Court Director

Description

The Court Director is responsible for the leadership, administration, and operational effectiveness of the Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma Tribal Court Department, including personnel supervision, case and records management, budgets, grants, contracts, and regulatory compliance. The position ensures efficient court operations, accurate record keeping, coordination with judicial officers and legal service providers, and effective administration of the Healing to Wellness Program and other court-related programs. The Court Director is expected to demonstrate initiative, integrity, accountability, sound judgment, and effective leadership while promoting continuous improvement, supporting Tribal sovereignty, ensuring the fair administration of justice, and respecting judicial independence.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Ensure compliance with grant requirements and oversee fiscal and contractual obligations.
• Ability to manage multiple employees, programs, contracts, and administrative priorities simultaneously.
• Maintain accurate records and facilitate data collection, analysis, and evaluation for the Healing to Wellness Program.
• Coordinate communication between team members and partner agencies.
• Develop and implement court policies, procedures, and protocols.
• Schedule hearings, staff meetings, and court proceedings.
• Optimize judicial resources through court scheduling, case management, and docket coordination.
• Collaborate with judges, magistrates, and court staff to facilitate legal proceedings.
• Manage court records, filings, and documentation, ensuring legal adherence.
• Serve as a liaison between the court, legal counsel, law enforcement, and stakeholders.
• Provide guidance, training, and supervision to court staff.
• Foster relationships with external agencies and justice system partners.
• Monitor and evaluate court operations for efficiency and effectiveness.
• Handle administrative tasks including budget management and reporting.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Ability to work with Native American people in a diverse environment.
• Effective time management and ability to work under stress with an even temperament.
• Establish and maintain harmonious relationships with employees and the public.
• Knowledge of laws, regulations, and policies of Healing to Wellness Programs.
• Establishment and maintenance of filing and information systems.
• Proficient in performing complex support duties for the Healing to Wellness Program.
• Organizational and multitasking skills with the ability to prioritize tasks.
• Understanding and application of departmental rules, regulations, and policies.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Comprehensive knowledge of court administration principles and practices.
• Strong leadership and managerial skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in legal research and case management software.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and impartiality.
• Flexibility and adaptability to changing priorities and workload demands.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice, Social Work, or Public Administration preferred.
• Three years of professional experience in the legal or judicial system required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to work long hours and remain physically and mentally alert during court proceedings and administrative tasks.
• Capable of moving around the courthouse and other facilities as needed to oversee operations, meetings, and interactions with stakeholders.
• Clear vision to read and review legal documents, court records, and other pertinent materials accurately.
• Proficiency in using computer systems, including typing, navigating software, and managing electronic records.
• Clear and articulate speech to effectively communicate with judges, staff, attorneys, and stakeholders during meetings, hearings, and other interactions.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

• Successful completion of applicable tribal drug test.
• Successful completion of applicable tribal background check.
• Must pass background investigation for suitability of character identified in accordance with the Indian Child Protection and Family Violence Prevention Act.
• Possess and maintain a valid driver's license with no serious violations.