Chief Judge

The Nez Perce Tribe Department of Law & Justice is recruiting for: CHIEF JUDGE [HR-25-151] (Full-time/Lapwai). This position requires a wide range of legal, administrative, management and budgetary skills. The Chief Judge presides over the Tribal Court, and hears, or assigns to other Tribal Court Associate and Pro-Tem judges, all cases heard in the Tribal Court. Handles all phases of civil and criminal litigation, drafts orders, opinions, memoranda and other legal documents, and fulfills all other duties required of the Chief Judge to assure an effective and fair Tribal Court. In addition, supervises Associate Judges, and Court Administrator.

Requires three (3) years’ judicial experience or ten (10) years’ experience in active practice of law, preferably in a Tribal Court, and three (3) years of supervisory experience. Evidence of success in court administration and court budget development is preferred. Applicants must demonstrate that they have a thorough knowledge of Indian law, the Nez Perce Tribal Code, and applicable federal law, including but not limited to the Tribal Law and Order Act and Violence Against Women Act. Must have a Juris Doctor from an accredited law school and must be a member in good standing of a state bar. This is a four (4) year contract position with generous salary and benefits. Class description available at the NPT Human Resources Department. The Nez Perce Tribe is a drug free work environment, pre-employment drug testing required. Requires a valid driver’s license with the ability to be insured under the Tribe’s policy. Must provide a current Driver’s License Record (DLR) where you have been licensed to drive within the last three (3) years. Open until filled.(Grade 28)