Jury Duty in SRPMIC: What to Expect

In this episode, Kierstin and Alane look back on how legal practice in SRPMIC has evolved over the years, from early office locations to major shifts in court processes, programs, and laws. They reflect on changes in how cases are handled, how the court system has modernized, and how new legislation and Community needs have shaped the work they do today. It’s a conversational walk through growth, challenges, and memorable moments that highlight how far the Community’s justice system has come. Questions? Email [email protected].

In this rapid‑fire edition of Asked and Answered, Kierstin and Alane take the hot seat while special guest Blessing McAnlis‑Vasquez tests them on common legal myths in SRPMIC. From paternity and child custody misconceptions to questions about juvenile prosecution, Miranda rights, consent for searches, and recording conversations, the hosts break down what’s true, what’s false, and why these myths persist. The conversation highlights how legal processes actually work in both civil and criminal contexts in the Community and encourages listeners to reach out to the appropriate SRPMIC legal office for real‑world advice.

In this episode of Asked and Answered, Alane and Kierstin welcome Lesa Engle, Director of SRPMIC’s new Office of Conflict Counsel. Lesa explains how the office provides representation when Legal Services or the Defense Advocate’s Office has a legal conflict, and how conflict cases will now be handled within the Community rather than contracted out. She also introduces the Tribal Court Advocate Pathway Program, a year‑long paid training program for enrolled SRPMIC members interested in becoming tribal court advocates. For those curious about practicing law in tribal court, the episode also references their earlier show, Changes to Legal Practice in Community Court (January 21, 2026). An information night for the Tribal Court Advocate Pathway Program will be held on August 24, 2026. Questions? Email [email protected].

In this episode of Asked and Answered, Alane Breland and Kierstin Anderson walk listeners through proposed updates to SRPMIC’s mental‑health and competency laws. They explain how the new Emergency Apprehension process would allow qualified mental‑health professionals—not just police—to initiate help during a crisis, along with the addition of assisted outpatient treatment and improved post‑hospital coordination to support safer transitions back into the community. SRPMIC Office of the General Counsel Proposed Ordinances Questions or comments on the proposed changes? Email askedandanswered@srpmic‑nsn.gov.

In this episode of Asked and Answered, Alane Breland and Kierstin Anderson break down the newly updated divorce laws in SRPMIC. They explain the major code changes, including the shift to no‑fault divorce, new rules around property division, preliminary injunctions, spousal maintenance calculations, and the addition of prenuptial and postnuptial agreements. They also discuss when to file in tribal court versus state court, how settlement conferences can ease conflict, and what to expect when working with Legal Services or the court. The conversation aims to help community members understand their options, prepare for the process, and avoid common pitfalls. Questions? Email [email protected].