Court Bulletins
Current news and information about the Judicial Branch of Government and the courts.
Emergency Standing Order Executed - Suspended Until Further Notice
Current months Hearing schedule:
02/10: ICWA-23-001 2:30PM
2/11: GUAR-24-003 2PM
2/18: CFS-24-001 2PM
2/20: CRM-24-003 2PM
2/27: CRM-24-003 10AM
2/28: CRM-24-008 2PM
PLEASE ARRIVE 15MINS BEFORE START TIME; LIMITED PARKING LOCATED IN REAR OF BUILDING
Employment Opportunity
SUPREME COURT JUDGE
Title: Supreme Court Judge of the Mashpee Wampanoag Supreme Court
Hours: As-needed
Salary: $200.00 per hour
Benefits: N/A
Supervisor: Chief Judge
Summary: This position is a contract judge position and continuity will be based on funding. This position is for an as-need basis. Serves as a Supreme Court Judge of the Mashpee Wampanoag Supreme Court. Work includes hearing and making judgments on all civil and criminal cases by applying Tribal Law, Ordinances and regulations or applicable Federal and State Laws. Ensures the impartial administration of justice and discharges duties in accordance with Mashpee Wampanoag Tribal Law.
UMASS Law School is Sponsoring A Legal Clinic
We regret to inform you that the Legal Clinic will not be offered during the 2025 Spring Semester. Enrolled Tribal members seeking legal help may contact Attorney Raymond Yox at South Coastal Counties Legal Services, Inc. (SCCLS) for assistance. SCCLS provides legal services in certain types of civil legal matters, at no cost to low income and elderly (age 60+) residents, throughout the SE portion of Massachusetts.
STAY TUNED FOR NOTICE OF UPDATED LEGAL CLINIC DATES LATER IN THE YEAR (TBD - SEPTEMBER)
Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe is Working to Establish a Wellness Court
The Mashpee Wampanoag Wellness Court will combine the judicial oversight and powers of the Court with local wellness services. A braided services approach incorporates multiple tribal programs that work together to ensure the individual has the tools to address their substance use disorder, health issues, avoid recidivism and progress towards a healthy way of being. Wellness Courts is evidence based and are structured into four phases. There are 10 key components:
Individual and Community Healing Focus
Referral Points and Legal process
Screening and Eligibility
Treatment and Rehabilitation
Intensive Supervision (Case Management and Alcohol/Drug Testing)
Sanctions and Incentives
Judicial Interaction
Monitoring and Evaluation
Continuing Interdisciplinary and Community Education
Team Interaction (policies and procedures, interagency, third-party, and intergovernmental agreements)
What makes this court different?
This court provides a variety of local treatment, supportive resources and focuses on reconnection with culture and community. Individuals meet with a case manager three times a week and are randomly tested for substances two to three times a week. Individuals check in with the court every other week.
Who is eligible?
Tribal citizens that are clinically assessed with a substance use disorder, willing and able to consent to enter and is a non-violent offender.
WELLNESS COURT UPDATE:
A presentation on the Wellness Court was made at the general meeting held on March 10th, 2024, by the Chief Judge Eric Mehnert and Judge Rhonda Decontie of the Penobscot Nation Tribal Court.
