WHAT IS THE SEMINOLE TRIBAL COURT?
The Seminole Tribal Court is a separate but equal branch of the Seminole Tribe of Florida government. The Court is a two tiered court with a trial and appellate court. The Trial Court has broad authority to hear all types of civil disputes. The Tribal Appellate Court has the authority to review the final decisions of the Trial Court. The decisions of the Appellate Court are final and cannot be overturned by Tribal Council.
HOW CAN AN ATTORNEY PRACTICE IN TRIBAL COURT?
HOW DO I FILE A CASE?
A case may be filed at the courthouse between the hours of 8:00am and 4:30pm, Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.
WHAT TYPE OF CASES CAN I FILE IN TRIBAL COURT
The Tribal Court has broad civil jurisdiction to hear cases that are brought before the Court. The Tribal Court does not have a criminal court at this time. Please be advised that the Court Clerks cannot provide legal advice. If you have a question as to whether or not your case is within the jurisdiction of the Seminole Courts, you may contact an attorney who can determine if your case can be filed with the Tribal Court.
IS THERE A FEE FOR SERVICES?
There are no filing fees at this time.
DO I NEED AN ATTORNEY?
No, you do not need an attorney to file a case in the Trial Court or the Appellate Court.
WHAT IF I DON’T AGREE WITH THE OUTCOME?
If a party disagrees with the ruling of the Trial Court, a Request for Appeal must be filed with the Appellate Court. The decision of the Appellate Court is final.
HOW CAN I SPEAK WITH THE JUDGE ON MY CASE?
Any communication with the Judges should be in written form. The Clerk's office and its staff are available Monday through Friday from 8am - 4:30pm for filing documents and inquiries. It is closed for lunch between the hour of 12 and 1pm. Litigants, counsel and media should always make any and all inquiries through the Clerk's Office.