NCJ Number
162811
Journal
Judicature Volume: 79 Issue: 3 Dated: (November-December 1995) Pages: 113- 117
Date Published
1995
Length
5 pages
Annotation
Litigation practice and a series of projects of the Department of Justice support the Federal Government's longstanding policy of self-determination for American Indian tribes and the recent efforts to strengthen tribal courts.
Abstract
In April 1994, the President reinforced longstanding Federal policy by directing Federal agencies to deal with Indian tribes on a government-to-government basis when tribal governmental or treaty rights are at issue. In June 1995, the Department of Justice issued its policy on Indian sovereignty and government-to-government relations with Indian tribes. In response to recommendations from tribal leaders, the Justice Department has established the Office of Tribal Justice to coordinate the department's policy toward tribes, both within the department and with other government agencies. In September 1995 the department designated 45 tribal governments nationwide as Tribal Court- DOJ Partnership Projects. The department has also taken the initiative, in cooperation with interested tribal governments, in facilitating the convening of Federal court on or near reservations to improve law enforcement in Indian country. Other programs include civil litigation support and justice program grants. Photographs