Tribe: Tulalip Tribes of Washington
The Tulalip Tribes, Elders Panel is a diversion program for defendants in the Tulalip Tribal Court. The Elders Panel draws on the wisdom and experience of its elders to help defendants learn what it means to be an honorable member of the community. The court refers low-level cases, such as criminal mischief, minor in possession of alcohol, or possession of marijuana. The prosecutor selects defendants who are Tulalip tribal members, as these defendants might be more likely to have a connection with Tulalip elders and roots in the community. The Tulalip Tribal Court refers young Tulalip members to the Elders Panel and defers prosecution until completion of the program. The court retains jurisdiction throughout the program and will only dismiss the charges if the person completes the program successfully. Program initially served youths between 18 and 21 years of age, later expanded to include Tulalip members up to age 40.
Read Full Text of TTC Title 2: Tribal Justice System - Criminal Procedures (Referenced in external documentation)