Department profile
Robins Kaplan LLP

Native American Law

USA Guide 2026 : USA - Nationwide


Robins Kaplan LLP

Rankings

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

Provided by Chambers

Native American Law - USA - Nationwide

Band 3

Band 3


What the Team is Known For
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

Provided by Chambers

  • Robins Kaplan sued the federal government on behalf of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe after the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services closed the only emergency room on the Rosebud Reservation.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • Robins Kaplan have careful, measured lawyers who are great with government officials.

    Native American Law respondentUSA
  • Robins Kaplan have a great depth of knowledge and experience of federal civil rights laws and Native American treaty rights.

    Native American Law respondentUSA
  • Robins Kaplan has a wide breadth of experience in Indian country.

    Native American Law respondentUSA

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Band 2Brendan Johnson
    Band 2Brendan Johnson

    Brendan Johnson

    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 is tremendously good and an all round expert.

      Native American Law respondentUSA
  • Band 2Timothy Purdon
    Band 2Timothy Purdon

    Timothy Purdon

    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 always responsive and helpful in providing information and notices.

      Native American Law respondentUSA
  • Band 3Timothy Billion
    Band 3Timothy Billion

    Timothy Billion

    Timothy Billion has experience representing tribal clients in a range of litigation matters including tribal lending enterprises, trespass issues and ownership rights.
    • Timothy understands our business and who we are as a company.

      Native American Law respondentUSA

Ranked Individuals at Robins Kaplan LLP (3)

USA - Nationwide

Members

Provided by Robins Kaplan LLP

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