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Policy: Tribal Nations and the Criminal Justice System

Tribal nations are sovereigns predating the United States Constitution, have the inherent authority of self governance, and shall have the trust and respect of all Indian and non-Indian criminal justice professionals. Recognizing the limitations of federal jurisdiction and striving to assist in strengthening tribal systems when requested to do so, there must be a respect for tribal justice systems and tribal nations’ sovereignty.  Criminal justice and tribal justice systems should cooperate in matters of mutual concern, on an individual tribal basis, as appropriate.  Criminal justice systems should recognize the specific needs of native people and the individual identity of each separate tribe.  NCJA will address the different cultures, needs and resources of separate tribes in all of its tribal activities.

ADOPTED July 29, 2007