Information for Students
The Tribal Court Public Defense Clinic provided me with the opportunity
to work as a public defender and actually help people, which is the
reason I began pursuing my legal degree in the first place. Being a part
of the Clinic has been one of my most valuable experiences at US School of Law.
- Chalia Stallings-Ala’ilima 3L, Tribal Court Public Defense Clinic
What’s Unique about the Tribal Court Public Defense Clinic?
- Direct client representation
- Case management from start to finish
- Frequent court appearances including trials
- 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
- Puyallup Tribal Court
- Squaxin Island Tribal Court
- Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribal Court
- Chehalis Tribal Court
Typical cases:
Full range of criminal matters under the Tulalip Criminal Code, including:
- Assault
- DUI
- Driving While License Suspended
- Theft
- Drug Possession and Delivery
- Obstruction and Resisting Arrest
- Disorderly Conduct
- Parent Dependency Advocacy:
- Represent parents whose children have been declared “in need of care” by the tribal court
- Access services needed by parents
- Negotiation of permanent plans for protection of children
Skills Focus:
- Interviews of clients and witnesses
- Factual investigation
- Client counseling
- Legal analysis
- Plea negotiations
- Trial and advocacy skills
- Cultural competence