The Miami Herald visited the Miccosukee Tribe of Florida last week to find out more about the tribal court system.

The tribe's modern-day court began hearing cases in 1981. It handles criminal, civil, juvenile and traffic cases.

Proceedings can take place in Miccosukee or English. Only parties and family members are allowed to attend hearings.

In criminal cases, the tribe will pay for a defense attorney for a tribal member. But non-Indians who are victims of crime cannot bring in a lawyer.

Two judges generally preside over a case. One specifically applies tribal customs and laws.

Get the Story:
Miccosukee tribal court a contrast to Florida's system (The Miami Herald 3/23)

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