Tribal Court

The Nooksack Tribal Court exercises the sovereignty and jurisdiction of the Nooksack Indian Tribe by providing a neutral forum where the tribal community can resolve disputes peacefully, consistent with the Nooksack Indian Tribe’s Constitution, laws and codes.

The Chief Judge hears civil, criminal, juvenile and domestic cases, and issues decisions and orders.

The Court Clerks process, file and record cases and transcripts, and manage the court’s calendars. They can provide you with court dates and ensure that all parties receive proper notice of hearings.The Clerks can also provide copies of public court files, or files of a case to which you are a party.

The Tribal Court staff are not permitted to provide legal advice, interpret court rules, or help prepare documents. If you have questions about Nooksack Court rules or procedures or need help preparing documents, please consult your legal representative. If you do not have legal representation, the Nooksack Office of the Tribal Attorney maintains a referral service for your assistance.  In addition, the Northwest Justice Project and the Whatcom County Bar Association maintain rosters of attorneys who may be willing to assist you on a reduced fee or free basis.

Filing Hours

Civil filings: 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Criminal filings: 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Quashing warrants: 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

The court accepts documents for filing in person or by mail.

Monthly Court Schedule

All court sessions will be held on Fridays, unless otherwise arranged with the Clerk of the Court, and with sufficient notice to the parties. Hearings set prior to this order (November 18, 2022), are not affected hereby, and shall be held as scheduled unless continued by court. Hearing set before judges pro tem may be held on days other than Friday, subject to the judge pro tem’s availability, and should be scheduled with the Clerk.

Probation

The Probation Office supervises adult and juvenile clients of the Nooksack Tribal Court who are under the court’s jurisdiction and assists them in compliance with court orders. Probation assists clients in securing employment, referrals to substance abuse treatment, domestic violence counseling, education, vocational rehabilitation, cultural services, and community service. Probation also monitors random drug testing and coordinates with the Nooksack Police Department for Tribal Court warrants.

Tribal Court Staff

  • Doug Hyldahl

    Chief Judge

    Phone: (360) 306-5125

  • Deanna Francis

    Criminal Court Clerk & Youth in Need of Care

    Phone: (360) 306-5125 ext 2

  • Natasha Miranda

    Court Clerical Assistant

    Phone: (360) 306-5125 ext 3272