NAICJA Podcasts

The Tribal Law and Order Act (TLOA) (P.L. 111-211, 124, Stat. 2258) is a law, signed into effect in 2010. The law allows tribal courts operating in Indian country to increase jail sentences in criminal cases. This was a major step toward improving enforcement and justice in Indian country. Before this law, tribal courts were limited in the length of jail sentences handed down. This podcast will give an introductory overview of TLOA and provide a few practical tips on enhanced sentencing.

The 2013 reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), included a vital reaffirmation of Tribal Nations’ inherent power to protect Native women from abuse by non-Indian partners by prosecuting those abusers in tribal court. Tribal Nations across the country are utilizing this Special Domestic Violence Criminal Jurisdiction (SDVCJ) to bring more safety and justice to their communities. This podcast will give an overview of VAWA and SDVCJ.

The Indian Child Welfare Act's (ICWA) purpose is "...to protect the best interest of Indian Children & to promote the stability & security of Indian tribes & families by the establishment of minimum Federal standards for the removal of Indian children & placement of such children in homes which will reflect the unique values of Indian culture." 25 U.S.C. 1902. ICWA issues guidance to States on the handling of child abuse, neglect, & adoption cases of Native children.