What is the history of Native American law?

Native American law in the state of Washington has a long and complex history that is deeply entwined in our nation’s history. Native American tribes have resided in the Pacific Northwest long before the arrival of European settlers. The legal relationship between these Native American tribes and the United States government was established by the Treaty of 1855, which promised the tribes the right to their own land in exchange for recognition of United States’ authority. Despite the Treaty, these tribes still encountered much resistance in exercising their rights in the state of Washington. The U.S. federal government’s action to forcibly relocate native tribes in the Pacific Northwest led to a period of mistreatment and disrespect of Native American law. This continued until the passing of the Indian Reorganization Act in 1934, which sought to restore autonomy to the Native American tribes and encouraged them to form their own laws again. Consequently, many Native American tribes in Washington are still ruled by their own tribal governments, and some even have their own police forces and legal systems. The courts of Indian Offenses have the sole purpose of examining and determining Native American cases, and protect their tribal members from civil and criminal actions. These courts may also impose fines, revoke tribal memberships, and even incarcerate those who break tribal laws. Today, Native American law in Washington is recognized by the United States government and is respected as a form of legal authority in the state. While the history of Native American law in the state is complex, it is highly valued and provides a great deal of protection to the Native American tribes in the state of Washington.

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