Indian law attorney Rob Rosette passes on

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Rob Rosette. Photo: Rosette LLP

Monday, September 19, 2022

Indianz.Com

Tribal leaders and friends are paying tributes to Rob Rosette, a noted Indian law practitioner who recently passed away.

Rosette was a citizen of the Chippewa Cree Tribe. He established a law firm, Rosette LLP, to represent tribal governments exclusively in all facets of law and policy.

“Prayers for our dear friend Rob Rosette, he has left this world for the heavens,” Carletta Tilousi, a council member for the Havasupai Tribe, wrote in a tribute on social media on Sunday. “He was amazing lawyer, friend, and mentor.”

"You really have to believe in the law, Federal Indian law, your tribe's sovereignty and don't ever let it go," said Rob Rosette ('96) who discussed utilizing sovereignty as an economic development resource for developing a tribal government economy. Excellent presentation Rob! pic.twitter.com/0rEgcWOclj
— Indian Legal Program (@asuilp) March 22, 2019

Tilousi noted that Rosette, who was based in Arizona, represented her tribe in a lawsuit against Arizona State University. A researcher at the educational institution took blood samples from Havasupai citizens and allowed their genetic material to be used for studies to which they did not consent.

“He represented the Havasupai Tribe during the ASU blood case and helped us win the historical case,” Tilousi wrote in her tribute. His legal representation led to a $700,000 settlement that went directly to Havasupai people.

“Your laughter, smile, and kindness will remain with us forever in our hearts,” Tilousi wrote.

Leland McGee, a citizen of the Cherokee Nation who serves as chief of staff to the Tachi Yokut Tribe, paid tribute to Rosette on social media as well. The tribe, based on the Santa Rosa Rancheria in California, also was represented by the late Indian law practitioner.

“Indian Country has lost a true warrior,” McGee wrote on Saturday.

“Until we meet again, Rob Rosette,” M. Rutledge, another Cherokee citizen and former attorney, wrote on social media. “May your journey be peaceful and your new path be easy.”