A. Respect. The most essential rule is that each person shall have respect for one another.

B. Fairness. Only one (1) person shall speak at a time as directed by the Spokesperson or through the use of a basket or other culturally significant item.

C. Truthfulness. All participants must speak honestly and share information and answer questions from the Traditional Court that are true to the best of their knowledge.

D. Confidentiality. Personal matters shared in the conference shall stay in the conference and shall not be discussed outside of the Traditional Court, except that the Traditional Court elders are mandatory reporters and must report matters they are required to report by law.

E. Oath. All parties are required to take the following oath of confidentiality and fairness when the conference begins:

“I promise to not discuss what is said in the Traditional Court. I promise to participate in good faith so that this dispute will be resolved. I promise to show respect for the Traditional Court and the customs and traditions of our tribe.”

F. Participation. All participants are expected to participate in the conference in good faith. The Traditional Court cannot force participants to come to an agreement.

G. Recording. Traditional Court conferences shall not be recorded in order to encourage open discussion and participation.

H. Security. The safety of all participants will be the primary concern at any Traditional Court conference. Any Traditional Court elder or Court staff can terminate a conference if they feel there is a threat to anyone’s personal security. A bailiff or other security officer shall always be present at conferences and can remove anyone from the proceedings at the direction of the Traditional Court elders or Court staff or at their own direction for the preservation of the safety of those present. (Res. 2022-24 (Exh. A))