Description
Adjudicate and administer justice in a tribal court pursuant to the tribe’s constitution, codes, and customs. Hear criminal, civil, and family matters within tribal jurisdiction; impose sentences and remedies consistent with tribal law and applicable federal requirements; resolve disputes; and may perform marriages.
- • Instruct juries or conduct bench trials under tribal law and receive verdicts.
- • Sentence defendants under the tribal criminal code consistent with applicable federal requirements.
- • Rule on the admissibility of evidence and the conduct of testimony under tribal rules.
- • Preside over arraignments, detention, and probable-cause hearings.
- • Review pleadings, motions, and case files to identify facts and legal issues.
- • Interpret and enforce tribal court procedures and promulgate local rules when authorized.
- • Monitor proceedings to ensure due process, decorum, and compliance with all applicable rules.
- • Advise parties, counsel, jurors, and court staff on courtroom conduct and procedure.
- • Research tribal law, federal Indian law, and relevant state law for comity issues, and draft opinions.
- • Issue written orders, findings, and judgments resolving cases.
- • Award civil remedies, damages, and equitable relief under tribal law.
- • Resolve disputes between counsel and rule on objections and motions in limine.
- • Supervise court staff and other judicial officers as assigned and oversee docket management.
- • Issue temporary restraining orders, protection orders, and preliminary injunctions, giving full faith and credit as required.
- • Adjudicate child custody, support, guardianship, and child welfare matters, including ICWA-related proceedings.
- • Grant divorces, annulments, and divide marital property under tribal code.
- • Coordinate with probation, treatment, and other tribal programs, and order culturally appropriate sanctions or diversion.
- • Refer cases to traditional peacemaking or restorative processes when permitted by law.
- • Participate in tribal appellate panels or intertribal judicial forums as authorized.
- • Perform marriage ceremonies consistent with tribal law and custom.
- • Provide community education on court processes and rights while observing judicial ethics.
- • Issue warrants, summonses, and exclusion orders within tribal jurisdiction and enforce court orders.
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O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
