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Tribal Law in Western Oklahoma

Respecting sovereignty while delivering results. We represent individuals and businesses in matters involving the Cheyenne & Arapaho and other nations.

Navigating Two Worlds

We effectively operate at the intersection of state, federal, and tribal law.

Family Law

Handling divorces, custody disputes (ICWA), and guardianships in both state and tribal courts.

Economic Development

Facilitating leases, joint ventures, and construction contracts between private entities and tribes.

Civil Rights

Ensuring due process within the tribal court system and protecting members from external discrimination.

Key Legal Concepts

Understanding the rules is half the battle.

Sovereignty

Tribes are domestic dependent nations. They have inherent power to govern their members and territory.

Jurisdiction

Determining who has the power to hear a case (Tribe vs. State vs. Feds) is often the first major legal fight.

Exhaustion of Remedies

Often, you must finish a case in tribal court before you can even ask a federal court to look at it.

Our Tribal Law Services

Experienced counsel for complex indigenous law matters.

  • ICWA Defense

    Protecting the rights of Indian children, parents, and tribes in state custody courts.

  • Tribal Court Litigation

    Civil and criminal defense within the tribal judicial system.

  • Employment Law

    Handling disputes within tribal casinos, health clinics, and administrative offices.

  • Gaming Compacts

    Advising on compliance with state and federal gaming regulations.

Elk City Tribal Law

We Are Here to Help

Individuals

  • Protecting custody rights
  • Defending criminal charges
  • Probating Indian trust land/assets
  • Enforcing civil rights

Corporate Clients

  • Negotiating waivers of immunity
  • Ensuring regulatory compliance
  • Litigating breach of contract
  • Structuring partnerships

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. We regularly work with tribal members on family law, business, and criminal matters. We understand the specific laws and codes of the C&A Tribes.
The boundaries of the reservations in Western Oklahoma are a complex litigation topic. However, for many purposes, the reservations of the Cheyenne & Arapaho and other tribes are recognized, affecting criminal jurisdiction and ICWA cases.
Yes. Tribal entities have sovereign immunity. A standard contract may be unenforceable. We draft waivers of immunity and dispute resolution clauses that protect your investment.
Tribal courts have their own appellate systems. We are experienced in researching tribal codes and filing appeals within these specific judicial systems.

Complex Case?

You need an attorney who knows the territory. Call Addison Law Firm.

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