Essential Skills for Tribal Court Judges

Why should I take this course?

If you are new to the bench, this course will help you develop and apply the skills necessary to function successfully as a Tribal Court Judge. You will be faced with resolving challenges in the areas of civil procedure, civil jurisdiction, criminal procedure and criminal jurisdiction. Particularly, you will learn about the intersections and gaps in state, federal and tribal authority in Indian Country.

Who should attend?

Tribal Court Judges who are new to the bench or those who want a refresher course should join us for this course.

Who are the members of the faculty?

Members of the faculty include judges and other professionals from Indian Country who are fluent in Federal Indian Law Issues, evidence, collateral trial issues, ethics, and writing.

How is this course taught?

The faculty uses experiential learning techniques and include lectures, group discussions, and role-playing exercises to increase your skills on the bench.

What should I tell my presiding judge or funding agency so that my attendance will be approved?

At no point in the history of tribal nations has maintaining a strong and competent judiciary been more important. Jurisdictional lines in both criminal and civil cases must be clearly expressed and defended in your decisions. This course will develop those skills necessary to protect the rights of the people appearing before the court as well as the sovereign authority of your tribal nation.

Whom should I contact for more information?

For more information, please contact the Registrar’s Office at (800) 255-8343 or registrar@judges.org.

There is no room block for this program. Please contact our Registrar’s Office with any questions.