U of M Law School Grad Earns Amazing Tribal Court Practice Honor

It’s a rare professional achievement that many attorneys never complete.

MEET CROW TRIBE MEMBER ERIKA CAMPOSAN

Phil Stempin with UM News Service tells us that less than a year after graduating from the University of Montana’s Alexander Blewett III School of Law, Ericka Camposan earned admission to practice in every tribal court in Montana.

Camposan said the law school’s Indian law curriculum, faculty connections and professional network gave her the foundation to serve tribal communities immediately after graduation. Her admission to each tribal court also expands access to legal help in rural communities where few attorneys are available to practice.

A 2025 UM graduate from Billings and an enrolled member of the Crow Tribe, Camposan completed five tribal bar examinations and the additional admission requirements for each court. She recently passed the Fort Peck Tribal Court bar exam, finishing a process that required extensive travel, persistence and knowledge of several legal systems. She is now able to practice law in each of the seven tribal nations in Montana.

She completed the admissions while beginning her career as a tribal law staff attorney with the Montana Legal Services Association. 

BREAKING THROUGH THE STEREOTYPES

Erika was quoted in the press release as saying, “Doing it within a year is almost unheard of. It was a lot of work and a little bit of luck. I’m really glad to be done taking exams.

"The biggest thing is making connections and letting people know that Montana Legal Services exists. Court staff are more willing to help when they know you and see you in the community.”

Because Camposan can practice in both Montana state court and tribal courts, she is uniquely positioned to help clients determine which jurisdiction may best address their legal needs.

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LENGTHY JOB DESCRIPTION

Access to legal services can be limited in tribal communities, particularly in rural areas. Relatively few attorneys are admitted to practice in every tribal court.

Camposan’s work includes legal advice, limited representation and larger cases. She also travels across Montana to meet with clients, court employees and community members. And outreach is a major part of her job.

Camposan said her Montana roots and connections to tribal communities help clients feel more comfortable discussing difficult legal issues.

“It makes a difference when people know you and your family. They may be more willing to open up.”

Each court has its own rules, procedures and filing requirements. Her job requires her to understand each client’s circumstances and identify the best legal path.

Congratulations to another sensational Griz grad!