfeet Legal Dept and will travel to the USAO Great Falls offices for training, federal court appearances and other Tribal SAUSA duties as appropriate.   It is anticipated that the Tribal SAUSA will prosecute the majority of cases before the Blackfeet Tribal Court, with the remainder comprised of federal cases assigned as a Tribal SAUSA. The qualified applicant would be expected to: (1) assist tribal and federal law

enforcement agents in structuring and implementing criminal investigative plans and strategies;

(b) actively participate in federal grand jury proceedings, including the presentation of witnesses

before the grand jury; and (c) represent the Blackfeet Tribe or the United States before the

Blackfeet Tribal Court or the United States District Court for the District of Montana, respectively. Working with the Blackfeet Legal Department and the Criminal Division of the Montana USAO, the Tribal SAUSA will be part of a dedicated team helping to enforce tribal and federal criminal laws authorized by the Violence Against Women Act, supporting coordinated community responses to hold offenders accountable and serve victims. 

QUALIFICATIONS

Applicants must possess a J.D. Degree, be an active member of the bar (any U.S. jurisdiction),

and must be admitted, or eligible for admission, to the United States District Court for the

District of Montana.Possess a Juris Doctorate Degree, be an active member of the Bar (any US Jurisdiction) and must be admitted, or eligible for admission to the U.S. District Court for the District of Montana.

Negotiate: Range of pay is between $110,000 and $150,000.00 depending on qualifications.

APPLICATION PROCESS

On or before the deadline (June 4, 2025), please send your resume showing relevant experience and dates of

employment (include day/month/year), a cover letter explaining your interest in position, and a

writing sample not to exceed five (5) pages via email to dkline@blackfeetnation.com or

tgilham@blackfeetnation.com, or by mail to Blackfeet Legal Department, P. O. Box 849,

Browning, MT 59417. If applying by mail, applications must be mailed by the deadline to be considered.

Department of the Attorney General, State of Michigan

Legal Secretary 7, E8 – Public Service Division

Senior Attorney

Navajo Nation LB/Ofc.of Legislative Counsel; Window Rock, AZ

The Senior Attorney is under the general supervision of the Chief Legislative Counsel and will perform a myriad of high-level legal work of unusual difficulty that includes the following: 1) coordinate legal advice and opinions with the Department of Justice and other attorneys that provide legal services to the Nation; 2) attend Navajo Nation Council Sessions, Standing Committee Meetings, Board and Commission Meetings; 3) provide advice and counsel, including interpretation of tribal, state and federal laws and regulations, to the Navajo Nation Council, Standing Committees, Board and Commissions; 4) perform complex legal research and analysis of laws, legal precedents and policies; 5) provide representation of the Legislative Branch in mediation, administrative and court hearings; 6) provide training and orientation in specific laws and their application to the Navajo Nation Council, Standing Committees, Board and Commissions; 7) draft, review and prepare proposed legislation, reports, legal documents and correspondence for the Navajo Nation Council and entities of the Legislative Branch; and 8) codify the Navajo Nation laws, rules and regulations. Other legal work will include analyzing and interpreting judicial decisions, federal and state legislation, contracts, leases, permits and other related documents. Other duties as assigned.  

Requirements: A Juris Doctorate, and four (4) years of professional experience as a state-licensed attorney. Current admission in any state bar with the intention of seeking and securing admission to the Navajo Nation Bar Association and either the Arizona, New Mexico, or Utah State Bar within one (1) year of the date of hire. Closes 05/29/2025 https://apply.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs/LB07787669

Attorney Candidate

Navajo Nation LB/Ofc. Of Legislative Counsel; Window Rock, AZ

The Attorney Candidate is under the general supervision of the Chief Legislative Counsel and will perform a myriad of legal work of unusual difficulty that includes the following: 1) coordinate legal advice and opinions with the Department of Justice and other attorneys that provide legal services to the Nation; 2) attend Navajo Nation Council Sessions, Standing Committee Meetings, Board and Commission Meetings; 3) provide advice and counsel, including interpretation of tribal, state and federal laws and regulations, to the Navajo Nation Council, Standing Committees, Board and Commissions; 4) perform complex legal research and analysis of laws, legal precedents and policies; 5) provide representation of the Legislative Branch in mediation, administrative and court hearings; 6) provide training and orientation in specific laws and their application to the Navajo Nation Council, Standing Committees, Board and Commissions; 7) draft, review and prepare proposed legislation, reports, legal documents and correspondence for the Navajo Nation Council and entities of the Legislative Branch; and 8) codify the Navajo Nation laws, rules and regulations. Other legal work will include analyzing and interpreting judicial decisions, federal and state legislation, contracts, leases, permits and other related documents. Other duties as assigned.

Requirements: Juris Doctorate, Within one (1) year of employment, must obtain license to practice law in the state of Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, or Colorado, and the Navajo Nation. Must become licensed with the Navajo Nation and with the AZ, NM or UT State Bar Associations within one year of hire. Closes 05/29/2025   https://apply.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs/LB07787672

Principal Attorney (2 positions)

Navajo Nation LB/Ofc. of Legislative Counsel; Window Rock, AZ

The Principal Attorney is under the general supervision of the Chief Legislative Counsel and will perform a myriad of work of unusual difficulty that includes the following: 1) coordinate legal advice and opinions with the Department of Justice and other attorneys that provide legal services to the Nation; 2) attend Navajo Nation Council Sessions, Standing Committee Meetings, Board and Commission Meetings; 3) provide advice and counsel, including interpretation of tribal, state and federal laws and regulations, to the Navajo Nation Council, Standing Committees, Board and Commissions; 4) perform complex legal research and analysis of laws, legal precedents and policies; 5) provide representation of the Legislative Branch in mediation, administrative and court hearings; 6) provide training and orientation in specific laws and their application to the Navajo Nation Council, Standing Committees, Board and Commissions; 7) draft, review and prepare proposed legislation, reports, legal documents and correspondence for the Navajo Nation Council and entities of the Legislative Branch; and 8) codify the Navajo Nation laws, rules and regulations. Other legal work will include analyzing and interpreting judicial decisions, federal and state legislation, contracts, leases, permits, and other related documents. Other duties as assigned.

Requirements: A Juris Doctorate; and eight (8) years professional experience as a state licensed attorney. • Current admission to any state bar with the intention of seeking and securing admission to the Navajo Nation Bar Association and either the Arizona, New Mexico or Utah State Bar within one (1) year of date of hire. Requires submission of a current certificate of good standing from a state bar within sixty (60) days of employment. Must be licensed with the Navajo Nation and with the AZ, NM or UT State Bar Associations within one year of hire. Supervision from a licensed Navajo Nation Attorney will be required until Attorney is licensed in the Navajo Nation Courts. Closes 05/27/2025

First position: https://apply.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs/LB07787630

Additional position: https://apply.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs/LB07787631

Native American Unit Crime Victims Staff Attorney

Northwest Justice Project; Washington State

Advise and represent Native American clients in tribal, federal, state, and administrative courts in a broad range of civil legal matters. Much, but not all, of the legal work involves assisting domestic violence and sexual assault survivors with cases concerning their immediate safety, ongoing protection, and family law needs.

Develop and maintain relationships statewide with tribal programs, agencies, and personnel, and other victim services organizations for Native Americans, to increase access to legal assistance and provide technical support to the Native American advocacy community.

Identify and engage with Native American client communities throughout Washington state and conduct legal education events for client groups, social and human services providers, and state and tribal justice system stakeholders. 

Requirements:

• Litigation experience, with particular experience in tribal courts, state courts, federal courts, or administrative agencies, on civil legal issues such as family law, housing, public benefits or other legal matters affected by Native American status. A minimum of 3 years of litigation experience is preferred.

• Cultural competency and lived experience or demonstrated experience working with low-income Native American communities. Experience working with tribes is preferred.

• Attention to detail and willingness to maintain systems, including timekeeping and case management, to facilitate grant reporting and compliance requirements.

• Member of the Washington Bar, the ability to acquire membership through admission by motion, or willing and able to take next bar exam.

Salary: $ 80,142 to $140,712. Closes June 2, 2025 https://d8.nwjustice.org/system/files/2025-05/Staff%20Attorney%20-%20NAU_Crime%20Victims.pdf

Compact Negotiation and Tribal Legal Affairs Coordinator – Tax Policy Specialist 4 (TPS4) Washington State Department of Revenue, Tumwater, WA.

As the Compact Negotiation and Tribal Legal Affairs Coordinator (TPS4), you will provide legal advice, legal analysis, policy recommendations, and other support. Additionally, your expertise is needed on politically sensitive state and national issues having a significant impact on the agency, the Tribes, and the State. This position will also serve as a key member of the Department’s Compact Negotiation Team and may assist in dispute resolution with tribes.  

Other duties: Research, analyze, summarize, and provide advice on tribal-related legal issues to the Team, Executive Management, and others as appropriate.

Act as the Team’s liaison to the Department’s Interpretations & Technical Advice Division and assigned Attorney Generals.

Draft and finalize tax compacts and other government-to-government tax-related agreements.

Assist other members of the Team with policy and option development, legislative drafting, analysis, briefings, recommendations for tribal tax proposals, and other documents. 

Collaborate with and provide legal/technical advice to other divisions on tribal issues.  

Draft rules (Washington Administrative Code) and interpretive statements with a tribal nexus.

This position is generally scheduled to work Monday through Friday during core business hours; however, longer hours may be required when needed. A flexible schedule or telework may be accommodated at management’s discretion. Some travel will be required to engage with our community partners.” “We are looking for someone with four years of experience as a Tax Policy Specialist or comparable experience in policy analysis or application as a government attorney, private attorney practicing in, or other comparable work experience.

Note: An L.L.M. or master’s degree in taxation or a closely allied field will substitute for one year of experience.

Preferred Qualifications: 

The following are desired but are not required for consideration of this position. If you feel you have the requirements above, please apply regardless of the following additional, desired elements. 

A Juris Doctorate from an accredited school of law.

Familiarity with Washington tribal law and government-to-government relations with the federally recognized Indian Tribes in Washington. 

Experience in developing contracts or other legal agreements, including drafting.” $7,043.00 – $9,476.00 Monthly. Closes: 6/3/25 /11:59 PM https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/washington/jobs/4939133/compact-negotiation-and-tribal-legal-affairs-coordinator-tax-policy-specialist?department[0]=Dept.%20of%20Revenue&sort=PostingDate%7CDescending&pagetype=jobOpportunitiesJobs

General Counsel

Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan

The General Counsel, under the direction of the Tribal Board of Directors and is responsible for the legal affairs of the Tribe and its enterprises.

Education: JD or PhD – Juris Doctorate degree required.

Experience: Minimum of 10 years of legal experience required.  Must have experience supervising attorneys and staff. 

Certification/License: Admission to Michigan Bar required. Must have a valid driver’s license and be insurable by the Sault Tribe Insurance Department. Must comply with annual driver’s license review and insurability standards with the Sault Tribe Insurance Department.   Must undergo a Criminal background investigation done under the rules of the National Indian Gaming Commission. Will be required to complete and pass pre-employment drug testing.  

Salary: Negotiable Open Until Filled https://saulttribe.exacthire.com/job/177820

ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY – Native American Law 

Kaplan Kirsch San Francisco, CA

•Serve as a key member of our Native American Law practice; and you may be asked to help with environmental, energy, transportation, infrastructure, and real estate matters as workflow needs arise

•Work directly with partners and clients.

•Be admitted to practice law in one of the states in which Kaplan Kirsch has an office (San Francisco, District of Columbia, New York, Denver)

Requirements:

•Having 2-4 years of relevant experience in Native American Law or legal work on behalf of Indian Tribes.

•Demonstrating exceptional writing, analytical, and advocacy skills 

•Adapting quickly in a dynamic, fast-paced work environment to successfully manage deadlines and proactively complete time-sensitive tasks

•Being comfortable working both independently and as part of a larger team 

•Taking initiative and responsibility for meeting client needs and pursuing opportunities for individual skill development and improvement

•Having the ability to successfully interact with clients and colleagues

•Substantive experience in Indian law, including work on issues related to specific legal authorities available to Indian Tribes in statute and regulation, such as the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA), the Indian Reorganization Act (25 U.S.C. 5101 et seq.); the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (ISDEAA); and the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA); among others

•Experience in the development and restructuring of Tribal legal infrastructures, intergovernmental agreements and similar legal instruments, and business transaction documents

•Experience or interest in policy matters affecting Tribal governments

•An entrepreneurial mindset for work in Indian Country and a clear understanding of work on behalf of Indian Tribes

•A collegial, team-focused approach to the practice of law

•A strong record of academic excellence and leadership

•Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, both with Indian Tribes and otherwise

•Demonstrated interest (personal or professional) in Native American culture, history, and public policy

The salary range is $155,000 – $175,000, commensurate with experience

Open until position is filled

Apply online at https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/Details/3278871/Kaplan-Kirsch-LLP/ASSOCIATE-ATTORNEY—Native-American-Law

Associate General Counsel

Mescalero Apache Tribe; Mescalero, New Mexico

Under the supervision of the Senior General Counsel, provide general legal advice to the Tribe and its sub-entities in a broad variety of areas including but not limited to contracts, employment, Indian gaming, taxation, jurisdiction, environmental regulation, cultural resource preservation, child welfare, and Tribal Code development. Juris Doctorate from an ABA accredited law school; At least three (3) years’ experience as a practicing attorney, preferably five (5) years and with a tribal government or entity that represents tribal interests; Must be able to provide at least one writing sample; Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, & Outlook) and Adobe Acrobat; Ability to follow direction and to work collaboratively with groups or individuals; Licensed to practice law in the State of New Mexico; or must be licensed in another state and become licensed in the State of New Mexico following the next available bar exam; or by reciprocity no later than six months after date of hire; if not licensed in any state, then must become licensed in the State of New Mexico following the next available bar exam; Familiarity with federal Indian law; Must be able to pass background check to meet the employment eligibility requirements as they pertain to the position; If terminated from any previous position held as an attorney then the applicant must demonstrate that such termination was made without cause or that the reasons for termination would not adversely impact the duties and responsibilities herein; Licensed to practice law in the State of New Mexico; Must possess valid State driver’s license and meet Tribal insurance standards; Must successfully pass a pre-employment drug/alcohol screen and background investigation. Salary: $76,731- $115, 128 Open until filled https://mescaleroapachetribe.com/careers/

Family Defense Managing Attorney-Office of the Public Defender

Office of the Public Defender-State of Montana; Billings, MT

Managing Attorneys-Family Defense Specialist ensure that effective and efficient legal services are rendered for clients represented by the Office of the Public Defender by providing guidance, leadership and day to day supervision to Public Defenders within an assigned office or Region.  This position’s responsibilities involve establishing office protocols, ensuring that public defender assignments within the Public Defender Office comply with the provisions of MCA 47-1-202(7); Contracts for services as provided in MCA 47-1-216; conducts record keeping  of public defender and associated services of Office expenses and Implements the standards and procedures established by management.  In addition to the supervision and management of staff and office procedures this position will also be required to carry a caseload that will require representing indigent clients in a variety of cases.    Public Defenders must have a passion, commitment, and willingness to work collaboratively with underprivileged populations to, not only, ensure that needed services are provided, they continually advocate and strive to improve the level of services OPD provides to its clients. 

This position requires:

•Juris Doctorate Degree from an accredited law school,

•Membership in the State Bar of Montana

•Other combinations of education and experience may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Salary: $108,169.00 Closes: June 5, 2025 https://mtstatejobs.taleo.net/careersection/200/jobdetail.ftl?job=25141206&tz=GMT-06%3A00&tzname=America%2FDenver

Public Defender II

Gila River Indian Community; Sacaton, AZ

Holistic public defender’s office seeks zealous advocates to practice as trial attorneys. Advanced training opportunities, and competitive pay and benefits available. Ideal candidates have strong commitment to client-centered service and willingness to defend complex felony and misdemeanor cases, in trial and appellate courts. Must be able to read, write, and care for justice. REQUIRED: license to practice law in good standing (in Arizona or able to qualify), 3 or more years of experience, defense work preferred.

Salary: $97,305 – $167,305 Open Until Filled https://selfservice.gric.nsn.us/ess/EmploymentOpportunities/JobDetail.aspx?req=25033&sreq=1&form=STD3&desc=DEFENSE%20ATTORNEY%20II

Communications Associate

Environmental Law Institute; Washington, DC (Hybrid)

ELI is hiring a Communications Associate to support ELI’s Communications department in upholding a dynamic and strategic communications approach to engage our core audiences and maximize the effect of our work.  Responsibilities include: Assist the Associate VP of Communications in organization-wide marketing and communications efforts, including working closely with other VPs in support of their work. Coordinate with ELI research project leads to promote their outputs via social media, sponsored ads, or other media strategies. Manage social media accounts, including drafting and scheduling posts, graphics, videos, and other media.

Required Qualifications

Excellent skills in: Written and verbal interpersonal communications, organization, attention to detail, time management, web research, and problem solving. Proficiency with standard office software, including Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel, and PowerPoint. General knowledge of: email marketing, marketing strategies, social media best practices, communications, and public relations.

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience (0-3 years).

Experience in marketing, communications, or public relations preferred.

Basic training in CRMs and software such as Salesforce, Canva, Photoshop or InDesign a plus.

Salary: $55,000 – $63,000 per year Closes 07/31/2025 www.eli.org/employment

Director of Policy

The Director of Policy will lead the NCAI policy team, legal advocacy, additional programs, and management work assigned by the Executive Director. This work includes, but is not limited to: tribal sovereignty, the federal trust responsibility, law enforcement, tribal justice systems, federal agency consultation, climate change, land use policy, and other matters of importance to Tribal Nations. The Director of Policy reports to the Executive Director and is a NCAI senior leadership team member.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

5 plus years of tribal government, legal, and policy experience;

Advanced educational degree, including J.D., Master’s degree, or other comparable credential;

Possesses a solid understanding of the legislative and administrative policy processes;

Demonstrated experience working collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, including tribal leaders, intertribal organizations, legislative staff, federal agencies, and non-governmental organizations;

Ability to work with and organize a team or teams of legal and policy professionals, as well as take direction and work independently, taking the initiative within areas of responsibility;

Strong working knowledge of Congress, the Administration and the role of states and tribes, and knowledge of policy issues relevant to tribal nations;

Passion for advancing the needs of tribes, tribal citizens, and their communities;

Seasoned experience and understanding of political environments, process, protocols, and relationships;

Possess expertise or experience in most if not all areas of federal Indian law and policy;

Capacity to work under pressure, meet deadlines consistently, and handle multiple projects concurrently;

Strong writing, interpersonal, communication and organizational skills; and

Experience managing a policy team is preferred.

Salary starts at: $129,524

https://ncai.applicantpro.com/jobs/3748634