University of Nevada, Las Vegas, William S. Boyd School of Law, through its Indian Nations Gaming & Governance Program, and the National Tribal Judicial Center at the National Judicial College have a new partnership that will strengthen learning opportunities for tribal judges across Indian Country.
The partnership is designed to provide immediate training for tribal judiciaries and build long-term capacity by equipping students and professionals with tools to enhance their legal and leadership skills. Together, the two organizations will focus on strengthening governance and justice systems in ways that honor the values and priorities of tribal nations.
Aviva Abramovsky, president and CEO of the National Judicial College, said for more than two decades, the center has supported the education and professional development of thousands of tribal judges and court staff.
“Tribal judges, like all members of the judiciary, are vital to the strength and well-being of their communities and deserve access to the highest quality education delivered in meaningful and effective ways,” Abramovsky said. “We are excited to build this partnership and expand opportunities that empower tribal courts and the communities they serve.”
The partnership’s first step is creation of the National Tribal Judicial Academy, a first of its kind training academy for prospective and new tribal judges. The Academy will equip tribal members, including non-lawyers, to serve their tribe as a judge.
Danielle Finn, director of the Indian Nations Gaming & Governance Program, said, “The launch of the National Tribal Judicial Academy fills a need in Indian Country to provide experiential learning; hands-on practical training for new and returning judges.”
Over the next year, the two groups will work together to create additional programs for tribal judges.
The first National Tribal Judicial Academy will take place mid-August at Boyd Law’s Thomas & Mack Moot Court Building.
