Employment | Labor

Our group stands as a distinguished national law practice specializing in comprehensive labor and employment services for tribal nations and their enterprises. We empower tribes to assert and protect their sovereign authority in employment relations. Collaborating closely with tribal enterprises, we adeptly navigate all aspects of labor and employment relations, from routine issues to intricate challenges. Our approach is practical and responsive, enabling us to deliver valuable expertise and strategic guidance by:

  • Providing essential HR guidance to tribal nations and their enterprises.
  • Handling litigation of employment disputes in tribal, state, and federal jurisdictions.
  • Defending tribes and their enterprises in union organizing efforts and negotiating collective bargaining agreements under tribal and federal labor laws.
  • Advising on compliance with OSHA, Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), employment discrimination and accommodation laws, tribal preference laws and policies, and union-related matters.
  • Conducting workplace investigations and providing guidance on investigations involving sexual and other types of harassment, workplace bullying, and more.
  • Drafting and revising employment laws, regulations, and policies tailored to reflect the unique policy values of each tribe, with comprehensive training for implementation and enforcement.
  • Conducting tailored trainings for employees and supervisors reflective of the unique nature of employment within Indian Country, addressing such topics as avoiding harassment and discrimination, being an effective supervisor or leader, and more.
  • Vigorously defending tribes and their enterprises in cases brought by federal agencies (EEOC, U.S. Department of Labor, NLRB) with a deep understanding of the sovereignty issues involved.

Our commitment doesn’t end there.

  • Drummond Woodsum attorney Kaighn Smith, Jr., authored the leading treatise, Labor and Employment Law in Indian Country (2022), jointly published with the Native American Rights Fund. This essential resource provides a comprehensive overview of the law governing labor and employment relations in Indian country.
  • Drummond Woodsum also collaborates in partnership with the National Native American Human Resources Association (NNAHRA) to provide the Tribal Human Resources Professional (THRP) Certification Program. Since its conception in 2008, THRP Certification is recognized as an essential credential for any HR professional working in Indian Country to further their knowledge and professional expertise. This professional development program provides professionals and tribal leaders working an opportunity to become more proficient in relevant topics, trends, legislation and regulations unique to tribal governments and their enterprises.