Associate Attorney – Tribal Governance & Indian Law

Patterson Real Bird & Rasmussen LLP; Louisville (CO); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) contributions

Supportive, professional, andCollabor?

Job summary

Patterson Real Bird & Rasmussen LLP is seeking an Associate Attorney in Louisville, Colorado, to join a national firm focused on advancing the rights of American Indian tribes and organizations. The role requires 3–5 years of experience with tribal and federal Indian law, strong research, writing, and analytical skills, and the ability to develop trusted relationships with Tribal clients.

The Associate will collaborate with Tribal leadership, boards, and departments on governance, regulatory,

Qualifications

• Juris Doctorate from an ABA-accredited law school.
• Active membership in good standing with the bar of Colorado or another state jurisdiction.
• Experience working with Indian tribes or tribal entities on legal issues such as business transactions, housing, education, finance, gaming, government affairs, social services, child welfare, energy, natural resources, and taxation.
• Familiarity with tribal and federal Indian law.
• Excellent research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Willingness and ability to travel frequently.

Responsibilities

• Provide counsel and legal services to new and existing clients in a professional and timely manner.
• Conduct legal research and draft memoranda, pleadings, agreements, and other legal documents.
• Communicate effectively with tribal clients and federal, state, and tribal agency representatives.
• Apply knowledge of legal procedures and case law to effectively advise clients.
• Governance & Advisory: Advise tribal governments and enterprises on governance, regulatory compliance, and policy matters.
• Draft and review tribal ordinances, resolutions, and administrative regulations.
• Provide legal guidance to tribal leadership, boards, and departments.
• Draft and negotiate contracts, intergovernmental agreements, and commercial agreements.
• Assist tribes with regulatory compliance involving federal and tribal programs.
• Support development of tribal enterprises and economic development initiatives.
• Provide strategic legal guidance on jurisdiction, sovereignty, and federal Indian law issues.
• Work closely with tribal leadership to address emerging legal and policy challenges.
• Participate in business development activities to build and maintain client relationships.
• Comply with all court, state bar, and firm policies and procedures.
• Travel frequently to attend client meetings, hearings, and other matters across the United States.

Skills

Legal research

Legal writing

Analytical skills

Organizational skills

Travel willingness

Education

Juris Doctorate (ABA-accredited)

Job description

Patterson Real Bird & Rasmussen LLP is seeking an Associate Attorney in Louisville, Colorado, to join a national firm focused on advancing the rights of American Indian tribes and organizations. The role requires 3–5 years of experience with tribal and federal Indian law, strong research, writing, and analytical skills, and the ability to develop trusted relationships with Tribal clients.

The Associate will collaborate with Tribal leadership, boards, and departments on governance, regulatory,