WHAT IS THE SEMINOLE TRIBAL COURT?
The Seminole Tribal Court is a separate but equal branch of the Seminole Tribe of Florida government. The Court is a two tiered court with a trial and appellate court. The Trial Court has broad authority to hear all types of civil disputes. The Tribal Appellate Court has the authority to review the final decisions of the Trial Court. The decisions of the Appellate Court are final and cannot be overturned by Tribal Council.
An attorney who wishes to practice in the Seminole Tribal Court must be a member of the Tribal Court Bar. In order to become a member of the Tribal Court Bar, the following information must be provided to the Clerk of the Seminole Tribal Courts:
A) Proof of admission to any State or Federal court;
B) An affidavit stating that he or she is in good standing with all Courts in which he or she is admitted. If an attorney is not in good standing with any Court in which the attorney is admitted then an explanation shall be attached detailing the facts;
C) Acknowledgment that the attorney is aware of and has knowledge of the Seminole Court rules of procedures and all relevant Tribal laws, customs and traditions.
D) Completed Seminole Tribal Court Bar application.
*****Currently the application fee is being waived*****
Please complete the application and return it to:
Luann Fuentes
Clerk of Courts
Seminole Tribe of Florida
6300 Stirling Road Suite 320
Hollywood, FL, 33024
The application, with supporting documentation, may also be sent via email to [email protected].
Once all documents are submitted they will be reviewed and verified. Upon approval for admittance you will be contacted to set an appointment to be sworn in and admitted to practice before the Seminole Court.
The Tribal court is open for inquiries Monday through Friday, from 8:00am to 5:00pm. Applications are accepted from 8:00am to 4:30pm. Should you have any questions regarding the Tribal Bar Application, please contact the Clerk of Courts, Luann Fuentes, at 954-966-6300, ext. 11485 or [email protected].
HOW DO I FILE A CASE?
A case may be filed at the courthouse between the hours of 8:00am and 4:30pm, Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.
WHAT TYPE OF CASES CAN I FILE IN TRIBAL COURT?
The Tribal Court has broad civil jurisdiction to hear cases that are brought before the Court. The Tribal Court does not have a criminal court at this time. Please be advised that the Court Clerks cannot provide legal advice.
If you have a question as to whether or not your case is within the jurisdiction of the Seminole Courts, you may contact an attorney who can determine if your case can be filed with the Tribal Court.
IS THERE A FEE FOR SERVICES?
There are no filing fees at this time.
DO I NEED AN ATTORNEY?
No, you do not need an attorney to file a case in the Trial Court or the Appellate Court.
WHAT IF I DON’T AGREE WITH THE OUTCOME?
If a party disagrees with the ruling of the Trial Court, a Request for Appeal must be filed with the Clerk of Court.
The decision of the Appellate Court is final.
HOW CAN I SPEAK WITH THE JUDGE ON MY CASE?
Contact with the judge is not permitted outside of the presence of the parties or their attorneys when it concerns the case.