Sonnenschein Nath & Rosenthal LLP



Indian Law & Tribal Representation

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The challenges faced by Tribes are constantly changing and are becoming more complicated.  As Tribes and Tribal enterprises grow and undertake new challenges, they often find it desirable to expand their circle of trusted advisors to add additional skills and strengths to their team.  Sonnenschein adds value by assembling the right team for the job, which means not only the appropriate legal skills and expertise but also judgment, experience and temperament.  Because Sonnenschein regularly advises Tribes and Tribal enterprises on a broad array of issues, we have the ability to bring together lawyers who are both experienced in their area of law and in applying their expertise in the unique arena of Tribal representation.

We understand and profoundly respect the unique interests of Tribes seeking economic development without sacrificing their sovereignty, and we are dedicated to providing the highest quality of legal services in an increasingly complex and regulated world.  Our culture is collaborative and team oriented.  We are committed to diversity and to providing legal services pro bono to those who would otherwise not be able to afford them.

With more than 700 lawyers and other professionals in offices throughout the nation, including Washington, D.C., Sonnenschein is distinctly positioned to represent Tribal governments, Tribal organizations and Tribal-affiliated businesses in virtually any context.



Spotlight on Indian Law
Tracey LeBeau Joins Sonnenschein's Energy & Regulated Industries Practice
Tracey LeBeau
Tracey LeBeau, partner and co-founder of Red Mountain Energy Partners, joins Sonnenschein as a senior managing director in the Energy & Regulated Industries Practice. A noted specialist in energy development, LeBeau will co-lead the firm’s renewable energy practice.
Click here to read more.
Former National Congress of American Indians Government Affairs Director Joins Firm
Heather Dawn Thompson, a widely respected former director of government affairs at the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) and a member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, joins Sonnenschein as a partner in the Public Law & Policy Strategies and Indian Law & Tribal Representation practices. With this move, Thompson joins the ranks of only a handful of Native American partners in large national law firms. Read more.
Court Victory for Tribal Client After Six-Year Fight
The Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians, a Sonnenschein client, won two victories before the California Supreme Court, which issued orders declining to hear appeals filed by the group Voices for Rural Living.  Voices for Rural Living had filed the appeals in a last-ditch attempt to block construction of a highway interchange leading to our client's Shingle Springs Rancheria.  The group represents residents of El Dorado County who oppose construction of a casino on the tribe's land.
Click here to read more about our client victory.