Industry

Tribal and Native American Law

Trusted Counsel for Tribal Nations and Partners 

Sheppard’s Tribal and Native American Law team advises tribes, tribal enterprises, financial institutions and businesses on projects and disputes across the United States.  

With deep cultural knowledge and the resources of a full-service law firm, we deliver practical solutions that respect sovereignty while advancing economic and community goals.  

Comprehensive Support Across Native American Law

Our team represents tribes and non-tribal partners nationwide in matters spanning tribal governance, finance, gaming, economic development, land use, labor and employment, environmental regulation, tax and litigation.


We are particularly recognized for our leadership in tribal finance, where we have handled some of the largest casino credit facilities, as well as complex financings for healthcare, hospitality and renewable energy projects.

Clients value our ability to navigate the unique intersection of federal, tribal and state law, regulations and tribal sovereignty. Some of our attorneys have served as in-house counsel for tribal governments or at the U.S. Department of the Interior, giving us rare insight into both government processes and tribal perspectives. We also bring practical experience across industries, supporting projects such as renewable energy developments, sawmills, health clinics, hotels and resort complexes.

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Areas of Focus

Tribal Gaming
We represent tribes and financial institutions in casino and resort financing, development and regulation. Our team negotiates and enforces tribal-state compacts, advises on compliance under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act and structures credit facilities for some of the largest tribal gaming operations.
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Economic Development
Sheppard provides legal and strategic support to tribes pursuing diverse economic initiatives, including healthcare, manufacturing, commercial ventures and joint partnerships. We guide transactions, structure business entities, manage land acquisitions, ensure regulatory compliance and support cultural preservation, helping tribes build sustainable enterprises that advance community and financial priorities.
Real Estate
Our lawyers assist with trust land acquisitions, leasing, construction and mixed-use development projects on tribal lands. We pair real estate and land-use experience with deep knowledge of tribal and federal law, ensuring that agreements are enforceable while respecting sovereignty and jurisdictional boundaries.
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Energy Projects
We advise tribes and partners on renewable energy and infrastructure developments, including wind, solar and micro-grid projects. Our team structures financings, joint ventures and procurement agreements, working with federal incentive programs and local counsel to deliver projects that generate both economic value and long-term energy resilience.