-
Throughout the country, tribal, state, and local courts operate in overlapping jurisdictions but face common challenges with limited resources. A growing number of states have come together to form joint jurisdiction courts that acknowledge each other’s autonomy, but share resources, promote healing and protect public safety. These courts can reduce administrative costs, effectively deliver culturally based services, and achieve better results for individuals in the civil and criminal justice systems.
Often in these types of courts, a state/federal court judge and a tribal court judge preside together over a docket that provides tribal (and nontribal) individuals with a court-supervised alternative that emphasizes cultural and community values and that is trauma informed.
What You’ll Learn:
- How joint jurisdiction courts enhance public safety and streamline resources
- The benefits of trauma-informed, culturally responsive alternatives in civil and criminal cases
- Practical steps and resources for planning and implementing joint jurisdiction courts
Join the Conference of Chief Justices (CCJ)/Conference of State Court Administrators (COSCA) Tribal Relations Committee for an insightful discussion on how these courts are improving access to justice, reducing costs, and strengthening communities.
Moderators:
- Chief Justice Steven R. Jensen, South Dakota Unified Judicial System, Co-Chair of CCJ/COSCA Tribal Relations Committee
- Corey R. Steel, State Court Administrator, Nebraska Judicial Branch, Co-Chair of CCJ/COSCA Tribal Relations Committee
Panelists:
- Justice Jude Pate, Alaska Supreme Court
- Judge Pam Steffes, Tribal Court Judge, Sitka Tribe of Alaska
- Judge Megan Treuer, Chief Judge, Bois Forte Band of Ojibwe (Minnesota)
- Judge Korey Wahwassuck (Ret.), Minnesota Judicial Branch
For more information, email Conor Geiger.