"Montana politicians and prison officials are looking to Canada as the state launches the nation's first known pilot program aimed at helping Native people navigate the legal system.

Rep. Denny Rehberg, R-Mont., and Montana Department of Corrections director Bill Slaughter on Monday announced plans to place legal advocates in district courts with high volumes of Native traffic [Press Release].

Their intention is to bridge cultural misunderstandings between disadvantaged Natives accused of crimes and those who could help them with pretrial services - like finding a lawyer before they sign a plea agreement.

The court advocates will not, however, provide legal advice.

Two workers will likely be in place by this summer. Court districts that are candidates for the pilot program include those near the Fort Peck, Blackfeet, Rocky Boy's and Crow reservations."

Get the Story:
Advocates to assist Natives in courts (The Missoulian 2/14)

Relevant Links:
Jodi Rave Lee - http://www.missoulian.com/jodirave

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