Each Native American tribe in the state has their own constitution and set of laws.
A new report released this week gives high marks to the collaboration between state and tribal courts.
The report released by tribal and state court leaders shows how important collaboration is between courts.
Allie Greenleaf Maldonado is the Chief Judge of the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians Tribal Court.
She said Michigan is a leader when it comes to protecting tribal rights.
“Michigan has done more in the last ten years to work on the issues of compliance with the Indian Child Welfare Act than in any time previous to this. It's been an amazing experience to collaborate with so many people with open hearts and open minds.”
Maldonado said protecting children is an important aspect of collaboration between the courts.
“We view our children as our future citizens, these are our citizens, but these are our future voters, and these are our future leaders. And without them, the tribes would no longer exist.”
Maldonado said her court also works closely with the Emmet County Probate Court to provide a juvenile drug court program.