Session #37:
The Intersection of Tribal, State, and Federal Law
August 11, 2026
12 – 1 p.m.
Virtual Zoom Presentation
Free – online Zoom
Practicing in Tribal Courts: Building Cultural Competency and Legal Excellence
Attorneys who practice, or are interested in practicing, in Tribal Courts need more than a working knowledge of the law. They need an understanding of the history, culture, traditions, and sovereignty that shape Tribal justice systems. This webinar serves as an introduction to a more comprehensive training program designed to equip legal professionals with the knowledge and cultural awareness necessary to effectively represent clients and collaborate with Tribal communities.
Participants will explore the foundations of Tribal sovereignty and governance, including Tribal Constitutions, Tribal codes, court rules, and the unique structure of Tribal governments and judicial systems. The program will also examine key principles of Federal American Indian Law and discuss the practical realities of practicing before Tribal Courts.
A central focus of the training is fostering culturally respectful legal practice. The session will highlight culturally honoring traditions and teachings that provide important context for understanding Tribal communities, including Traditional Opening practices, the Seven Grandfather Teachings, and the Two Grandmothers Teachings, and how these values influence approaches to justice, leadership, and community.
The webinar will also examine opportunities for collaboration between Tribal and State Courts, with particular attention to the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), the Michigan Indian Family Preservation Act (MIFPA), juvenile matters, criminal jurisdiction, and other areas where intergovernmental cooperation is essential.
This session will help identify the distinction between representing children within the juvenile justice system and adults within the criminal justice system. Many are unaware that the two are not identical. Juvenile justice involved children are more likely to have contact with the adult criminal justice system, experience homelessness, substance abuse and mental health crises. Juvenile defenders with a better understanding of brain development and the ability to connect with young people can be a lifeline for children in the juvenile justice system and their families.
Presenters:
- Hon. Melissa L. Pope, Chief Judge, Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi Tribal Court
Moderator:
- John Sier, Chair, Detroit Bar Foundation Access to Justice Committee
Attend and receive a Certificate of Completion. Approved for State Bar of Michigan Pro Bono Honor Roll hours. Training hours can be put toward the Detroit Bar Pro Bono award with recognition at the annual Archer Award Gala in November. For full details, please visit https://www.detroitlawyer.org/probonoaward/
For questions, contact Sheena Law-Killinger at slawkillinger@detroitlawyer.org.
Brought to you by:
DETROIT BAR PRO BONO/ACCESS TO
JUSTICE COMMITTEE
The information provided in this programming does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available are for general informational purposes only.