Tribal Court Public Defense Clinic

Eligibility

About the Tribal Court Public Defense Clinic

What's Unique about the Tribal Court Public Defense Clinic?

  • Direct client representation
  • Case management from arraignment to resolution
  • Frequent court appearances including trials
  • Opportunity to be admitted to the Tulalip Tribal Bar
  • Contact with Native culture and communities

Substantive Practice Area

  • Tribal Court Criminal Defense
  • Child Welfare — Parent Representation in Tribal Court

Where we practice

  • Tulalip Tribal Court
  • Muckleshoot Tribal Court

Typical cases arise from a range of criminal matters under the Tulalip Criminal Code, including but not limited to:

  • Assault
  • Disorderly Conduct
  • Driving While License Suspended
  • Drug Possession and Delivery
  • Obstruction and Resisting Arrest
  • Theft
  • Trespass

Parent Dependency Advocacy cases involve:

  • Representing parents whose children have been declared "in need of care" by the tribal court
  • Accessing services needed by parents
  • Negotiating permanent plans for protection of children

Skills Developed in the Tribal Clinic include:

  • Interviewing of clients and witnesses
  • Factual investigation
  • Client counseling
  • Legal analysis and writing
  • Plea negotiations
  • Trial and advocacy skills
  • Navigating criminal justice system
  • Jail visits
  • Cultural competence

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