Indian Child Welfare act - A federal statute that governs adoption and child custody proceedings involving Indian children in state court. The act seeks to protect Indian children and to promote the welfare of Indian families and communities. This act originated out of concern for the excessive numbers of Indian children being removed from Indian home and families and placed in foster care. The act limits state jurisdiction over Indian children in matters of custody. It does not apply to parental custodial disputes.
Adoption
Guardianship
The Indian Child Welfare (ICW) Division of the Prosecution Deparment, represents the Tribe in ICW matters that include dependencies, protective services, guardianships and adoptions in both Tribal and State courts.
These tribal courts handle both civil and criminal cases- including, but not limited to felony level offenses, misdemeanors, infractions, hunting and fishing offenses, traffic offenses, child dependencies, guardianships, adoptions, civil suits, gaming issues, and tribal employment issues.