Indian Law

Substantial natural resources exist beneath Indian lands throughout the United States, but developing those resources can be challenging in light of the complicated relationship between the federal government and Indian tribes as well as the overlap between federal and tribal laws. We assist clients that have encountered pressing legal issues related to Indian tribes in the development of oil and gas and other mineral resources related to securing and maintaining approvals for surface access and subsurface development rights on tribal lands, especially throughout the Rocky Mountain region. Our Indian Law Practice is experienced in federal Indian law and draws on the firm’s resources in federal and state administrative law, corporate, environmental, real estate, energy and public law sectors to deliver comprehensive advice and practical solutions for our clients’ desired results.

A deep understanding of the fundamentals involved with contracting with Indian tribes is essential to each client’s unique business needs. Because we have worked with stakeholders in tribal governments, tribal organizations, and federal agencies in various stages of project development, we help clients anticipate and evaluate the broad range of issues related to Indian law that may arise in any transaction or deal.

Our lawyers assist clients in navigating the critical issues involving mineral development on Indian lands, including:

• Negotiating with Indian tribes and tribal entities
• Structuring energy and mineral development transactions
• Securing the necessary permits and approvals for property access and development rights
• Shepherding projects through the federal review process for Indian lands
• Preserving capital investments on Indian lands
• Assisting in the compliance with federal environmental laws and laws unique to cultural resources and religious rights of Indian tribes