The Burns Paiute Tribe's: Code Revision, Probationary Services and ECourt Services Proposal

The Burns Paiute Tribe proposes to significantly enhance its tribal court by adding a half-time probation officer. This will be the first time the tribal court will have the capacity to provide direct supervision of court-involved individuals and significantly move it toward a model that emphasizes restorative justice. The probationary services will ensure timely follow-up, assist court-involved individuals getting to required services and activities, and help them reconnect to the community as appropriate. In addition to the new probationary services, the proposed project will undertake a major revision of tribal codes to bring them up-to-date and in line with new tribal goals, priorities, and relevant federal legislation. The tribe seeks to align the court and legal proceedings with cultural practices including peace-making and reintegration of members into the community. Finally, the proposed project will allow the tribal court to significantly enhance its ability to conduct business remotely. A subscription to an eCourt service will facilitate videoconferencing proceedings and remote filing and make all court documents available, as well as make as many hearings and sessions as possible available remotely, thus markedly improving accessibility for the entire community.