"Many American Indian and non-Indian businesses in Michigan operate in tribal areas. It is important for these business owners to grasp the political, regulatory, legal, and financial outcomes of operating under the authority of tribal communities.

Two things must be understood when contracting:

• Tribal government structure. The tribal nation's organization affects how powers are distributed, who can act for the tribe and what, if any, approvals might be necessary.

Before entering into a business transaction, understand the structure of the government and cultural implications connected to it.

• Sovereign immunity. Tribes enjoy sovereign immunity from lawsuits similar to that of the United States. However, immunity can be waived."

Get the Story:
Erin Oliver: Know law in working with tribes (The Lansing State Journal 12/21)