Indian Law Clinic

We receive questions about tribal governance and ICWA every week from tribes, state courts, and other national organizations. Our students provide answers through research and brief drafting under faculty supervision.

Our clinic operates like a boutique Indian law firm, leading to a strong research and writing focus in our work. Students receive one-on-one feedback from clinical faculty members, who are national experts in indigenous law. It’s a unique opportunity for students to work closely with leading scholars.

Because each case is unique and complex, our students develop a deep knowledge of Indian Law subject matter. There’s a strong academic component to clinical work, and students are expected to prepare thoroughly by completing all assigned readings.

Indian Law Clinic students can:

• Conduct legal research
• Work directly with tribal attorneys
• Draft appellate briefs
• Draft tribal bench briefs and opinions
• Develop policy papers for tribal governments and organizations

Our clients are American Indian tribes from all over the United States. As independent nations, American Indian tribes have the right to self-govern, adjudicate legal cases, levy taxes within their borders, establish their own citizenship requirements, and decide their own futures.

By supporting and defending these rights, we make a difference in the lives of indigenous people across the country.