Tribal Sovereignty
/ˈtraɪbəl ˈsɒvrɪnti/
Definitions
- (n.) The inherent authority of Indigenous tribes to govern themselves within the borders of the United States.
Tribal sovereignty allows Native American nations to establish their own laws and governance structures.
- (n.) The legal status recognizing tribes as distinct political communities with certain self-governing powers under federal law.
Federal courts often address issues involving the extent of tribal sovereignty in criminal jurisdiction.
Related terms
Commentary
Tribal sovereignty is a complex doctrine reflecting the constitutional and statutory recognition of tribal self-governance; terminology should be used with awareness of federal and state interactions.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.