Native American Tribes, Ethics & Energy Development

This comprehensive program, led by Troy A. Eid, Principal Shareholder and Co-Chair at Greenberg Traurig LLP, former U.S. Attorney for Colorado, and President Emeritus of the Navajo Nation Bar Association, explores the intersection of Native American tribal law, ethics, and energy development, with a particular focus on attorneys' duties of cultural competence under Rule 1.1 of the Model Rules of Professional Conduct. The course examines fundamental concepts of federal Indian law, tribal sovereignty, and the federal trust responsibility, while providing practical insights into tribal consultation requirements and energy development challenges through significant case studies including DAPL and Navajo Nation coal development.

Designed for energy and natural resources attorneys, tribal law practitioners, and corporate counsel, this program offers essential guidance on navigating cross-cultural legal practice and energy development in Indian Country. Through examination of historical contexts, contemporary challenges, and ethical obligations, participants will gain valuable insights into effective representation of clients in matters involving tribal nations and energy development.

Learning Objectives:

1. Analyze the ethical obligations of cultural competency required under Rule 1.1 when representing clients in matters involving Native American tribes and energy development
2. Evaluate the complex framework of tribal sovereignty, federal trust responsibility, and tribal consultation requirements in energy development projects
3. Assess practical strategies for navigating cross-cultural legal practice while respecting tribal self-determination and traditional law concepts
4. Apply lessons learned from major case studies involving tribal energy development, including DAPL and Navajo Nation coal development, to current legal practice