Tribal Empowerment Through Effective Administration of Equal Justice For All
The Smith River Rancheria Tribal Court is here to serve the needs of our Tolowa Community by serving all of the members of the Smith River Rancheria. 

Having an effective judicial system is a critical component of Tribal sovereignty.  This Court works hard to enhance Tribal sovereignty through the development of culturally appropriate laws and by exercising Tribal jurisdiction. 

The Court hears cases on a wide variety of topics including cases involving child welfare and guardianships. Dispute resolution in the Tribal Court is culturally appropriate, informal, and as non-adversarial as possible.  The Court under presiding Judge Richard Blake is unbiased and independent. 

Judge Blake is from the Hoopa Tribe and is culturally sensitive, basing his rulings on Tribal laws, ordinances and historical precedence.