On August 30, Professor Patty Ferguson-Bohnee, Law Fellow Jordan Garcia (’23) and the Indian Legal Clinic students Garrett Bryan (3L), Shandiin Herrera (3L), Imani Hicks (3L), Morgan Oakes (3L) and Sadie Red Eagle (3L) traveled to the Gila River Indian Community Courthouse in Sacaton, Arizona. While at the court, the ILC student attorneys and Garcia were sworn in to the Gila River Indian Community Court by Chief Judge Anthony Hill (’06). Judge Charles Aragon led an informative tour during which the students met other judges and staff.
ILC student attorneys work with the Gila River Prosecutor’s Office on traffic trials. In this capacity, Bryan represented the Gila River Indian Community in prosecuting a civil traffic trial on Oct.1.
“Being able to practice in a courtroom as a law student is always a great privilege and worthwhile experience,” said Bryan. “This is especially true when practicing in Tribal Court, where that legal experience intersects with Indian country as a Sovereign Nation. While I don’t want to diminish what it means to gain experience in any other court, I especially appreciate being able to gain this experience in a Tribal Court.”
Bryan previously worked for the Gila River Indian Community Court as an intern and returned as a student attorney. “It was awesome to be able to practice in the Court in a very different role. While I may not have won my trial, it was a great learning experience. I had the opportunity to handle a traffic citation under the guidance of Clinic staff and the Gila River Prosecutor’s Office. This included pre-trial preparation and conducting the trial myself, for a great, well-rounded experience.”
“One of the reasons I chose to go to ASU Law was the ability to practice law in Tribal communities,” said Hicks. “I’m incredibly grateful that the Clinic provides opportunities for law students to appear in Tribal courts and represent clients. Before joining the Clinic, I spent most of my time in law school studying federal or state courts. However, this semester, I learned more about Tribal courts in Arizona and how Tribes provide equitable and efficient legal forums for their members.”
Before visiting the courthouse, the student attorneys met with members of the Gila River Prosecutor’s Office. Students conversed with the new Chief Prosecutor Lynn Arouh, Carleton Giff and prosecutors Ammon Orr (’16) and Dustin Rector (’21). ILC student attorneys prosecute civil traffic trials with the Gila River Prosecutor’s Office.
We extend our appreciation to the Gila River Indian Community Court for their continued support.
