About
Provided by Robins Kaplan LLP
For too long, American Indian Tribes across the United States have faced a competitive disadvantage when litigating against powerful forces. With its American Indian Law and Policy Practice, Robins Kaplan LLP seeks to redefine excellence for high-stakes litigation representation in Indian Country. Founded and led by former United States Attorneys Brendan Johnson and Tim Purdon, our American Indian Law and Policy Practice exists to bring justice to Tribal clients whose claims in the past have been dismissed or ignored due to their underdog status. Our American Indian Law lawyers understand the challenges Tribes face when state and local governments infringe on Tribal sovereignty and the federal government neglects its trust responsibilities. Our passion for Tribal sovereignty and self-determination is the driving force behind our practice, fueling our Tribal advice and advocacy―especially when Tribes are forced to litigate against powerful interests.
Informed by our practice leaders' experience in other positions, working hand-in-hand with Tribes to implement the Tribal Law and Order Act, fighting against the diminishment of Tribal lands and resources, and improving public safety on the Reservations.
Chambers Review
Robins Kaplan's distinguished team advocates on behalf of tribes in a range of complex litigation. It possesses a wealth of experience representing clients in energy extraction and sovereignty disputes in federal, state and tribal courts. The firm has played a particularly prominent role in opioid litigation brought against manufacturers and distributors. The team also offers capabilities in the area of tribal lending and advises clients on tribal cannabis business operations.
Work Highlights
- Robins Kaplan sued the Federal Government on behalf of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe after the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid services closed the only emergency room on the Rosebud Reservation.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"Robins Kaplan has a team-based approach that allows complex matters to seem less complex. They have a great ability to explain things in a manner that lay people can understand."
"Robins Kaplan understand well the commercial context of the litigation they bring for their clients."
"Robins Kaplan has a team-based approach that allows complex matters to seem less complex. They have a great ability to explain things in a manner that lay people can understand."
"Robins Kaplan understand well the commercial context of the litigation they bring for their clients."
Notable Practitioners
Brendan Johnson maintains a strong market presence for his work representing clients in complex litigation surrounding issues such as opioids, tribal sovereignty and tribal lending.
"Brendan has a tremendous profile and a real specialty in this area."
Former US Attorney for the District of North Dakota Timothy Purdon regularly leads criminal investigations and handles litigation relating to Native American law issues.
"Tim is an excellent lawyer who is engaging, responsive and has a tremendous sense of humor."
Timothy Billion has experience representing tribal clients in a range of litigation matters including tribal lending enterprises, trespass issues and ownership rights.
"A great lawyer."
Ranked Lawyers at
Robins Kaplan LLP
USA - Nationwide