From California Tribal Families Coalition (supported by Casey Family Programs), but not limited to California practice. This is a much-needed practice publication–a small part of which will be presented tomorrow at the federal ICWA training. Next week there is a full training using these standards at the TICA conference in Santa Barbara.
2023.7.6 Perf Standards For Attorneys Representing Tribes -FINAL
Colorado is the most recent state to add a pro hac rule for ICWA cases. This rule is pretty narrow, and only applies for attorneys representing tribes where the tribe has moved to intervene in the case on behalf of their child. This would not apply to any attorneys representing individuals (like a grandma or auntie) in an ICWA case, nor to any appellate work on behalf of tribes filing amicus briefs. However, the rule only requires a verified motion to avoid both fees and local association, which is great for tribal attorneys.
Recently the California Department of Justice, Bureau of Children’s Justice, established an ICWA compliance task force with a goal of examining ICWA non-compliance in California. In support of this effort tribal leaders have come together to provide information to assist the California DOJ in looking at ICWA compliance issues, including cases involving non-California tribes. This project is an opportunity for all tribes to provide feedback on these important issues.
Letter to tribal leaders from task force co-chairs.
Letter to tribal leaders from California AG.
There is both a call (details in first letter) and a survey is for any tribe with children in the California system, not just California tribes. Survey is here and is due by January 15.
Questions can be directed to Delia Parr at CILS, CALINDIAN@calindian.org
Turtle Talk 
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