Court, Laws

Government, Tribal Council | Court, Laws

The Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe operates a Tribal Court with jurisdiction over criminal, civil and juvenile matters. Appeals are heard by a three-judge Court of Appeals. The Tribe’s Police Department emphasizes community policing and protects public safety.

The Tribe’s primary governing document is its Constitution, which was adopted in 1939 and has been subsequently amended. An extensive code of laws with more than 20 chapters regulates fishing, hunting, gaming, traffic, domestic relations, and public health; protects children and vulnerable adults; sets forth the criminal laws of the Tribe, court and appellate procedures; and covers a growing list of other subject matters.

Copies of the Tribe’s Law & Order Code are available for viewing at the library, court office and the tribal center. Tribal members and tribal employees can register on the web site and receive login access to the Law & Order Code. Copies of pages or sections can be obtained from the court or from the Tribal attorney’s office.