California Indian Legal Services

Organization Description:

California Indian Legal Services (CILS) is the first Indian-controlled law firm organized to provide specialized legal representation to Indians and Indian tribes. CILS provides free or low-cost representation on those matters that fall within the priorities set by our Board of Trustees. Created by California Indian leaders and public interest attorneys, CILS has been one of the preeminent advocates for the rights of Native Americans and Indian Tribes for over forty years. CILS maintains four offices throughout California. CILS is supported by grants, namely the Legal Services Corporation and the State Bar of California, private foundations, and individual and corporate contributors as well as contracts from a host of California's 109 federally recognized Indian Tribes.

CILS provides free legal services to indigent Indians, Indian tribes, and Indian organizations according to the following priorities: (1) preserving and enhancing the Indian land base; (2) secruing self-determination; (3) securing restoration of services; (4) securing bureaucratic acountability for government policies, actions, or omission; and (5) protecting Indian heritage and culture. Pro Bono Opportunities: Please contact the program directly for more information.