The attorneys of Smith & Jolly, LLC have devoted their careers to representing Indian nations and specializing in all areas of Tribal and Federal Indian law. We are determined to provide the highest quality legal representation at competitive rates to Indian tribal governments, departments, agencies, schools, colleges, and economic enterprises.

Federal Indian law is probably the most unique area of law in North America. It is complex, specialized, and deeply rooted in both history and culture. It is an area of law that is completely foreign to most attorneys and demands a full understanding of and respect for tribal sovereignty, self-government, and self-determination. While it can be easy to use such terms, only a true comprehension, belief, and commitment to sovereignty, self-government, and self-determination can provide Indian nations and their instrumentalities with the kind of legal representation they need.

At Smith & Jolly, LLC, protecting and upholding tribal sovereignty is a fundamental value. In its practice of Indian law, Smith & Jolly, LLC is committed to Indian nations and their interests. Our loyalty to Indian nations coupled with our dedication to the highest quality of service is what distinguishes Smith & Jolly and its Indian law practice from many other law firms in the field. We approach the representation of our clients from the first principle that tribes are sovereign governments and, accordingly, strive in all of our work to strengthen tribal self-government and fight for true self-determination.

In addition to our Federal Indian law practice on behalf of tribes, Smith & Jolly also provides representation to both Indian and non-Indian owned businesses as well as representation to individuals in many areas.

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INDIAN LAW UPDATES

Progress and Lack Therof on Indigineous Rights Declaration

On September 13, 2007, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples by a vote of 143 in favor, 11 abstaining, and only 4 states voting against it. Of... more »

Settling IIM Trust Mismanagement Alone Not Option

Indian country's refusal to agree to the Bush Administration's disgusting proposal to settle the Cobell litigation was more than the correct response. However, it is seeming more and more that the... more »

CRIT v. NIGC, D.C. Cir.

On October 20, 2006, the D.C. Circuit dealt another blow to the National Indian Gaming Commission's ("NIGC") claimed penultimate authority over Indian gaming. As both the original administrative law judge... more »

New Law Includes Tribes in ERISA

President Bush signed the Pension Protection Act of 2006, which made significant changes to the Employment Retirement Income Security Act ("ERISA"). Section 906 of the new Act brings Indian tribes expressly... more »