law professors

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. 

____________________________________________________________________________ 

Arizona State University

Tenure Track Position – Open Rank – American Indian Studies. Tempe, AZ. The American Indian Studies Program (AIS) in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences on the Tempe Campus of Arizona State University invites applications for a full-time faculty position (open rank – Assistant, Associate or Full Professor). The anticipated start date is August 2022. This is an academic year, benefits-eligible, tenure eligible position. For more information or to apply, visit: http://apply.interfolio.com/95790.

Qualifications for the position include: Assistant, associate, or full professor level with a specialization or focus on Indigenous geographies. Areas of Specialty may be in any one or a combination of the following: Indigenous Knowledge, Indigenous methodologies, community and regional planning, design, architecture, environmental studies, sustainability, geography, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technologies, cartography; placemaking, placekeeping, data sovereignty (GIS and mapping), TEK; Planning on Indigenous Lands, Contemporary Indigenous Architecture, Indigenous Design and Planning, Indigenized Mapping, Reclaiming Geospatial Data; Demography.

The successful candidate will be expected to develop and maintain a rigorous research program; teach courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels in American Indian Studies; contribute to curriculum development and graduate advising; serve on school, college and university committees; and provide service to the school, professional associations and the community. The College values our cultural and intellectual diversity, and continually strives to foster a welcoming and inclusive environment. We are especially interested in applicants who can strengthen the diversity of the academic community.

Questions concerning American Indian Studies and the position should be addressed to David Martínez at David.Martinez.3@asu.edu or (480) 727-9818.

Harvard University Native American Program

Executive Director Position. Cambridge, MA. Duties include: (1) Providing leadership in strategic planning, operational goal-setting, and program evaluation; (2) Managing annual budgeting process, proposal writing, grants management, and external relations; (3) Supervising and mentoring program staff; (4) Developing new initiatives, cultivating collaborative partnerships, and overseeing related activities; (5) Facilitating vibrant networking, collaboration, and consultation between and among students, faculty, and staff across campus; (6) Supporting innovative interfaculty and interdisciplinary research and teaching projects concerning NAI issues; (7) Initiating formal relationships between the program and Harvard schools and other administrative offices; (8) Serving as a campus resource for consultation on NAI issues and concerns; (9) Representing the program within the university and throughout the nation in visible consultations and meetings; (10) Liaising with NAI leaders throughout higher education and Indian Country to develop opportunities consistent with HUNAP’s mission. Please visit here to apply and view the position description for more information.

University of California, Los Angeles

2L & 3L Summer 2022 Law Clerk – Tribal Legal Development Clinic. Los Angeles, CA. Candidates are rising 2Ls or 3Ls. We seek to have the clerkship result in an excellent writing sample. Native law students are strongly encouraged to apply. The UCLA School of Law’s Tribal Legal Development Clinic connects law students directly with tribal leaders, officers, and attorneys, to provide legal development services to Indian tribes. The Clinic hosts non-litigation, tribally-driven projects that cover a wide cross-section of subjects. Students work in teams, consult regularly with a tribal liaison, and produce a work product under the supervision of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians Tribal Legal Development Clinic Director. Summer Clinic law clerks are a paid, full-time position, either at the UCLA School of Law campus or remotely. The Clinic is designed to foster the next generation of tribal lawyers. Students are exposed to the complexities, historical contexts, and professional and ethical responsibilities of tribal lawyering. Whenever possible, Clinic law clerks travel to Indian country to meet with tribal clients to collaborate, deliver work products to governing bodies, and participate in relevant meetings and hearings. Clinic projects have included drafting statutes and other governing documents, researching and drafting appellate bench memorandums, building court infrastructure, and developing training materials. Prior projects have spanned the subject-matter spectrum and have included repatriation and cultural resource protection, family law, restorative justice, civil procedure, criminal procedure, non-profit development and more. The Clinic is a part of UCLA Law’s Native Nations Law & Policy Center, a national resource for the support of Native Nations. The Center successfully works to enhance Indian nations’ laws and governmental institutions while advancing cultural resource protection. Please see the position description for more information. Interested applicants should send a cover letter, resume, transcript, and writing sample to Heather Morphew at morphew@law.ucla.edu by December 15th, 2021.

Tanana Chiefs Conference

Associate Counsel. Fairbanks, AK. Duties include: (1) Participating in the development of TCC policies, procedures and programs and providing continuing counsel and guidance on legal matters; (2) Representing the company in legal proceedings and assisting with the coordination and management of outside counsel and litigation; (3) Interacting with members of TCC, the legal profession, officials of state and federal government; (4) Assisting programs in negotiation and drafting agreements; and (5) Providing legal advice and services on issues concerning the rights, obligations, and privileges of the organization and member tribes. Please see the position description for more information. Apply here.

General Counsel. Fairbanks, AK. Duties include: (1) Representing the Legal Department and maintaining clear lines of communication to TCC President and Executive Board on a recurring basis; (2) Providing and overseeing legal representation to all levels of TCC Staff, Member Tribes and issues surrounding Member Tribes on the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) and tribal court proceedings; (3) Overseeing, developing, or reviewing required legal instruments, rendering legal opinions, providing management with legal guidance; (4) Serving as an expert consultant and legal advisor; (5) Preparing annual departmental budget and managing Legal Department; (5) Overseeing the coordination and technical guidance of TCC’s overall advocacy efforts including but not limited to reviewing advocacy documents, testimony, preparing for meetings and attending meetings on behalf of TCC and or member tribes; and (6) Serving as TCC’s point of contact for all communication between TCC and HHS’ Office of the General Counsel and is responsible for the management and processing of all FTCA / tort claims related activities. Please see the position description for more information. Apply here.

The Yakama Nation

Assistant Tribal Prosecutor. Toppenish, WA. Duties include: (1) Ensuring confidentiality of records used by Yakama Nation; (2) Prosecuting criminal and civil matters before the Yakama Nation Tribal Courts; (3) Developing and improving the Yakama Tribal Criminal Justice System, including Tribal Code development and amendments; (4) Providing service regarding Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) matters; (5) Developing and maintaining cooperative and collaborative working relationships with staff from other tribal and state agencies and with other tribal departmental program staff; and (6) Representing the Yakama Nation. Please see the position description for details. Interested applicants should apply here by December 1st, 2021.

Chief Prosecutor. Toppenish, WA. Duties include: (1) Supervising the Prosecuting Attorney office responsible for prosecuting both civil and criminal matters in the Yakama Nation Tribal Court; (2) Representing the Yakama Nation in civil actions involving child abuse/neglect in civil ICWA proceedings; (3) Drafting notices of intervention and/or petitions to transfer which represents the best interests of the child(ren) and the tribe as provided under tribal and federal law; (4) Advising the Tribal Police, NNWS and CPS in investigation, evaluating evidence, case preparation and preparation of legal pleadings; (5) Working with and referring cases as appropriate to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for federal prosecution or the County Prosecutor for state prosecution of non-Indian offenders; and (6) Presenting and explaining key policy issues regarding tribal justice and victimization through written and/or oral reports to key stakeholders that include the JSA, Tribal Administration, and/or Tribal Council/General Council. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates should contact Tamara Saluskin, Deputy Director of the Yakama Nation Justice Services Department at: tamara_saluskin@yakama.com. Apply here.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission

Special Advisor on Tribal Engagement and Consultation Strategy. Washington, DC, temporarily remote. Duties include: (1) Critically reviewing the agency’s Tribal consultation practices; (2) Working collaboratively to develop recommendations aimed at improving the processes; (3) Executing implementation of recommendations across multiple agency offices; (4) Engaging with internal and external stakeholders on the Commission’s consultation practices; (5) Developing written communications and providing verbal briefings to senior agency officials summarizing efforts and next steps; and (6) Expanding the Commission’s outreach capabilities to Tribal Nations, including developing outreach materials. Please see the position description for more information. Applications are viewed on a rolling basis. Interested candidates should submit their resume to Robert.Thormeyer@ferc.gov or Sarah.Venuto@ferc.gov.

Judicial Hearing Officer. Chinle, Judicial District, Chinle, AZ. Under supervision of the Chief Justice. Duties include: (1) Presiding over hearings and dispositions involving the Domestic Abuse Protection Act and Álchíní Bi Beehaz’áannii Act occurring within the respective jurisdiction of the District Courts of the Navajo Nation; (2) Performing related work as assigned; and (3) Engaging in legal research and writing in child welfare, domestic abuse, temporary minor or adult guardianship, child custody and other family matters. Please see the position description for more details. For more information, please visit http://www.courts.navajo-nsn.gov/vacancies.htm. This position is open until filled.

Staff Attorney, Chinle Judicial District, Chinle AZ. Duties include: (1) Providing complex legal advice and guidance; (2) Conducting legal research; and (3) Drafting legal documents in support of judges and other court staff. For more information, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.courts.navajo-nsn.gov/vacancies.htm. This position is open until filled.

Staff Attorney, Kayenta Judicial District, Kayenta, AZ. Duties include: (1) Providing complex legal advice and guidance; (2) Conducting legal research; and (3) Drafting legal documents in support of judges and other court staff. For more information, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.courts.navajo-nsn.gov/vacancies.htm. This position is open until filled.

District Court Judge, Judicial District Court, Navajo Nation Wide. Duties include: (1) The District Court Judge is responsible in presiding over civil, criminal and family court cases; provides policy direction and guidance in the operation of the Judicial District.  For more information, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.courts.navajo-nsn.gov/vacancies.htm. This position is open until filled.  

Principal Tribal Court Advocate – Office of the Attorney General. Window Rock, AZ. Duties include: (1) Performing 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: Presenting child support enforcement cases before the Office of Hearings and Appeals; (3) Participating in case staffing with Child Support Enforcement officers; and (4) Providing legal advice and case strategy.  This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Principal Attorney (Water Right Unit) – Office of the Attorney General. Window Rock, AZ. Duties include: (1) Under general direction of the Assistant Attorney General or the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General, professionally representing 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) Working closely with technical staff within the Water Rights Unit Staff, Department of Water Resources and other programs within the Navajo Nation, and with consultants retained to provide technical support to the Nation or to serve as expert witnesses; and (3) Providing 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) to 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 or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Senior Programmer Analyst – Office of the Attorney General. Window Rock, AZ. Duties include: (1) Under general direction of the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General, performing a variety of complex duties such as installing, programming, maintaining, and saving of organization’s digital information within the Office of the Attorney General; (2) Serving as a resource person with regard to matters relating to information systems, development and implementation of security controls, efficient use and maintenance of system and equipment; (3) Facilitating implementation management information systems; (4) Installing and maintaining servers on local area networks; (5) Performing network device configurations, workstation set ups, and assigning nodes or network address definitions; installs and monitors performance of servers on local area networks; and (6) Maintaining knowledge of current trends in hardware and software technology relating to the practice of law, selecting the most feasible and economic methods to operate existing system. This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Chief Prosecutor – Office of the Chief Prosecutor. Window Rock, AZ. Duties include: (1) Performing 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) Planning, organizing, directing, strategic planning for annual, external, and supplemental budgets, and related activities of the Office of the Chief Prosecutor; (3) Coordinating and evaluating the overall effectiveness of the assigned program offices and districts; and (4) Adhering 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 to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Prosecutor – Office of the Prosecutor. Kayenta, AZ. Duties include: (1) Representing the interest of the Navajo Nation in juvenile adjudications, dependencies, Children in Need of Supervision (CHNS); (2) Researching and studying litigation of juvenile proceedings and child neglect cases; (3) Preparing oral arguments, gathering facts and data, determining if sufficient evidence exists to support the charges; (4) Attending juvenile related hearings in Navajo Nation Courts; (5) Conducting legal research, drafting complaints, motions and/or other legal proceedings; (6) Preparing a legal strategy; and (7) Making decisions in sensitive case and seeking assistance as needed in the juvenile matter. This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor.  This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Senior Prosecutor – Office of the Prosecutor. Shiprock, NM. Duties include: (1) Representing the interest of the Navajo Nation in prosecuting individuals alleged to have violated provisions of the Navajo Nation Code; (2) Reviewing citations, arrest sheets and other law enforcement documents and reports; (3) Interviewing witnesses, gathering facts and data, determining if sufficient evidence exists to support the charges; (4) Conducting legal research, drafting complaints, motions and/or other legal proceedings; (5) Preparing a legal strategy; (6) Preparing and presenting criminal and civil cases in the Navajo Nation and appellate courts; (7) Preparing legal memoranda, briefs, motions, and other required documents for court presentation; (8) Providing training to Prosecutors and Juvenile Presenting Officers and on request to law enforcement personnel; (9) Collaborating with law enforcement agencies; (10) Presenting major and complex litigation in District and Family Courts; This position is sedentary with a potential for high levels of stress. This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor.  This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Legal Secretary – Office of the Prosecutor. Dilkon, Arizona. Duties include: (1) Finalizing prosecutor’s draft legal correspondence, forms, documents, and/or reports, reviewing for accuracy, completeness, and conformance with applicable rules and regulations; (2) With prosecutor oversight, finalizing draft notices, petitions, pleadings, complaints, briefs, summons, orders, affidavits and other legal forms; (3) Transcribing hearings, depositions, and meetings for use by the prosecutors/attorneys or as court exhibits; (4) Opening new cases in Justware using established procedures, completing case management, and closing of completed case files; and (5) Inputting reports, preparing and generating reports/statistical information, meeting regularly with team as required for renewals of program, and maintaining daily operations of district office. This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Legal Secretary – Office of the Prosecutor. Window Rock, AZ – White Collar Crime Unit. Duties include: (1) Under general supervision of Senior Investigator, maintaining office files; (2) Greeting the public, answering telephone calls, routing calls and taking messages; (3) Making travel and lodging arrangements; (4) Processing and distributing incoming and outgoing mail; (5) Taking and transcribing minutes of meetings; (6) Preparing work orders, supply requisitions, travel documents and related financial documents within established limits and procedures; (7) Maintaining court hearing dockets and court schedule tracks and maintaining records and status of processes used in department; and (8) Attending meetings, trainings and conferences as it relates to work, assisting in preparing, storing, and securing evidence, preparing legal documents, assisting with special projects and assignments. This position is open until December 9th, 2021 by 5:00 p.m., please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Hoopa Valley Tribe

Associate Tribal Attorney. Hoopa, CA. Duties include: (1) Reviewing and negotiating contracts and government grants; (2) Researching and drafting tribal ordinances; (3) Advising the Tribal Council and Chairman; (4) Coordinating litigations and investigations; and (5) Handling employment matters.  We are open to applicants with a broad range of professional backgrounds. Please see the position description for more details. Please see the detailed minimum qualifications here. Interested applicants should submit an application, resume, and writing sample to Leah Offins, HR Coordinator at l.offins@hoopainsurance.com. The application form can be accessed here and the Hoopa Valley employment site here. The position is open until filled.  

Civil Liberties Defense Center

Line 3 Defense Legal Fellow. Minnesota. Two positions. Duties include: (1) Providing movement aligned, defendant-centered legal representation for the duration of a criminal case – from arraignment to trial, dismissal, and/or sentencing – for
up to 100 Water Protectors each; (2) Coordinating with our groups, the Pipeline Legal Action Network (PLAN), Line 3 spokes council, and Indigenous leadership; (3) Ensuring legal representation for defendants; (4) Ensuring all high-risk defendants (Indigenous people, LGTBQIA+, those facing felony charges) receive direct representation from a highly-skilled defense attorney; (5) Incorporating movement-aligned legal arguments (necessity defense, treaty law, cultural genocide) are incorporated into defense whenever feasible; and (6) Organizing and participating in defendant-led legal support structures and working groups to the extent feasible (PLAN and Line 3 Legal Spokes Council. The fellows will work together but one will directly report to the Executive Direct of CLDC and the other will report to the Legal Director of WPLC. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates should send a cover letter, resume, legal sample, and three references to office@cldc.org by November 15th, 2021. Interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Environmental Law Institute

Research Associate. Washington, D.C.. Each year, ELI hires college graduates to serve as Research Associates. These staff members work directly with the 15–20 lawyers and scientists in the Research and Policy Division on projects addressing environmental and natural resource protection, climate, public health, environmental justice, and pollution prevention. A typical workload combines research and administration. Please see the position description for more information, and apply here by January 21st, 2022.

Mescalero Apache Tribe

Chief Prosecutor. Mescalero, NM. Duties include: (1) Upholding the Mescalero Apache Tribe’s Constitution and Tribal Code; (2) Representing the Tribe in criminal proceedings filed to protect the safety and wellbeing of the tribal community and the personal property and natural resources of the Mescalero Apache Tribe; and (3) Overseeing two Assistant Prosecutors and administrative staff. The position is open until filled. Please see the position description for more information. Please submit a curriculum vitae and letter of interest to Myra Lapaz, Human Resources at mlapaz@mescaleroapachetribe.com. Inquiries regarding the position may be made to Ms. Lapaz or Nelva Cervantes, General Counsel to the Mescalero Apache Tribe at ncervantes@mescaleroapachetribe.com. 

Chief Public Defender. Mescalero, NM. Duties include: (1) Upholding the Mescalero Apache Tribe’s Constitution and Tribal Code; (2) Representing defendants in criminal proceedings before the Mescalero Apache Tribal Court; and (3) Overseeing an Assistant Public Defender and administrative staff. Please see the position description for more details. The position is open until filled. Please submit a curriculum vitae and letter of interest to Myra Lapaz, Human Resources at mlapaz@mescaleroapachetribe.com. Inquiries regarding the position may be made to Ms. Lapaz or Nelva Cervantes, General Counsel to the Mescalero Apache Tribe at ncervantes@mescaleroapachetribe.com.   

Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe

Associate Tribal Attorney. Port Angeles, WA. The Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe seeks a full-time Associate Tribal Attorney for its on-reservation Office of Tribal Attorney (“OTA”).  Duties include: (1) Handling most of the Tribe’s legal workload; and (2) Supervising outside counsel. This is a new position and will be the third Attorney in OTA.  Associate will have a significant caseload spanning the full spectrum of tribal legal work. Please see the position description for more information. Open until filled. Please apply by November 15th, 2021, to ensure priority consideration. Applications submitted after that date may also be considered. 

Patterson Earnhart Real Bird & Wilson LLP Native Law Group

Summer 2022 Law Clerk Position. Native Law Group is currently seeking candidates for its Summer 2022 Clerkships in both of our office locations: Louisville, Colorado and Washington, D.C. Please indicate your office preference in your cover letter. Qualifications include: (1) Must have completed 2L year by Summer 2022; (2) Native American Law coursework completed by clerkship start date; (3) Excellent research abilities; and (4) Excellent written and oral communication skills. Please see the position description for more information. Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, legal writing sample, law school transcript, letter of recommendation, and references to Firm Administrator Erin Obray at eobray@nativelawgroup.com by the deadline of January 21st, 2022.

Pechanga Indian Reservation

Chief Judge. Temecula, CA. Duties include: (1) Supporting and defending the sovereignty and Constitution and Bylaws of the Pechanga Band, its traditions, customs, and Tribal laws. (2) Exercising considerable independent judgement in managing the docket of the Tribal court, ruling on motions and adjudicatory cases, conducting hearings, and deciding cases in a fair and impartial manner. (3) Providing a tribal forum to resolve legal issues involving child welfare matters; child custody and child support; guardianship and adoption of minors; child welfare issues involving domestic violence, facts of birth and emancipation matters; business leases; employment matters; eminent domain; appeals from the Trust Review Board; cases arising from the Tribal Tax Code; disputes arising from the Pechanga Band Member Health Program; and any other subject matter as directed by the General Membership. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates should submit a resume and a letter of intent to HR@pechanga-nsn.gov. The position is open until filled.

Echo Hawk & Olsen

Associate Attorney – interested in Business Law, Business Litigation, Employment Law and who is enthusiastic about Indian law. Pocatello, ID. Duties include: (1) Drafting tribal codes, business contracts, policy & procedures, regulations & other critical documents; (2) Communicating legal developments clearly and effectively verbally as well as in writing; and (3) Attention to detail, ability to effectively manage time, work in an organized and detailed manner to meet tight deadlines, keep accurate records, and produce desired results. Please see the position description for more information. Please submit cover letter, resume, references, writing sample and salary requirements to reception@echohawk.com.

The Catawba Nation

3L Spring 2022 Legal Internship. Applicants will assist the Nation’s Legal Department by researching pertinent issues, attending meetings, and drafting ordinances, memoranda, and policies. Due to the current Covid-19 pandemic, applicants will be asked to work remotely. Please see the position description for more information and for a list of requirements. Interested candidates must be a 3L and should submit a cover letter, resume, legal writing sample, and law school transcript to Deputy Tribal Attorney Lydia Locklear (Lydia.locklear@catawba.com) by November 30th, 2021.

Deputy Tribal Administrator. Duties include: (1) Coordinating the workforce to meet and support the needs of Tribal members and the general public; (2) Managing on-site training needs for staff and leadership; (3) Overseeing implementation of Tribal Ordinances in government operations and throughout all tribal entities; (4) Writing RFPs to engage consultants needed for government projects; (5) Reviewing policies and procedures of departments and recommending changes as needed; (6) Managing special projects as delegated by the Executive Committee and Tribal Administrator; (7) Attending meetings and compiling reports for the Executive Committee and General Council. Please see the position description for more information.

UPDATED: Indian Law Professor Jobs

gabrielagendreau

The University of Colorado Law School

Tenure-Track Law Professor. Boulder, CO. Position begins at the start of the 2022-23 academic year. We welcome applications from candidates in all subject areas and at all levels of seniority. Strong needs in Tax Law, Environmental/Natural Resources Law, Health Law, Business/Commercial Law, American Indian Law, and Race and the Law (broadly construed). Interested in candidates who can teach classes in the first-year curriculum, especially constitutional law, criminal law, legislation and regulation, or property, and in candidates who can teach negotiation/alternative dispute resolution. Duties include: (1) Teaching and providing instruction and student advising. (2) Researching and preparing scholarly publications in the related areas of expertise, in addition to participation in academic conferences. (3) University service, which involves membership in departmental, college-level and university committees, attending departmental meetings, student recruitment and processing routine paperwork such as filling out reports, answering email, participating in surveys and voting in school and university elections as appropriate. Interested applicants should submit a resume/CV, cover letter, PDF sample of work, one to three research papers (combine documents into one file if submitting more than one paper), Diversity and Inclusion Statement, and Statement Describing Research Related Goals. The position will remain open until filled. Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, applications must be submitted through CU Boulder Jobs.

The University of California, Los Angeles, School of Law

Receiving applications from lateral candidates for full-time, tenured and tenure-track faculty positions expected to begin July 1, 2022. Also seeking junior lateral candidates whose scholarly work, teaching and/or mentoring focuses on Black experiences. Interested candidates should submit  an updated C.V. along with a list of references (contact information only), Statement of Research and Teaching Interests (Optional), Scholarly Writing Sample (Optional), Statement on Contributions to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, cover letter (optional), and teaching evaluations (optional). Candidates should apply here by Friday, Sep 10, 2021 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) to ensure full consideration by the committee, though applications will continue to be accepted until Friday, May 20, 2022 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time), but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled. Apply here.

The University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law

Assistant/Assoc./Full Professor, Legal Writing. Vermillion, SD. Duties include: (1) Teaching in the 1L Legal Writing program as well as select upper-division writing courses. (2) Scholarship. (3) Service to the law school and university. Inquiries and applications may be directed to Eric W. Young, Assistant Dean, University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law, 414 East Clark Street, Vermilion, SD 57069 by September 6th, 2021. You may also send a message by email to eric.young@usd.edu or you may call at 605-658-3524. 

Entry-level or lateral professor with expertise in the field of Business Organizations. Vermillion, SD. Duties include: (1) Teaching Business Organizations. (2) Selecting upper-division drafting courses. (2) Scholarship. (3) Service to the law school and university. Please see the position description for more information. Inquiries and applications may be directed to Eric W. Young, Assistant Dean, University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law, 414 East Clark Street, Vermilion, SD 57069 by September 6th, 2021. You may also send a message by email to eric.young@usd.edu or you may call at 605-658-3524.

The University of Idaho College of Law

Tenure-track or tenured faculty member in the area of Tax Law. Moscow, ID. Both entry-level and lateral candidates are encouraged to apply. Duties include: (1) Teaching an introductory tax course, as well as other classes that may include advanced tax courses and Wills, Trusts, and Estates. (2) Mentoring students, advising students on curricular and co-curricular activities, and developing a scholarly, outreach, and engagement agenda that will enrich the scholarly and legal communities. (3) Conceivably, they might 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 there are 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. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates should submit an application, including a statement of demonstrated commitment to fostering an inclusive community, at https://www.uidaho.edu/human-resources. Please direct general questions to Sam Newton, the search committee chair, at samnewton@uidaho.edu. Priority consideration will be given to applications received by September 15, 2021. 

University of Minnesota Duluth

Tenure Track Assistant or Associate Professor. Duluth, Minnesota. Duties include: (1) Teaching, advising, research, and service. (2) Active commitment to working with diverse populations and fostering socially just, culturally responsive, and anti racist practices in higher education, social work or community settings. (3) Strong experience, knowledge base and commitment to American Indian and/or other Indigenous people and communities. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can apply here and search for job opening 342786. Complete applications will be reviewed beginning October 1, 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 University of New Mexico School of Law

Entry-level candidates for a tenure-track faculty position at the rank of Assistant Professor in its Law and Indigenous Peoples Program (LIPP) to begin August 1, 2022. Preference for someone who graduated from law school in the past three to five years. Duties include: (1) Teaching doctrinal courses in LIPP. (2) Supervising the Tribal Law Journal. (3) Teaching in the Southwest Indian Law Clinic (SILC) from time to time. Please direct questions to Laura Spitz, Chair, Faculty Appointments Committee (lauraspitz@unm.edu<mailto:lauraspitz@unm.edu>). For full consideration, applicants should apply by September 15, although it is recommended that you submit your materials as soon as possible. View the complete job description and apply here.

Mitchell Hamline School of Law

Candidates with experience in law practice, law-related professional fields, or academia who are interested in teaching in any field. We have needs in Civil Procedure, Constitutional Law, Contracts, Criminal Law, Criminal Procedure, Dispute Resolution, Intellectual Property, Legal Writing, Native American Law, Property, Torts, Trial Advocacy, and in our clinical law program. Candidates whose law-practice, teaching, research, or community-service experience has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to diversity and excellence. Candidates who are interested in, and excited about, teaching in our innovative blended learning program (https://mitchellhamline.edu/academics/j-d-enrollment-options/blended-learning-at-mitchell-hamline/).

University of Washington School of Law

The University of Washington School of Law is hiring for one entry-level tenure-track assistant professor or tenured Associate Professor or tenured Professor to teach and publish in Indian Law and one or more of the following core instruction areas of curricular need: business law, contracts, criminal law, and/or property while overseeing the Native American Law Center with an anticipated start date of September 16, 2021. This position is full-time and on a 9-month basis. Details here (https://ap.washington.edu/ahr/position-details/?job_id=67957).

Indian Law Professor Jobs

gabrielagendreau

____________________________________________________________________________ 

To post an open Indian Law professor 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: 
    • Position title 
    • Location (city, state) 
    • Main duties 
    • Closing date 
    • Any other pertinent details such as links to the application 
  • An attached PDF job announcement. 

____________________________________________________________________________

The University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law

Assistant/Assoc./Full Professor, Legal Writing. Vermillion, SD. Duties include: (1) Teaching in the 1L Legal Writing program as well as select upper-division writing courses. (2) Scholarship. (3) Service to the law school and university. Inquiries and applications may be directed to Eric W. Young, Assistant Dean, University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law, 414 East Clark Street, Vermilion, SD 57069 by September 6th, 2021. You may also send a message by email to eric.young@usd.edu or you may call at 605-658-3524. 

Entry-level or lateral professor with expertise in the field of Business Organizations. Vermillion, SD. Duties include: (1) Teaching Business Organizations. (2) Selecting upper-division drafting courses. (2) Scholarship. (3) Service to the law school and university. Please see the position description for more information. Inquiries and applications may be directed to Eric W. Young, Assistant Dean, University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law, 414 East Clark Street, Vermilion, SD 57069 by September 6th, 2021. You may also send a message by email to eric.young@usd.edu or you may call at 605-658-3524.

The University of Idaho College of Law

Tenure-track or tenured faculty member in the area of Tax Law. Moscow, ID. Both entry-level and lateral candidates are encouraged to apply. Duties include: (1) Teaching an introductory tax course, as well as other classes that may include advanced tax courses and Wills, Trusts, and Estates. (2) Mentoring students, advising students on curricular and co-curricular activities, and developing a scholarly, outreach, and engagement agenda that will enrich the scholarly and legal communities. (3) Conceivably, they might 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 there are 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. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates should submit an application, including a statement of demonstrated commitment to fostering an inclusive community, at https://www.uidaho.edu/human-resources. Please direct general questions to Sam Newton, the search committee chair, at samnewton@uidaho.edu. Priority consideration will be given to applications received by September 15, 2021. 

University of Minnesota Duluth

Tenure Track Assistant or Associate Professor. Duluth, Minnesota. Duties include: (1) Teaching, advising, research, and service. (2) Active commitment to working with diverse populations and fostering socially just, culturally responsive, and anti racist practices in higher education, social work or community settings. (3) Strong experience, knowledge base and commitment to American Indian and/or other Indigenous people and communities. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can apply here and search for job opening 342786. Complete applications will be reviewed beginning October 1, 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 University of New Mexico School of Law

Entry-level candidates for a tenure-track faculty position at the rank of Assistant Professor in its Law and Indigenous Peoples Program (LIPP) to begin August 1, 2022. Preference for someone who graduated from law school in the past three to five years. Duties include: (1) Teaching doctrinal courses in LIPP. (2) Supervising the Tribal Law Journal. (3) Teaching in the Southwest Indian Law Clinic (SILC) from time to time. Please direct questions to Laura Spitz, Chair, Faculty Appointments Committee (lauraspitz@unm.edu<mailto:lauraspitz@unm.edu>). For full consideration, applicants should apply by September 15, although it is recommended that you submit your materials as soon as possible. View the complete job description and apply here.

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.

Root & Rebound

Tribal Regions Staff Attorney. Eureka, CA, with travel across Northern California. Duties include: (1) Expanding direct legal services and growing partnerships with the Yurok Tribe and other indigenous communities in Northern California. (2) Conducting holistic legal intakes for a client’s reentry legal needs and developing an appropriate legal services plan. (3) Building partnerships and relationships with Indigenous community groups and organizations. (4) Pushing for policy reform on issues affecting Indigenous communities, including speaking with media or congressional representatives, or participating in communications campaigns. (5) Seeking and elevating potential new funding opportunities. Please see the position description for more information. Applications are preferred by August 29th, but will be accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

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.

Rothstein Donatelli, LLP

Associate Attorney. Tempe, AZ. Duties include: (1) Specializing in federal Indian law, including gaming, economic development, Indian Child Welfare Act, Indian health law, labor and employment law, civil litigation, and transactional matters. (2) Advancing the sovereign rights of Native American tribes. (3) The ability to conduct excellent research, writing skills, and experience working with tribal communities. Please see the position description for more information. Interested Candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, references, and writing sample to Firm Administrator Manya Snyder at info@rothsteinlaw.com. The position will remain open until filled. 

Shute, Mihaly & Weinberger LLP

Recent law school graduates for three-year fellowship program, beginning Fall 2022. San Francisco, Also hiring law students as law clerks, full-time for Summer 2022 and part-time during the school year. Please see the position description for more information. Applications for both positions are due September 6, 2021.

Hoopa Valley Tribe

Associate Attorney. Hoopa, CA. Duties include possessing outstanding writing, research, and communication skills. Interested applicants should submit an application, resume, and writing sample to Leah Offins, HR Coordinator at l.offins@hoopainsurance.com. This position is open until filled.

The California Tribal Families Coalition

Summer 2022 Law Clerkships. Sacramento, CA/Remote. Duties include promoting the health, safety and welfare of tribal children and families. Clerkships will be primarily remote but may include an opportunity to meet in-person in Northern California with the CTFC team. Candidates are preferably rising 3Ls, however, rising 2Ls with relevant experience prior to or while in law school will be considered. Please send the following materials to clerkapp@caltribalfamilies.org: cover letter, resume, writing sample, and two references. The application deadline is November 5, 2021. See the full job announcement for more details. Interested candidates should send a cover letter, resume, writing sample, and two references to clerkapp@caltribalfamilies.org by November 5th, 2021.

The University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law

Assistant/Assoc./Full Professor, Legal Writing. Vermillion, SD. Duties include: (1) Teaching in the 1L Legal Writing program as well as select upper-division writing courses. (2) Scholarship. (3) Service to the law school and university. Inquiries and applications may be directed to Eric W. Young, Assistant Dean, University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law, 414 East Clark Street, Vermilion, SD 57069  by September 6th, 2021. You may also send a message by email to eric.young@usd.edu or you may call at 605-658-3524. 

Entry-level or lateral professor with expertise in the field of Business Organizations. Vermillion, SD. Duties include: (1) Teaching Business Organizations. (2) Selecting upper-division drafting courses. (2) Scholarship. (3) Service to the law school and university. Please see the position description for more information. Inquiries and applications may be directed to Eric W. Young, Assistant Dean, University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law, 414 East Clark Street, Vermilion, SD 57069 by September 6th, 2021. You may also send a message by email to eric.young@usd.edu or you may call at 605-658-3524.

Patterson Earnhart Real Bird & Wilson LLP

Associate Attorney. Louisville, CO.  Duties include: (1) Providing counsel and legal services to new and existing clients in a professional and expedient manner. (2) Participating in business development functions (conferences, seminars, etc.). (3) Conducting legal research by preparing legal memoranda and necessary pleadings required in all aspects of tribal, federal, and state litigation matters. (4) Appearing at hearings and trials, including hearings in tribal courts. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates should 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 is open until filled.

Spokane Tribe of Indians

Chief Judge, Spokane Tribal Court, Wellpinit, WA. The Chief Judge will: (1) Serve as Chief Judge for the Spokane Tribal Court. (2) Preside over cases brought before the Tribal Court under the Revised Spokane Law and Order Code (“RSLOC”). (3) Hear and adjudicate matters filed in the Spokane Tribal Court. (4) Serve as the lead Court Administrator and supervise the assistant Court Administrator in the setting, amending, and management of budgets, as well as grant management and reporting. (5) Report quarterly to Tribal Council and submit an annual written report. (6) Communicate the needs of the Spokane Tribal Court to the Tribal Council. Please see the position description for more information. Applicants should submit a Spokane Tribe of Indians Employment Application, letter of interest, resume, and three professional references to Sabrina McCoy or Andrea Flett hrfrontdesk@spokanetribe.com.

The University of Idaho College of Law

Tenure-track or tenured faculty member in the area of Tax Law. Moscow, ID. Both entry-level and lateral candidates are encouraged to apply. Duties include: (1) Teaching an introductory tax course, as well as other classes that may include advanced tax courses and Wills, Trusts, and Estates. (2) Mentoring students, advising students on curricular and co-curricular activities, and developing a scholarly, outreach, and engagement agenda that will enrich the scholarly and legal communities. (3) Conceivably, he or she might 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 there are 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. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates should submit an application, including a statement of demonstrated commitment to fostering an inclusive community, at https://www.uidaho.edu/human-resources. Please direct general questions to Sam Newton, the search committee chair, at samnewton@uidaho.edu. Priority consideration will be given to applications received by September 15, 2021. 

Pueblo of Laguna

Public Defender, Government Affairs Office. Laguna, NM. Duties include: (1) Representing indigent individuals in the Pueblo Court accused of violating the Pueblo’s ordinances. (2) Performing necessary tasks to provide competent advocacy including arrangements for setting of bail and posting of bond, pretrial conferences, representation in court appearances, and post-trial representation. (3) Ensuring that the civil rights of clients charged with violations of the Pueblo’s codes and/or ordinances are competently protected. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates should fill out an application here. Applications are due no later than September 3rd, 2021.

Judicial Branch of the Navajo Nation

Judicial Hearing Officer, Chinle, AZ. Under supervision of the Chief Justice, exercises authority to preside over hearings and dispositions involving the Domestic Abuse Protection Act and Álchíní Bi Beehaz’áannii Act occurring within the respective jurisdiction of the District Courts of the Navajo Nation; performs related work as assigned. The JHO will engage in legal research and writing in child welfare, domestic abuse, temporary minor or adult guardianship, child custoy and other family matters. One Year Grant Funded with Benefits. For more information, please visit http://www.courts.navajo-nsn.gov/vacancies.htm. This position is open until filled.

Staff Attorney, Chinle Judicial District, Chinle AZ. This position provides complex legal advice and guidance, conducts legal research, and drafts legal documents in support of judges and other court staff. For more information, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.courts.navajo-nsn.gov/vacancies.htm. This position is open until filled.

Staff Attorney, Kayenta Judicial District, Kayenta, AZ. This position provides complex legal advice and guidance, conducts legal research, and drafts legal documents in support of judges and other court staff. For more information, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.courts.navajo-nsn.gov/vacancies.htm. This position is open until filled.

District Court Judge, Judicial District Court, Navajo Nation Wide. The District Court Judge is responsible in presiding over civil, criminal and family court cases; provides policy direction and guidance in the operation of the Judicial District.  For more information, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.courts.navajo-nsn.gov/vacancies.htm. This position is open until filled.  

Organizations and Law Professors Comment on Proposed ICWA Regulations

Kate Fort3 Comments

Here is a selection of a few of the major groups in support of the proposed ICWA regulations (as available from Regulations.gov or sent directly to us at fort [at] law [dot] msu [dot] edu):

American Bar Association
Association on American Indian Affairs
ACLU
California Indian Legal Services
Casey Family Programs, with additional signatories including NNABA and TLPI
Children’s Defense Fund
The Donaldson Adoption Institute
ICWA Law Center
Michigan Tribal-State Judicial Forum
Michigan Indian Legal Services
NABA-Arizona
National Indian Child Welfare Association
National American Indian Court Judges Association
National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges
NCAI
NARF AK
Letter from:
Advocates for Children and Youth
Children’s Defense Fund
Children and Family Futures
Child Welfare League of America
Foster Family-Based Treatment Association
Generations United
National Children’s Alliance
National Crittenton Foundation
National Foster Parent Association
Nebraska Appleseed
Nebraska Families Collaborative
New Mexico Child Advocacy Networks
North American Council on Adoptable Children

Law Professors Comment. Signed by 21 clinicians, professors, and deans representing more than 15 law schools.

Times have certainly changed since the original Guidelines were issued. Administrative law and the power of the federal government have shifted considerably in the past forty years. In addition, there was no way the federal government could foresee the dramatically different applications of ICWA across the fifty states. These new regulations are necessary because without them the application of the law is arbitrary, with Indian children treated differently depending on which state’s courtroom they are in. Having disparate interpretations of ICWA was certainly not the intent of Congress in passing a federal law, and conflicts with the rationale of the Supreme Court’s decision in Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians v. Holyfield, 490 U.S. 30, 45-46 (1989) (describing the need for uniformity in defining ‘‘domicile’’ under ICWA). These regulations will provide a stronger measure of consistency in the implementation of ICWA and prevent the application of different minimum standards across the United States, contrary to Congress’ intent.

One of our second year law students at MSU Law, Whitney Gravelle, was a huge help in researching issues related to administrative authority and getting a first draft going.

 

Fletcher on Becoming an American Indian Law Professor

Matthew L.M. Fletcher3 Comments

I just posted on SSRN a short paper I prepared for the National Native Law Students Association annual meeting career panel last month at the Pojoaque Pueblo: “On Becoming an American Indian Law Professor.” Here is the abstract:

There are only a few dozen American Indians who are enrolled tribal members who are tenure system law professors in American law schools. In fact, in our quick review of the American Association of Law Schools roster of teachers who list themselves as Native American Law instructors, we found fewer than 30 tribal members who are currently tenure system law professors. We study this group, as well as a few known tribal members who have either retired or left the academy for loftier pursuits, for purposes of identifying the profiles of tribally enrolled American Indians on the tenure track in American law schools. The object of this short paper is to advise American Indian law students and others on how to become an American Indian law professor.

I wrote this before all the Elizabeth Warren stuff came out. There’s more to say about that, I suppose, but that’s for another time.