Conn. court upholds tribal authority

FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2002

The Connecticut Supreme Court on Thursday ruled that employees of the Mohegan Tribe cannot be sued in state court.

In a unanimous decision, the court said the employees cannot be sued in their official capacities in state courts. The tribe's judicial system is the appropriate venue for hearing a "slip and fall" lawsuit, the justices ruled.

People allegedly injured at its casino can pursue claims before the Mohegan Gaming Disputes Court. The court can award damages.

Get the Story:
Ruling boosts sovereignty of state's 2 tribes (The New London Day 4/5)
Connecticut Supreme Court sides with Mohegans on lawsuit (AP 4/4)

Get the Case:
Kizis v. Morse Diesel International, Inc (SC16499 April 4, 2002)

Relevant Links:
Mohegan Tribe - http://www.mohegan.nsn.us