Tribal Court

Pleadings can be filed with the Court between 8 a.m. – noon and 1 – 5 p.m.

Eric S. Hoshizaki, Chief Tribal Judge
1900 Prosperity Street
Reno, NV 89502
Tel: (775) 785-8775
Fax: (775) 329-8153

Hours: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Jeraldine Magee Court Administrator ext. 2
Dana Thomas Court Clerk ext. 1
Cameron Kramer Court Bailiff ext. 6
Enrico Castillo Court Advocate ext. 5
Christian Luna Court Advocate ext. 4
Tanya Hernandez Truancy Officer ext. 9
Vacant Adult Probation Officer ext. 3
Pete Sferrazza Prosecutor 775-329-2936 ext. 2027

The Reno-Sparks Indian Colony Tribal Court asserts its jurisdiction for both criminal and civil matters that take place on or concern it members and residents. Criminal jurisdiction is limited to Native Americans for offenses committed on the Reno-Sparks Indian Colony.  The only limitations on criminal jurisdiction are those imposed by the federal Major Crimes Act.  Currently, the maximum sentence for each count or charge that may be imposed by the Reno-Sparks Indian Colony Tribal Court is one year imprisonment and a $5,000 fine. The Court also invokes civil jurisdiction over civil matters that arise on the Colony and any other matters to the extent permitted by the United States Constitution.  The Court has civil jurisdiction over both Native Americans and non-Natives.  There is no monetary or equitable limit to the Court’s power to grant appropriate relief.

Appeals

Eagle Wings from LK 173 Any party dissatisfied with a decision of the Tribal Court, except the prosecution in a criminal case, may appeal by filing a written Notice of Appeal with the Clerk within 30 days of the Judge’s decision.   Appeals are heard by the Inter-Tribal Court of Appeals located at 680 Greenbrae Drive, Suite 680, Sparks, Nevada 89510, or call (775) 355-0600 for more information.

Probation

Adult The RSIC Court Services Probation Division supervises adults to ensure observance of mandatory terms and conditions of probation; prepares pre-disposition reports for the Tribal Court; coordinates services through federal, state, and tribal resources and makes referrals as deemed appropriate; works collaboratively with other RSIC departments including education, health center and human services to provide maximum coordination of programs and information to probationers.  Plus, the Probation Division is also responsible for coordinating the Native American Victim Impact Panel.

Juvenile

The RSIC Court Services Probation Division supervises assigned youth to ensure compliance with terms and conditions of juvenile probation; investigates truancy reports, consults with schools, parents or guardians; informs parties of compulsory attendance policies and laws; works directly with Washoe County School District to facilitate identification of behavioral and/or truancy programs and interacts with families to improve school attendance.

Clerk of Court

The Clerk of Court is responsible for assisting all persons or organizations with business before the Court to ensure the efficient operation of the Tribal Court.  This includes processing all documents which are generated or passes through the court, assisting the public with the procedures of the court, recording hearings, taking minutes, and providing notary services.  However, the Clerk shall not give advice on questions of law nor shall appear or act on behalf of any person in any court proceedings.

Advocacy Services

Court Advocacy services include representation of tribal members (adult and juveniles) who have been accused of violating the laws of RSIC.  Court advocates may be appointed to represent RSIC tribal members in limited civil matters.

Bailiff

The RSIC Bailiff serves as the primary process server for all court documents and transports all inmates to and from court hearings.  The Bailiff also provides supervision of all community service ordered by the RSIC Tribal Court.