Colin Bradley
Specialty: Tribal Law
Law School/Year Graduated: Arizona State University, 2014
Years in Practice: 10
What kind of legal work dominates the field of tribal law?
As sovereign nations, tribes have their own laws and court systems. Tribal courts hear all the cases under their jurisdiction… but whether a tribal court has jurisdiction is a more complicated answer. So, a tribal case is like cases elsewhere, except that it’s in tribal court. Therefore, tribal courts hear personal injury, commercial, civil, criminal cases, etc.
Are there times when you represent tribal interests in federal or state courts, or represent non-Native clients in tribal courts?
Yes… because people and interests often cross boundaries, some of my tribal cases involve state and federal courts. I [also] represent non-Native clients in tribal courts.
What unique legal challenges do Native populations in Arizona face?
Native populations have the unique legal problem of being subject to the trust relationship with the United States. During various points throughout history, the federal government has either sought to eliminate, assimilate or assist tribes. This has led to a complicated patchwork of laws that govern Native peoples.
Do you need special certification or training beyond passing the bar exam to practice law in tribal courts?
You must be licensed in a tribal court before practicing there, and requirements are different for each tribe. For example, the Navajo Nation has a bar exam that you must pass before you can practice there, and continuing legal education requirements.
When you were growing up in Flagstaff as a member of the Navajo Nation, did you have any Native legal role models?
Growing up, I didn’t know a single attorney that was Native American. It wasn’t until I was in law school that I met Native attorneys and got to see some of the work they were doing. I do hope that I inspire Native students that are considering the legal profession!
What do you do in your spare time?
In my spare time I’m living the hashtag-dad life! My wife and I love taking our 2-year-old to play with friends, the zoo, the library and the Children’s Museum [of Phoenix]. It is so fun having a little one.
“If I wasn’t a lawyer, I’d be…”
Playing soccer for Real Madrid?
