Attorney General

The Attorney General is responsible for safeguarding all Tribal assets, defending the integrity of the Tribe, and providing legal counsel and representation to the Tribe, its Government, and its entities. This role includes assisting and advising Tribal entities in their efforts to advance the interests of Tribal citizens, developing and maintaining Tribal Codes, and overseeing the work of outside counsel.

The Attorney General must be able to collaborate effectively with partner agencies both within and outside of the Tribe, establish priorities, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and meet critical deadlines.

• This position advances the mission of the Catawba Indian Nation by leading the Legal Services Department in its work to protect the Tribe’s sovereignty and promote both collective and individual self-sufficiency. The Attorney General reports directly to the Chief/Executive Committee and is subject to the CIN Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual.

Essential Functions

An individual in this role must be able to perform the following functions with or without reasonable accommodation:

• Provide legal counsel and representation to the General Council, Executive Committee, Tribal departments, commissions, boards, and other entities as necessary to carry out the business of Tribal Government and achieve the Nation’s objectives.
• Protect and enhance the Nation’s sovereignty, jurisdiction, and inherent authority.
• Deliver a broad range of legal services, including but not limited to contract law, employment law, administrative law, gaming law and regulation, cultural resources protection, economic development, environmental and natural resources law, and matters of Tribal jurisdiction.
• Draft, review, and revise legal documents, including Tribal ordinances, leases, contracts, policies, letters, resolutions, procedures, and legal briefs.
• Conduct contract drafting, review, and negotiation to protect the Tribe’s interests.
• Collaborate with Legal Department staff and other internal stakeholders to ensure effective and coordinated legal support across the organization.
• Assist in the development and establishment of the Tribal Public Safety Department, Tribal Courts, Tribal Victim Services, and other justice-related programs and services.
• Attend conferences, training programs, and continuing legal education courses to maintain licensure, professional competence, and knowledge of emerging issues in Tribal law.
• Monitor and analyze Tribal, state, and federal legislation, regulatory changes, and legal developments impacting the Tribe and its entities, and advise leadership accordingly.

Perform other duties as assigned to further the mission of the Nation and the Legal Department.

Catawba Indian Nation exercises INDIAN PREFERENCE

Native American Indian preference shall apply to this position pursuant to the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (24 U.S.C. 450, et seq.), 25 CFR 271.44 and other relevant laws (title 25, U.S. code, Section 472 & 473).

Qualifications

Experience: 8-10+ years of relevant experience in Federal Indian Law and Tribal Law, with knowledge and experience in contract law, employment law, administrative law, gaming law and regulation, cultural resources

Education: Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.

Licenses & Certifications: Active membership in the South Carolina and North Carolina State Bars and licensed to practice law in both states, or eligibility to obtain such licensure within twelve (12) months of hire. Valid State Driver’s License and insurable driving record.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Demonstrated experience in overseeing and managing an in-house legal department.
• Comprehensive understanding of Tribal sovereignty, jurisdiction, and federal Indian law.
• Experience in one or more of the following areas: contract law, employment law, administrative law, gaming law and regulation, cultural resources protection, economic development, and environmental and natural resources law.
• Proven ability to conduct accurate and thorough legal research and provide clear, actionable legal advice.
• Strong written and oral communication skills with the ability to present complex legal issues clearly and persuasively.
• Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to prioritize, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines.
• High level of professional judgment, discretion, and commitment to confidentiality.

Willingness and ability to attend Tribal meetings, conferences, and trainings, including flexibility to work evenings and weekends when required.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Exposure to normal office environment with occasional visits to program sites.
• Capacity to maintain high concentration levels and work long, irregular hours as needed.
• Ability to travel for training, leadership development, and other events.
• Relocation within 60 miles of Catawba Nation Tribal Offices.

Ability to lift up to 25 pounds, handle paperwork, and operate office machinery.