The craig tribal association (CTA) seeks $900,000 over five years under purpose area #3 to establish a comprehensive tribal justice system that reflects our cultural values while providing fair and…

The Department of Justice Bureau of Justice Assistance awarded Craig Tribal Association $900,000 under the Tribal Justice Assistance program (CFDA 16.596) on October 1, 2025, to establish a comprehensive tribal justice system reflecting cultural values while addressing critical gaps in justice infrastructure identified through a court assessment.

The project spans five years through September 30, 2030, and funds five core components: court infrastructure development including tribal court codes, procedures, docketing systems, courthouse security, and a tribal court webpage; recruitment and training of a part-time tribal court judge and full-time court administrator/clerk with competitive salaries; acquisition of equipment including court recording systems, audio amplification, assistive technology, and office furnishings; intergovernmental collaboration with the Alaska State Court, City of Craig Law Enforcement, and Alaska Legal Services Corporation; and community engagement and education incorporating elders and traditional knowledge holders in court processes.

The award directly addresses 36 recommendations from Craig Tribal Association's court assessment. Work is performed in Craig, Alaska. The Tribal Justice Assistance program supports tribal justice systems to prevent crime and ensure tribal safety through development, implementation, and enhancement of justice infrastructure and capacity. Federally recognized Indian tribes are eligible applicants.

The craig tribal association (CTA) seeks $900,000 over five years under purpose area #3 to establish a comprehensive tribal justice system that reflects our cultural values while providing fair and equitable access to justice for all tribal members. Based on a thorough court assessment, this project addresses critical gaps in our current justice infrastructure. The project will focus on five key components: 1. Court infrastructure development: establishing tribal court codes, procedures, and a court calendar/docketing system; developing essential forms and materials; implementing courthouse security measures; and creating a tribal court webpage. 2.personnel recruitment and training: hiring a qualified part-time tribal court judge ($100,000/year) and full-time court administrator/clerk ($50,000/year) with competitive salaries to attract and retain qualified candidates; providing comprehensive training for all court personnel. 3.equipment and resource acquisition: purchasing essential equipment including a court recording system, portable audio amplification system, assistive technology for court access, time and date stamp for filings, fire-safe file cabinets, and necessary office equipment. 4.intergovernmental collaboration: establishing relationships with the alaska state court, city of craig law enforcement, and alaska legal services corporation to ensure effective coordination and service delivery. 5. Community engagement and education: developing informational materials about the tribal court; conducting community outreach; and engaging elders and traditional knowledge holders in court processes. This project directly addresses 36 specific recommendations from our court assessment and will significantly enhance the CTA's ability to exercise tribal sovereignty, protect the rights of tribal members, and address issues affecting community well-being. By the end of the grant period, the CTA will have a fully functioning tribal court system with the necessary infrastructure, personnel, and resources to continue operations with reduced external funding.