What are the responsibilities and job description for the In-house Attorney position at STANDING ROCK SIOUX TRIBE?
POSITION: IN-HOUSE ATTORNEY
STANDING ROCK SIOUX TRIBE
SALARY: NEGOTIABLE BENEFITS
Scope of Work
The In-House Attorney provides high-level legal counsel, representation, and strategic guidance to the Standing Rock Sioux Tribal Council, Executive Committees: (Judicial, Health Education & Welfare and Economics), Tribal Administration, and Tribal Programs This role ensures that the Tribe operates in compliance with applicable tribal, federal, and state laws; protects its legal interests; and advances its governmental, operational, and economic objectives. The attorney will handle a broad range of legal matters including governance, regulatory compliance, litigation, employment, land issues, contracts, and program-specific legal concerns.
General Responsibilities
- Provide legal advice and counsel to Standing Rock Sioux Tribal Council, Executive Committees: (Judicial, Health Education & Welfare and Economics), Tribal Administration, and Tribal Programs on a wide range of legal and policy matters.
- Prepare formal legal opinions on issues involving tribal, state, and federal law, including interpretation of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe’s Constitution and Code of Justice.
- Represent the Tribe in legal disputes, administrative matters, and other proceedings as directed by Tribal Council or administration.
- Review, update, and recommend revisions to the Tribe’s Code of Justice to reflect current law, best practices, and organizational needs.
- Serve as the Tribe’s representative in legal matters where testimony, negotiation, or formal representation is required to protect tribal interests.
- Perform additional legal duties as assigned by Tribal Council, Executive Committees or Tribal Administration, or requested legal issues by Tribal Programs
Specific Responsibilities
- Collaborate with the Judicial Committee to revise, draft, and codify tribal laws and ordinances, including but not limited to: Election, Housing, Children’s, Liquor, Motor Fuels Tax, Gaming, and TERO codes.
- Partner with the Human Resources Department to develop and review employee policies and ensure compliance with applicable labor and employment regulations.
- Advise the Administration on daily legal matters, including contract drafting, review, negotiation, and regulatory compliance.
- Support Tribal Council by preparing resolutions, conducting legal research, and drafting memoranda and reports.
- Assist the Land Management office with legal issues involving property, leasing, rights-of-way, and land use.
- Provide legal support to the ICWA office for cases in tribal, state, and federal courts, ensuring compliance with the Indian Child Welfare Act and related regulations.
- Represent the Tribe in civil and criminal matters filed against the Tribe in appropriate forums.
- Coordinate with and manage outside counsel for major litigation and matters requiring specialized expertise.
Qualifications
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.
- Active license to practice law, preferably with admission to the North Dakota or South Dakota State Bar; must be in good standing with all relevant tribal, federal, and state courts.
- Knowledge of tribal law and federal Indian law, including the 1868 Treaty, the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe’s Constitution and Code of Justice, the Indian Civil Rights Act, and the Indian Child Welfare Act.
- Demonstrated experience working with tribal governments, public entities, or organizations serving Native communities is highly preferred.
- Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills; ability to manage a diverse and dynamic workload.
- Ability to perform the essential duties of the position on-site, including written work and in-person representation.
- Must comply with all Tribal laws, policies, and employment procedures.
NOTICE:
SELECTED CANDIDATE(S) FOR STANDING ROCK SIOUX TRIBE POSITIONS ARE SUBJECT TO ALCOHOL AND DRUG TESTING. FAILURE TO ADHERE TO AND SUCCESSFULLY PASS THE ALCOHOL AND DRUG TESTING WILL CAUSE OF REVOCATION OF JOB OFFER.
No tribal housing is available. The position is located at the Tribal Administrative Service Center in Fort Yates, ND.
How to Apply: Interested candidates can apply by submitting an application and/or resume online, in-person or via email. Online Applications may be completed by visiting www.standingrock.org
In person applications can be submitted by visiting the Human Resource office during our regular business hours. Applications may also be emailed to personnel@standingrock.org