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Tribal Governance Audit

A Tribal Governance Audit is a comprehensive legal and structural review designed to strengthen sovereignty, improve efficiency, and reduce legal risk. This process helps tribal leaders ensure compliance with tribal, federal, and state laws, evaluate the effectiveness of governing documents and structures, identify areas to enhance and protect tribal sovereignty, and build a strong foundation for future development and self-determination. The fees reflected herein do not include additional costs associated with projects such as copying costs, postage, travel, and other expenses incurred throughout the representation. 

Tier 1

Foundational Review (Entry-Level Support)

Ideal for smaller tribes or those seeking a baseline governance checkup.

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Services include:

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  • Review of governing documents (constitution, bylaws, codes, resolutions)

  • Compliance assessment with federal and tribal law

  • Summary memo identifying strengths, risks, and priority areas for improvement

  • One virtual consultation with legal counsel

 

Deliverables:

  • 5–7 page written report

  • Actionable recommendations checklist

  • One presentation to Tribal Council or leadership team

 

Great first step for tribes beginning contemporary nation building or capacity-building efforts.

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Tier 2

Comprehensive Governance Audit (Standard Service)

Ideal for: Tribes seeking a deeper structural review and practical implementation strategies.

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Services include:

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  • All Tier 1 services, plus:

  • Review of governance and administrative structures, tribal court system, and intergovernmental agreements

  • Analysis of decision-making processes and delegation of authority

  • Assessment of key governance policies (ethics, conflict of interest, procurement, etc.)

  • Interviews with key leadership and department heads

  • Customized legal reform roadmap

 

Deliverables:

  • 20–25 page governance audit report

  • Legal risk map and timeline for implementation

  • Policy and code revision recommendations

  • Two virtual or in-person presentations to leadership

 

Supports informed decision-making and strategic governance improvements.

Tier 3

Full Implementation Partnership (Premium Service)

Ideal for tribes pursuing structural reform, contemporary nation building, or preparing for major initiatives (economic development, federal negotiations, etc.).

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Services include:

  • All Tier 2 services, plus:

  • Drafting and revising governance documents, codes, and policies

  • Legal support for constitutional or code amendments

  • Facilitated leadership retreats or community engagement sessions

  • Implementation support for new governance processes

  • Training for council, staff, and boards

 

Deliverables:

  • Full Governance Reform Package

  • Updated governing documents ready for adoption

  • Implementation timeline and capacity-building plan

  • Ongoing legal counsel beyond initial work per separate engagement agreement

  • A long-term partnership to strengthen sovereignty and self-determination.

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Additional Support Options

  • Tribal Court Modernization

  • Intergovernmental Agreements & MOUs

  • Economic Governance Structures (enterprises, LLCs, authorities)

  • Election Law and Procedures Review

  • Board and Commission Training

     

A la carte tribal governance services billed at hourly rate

  • Tribal Council Training Sessions 

  • Federal Recognition

  • Governing Document Drafting (Constitution, Bylaws, etc.)

  • Tribal Housing 

  • Tribal Administrative Support 

  • Risk Assessment

  • Policy Drafting (Human Resources, Procurement, Ethics, Conflict of Interest, etc.)

  • Contract Review 

  • Economic Development 

  • Natural & Cultural Resources

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