Job Purpose or Objective(s): The Sovereignty Attorney will be a key legal advisor on matters related to tribal sovereignty, Federal Indian Law, and intergovernmental relations. This role requires a deep understanding of the unique legal status of tribal nations and the ability to navigate complex legal issues involving tribal sovereignty, jurisdictional matters, and the interplay between tribal, federal, and state laws. The Sovereignty Attorney will work with tribal leadership, departments, and external partners to protect and advance the Choctaw Nation’s sovereign rights and interests. You will report to the Executive Director of Legal.

Primary Tasks:

Advise on issues related to tribal sovereignty, self-governance, and jurisdictional matters and engage in discussions with federal, state, and local governments to protect tribal sovereign rights. Communicate complex legal issues clearly and effectively to various departments of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and provide legal advice and guidance to assist in the protection and expansion of the Choctaw Nation’s tribal sovereignty in criminal, civil, and regulatory matters. Monitor federal and state litigation matters, and legislative and regulatory developments affecting tribal sovereignty and advise on potential impacts. Assist in developing, drafting, implementing, and reviewing tribal codes, policies, council bills, ordinances, and resolutions to ensure they align with the Choctaw Nation’s legal framework and tribal objectives. Advise tribal leadership in developing codes, policies, regulations, and decisions that are consistent with Choctaw Nation sovereign rights and the protection of tribal and reservation resources. Present regular reports on legal matters and activities to tribal leadership and various Choctaw Nation departments to ensure alignment with the Choctaw Nation’s vision and objectives. Engage with tribal members, staff, communities, and other governmental entities on relevant legal rights and sovereignty issues, and foster understanding of Choctaw Nation laws, rules, regulations, rights, and legal processes. Facilitate and manage relationships with federal, state, and local government entities, ensuring the Choctaw Nation’s sovereignty is respected and upheld in all interactions. Perform other tasks as may be assigned.

Job Requirements:

·         Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.

·         Active membership in good standing with the Oklahoma bar association.

·         Understanding of tribal sovereignty, federal Indian law, and intergovernmental relations.

·         Experience working with tribal governments or Native American organizations preferred.

·         Strong negotiation, litigation, and advocacy skills.

·         Ability to manage complex legal issues and provide clear, actionable legal advice.

·         Ten plus (10+) years of experience in federal Indian law, tribal law, or a related legal field.

About the Choctaw Nation

The Choctaw Nation is the third-largest Indian nation in the United States, with over 200,000 tribal members and more than 11,000 employees. The first tribe over the Trail of Tears, historic boundaries are in the southeast corner of Oklahoma. The Choctaw Nation's vision, "Living out the Chahta Spirit of faith, family and culture," is evident as it continues to focus on providing opportunities for growth and prosperity.

Benefits

Free gym membership Free access to employee health clinic Free lunch for casino & resort associates Earned wages access once per week for hourly Associates Pet insurance Paid vacation / sick time Medical / Dental / Vision 401(K) with company match College tuition reimbursement Short-term disability, long-term disability, and family leave Employee assistance program Employee prescription program CNO Paid Life Insurance Teladoc On Site Dental Clinics (Jet Dental) On Site Mammogram Services Free diabetes and hypertension monitoring benefit (Livongo) Accolade- Concierge Benefits Program Wellness Program that equals savings on health insurance cost (Virgin Pulse) Maternity Care Program (Benefits provided by the Choctaw Nation are based on employment classification)

CNO was selected as a winner in both HRDUS' and Forbes' 2022 "Employer of Choice" competitions:

Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma received recognition as one of six Best Places to Work in the United States as selected by HRDUS Choctaw Casinos & Resorts received recognition from Forbes as a Best Employer for Diversity in the Travel & Leisure category. Forbes also recognized the Choctaw Casino and Resorts as one of America's Best Employers for New Graduates.