Intertribal Court of Southern California Tribal Court Enhancement Project

The purposes of the FY 2009 Tribal Courts Assistance Program (TCAP) are to develop new tribal courts, improve the operations of existing tribal courts, and provide training and technical assistance for tribal court staff. The TCAP program goals are to provide planning grants that will focus on establishing tribal courts by supporting the development of comprehensive strategy and implementation plans, provide grants for existing tribal court systems to enhance tribal court services, and provide planning grants for tribal justice system strategies.

The Intertribal Court of Southern California (ICSC) will enhance the ability of tribes to exercise their inherent sovereignty. They primarily serve 13 member tribes, most of who lack the significant funds and resources required to establish their own independent judicial systems. Specifically, the ICSC will conduct court hearing and intake reviews, assist tribes in the development of their own civil and criminal codes, and provide tribes and outside governmental agencies with education and trainings on topics like tribal law and constitutions, jurisdiction, and effective ways to deal with tribal courts. ICSC has experienced an increase in their case load which necessitates a greater capacity for case management and data collection systems. ICSC will address the lack of networking capabilities that will provide the judge and court staff with the ability to update records in a central location and in real-time. ICSC will purchase office equipment and build a computer network, which will enhance its ability to efficiently manage its caseload, collect and share data, and provide channels of real-time communication. Additionally, funds will be used to fund a portion of ICSC staff salaries and fringe benefits, continue necessary contracts, and purchase supplies to support their Tribal Court.

CA/NCF