Law Fellow

Description:

General Functions:
The Law Fellow provides comprehensive legal services to Alaska Native Justice Center clients while working closely with attorneys, paralegals, case managers, and the Tribal Justice Team. This position primarily focuses on Tribal Justice matters including legal research, writing, consultation comments, and providing technical assistance and training to Tribes. Working in partnership with our people, the Law Fellow helps develop opportunities that fulfill our endless potential by advancing tribal sovereignty and protecting the rights of Alaska Native communities. The role requires strong legal expertise, cultural competency, and dedication to serving Alaska Native Tribes through high-quality legal services and advocacy.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct comprehensive legal research and prepare legal documents, memoranda, and analyses for Tribal Justice matters.
• Develop and prepare training materials, technical assistance resources, and educational content for Alaska Native Tribes.
• Provide direct training and technical assistance to Tribes on legal matters affecting tribal sovereignty and jurisdiction.
• Support ANJC attorneys in representing Alaska Tribes in child welfare matters involving the Indian Child Welfare Act.
• Draft public comments on proposed legislation and regulations affecting Alaska Native communities and tribal interests.
• Implement strategies to advance ANJC's public policy objectives through research, advocacy, and coalition building.
• Maintain confidential client files and ensure compliance with professional ethical standards and confidentiality requirements.
• Network with service providers, legal professionals, and community organizations to stay current on tribal justice issues.
• Participate in conferences, events, and outreach efforts to promote ANJC services and tribal legal education.
• Collaborate with Tribal Justice Team members to coordinate services and ensure comprehensive support for clients.
• Provide data and information for grant reporting, fund development, and program evaluation purposes.
• Travel to rural and urban communities to provide on-site legal assistance and training as required.
• Perform all related duties as needed and assigned.

Job Specifications:

• Superior oral and written communication skills with ability to convey complex legal information clearly.
• Demonstrated ability to read, interpret, draft, and revise legal documents with attention to detail.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with ability to think strategically and exercise sound judgment.
• Excellent organizational skills with ability to manage multiple projects and meet strict deadlines.
• Demonstrated familiarity with Alaska Rules of Court and State Statutes.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with minimal supervision while maintaining professional standards.
• Proficient in legal research databases, Microsoft Office Suite, and relevant case management software.
• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the social, health, educational, training, and cultural needs of the Alaska Native and American Indian community.
• Ability to identify needed social and community services and make appropriate referrals while maintaining interagency relationships.
• Willingness to travel to both rural and urban areas as required.

Minimum Core Competencies:

• CITC Values, Respectful Leadership, Professionalism, Emotional Intelligence, Problem Solving/Critical Thinking, Communication Skills.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Continued employment is contingent upon completion of satisfactory state and federal fingerprint criminal background check.
• Applicants must be eligible per the Cook Inlet Tribal Council's P.L. 102-477 Plan, meaning they must be a member of a federally-recognized tribe and/or have a Certificate of Degree of Indian BloodApp (CDIB) (regardless of blood quantum), or tribal enrollment card noting they are Alaska Native/American Indian and/or show eligibility for Indian Health Service (IHS). Additionally, they must reside in the Cook Inlet Region during the fellowship. This is an in-person position in our Anchorage office.
• Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Active member of the Alaska Bar Association.
• Experience and knowledge in Alaska Native legal issues, Indian Child Welfare Act, Child in Need of Aid proceedings, ANCSA, and federal Indian law.
• Knowledge of tribal, state, and federal relations and jurisdictional issues.
• Experience working directly with Alaska Native Tribes and communities.

Physical Requirements:

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