Research

Job Announcements

gabrielagendreau

____________________________________________________________________________ 

To post an open Indian law or leadership job to Turtle Talk, send the following information to indigenous@law.msu.edu: 

In the email body: 

  1. A typed brief description of the position which includes: 
    • Position title 
    • Location (city, state) 
    • Main duties 
    • Closing date 
    • Any other pertinent details such as links to the application 
  2. An attached PDF job announcement. 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

Sonosky, Chambers, Sachse, Endreson & Perry, LLP

Summer 2022 – Incoming 2L Student Associate. Sonosky, Chambers, Sachse, Endreson, & Perry LLP is a national law firm dedicated to representing Native American interests in a wide range of endeavors – including trial and appellate litigation, federal Indian law, tribal law, Indian self-determination and self-governance matters, transportation and infrastructure, natural resources, and economic development. Please see the position description for more information. Interested applicants should send a cover letter, resume, transcript, and writing sample to Mary Pavel, Partner at mpavel@sonosky.com and also copy kwray@sonosky.com. Applications are due by Friday, October 8th, 2021.

Native American Rights Fund (NARF)

Summer 2022 Law Clerk. Positions are available in Anchorage, AK; Boulder, CO; and Washington, D.C. Please indicate your office preference in your cover letter. The Law Clerk will: (1) Assist NARF attorneys by conducting legal research. (2) Draft legal memorandums and case filings. (3) Verify citations and proofread. (4) Assist in case management and work on special legal projects. Please see the position description for  more information. To apply, submit a cover letter (indicate your office preference), resume, non-collaborative legal writing sample, law school transcript, letter of recommendation, and three references to Kevin Cheng, Law Clerk Program Coordinator kcheng@narf.org by September 10, 2021. 

University of North Dakota School of Law

Fall 2022 Faculty Position, Grand Forks, ND. One or more tenure-track positions beginning fall 2022.  Areas of interest include Federal Indian Law, Lawyering Skills, Civil Procedure, Business Associations, Energy, and Oil & Gas. Faculty will: (1) Conduct innovative research. (2). Work across disciplinary boundaries, including teaching and learning. (3) Be committed to equity and inclusion. Please see the open positions for more information and to apply. Please contact the UND School of Law’s Faculty Selection Committee at und.law.fsc@law.und.edu with any questions.

The Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Legal Department

Associate Tribal Attorney, Cass Lake, Minnesota.  The Associate Tribal Attorney assists the Legal Director with analysis of ongoing cases and legal issues in a broad range of subject areas central to the needs of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe.  The tribal attorney is responsible for preparing and analyzing contracts, legal documents, Tribal Codes, ordinances and Resolutions.  The attorney will represent the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe in tribal, State and Federal Court.  The position is open until filled and the application materials can be found on the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe website at https://www.llojibwe.org/jobs/llbojobs.html.

The Yurok Tribe’s Office of the Tribal Attorney (OTA)

Fall 2021 and Spring 2022 Law Clerk, Klamath, CA. The Law Clerk will: (1) Perform legal research (e.g., statutes, regulations, case law, policies), including analysis of legal positions. (2) Prepare memoranda, correspondence, case law briefs, and legislative summaries. (3) Assist in drafting appropriate ordinances and policies that implement the Tribe’s self governance objectives. (4) Provide opinions on documents and policies, and attend meetings concerning tribal regulatory (including environmental) matters. Please see the position description for  more information. To apply, please email a cover letter, resume, law school transcript, and legal writing sample (no more than five pages) to Associate General Counsel, Alexandra Mojado, at amojado@yuroktribe.nsn.us.

Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, Durant, OK. The Assistant Prosecuting Attorney will: (1) Represent the Choctaw Nation in all juvenile cases and deprived actions within the jurisdiction of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. (2) Facilitate communication with federal, state, and local officials regarding juvenile matters involving members of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. (3) Assist in drafting legislation affecting children and juvenile laws. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can apply here. 

Pechanga Indian Reservation

Appellate Justice. The Appellate Justice will: (1) Support and defend the sovereignty and Constitution and Bylaws of the Pechanga Band, and its traditions, customs, and Tribal laws. (2) Exercise considerable independent judgement in hearing motions, reviewing briefs, hearing oral argument, conducting hearings and deciding cases in a fair and impartial manner. (3) Provide a tribal forum to resolve appeals from the Pechanga Tribal Court. (4) Draft and issue opinions and orders of the Appellate Court as necessary and appropriate. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can send their resume and letter of interest to hr@pechanga-nsn.gov, Fax: 951-587-2209.

Chief Appellate Justice. The Appellate Justice will: (1) Exercise considerable independent judgement in managing the docket of the Appellate Court, ruling on motions, setting briefing schedules, scheduling oral argument, conduct hearings and decide cases in a fair and impartial manner. (2) Provide a tribal forum to resolve appeals from the Pechanga Tribal Court. (3) Preside at all hearings before the Appellate Court and dispose of cases. (4) Draft and issue opinions and orders of the Appellate Court. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can send their resume and letter of interest to hr@pechanga-nsn.gov, Fax: 951-587-2209.

Licensing & Administrative Law Division – Washington State Attorney General’s Office

Assistant Attorney General, Washington State Attorney General’s Office. The Assistant Attorney General will: (1) Negotiate state-tribal agreements, advise on tribal treaty rights and related case law as applied to the Division’s clients. (2) Litigate and advise on taxation and enforcement authority issues. (3) Develop and maintain healthy client relationships. (4) Aid client agencies in negotiations with tribes on liquor, marijuana, and/or fuel tax issues. (5) Defend claims against agencies and officials in state and federal courts. Please view the position description for more information. Interested applicants should visit the application portal by August 31, 2021. Persons requiring reasonable accommodation in the application process or requiring information in an alternative format may contact Kalea Muigai at 360-586-7698. Those with a hearing impairment in need of accommodation are encouraged to contact the Washington Relay Service at 1-800-676-3777 or www.washingtonrelay.com.

Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes of the Flathead Nation

Chief Judge, Pablo, MT. The Chief Judge will: (1) Supervise and provide general direction to the Tribal Court as the trial court division of the Tribal judiciary. (2) Preside over the Small Claims division, the Traffic Court Division, and the Youth Court Division of Tribal Court. (3) Oversee the general administration of the Tribal Court. Please see the position description for more information and for the list of materials to be submitted. Materials should be submitted to personnel@cskt.org. For more information, contact Tribal Council Chairwoman Shelly Fyant at 406-675-2700 Ext. 1007.

Patterson Earnhart Real Bird & Wilson LLP

Associate Attorney, Louisville, CO. The Associate Attorney will: (1) Provide counsel and legal services to new and existing clients in a professional and expedient manner. (2) Appear at hearings and trials, including hearings in tribal courts. (3) Conduct legal research by preparing legal memoranda and necessary pleadings required in all aspects of tribal, federal, and state litigation matters. Please see the position description for more information. Interested applicants can send their resume, cover letter, a writing sample, professional references, and law school transcripts to Erin Obray, Firm Administrator eobray@nativelawgroup.com. The position is open until filled.

Northern Arapaho Tribe

Staff Attorney, Lander, WY. The Staff Attorney will: (1) Work under the direction of the In-House Counsel and will be assigned a portfolio of Tribal programs. (2) Work directly with Tribal Programs on policies, procedures, legal issues and will represent the Programs in State and Tribal Court. Please see the position description for more information. Interested applicants can send their resume, cover letter, application, and certificates for all jurisdictions in which they are licensed by August 30, 2021 to L. Clare Johnson at clare.johnson@northernarapaho.com.

University of Colorado Law School

2022-23 Academic Year Faculty, Boulder, CO. Faculty will preferably: (1) Teach classes in the first-year curriculum, especially constitutional law, criminal law, legislation and regulation, or property. (2) Teach negotiation/alternative dispute resolution. (3) Contribute to an inclusive campus environment. Please see the position description for more information. Application materials will not be accepted via mail or email. For consideration, applications must be submitted through the CU Jobs portal. Candidates should apply as soon as possible for full consideration. For questions, please contact Professor Sharon Jacobs, Chair, Faculty Appointments Committee, sharon.jacobs@colorado.edu.

Catawba Nation

Fall 2021 2L Legal Internship, Remote. Applicants will assist the Nation’s Legal Department with research and writing projects such as drafting ordinances and memoranda. Due to the current Covid-19 pandemic, applicants will be asked to work remotely. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates should email their cover letter, resume, legal writing sample, and law school transcript to Lydia Locklear, Deputy Tribal Attorney, lydia.locklear@catawba.com.

Root & Rebound

Tribal Regions Staff Attorney, Eureka, CA with travel across northern CA. The Tribal Regions Staff Attorney will: (1) Expand our direct legal services and growing partnerships with the Yurok Tribe and other Indigenous communities in Northern California. (2) Conduct holistic legal intakes to assess a client’s reentry legal needs and develop an appropriate legal services plan. (3) Push for policy reform on issues affecting Indigenous communities, including speaking with media or congressional representatives. Please see the position description for more information. Interested applicants are preferred to submit applications by August 29th, though applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled. 

The Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF), Secretary’s Office, Office of Legal Counsel

Attorney, various locations, WA. The Attorney will: (1) Represent DCF in legal actions and proceedings before the Wisconsin Division of Hearings and Appeals. (2) Coordinate DCF representation performed by the Department of Justice or other agencies. (3) Provide legal advice regarding the administration of DCF programs, and licensing and regulation matters. Please see the position description for more information. Applicants must apply online by 11:59 PM August 20, 2021. For assistance, please contact Jenn Xiong at 608-422-6418 or via email at JenniferM.Xiong@wisconsin.gov.

California Indian Legal Services

Staff Attorney, Sacramento, CA. Legal assistance to low-income individuals and tribes on an extensive range of Indian law issues. Duties will include research and writing, counsel and advice, representation in federal, state, and tribal court, and community outreach. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can submit a resume, cover letter, and writing sample to Patricia De La Cruz-Lyans, Director of Administration at hiring@calindian.org. The position is open until filled.

New Mexico, Navajo Nation + Polluters Reach Settlement in Gold King Mine Release Suit

Matthew L.M. Fletcher

Here is the consent decree:

consent decree.pdfDownload

King County Pays $1.5M over Shooting of Muckleshoot Tribal Member

Matthew L.M. Fletcher

Here.

We posted on this case here.

Ninth Circuit Reluctantly Rejects FTCA Claim against IHS Doctor

Matthew L.M. Fletcher

Here is the opinion in Sisto v. United States.

Briefs:

appellant brief.pdfDownload
appellee brief.pdfDownload
reply.pdfDownload

18th Annual Indigenous Law Conference Tentative Agenda

Monica Williamson

Head to indigenouslawconference.com/2021-agenda for the tentative agenda!

Friday Job Announcements

gabrielagendreau

____________________________________________________________________________ 

To post an open Indian law or leadership job to Turtle Talk, send the following information to indigenous@law.msu.edu: 

In the email body: 

  • A typed brief description of the position which includes: 
    1. Position title 
    2. Location (city, state) 
    3. Main duties 
    4. Closing date 
    5. Any other pertinent details such as links to the application 
  • An attached PDF job announcement. 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

Social Justice Legal Foundation 

Managing Attorney. The Managing Attorney will: (1) Be an experienced litigator and trial lawyer with a minimum of eight years of experience working in the private or public sector to lead our work and mentor a team of recent law school graduates. (2) Develop and manage high profile litigation matters. (3) Coordinate the training and development of the team, including our fellows. (4) Be highly resourceful and creative thinkers with the ability to excel independently, as well as on teams. The Managing Attorney will report directly to the Executive Director. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can submit their cover letter, resume, and law school transcript to rsteele@socialjusticelaw.org.

Senior Attorney. The Senior Attorney will: (1) Be an experienced litigator and trial lawyer with a minimum of five years of experience working in the private or public sector to lead our work and mentor a team of recent law school graduates. (2) Develop and manage high profile litigation matters. (3) Assist in the training and development of the team, including our fellows. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can submit their cover letter, resume, and law school transcript to rsteele@socialjusticelaw.org. 

Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes – Judicial Branch 

Deputy Attorney General, Concho, OK. Executive Branch. The Deputy Attorney General will: (1) Provide legal representation to the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes. (2) Represent the tribes in Federal, State, and Tribal Court. (3) Draft petitions, prepare witnesses, officers, and victims for trial, and Prepare Adult and Juvenile Offenders cases. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can submit Tribal application, resume, transcripts, diploma, certifications, license, and CDIB to atisdale@cheyenneandarapaho-nsn.gov.

Attorney, Concho, OK. The Attorney will: (1) Provide counsel, advice, and representation to tribal members in tribal court. (2) Provide legal representation to tribal members who face misdemeanor criminal charges and felony criminal charges. (3) Develop and implement internal policies for the efficient and effective administration of the Legal Aid Program. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can submit Tribal application, resume, transcripts, diploma, certifications, license, and CDIB to atisdale@cheyenneandarapaho-nsn.gov.

Court Clerk, Concho, OK. The Court Clerk will: (1) Supervise and direct the hiring, firing, and work of all deputy court clerks. (2) Collect all fines, fees, and costs authorized or required by law to be paid to the Courts and deliver them to the Tribal Treasurer for deposit in the Court fund. (3) Provide a record in the absence of a Court Reporter to accurately and completely record all proceedings and hearings of the court. (4) Assume accounting and budgetary responsibilities of all accounts and funding sources of the Judicial Branch. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can submit Tribal application, resume, transcripts, diploma, certifications, license, and CDIB to atisdale@cheyenneandarapaho-nsn.gov.

SORNA Project Technical Assistant, Concho, OK. The Project Technical Assistant will: (1) Provide administrative support to the SORNA Program Administrator. (2) Assist with the Tribes requirements of participation in the Dru Sjodin National Sex Offender Public Website. (3) Engage in community outreach for prevention of victimization by sex offenders and to encourage reporting, investigation and successful and aggressive prosecution of sex offenses. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can submit Tribal application, resume, transcripts, diploma, certifications, license, and CDIB to atisdale@cheyenneandarapaho-nsn.gov.

Probation Officer, Concho, OK. The Probation Officer will: (1) Manage multiple cases and oversee probationers; compliance with their probation terms. (2) Ensure probationers understand their probation terms, develop rehabilitation plans, monitor progress, and arrange other services to assist probationers to achieve their goals. (3) Develop, recommend, and implement rehabilitation and treatment plans. (4) Arrange for post-release services to facilitate reintegration as a productive member of society. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can submit Tribal application, resume, transcripts, diploma, certifications, license, and CDIB to atisdale@cheyenneandarapaho-nsn.gov.

The Deputy Court Clerk, Concho, OK. The Deputy Court Clerk will: (1) Collect all fines, fees, and costs authorized or required by law to be paid to the Courts and deliver them to the Tribal  Treasurer for deposit in the Court fund. (2) Administer oaths, issue summons and subpoenas, certify a true  copy of Court records, and accurately keep each and every record of the Supreme and District Courts. (3) Provide a record in the absence of a Court Reporter to accurately and completely record all proceedings and hearings of the Court. (4) Assume accounting and budgetary responsibilities of all accounts and funding sources of the Judicial Branch. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can submit Tribal application, resume, transcripts, diploma, certifications, license, and CDIB to atisdale@cheyenneandarapaho-nsn.gov.

The Hopi Tribe

Chief Prosecutor, Kykotsmovi, AZ. The Chief Prosecutor will: (1) Be responsible for executive and administrative control of the Hopi Office of the Prosecutor, as well as the investigation and prosecution of crimes committed by adult and juvenile offenders within the exterior boundaries of the Hopi Reservation. (2) Representation of minor in need of care matters in the Hopi Children’s Court. (3) Participate as directed in specialty dockets such as the Hopi Family Wellness Court. (4) Respond to inquiries from citizen and governmental offices relating to tribal court procedures and violations of Hopi Tribal laws prosecuted in the Hopi Trial Court. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates may apply by submitting an application to HumanResources@hopi.nsn.us no later than August, 6, 2021.

Licensed Deputy Prosecutor, Kykotsmovi, AZ. The Licensed Deputy Prosecutor will: (1) Perform professional attorney-level legal work in the investigation and prosecution of adult and juvenile criminal offenses through conviction and appeal. (2) Present certain civil cases in the Hopi Family Court. (3) Conduct legal research and preparation of Court documents, including appellate briefs. (4) Participate in specialty dockets such as the Hopi Family Wellness Court. (5) Respond to inquiries from citizen and governmental offices relating to tribal court procedures and violations of Hopi Tribal laws prosecuted in the Hopi Trial Court. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates may apply by submitting an application to HumanResources@hopi.nsn.us no later than August, 6, 2021.

University of Idaho College of Law

Assistant Dean of Admissions, Moscow, ID or Boise, ID. The Assistant Dean will: (1) Report directly to the Dean of the College of Law and serve as a member of the senior leadership team. (2) Recruit for the College’s Native American Law Program, which enjoys significant support from the faculty and administration, as demonstrated by the development of our recent Tribal Homelands Scholarship. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates should apply here by July 30, 2021. The application will remain open until the position is filled.

Full Time Faculty — Tax and Estate Planning, Moscow, ID. The Faculty will: (1) Teach the basic tax course, business tax (partnerships and corps), estate planning, and wills. (2) Be able to switch out estate planning for another course every other year (which could include Tribal Nations Economics & Law). On its face, this package does not include much in the Native American law arena. However, that very well could change over time and we have several extracurricular programs that could use expertise in tribal tax, estate planning, tribal economic development, etc.. More details regarding these programs are available by emailing Dylan Hedden-Nicely at dhedden@uidaho.edu. 

The Federal Public Defender – District of New Mexico

Assistant Federal Public Defender, Las Cruces, NM. The Assistant Federal Public Defender will: (1) Represent individuals within Native American and Latin American communities charged with federal crimes. (2) Manage an extensive caseload, develop litigation strategies, prepare pleadings, appear in court at all stages of litigation, and meet with clients, experts, witnesses, family members and others. Interested candidates must, in one PDF document, submit a statement of interest, a resume describing your trial and appellate work, and three references to Margaret A. Katze, Federal Public Defender FDNM-HR@fd.org by August 13, 2021. Reference 2021-09 in the subject. 

The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

District Court Judge, Durant, OK. The District Court Judge will: (1) Oversee the functions of the Choctaw Nation District Courts. (2) Sit as an impartial trier of all civil and criminal matters. (3) Supervise the Court Clerk, deputy Clerks, Reporters, and all other officers and associates of the Court. (4) Render decisions on all evidentiary and procedural issues for the orderly administration of justice. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can apply online through the application portal no later than August 16th, 2021.

California Indian Legal Services

Staff Attorney, Sacramento, CA. Legal assistance to low-income individuals and tribes on an extensive range of Indian law issues. Duties will include research and writing, counsel and advice, representation in federal, state, and tribal court, and community outreach. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can submit a resume, cover letter, and writing sample to Patricia De La Cruz-Lyans, Director of Administration at hiring@calindian.org. The position is open until filled.

New Mexico Legal Aid Native American Program

Native American Program Paralegal, Bernalillo, New Mexico. The Paralegal will: (1) Maintain confidential client information in a database. (2) Conduct applicant intakes, collect client data, and provide litigation support. (3) Occasionally travel within the state. (4) Handle cases and matters in several jurisdictions involving federal Indian law and tribal law issues. (5) Represent low-income individuals in Pueblo and tribal courts and other forums, which may include family law, consumer law, and criminal law matters. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can send a current resume and a letter of interest to: jobs@nmlegalaid.org by August 13th, 2021.

Reno-Sparks Indian Colony 

Senior Staff Attorney, Reno, Nevada. The Senior Staff Attorney will: (1) Provide legal counsel and representation including but not limited to the preparation of pleadings, trial and appellate court briefs, negotiations between parties, trial and hearing at the original level of jurisdiction or on appeal, and other tribal, state or federal court or hearing appearances in the best interests of RSIC. (2) Provide legal counsel and representation to the Tribal Chairman and Tribal Council on legal and quasi-legal matters as directed by the Tribal Chairman Tribal Council, and directs and supervises the work of the Staff Attorney. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can send their resume to Esther Sanchez, HR Director esanchez@rsic.org. 

Staff Attorney, Reno, Nevada. The Staff Attorney will: (1) Prepare and render legal opinions concerning the RSIC, its functions, jurisdiction, procedures, and policies. (2) Create a searchable database of RSIC ordinances, laws, resolutions and other documents. (3) Assist in the drafting of documents, ordinances, rules, regulations, applications. (4) Prepare legal analysis and legislation proposed by the RSIC for presentation to the Nevada State Legislature and/or the United States Congress. (5) Attend and provide legal counsel at meetings of the Tribal Council, ad hoc committee meetings and other sessions, conferences, or related functions. (6) Provide a regular, monthly report to the Tribal Council. Please see the position description for more information. Interested applicants can send their resume directly to Esther Sanchez, HR Director esanchez@rsic.org.

Cowlitz Indian Tribe – Request for Proposal

Consultant, Ridgefield, WA. The Consultant will: (1) Gather information to assess and evaluate the Cowlitz Indian Tribe’s processes, systems, past performance, and the strengths and limitations of current Indian Child Welfare operations. (2) Assist in rebuilding an Indian Child Welfare program from start to finish. (3) Assess the efficacy of the systems in place to advocate on behalf of Cowlitz Indian Children involved in child welfare and dependency cases. Please see the position description for more information. Interested applicants can send applications to Keegan Bordeaux, Staff Attorney kbordeaux@cowlitz.org. Applications are due August 31, 2021.

Sonosky, Chambers, Sachse, Endreson & Perry, LLP

Summer 2022 – Incoming 2L Student Associate. Sonosky, Chambers, Sachse, Endreson, & Perry LLP is a national law firm dedicated to representing Native American interests in a wide range of endeavors – including trial and appellate litigation, federal Indian law, tribal law, Indian self-determination and self-governance matters, transportation and infrastructure, natural resources, and economic development. Please see the position description for more information. Interested applicants should send a cover letter, resume, transcript, and writing sample to Mary Pavel, Partner at mpavel@sonosky.com and also copy kwray@sonosky.com. Applications are due by Friday, October 8th, 2021.

The Federal Public Defender – Districts of South Dakota and North Dakota

Assistant Federal Public Defender, Fargo, North Dakota. The Assistant Federal Public Defender will: (1) Represent individuals accused of federal crimes in the United States District Court for the District of North Dakota and the United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit. (2) Represent individuals accused of federal crimes under the Major Crimes Act and other federal statutes on the sovereign lands of Spirit Lake Nation and the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa. Please see the position description for more information. Position announcement and application instructions can be found at www.sdnd.fd.org/careers. Questions should be directed to Jason_Tupman@fd.org. The position is open until filled with priority consideration for applications received prior to September 1, 2021.

Fredrikson & Byron, P.A.

Federal Indian Law Attorney, Minneapolis, MN. The Federal Indian Law Attorney will assist and advise tribes business ventures and related matters. Please see the position description for more information. Applicants can apply online here by October 1st, 2021. For assistance with the application process, or for accommodations, please contact lawrecruiting@fredlaw.com.

Navajo Nation

Principal Tribal Court Advocate, Office of the Attorney General, Window Rock, AZ. The Principal Tribal Court Advocate will: (1) Perform legal work related to representation of the Navajo Nation government, as assigned by the Assistant Attorney General, including legal research, negotiations, legal writing, drafting pleadings, briefs, memoranda, resolutions and other documents for the divisions, departments, or programs assigned. (2) Child Support Enforcement: Present child support enforcement cases before the Office of Hearings and Appeals. (3) Participate in case staffing with Child Support Enforcement officers; provide legal advice and case strategy. This position is open until filled. Please see the position description or apply here.

Chief Prosecutor, Office of the Chief Prosecutor, Window Rock, AZ. The Chief Prosecutor will: (1) Perform administrative, managerial, and prosecution work in directing the Office of the Chief Prosecutor and component districts including the Juvenile Justice and White Collar Crime programs. (2) Administer short and long range planning, organizing, directing, strategic planning for annual, external, and supplemental budgets, and related activities of the Office of the Chief Prosecutor. (3) Coordinate and evaluate the overall effectiveness of the assigned program offices and districts. (4) Adhere to the Plan of Operation and establishing annual goals and objectives, and making necessary amendments. This position serves at the pleasure of the Attorney General. This position is open until filled. Please see the position description or apply here.

 Attorney, Office of the Prosecutor, Ramah, NM. The Attorney will: (1) Represent the interest of the Navajo Nation government under supervision of the Chief Prosecutor/Deputy Chief Prosecutor. (2) Provide and assist several district prosecutor offices in prosecution of criminal and civil cases representing the interests of the Navajo Nation government. (3) Will attend arraignments, trials, adjudications, child dependency adjudications, motion hearings, sentencing/disposition hearings, pretrial conferences, preliminary hearings, and other related issues to court attendance. (4) Establish a case plan with law enforcement personnel from various governmental agencies on most serious criminal offenses. This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor. This position is open until filled. Please see the position description or apply here.

Principal Attorney (Water Right Unit), Office of the Attorney General, Window Rock, AZ. The Principal Attorney will: (1) Represent the Nation in multiple water rights adjudications pending in state and federal courts, in state administrative water rights matters and in any settlement negotiations concerning the Nation’s water rights under general direction of the Assistant Attorney General or the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General. (2) Work closely with technical staff within the Water Rights Unit Staff, Department of Water Resources and other programs within the Navajo Nation, and with consultants. (3) Provide legal advice on all water rights matters to the Office of the President and Vice President, the Office of the Speaker, the Navajo Nation council, and its committees and subcommittees and the Navajo Nation Water Rights commission (NNWRC).  This position is open until filled. Please see the position description or apply here.

Request for Proposals (RFP), Independent Contractor – Attorney, Window Rock, AZ. The Attorney will: (1) Provide legal services for the Navajo Nation Office of Head Start (“NHS”) in connection with federal Office of Head Start (“OHS”) matters, including laws, and policies, and applicable Navajo Nation laws and policies. (2) Review and draft Navajo Nation laws and policies with respect to Title 10 of the Navajo Nation Code. (3) Draft and review contracts, leases, Facility Use agreements, Intra-Governmental and other agreements, including amendments. (4) Assist in negotiations and consultations. Please see the RFP description for more information. Interested applicants should email their proposals to Christine Benally, Legal Secretary contracts@nndoj.org by Friday, August 13, 2021 at 3 p.m. MDT.

Request for Proposals (RFP), Independent Contractor – Attorney, Window Rock, AZ. The Attorney will: (1) Provide legal services to the Navajo Nation Gaming Regulatory Office (NNGRO) in connection with the Navajo Nation Tribal Gaming Regulations and related operations matters involving the legal interests of the Navajo Nation. (2) Serve as an Appeals Hearing Officer as the presiding officer for all appeals of NNGRO decisions following Section 2056 of the Navajo Gaming Ordinance (5 N.N.C. § 2001 et seq.). Interested applicants should email their proposals to Christine Benally, Legal Secretary contracts@nndoj.org by Friday, August 13, 2021 at 3 p.m. MDT.

Sacks Tierney

Associate Attorney, Scottsdale, AZ. The Associate Attorney will conduct legal research, writing, and analysis. Please see the position description for more information. Applicants should email a cover letter, resume, law school transcript, and writing sample to Laura Nance by email at laura.nance@sackstierney.com by August 31, 2021.

Rothstein Donatelli, LLP

Associate Attorney, Tempe, AZ. The Tempe Office of Rothstein Donatelli LLP is seeking an Associate Attorney for its Indian law practice with two or more years of experience and a demonstrated commitment to providing high quality legal services. The ideal candidate will have excellent research and writing skills and experience working with tribal communities. Familiarity with Indian law is preferred. Interested candidates should send a cover letter, resume, references, and writing sample to Firm Administrator Manya Snyder at info@rothsteinlaw.com.   The position will remain open until filled.

Tenth Circuit Rules in Quiet Title Act over 1906 Indian Land Grant

Matthew L.M. Fletcher

Here are the appellate materials in Bedford v. Nowlin (10th Cir.):

Unpublished opinion

Opening Brief

Answer Brief

Reply

DCT Order

Friday Job Announcements

gabrielagendreau

____________________________________________________________________________ 

To post an open Indian law or leadership job to Turtle Talk, send the following information to indigenous@law.msu.edu: 

In the email body: 

  1. A typed brief description of the position which includes: 
    • Position title 
    • Location (city, state) 
    • Main duties 
    • Closing date 
    • Any other pertinent details such as links to the application 
  2. An attached PDF job announcement. 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma 

District Court Judge, Durant, OK. The District Court Judge will: (1) Oversee the functions of the Choctaw Nation District Courts. (2) Sit as an impartial trier of all civil and criminal matters. (3) Supervise the Court Clerk, deputy Clerks, Reporters, and all other officers and associates of the Court. (4) Render decisions on all evidentiary and procedural issues for the orderly administration of justice. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can apply online through the application portal no later than August 16th, 2021.

Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, Durant, OK. The Assistant Prosecuting Attorney will: (1) Represent the Choctaw Nation in all juvenile cases and deprived actions within the jurisdiction of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. (2) Facilitate communication with federal, state, and local officials regarding juvenile matters involving members of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. (3) Assist in drafting legislation affecting children and juvenile laws. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can apply here. 

The Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Legal Department

Associate Tribal Attorney, Cass Lake, MN. The Associate Tribal Attorney will: (1) Analyze ongoing cases and legal issues central to the needs of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe. (2) Prepare and analyze contracts, legal documents, Tribal Codes, ordinances and Resolutions. (3) Represent the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe in tribal, State and Federal Court. Please see the position description for more information. The position is open until filled, and interested candidates can apply here. 

Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services

Social Worker Supervisor II, Sacramento, CA. The Social Worker Supervisor will: (1) Plan, organize, and direct the work of social service staff. (2) Supervise and train lower level social workers. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates should apply later than August 2nd, 2021.

Northwest Justice Project  

Staff Attorney, Seattle, WA. The Staff Attorney will: (1) Provide advice, consultation, limited and extensive pro se assistance, and representation to Native American crime victims. (2) Develop and maintain relationships with tribal DV advocate programs and personnel. (3) Travel across Washington State for outreach. (4) Conduct legal education events for client groups, social and human services providers, and civil and tribal justice system stakeholders. Please see the position description for more information. Interested applicants must submit a cover letter, resume, and writing sample here.

Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation

Senior Legal Counsel, Mashantucket CT. The Senior Legal Counsel will: (1) Provide legal advice and services to the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, including its departments, subdivisions, regulatory bodies, committees, entities and business enterprises. (2) Communicate legal concepts and analysis to resolve matters. Please see the position description for more information. Interested applicants can send their resume to sferguson@foxwoods.com or apply here.

Patterson Earnhart Real Bird & Wilson LLP

Associate Attorney, Louisville, CO. The Associate Attorney will: (1) Provide counsel and legal services to new and existing clients. (2) Participate in business development functions. (3) Conduct legal research and prepare legal memoranda and necessary pleadings required in all aspects of tribal, federal, and state litigation matters. Please see the position description for more information. Interested applicants can send their resume, cover letter, writing sample, professional references, and law school transcripts (if graduated less than 5 years ago) to Erin Obray, Firm Administrator eobray@nativelawgroup.com. The position will remain open for 60 days or until filled.

Native American Rights Fund (NARF) 

Blaustein Fellow, Boulder, CO. The Blaustein Fellow will: (1) Work with NARF Staff Attorneys and clients in all aspects of complex impact litigation. (2) Represent NARF and NARF clients before various community and stakeholder groups. (3) Represent NARF clients before federal and state agencies and in regulatory proceedings. (4) Build and lead coalitions with diverse stakeholders and work in partnership with other organizations. Position is for two years only and is not a guarantee of full-time NARF employment after the end of the fellowship. Please see the position description for more information. Interested applicants can submit their resume, cover letter, three professional references, writing sample, and law school transcript no later than 5:00 pm Mountain Daylight Time, on Friday, August 13, 2021, by email to: Kevin Cheng at kcheng@narf.org. 

Summer 2022 Law Clerk. Positions are available in Anchorage, AK; Boulder, CO; and Washington, D.C. Please indicate your office preference in your cover letter. The Law Clerk will: (1) Assist NARF attorneys by conducting legal research. (2) Draft legal memorandums and case filings. (3) Verify citations and proofread. (4) Assist in case management and work on special legal projects. Please see the position description for  more information. To apply, submit a cover letter (indicate your office preference), resume, non-collaborative legal writing sample, law school transcript, letter of recommendation, and three references to Kevin Cheng, Law Clerk Program Coordinator kcheng@narf.org by September 10, 2021. 

The Yakama Nation Department of Justice Services

Attorney II, Toppenish, WA. The Attorney will: (1) Represent and advise tribal member clients in Tribal, Municipal, State and Federal Court systems. (2) Provide a full range of legal services to tribal members in areas such as, criminal, dependency, children’s court, fish and game, civil, family and Federal Indian Law matters. (3) Provide legal education law clinics for the public. Interested applicants can submit an application here by 08/04/21, or contact bevra_jacobson@yakama.com with questions.

Cherokee Nation

Assistant Attorney General I or II (OAG), Tahlequah, OK. The Assistant Attorney General will: (1) Legally represent the Nation and its departments, divisions, programs, boards, commissions, and trust authorities in civil, criminal and juvenile cases both proposed or pending in administrative appeals, tribal, state, federal court and other proceedings. (2) Act as a legal advisor to, draft legal opinions, contracts, policies, and legislation for the Nation. (3) Assist Attorney General and/or Senior Assistant Attorney General concerning transactions of business involving internal affairs, Tribal Council, directors, officers and corporate relations with the general public. Please see the position description for more information. Interested applicants can apply here by August 4th, 2021. Hiring for two Assistant Attorney General positions.

Alaska Native Justice Center

Legal Fellow, Anchorage, AK. Late summer or early fall 2021, recent law graduates are encouraged to apply. Fellows will: (1) Provide legal services to victims and survivors of crime. (2) Support and partner with Alaska Tribes to build capacity, implement cultural values and remedies, and access resources for Tribal Justice Systems. (3) Represent Alaska Tribes in State Child of Need Aid cases where the Indian Child Welfare Act (“ICWA”) applies. Please see the position description for more information. Interested applicants can apply here. The position will remain open until filled.

Navajo Nation Department of Justice

Principal Tribal Court Advocate, Office of the Attorney General, Window Rock, AZ. The Principal Tribal Court Advocate will: (1) Perform legal work related to representation of the Navajo Nation government, including legal research, negotiations, legal writing, drafting pleadings, briefs, memoranda, resolutions and other documents for the divisions, departments, or programs assigned. (2) Present child support enforcement cases before the Office of Hearings and Appeals. (3) Participate in case staffing with Child Support Enforcement officers; provide legal advice and case strategy. This position is open until filled. Please see the position description for more information, or apply here.

Principal Attorney (Water Right Unit), Office of the Attorney General, Window Rock, AZ. Window Rock, AZ. The Principal Attorney will: (1) Represent the Nation in multiple water rights adjudications pending in state and federal courts, in state administrative water rights matters and in any settlement negotiations concerning the Nation’s water rights. (2) Work closely with technical staff within the Water Rights Unit Staff, Department of Water Resources and other programs within the Navajo Nation, and with consultants. (3) Provide legal advice on all water rights matters to the Office of the President and Vice President, the Office of the Speaker, the Navajo Nation council, and its committees and subcommittees and the Navajo Nation Water Rights commission (NNWRC). (4) Ensure that the water rights of the Navajo Nation are effectively pursued and protected. This position is open until filled, please see the position description for more information, or apply here.

Chief Prosecutor, Office of the Chief Prosecutor, Window Rock, AZ. Window Rock, AZ. The Chief Prosecutor will: (1) Perform administrative, managerial, and prosecution work in directing the Office of the Chief Prosecutor and component districts including the Juvenile Justice and White Collar Crime programs. (2) Administer short and long range planning, organizing, directing, strategic planning for annual, external, and supplemental budgets, and related activities of the Office of the Chief Prosecutor.  (3) Coordinate and evaluate the overall effectiveness of the assigned program offices and districts.  (4) Adhere to the Plan of Operation and establishing annual goals and objectives, and making necessary amendments. This position serves at the pleasure of the Attorney General. This position is open until filled. Please see the position description for more information, or apply here. 

Attorney, Office of the Prosecutor, Ramah, NM. Under supervision of the Chief Prosecutor/Deputy Chief Prosecutor represents the interest of the Navajo Nation government. The Attorney will: (1) Assist several district prosecutor offices in prosecution of criminal and civil cases representing the interests of the Navajo Nation government. (2) Will attend arraignments, trials, adjudications, child dependency adjudications, and other related issues to court attendance. (3) Prepare legal documents. (4) Provide legal guidance and advice to law enforcement personnel in proceeding with investigation. This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor. This position is open until filled. Please see the position description for more information, or apply here.

Earthjustice

Associate Attorney, Miami, FL. The Associate Attorney will: (1) The Associate Attorney will work collaboratively with Florida Regional Office staff located in Miami and Tallahassee, FL, as well as with program staff located throughout the country. (2) Focus on litigation involving water pollution, water conservation, wetlands protection, endangered species protection, fish and wildlife conservation, Everglades restoration, clean and renewable energy, and equal access to a healthy environment for all. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can apply here by August 10, 2021. Applications submitted afterwards will be viewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.  

Associate Attorney, The Biodiversity Defense Program. Washington, D.C., Seattle, WA, Bozeman, MT (remote). The Associate Attorney will: (1) Work to stem the growing crisis of biodiversity loss. (2) Work closely with more senior lawyers to advance a nationwide litigation and advocacy campaign to protect and preserve our remaining biodiversity. (3) Occasionally travel to work towards nationwide focus. The position is available immediately but we will consider applicants who can start work anytime between now and the fall of 2022. Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, three professional references and a writing sample. Please apply here by September 8, 2021. Applications submitted afterwards will be viewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. 

Director, Outreach and Partnership Advancement, San Francisco, CA, New York, NY, Seattle, WA, Washington, D.C., Miami, FL, Chicago, IL, Tallahassee, FL, New Orleans, LA (remote), Houston, TX (remote). The Director will: (1) Assist Earthjustice staff in outreach and partnership and building networks that support expanding bodies of work with frontline communities, grassroots groups, and other partners. This includes but is not limited to organizations that serve low-income communities, communities of color, and other communities that have been historically targeted to receive heavy pollution burdens. (2) May also maintain their own organization-level relationships with key partners, serve as an Earthjustice ambassador (along with program staff) at events hosted by partners or events that bring partner groups together. (3) Serve as an initial point of contact for organizations or communities seeking to engage with Earthjustice. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, three professional references, and a writing sample here by September 8, 2021. After that, applications may be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled..

Big Fire Law & Policy Group LLP

Gaming and Compliance Attorney, Omaha, NE or Winnebago, NE. The Gaming and Compliance Attorney will: (1) Be responsible for key projects and functions related to gaming, commercial and construction and A&E contracts, finance, employment law, complex transactions, and state regulatory issues. (2) Review, negotiate, analyze, and draft key company contracts and provide legal advice to applicable business clients including strategic partnership agreements, sponsorship agreements, payment processing agreements, affiliate agreements, and nondisclosure agreements. (3) Support and advise property management, gaming leadership personnel, and other relevant personnel on gaming and related regulatory and compliance matters. (4) Assess applicable gaming and other laws and regulations for possible changes and reforms. Please see the position description for more information. Interested applicants should send their resume and cover letter including salary expectations to careers@bigfirelaw.com.

Chitimacha Tribe of Louisiana – Request for Proposals

Request for Proposals (RFP) for COVID-19 Recovery Strategic Planning. Charenton, LA. The Tribe wishes to engage a consultant (or contractor) to develop a comprehensive strategic plan that enables the Tribe to maximize the use of COVID-19 pandemic federal relief—including funds from the FRF—to implement those strategic priorities that facilitate a strong governmental and economic recovery from the pandemic. To that end, the Tribe invites you to submit a response to this Request for Proposals. Please submit your response before 5:00 p.m. Central Time on August 19, 2021. Please see the RFP description for detailed information regarding the submission process. Questions may be directed via email to April Wyatt, Chief Administrative Officer / Tribal Administrator, at aprilc@chitimacha.gov. Please carbon copy Michael Murphy, General Counsel to the Tribe, at mmurphy@thejacobsonlawgroup.com on your email inquiry as well. In the subject line for the inquiry, please insert “RFP – COVID-19 Recovery Strategic Plan.”

The Tribal Law Journal – University of New Mexico School of Law

The Tribal Law Journal is sending out a second call for submissions for Volume 22 of their journal. Submissions will be accepted until October 15, 2021. Please see the attached informational flyer for more details. Article submissions may be sent to us by email at triballawjournal@gmail.com. The Tribal Law Journal accepts both written and oral submissions, including multimedia projects (i.e., interviews, stories, art) from law students, practitioners, tribal members, and faculty members. For more information, or if you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at triballawjournal@gmail.com.

See previous posts.

Bay Mills to Host Third Annual VAWA and ICWA Training

Monica Williamson

Bay Mills Indian Community

3rd annual Noojimo’iwewin: A VAWA and ICWA Training

Aug. 4-6, in-person and online 

Imange: In 2019, attendees gathered for the training at the Bay Mills Resort & Casino. While 2020 brought us a year of online trainings, this year, the event will be hosted as a hybrid. Attendees can join in-person or online.

BRIMLEY, Mich. — Picking up where last year’s training left off, Bay Mills Indian Community sets out to host its third annual Noojimo’iwewin: A VAWA and ICWA Training, Aug. 4-6. The event is hosted both in-person at the Bay Mills Horizon Center and online via Zoom. Once again, this timely training focuses on issues of child welfare, domestic violence, and community healing. Registration is free and still open!

Those who will attend in-person must book their room by at the Bay Mills Resort & Casino by Tuesday, July 27 using the training room block information. If you have any questions, please contact Neoshia Roemer at neoshia@whitenergroup.biz. This training is made possible by the Office of Tribal Justice’s TJS funding and organized by The Whitener Group.

This course is approved for 9.25 (including 1.25 Elimination of Bias) Minnesota Continuing Legal Education credits and this course is approved by the NASW-Michigan Social Work Continuing Education Collaborative for 9 credits.

Full press release here.