Judicial Elder Court Advisor

Job Description

JUDICIAL ELDER COURT ADVISOR
POSITION VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

Title: Elder Court Advisor
Department: Tribal Court
Division: Judicial
Reports to: Courts Service Manager

Position Summary: The Band’s Panel of Elders is a program that will seek to address the need for Elders to be involved in court proceedings and Peacemaking Circles when there are disputes regarding the cultural laws, customs, and traditions of the Band. Elders will sit with a judge to hear cases, as well as participate in Peacemaking Circles, in order to offer guidance and wisdom.

Compensation: Elders chosen to hear cases will receive a rate of $75 per hour. Elders chosen to participate in Peacemaking Circles will receive $300.00 per session.

Composition & Operation of Panel The Band’s Panel of Elders will be composed of Tribal Elders who have reached the requisite age. Those seeking to join the Panel will be considered and approved by the Tribal Council. Panel members will be appointed to serve an initial term of four (4) years and may be reappointed to additional terms of two (2) years. Panel members can be removed from service only by a majority vote of the Tribal Council.

Panel members, acting in their official capacity as Elder Court Advisors, shall enjoy all rights, privileges, and immunities afforded to the White Earth Tribal Court.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities: Potential candidates for this position should possess and exemplify the following skills or characteristics:
• An ability to share personal experiences to build trust and a sense of hope.
• Demonstrate humility, perseverance, and adaptability.
• A strong sense of compassion and empathy for people involved in the disputes being heard.
• An ability to identify problem-solving efforts for people harmed.
• A solid understanding of and commitment to social change through building the capacity and power of people to change their communities.
• Knowledge of the Anishinaabe community being served.
• An ability to work in a culturally appropriate manner within the Anishinaabe community, demonstrating humility and respect.
• Knowledge of and the ability to follow and apply the policies and procedures of the White Earth Tribal Council.

Position Qualifications: Potential candidates must meet the following requirements:
• Enrolled member or Descendant of the White Earth Nation.
• At least fifty-five (55) years of age.
• Knowledge and understanding of Anishinaabe culture.
• Valid MN Driver’s License and insurance to travel between sites and other business-related destinations.
• The ability to pass required criminal background check/applicant background study.
Physical & Environmental Demands: Potential candidates must be able to meet the following physical and environmental requirements:
• Can work in an office setting, courtroom, other professional settings, community, or client home, with moderate levels of noise.
• The ability to travel as needed. Local travel is necessary.
• An ability to engage in frequent speaking and listening, frequent sitting, and some walking.
• An ability to work with traumatized people.

Band members who are interested in applying to serve as an Elder Court Advisor should complete the application below and provide all the information requested. Incomplete applications will not be considered.