Intensive Course: Indigenous Law in American Tribal Courts

JD Course Code: LAW807H1S
Grad Course Code: LAW8007H

Description

Note: The add/drop date for this course is Monday, January 4 at 10:00 PM.

Course Location: Please see the "Intensive Course Schedule" under Schedules and Timetables (http://www.law.utoronto.ca/academic-programs/schedules).

Note: Attendance at intensive courses is mandatory for the duration of the course.

This course offers an exploration of Indigenous law and its application within American tribal court systems, providing Canadian law students with a comparative perspective on Indigenous legal traditions and self-governance. In this course, "Indigenous law" means the customs and traditions of Indigenous nations, sometimes referred to as tribal common law. Through a combination of Anishinaabe, Navajo, and selected other tribal nations' court decisions, tribal statutes, and critical readings, students will examine how Indigenous cultures shape judicial processes on tribal lands. By engaging with tribal court opinions and statutes, participants will gain practical insights into the complexities and innovations within American tribal justice systems.

Evaluation

Students will be evaluated based on a final paper of 2500 to 3000 words (90%), and 10% participation in class discussion. Papers must be delivered to the Records Office by 4:00 p.m. on Monday, February 1, 2027.

At a Glance

  • Academic Year:
    2026-2027
  • Course Session:
    Intensives: Winter Session
  • Credits:
    1
  • Hours:
    12
  • Course Note:

    Monday, Jan. 4, 2027: 9:30 am – 12:00 pm
    Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2027: 9:30 am – 12:00 pm
    Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2027: 9:30 am – 12:00 pm
    Thursday, Jan. 7, 2027: 9:30 am – 12:00 pm
    Friday, Jan. 8, 2027: 9:30 am – 11:30 am

Enrollment

  • Maximum Enrollment:
    22
  • JD Students:
    20
  • LLM/SJD/MSL/SJD U: 2