Press Release Archive

Resource Meetings

The resource meeting for June 11, 2019, at Chinle Judicial District has been postponed.

June 13, 2019: Save Our Students Resource Meeting, Chinle Judicial District Court. 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Public service announcement

The Judicial Branch of the Navajo Nation is closed Monday, May 27, 2019, in observance of Memorial Day, and on Friday, May 31, 2019, in observance of Navajo Nation Memorial Day.

Resource Meetings

May 16, 2019: Save Our Schools, Chinle Judicial District Court, 1 p.m.

A resource meeting for To'hajiilee is scheduled for Friday, May 24, 2019, at 10 a.m. at the To'hajiilee Court.

Aneth Judicial District resource meeting is scheduled for May 28, 2019, at the Shiprock BIA building Conference room. For more information, please call Bryan Parrish at (435) 651-3545.

Pro Se Classes

Tuba City Judicial District is holding pro se classes on April 16, 2019 and May 21, 2019.. Participants are asked to be at the court by 8 a.m. and to bring a money order of $5.25. Please verify the class is being held by calling (928) 283-3140. More information.

The DNA People's Legal Services is hosting a Pro Se Clinic at the Dzil Yijiin District Court on March 28, April 30, and May 30, 2019. The workshop will cover name change, correction of record, divorce, paternity, guardianship for minor, validation of marriage, probate. See flyer. Info: 928-725-3781.

Public service announcement

UPDATE May 7, 2019: Dzil Yijiin Judicial District Court can now be reached at (928) 725-3781. Thank you for your patience.

May 6, 2019: Dzil Yijiin Judicial District Court staff have moved into their new building in Pinon, Arizona, and have no telephone service at this time. The office technician can be reached via email at shelleylee@navajo-nsn.gov. Further announcements regarding phone service will be posted on the www.navajocourts.org website.

Public service announcement

The Judicial Branch of the Navajo Nation is closed Friday, May 10, 2019, in honor of Navajo Nation Police Officer Day. The branch will resume regular operating hours Monday, May 13, 2019.

Public service announcement

Chinle and Dzil Yijiin Judicial Districts will be closed May 2, 2019, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. for staff to attend mandatory annual sexual harassment training.

Pro Se Classes

Tuba City Judicial District is holding pro se class on April 16, 2019. Participants are asked to be at the court by 8 a.m. to bring a money order of $5.25. Please verify the class is being held by calling (928) 283-3140. More information.

Kayenta Judicial District Court hosts a free class for those that need assistance in representing themselves on civil legal issues in Navajo courts. The next class is Thursday, May 2, 2019. The classes start at 10 a.m. For more information, please call (928) 697-5541.

Resource Meetings

April 26, 2019: Criminal Justice Summit at Tuba City Judicial District, 9 a.m. Call (928) 283-3140 for more information.

Public service announcement

The Judicial Branch of the Navajo Nation is closed on April 19, 2019, and April 22, 2019. The branch will resume regular operating hours Tuesday, April 23, 2019. If you should have any questions, please contact the appropriate court or program.

FY2019 2nd Quarterly Report released

The Judicial Branch Second Quarterly Report for Fiscal Year 2019 has been released and is available under the Branch Reports tab on this page.

Pro Se Classes

Kayenta Judicial District Court hosts a free class for those that need assistance in representing themselves on civil legal issues in Navajo courts. The next class is Thursday, April 11, 2019. The classes start at 10 a.m. For more information, please call (928) 697-5541.

Kayenta Judicial District is taking its mobile court to Naatsis'aan Chapter House, Navajo Mountain, Utah, on April 12, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Available will be district/family court, probation & peacemaking services and a free legal pro se clinic. Information: 928-657-5541. See flyer.

Boy whose bike was stolen gifted new one

Judicial Hearing Officer Victor Clyde spoke on the theme of, "Community, Justice and Safety For All," at the Ramah Judicial District Justice Day on April 5, 2019, as a guest speaker. And following the event, he put his words into action by purchasing a brand new bike for a child whose bike was stolen the day before. The new bike was delivered to Tommy Manning IV on Friday evening in Window Rock. Read more.

Pro Se Classes

Chinle Judicial District Court has a pro se class April 3, 2019, at 9 a.m. For more information, please see flyer and to confirm class is being held, please call (928) 674-2070.

Public service announcement

Window Rock Judicial District Court is closed April 1, 2019, for staff to hold Justice Day. If you have any questions, please call (928) 871-6626.

Ramah Judicial District Court will be closed on Friday, March 29, 2019, for staff to attend CPR/First Aid training. Thank you for your understanding.

Resource Meetings

March 29, 2019: Aneth resource meeting at Teec Nos Pos Community School, 10 a.m.

Pro se class

Shiprock Judicial District will be holding pro se classes on March 29, 2019, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on the topic of divorce. For more information, please call (505) 368-1270.

Supreme Court no longer accepting passport applications

The Supreme Court is no longer accepting U.S. passport applications effective March 20, 2019. Thank you for your understanding.

Public, judges and justices invited to Justice Day

The public and retired judges and justices of the Navajo Nation Courts are invited to the Supreme Court and Window Rock Judicial District's Justice Day to be held April 1, 2019, at the Supreme Court east of Navajo Nation Veterans Memorial Park. The Judicial Branch is planning to take a photograph of all current and retired judges that attend the event as April 1 is the 60th anniversary of the Navajo Nation Courts. Also planned for the event is a proclamation signing proclaiming April 2019 the month to celebrate the creation of the Navajo courts. Read more.

Chief Justice presents priorities to Navajo Nation leadership

Chief Justice JoAnn Jayne attended the Navajo Nation Leadership Meeting with Navajo Nation Council Delegates and Vice President Myron Lizer on Friday, March 22, 2019, at Twin Arrows, Leupp, Arizona. At the leadership meeting, she heard the priorities of the Office of the President and Vice President and the four standing committees of the Navajo Nation Council. Chief Justice Jayne also presented the recommendations and priorities of the Judicial Branch. Read more.

Pro Se Classes

Tuba City Judicial District holds monthly pro se classes. The next one is Tuesday, March 19, 2019, at 9 a.m. Participants are asked to arrive no later than 8:30 a.m. For more information, please call (928) 283-3140.

Resource Meetings

March 12, 2019: Chinle Judicial District, 9 a.m.

March 21, 2019: Save Our Schools: Juvenile Healing to Wellness Courts, Chinle Judicial District Court. 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

2019 Justice Days

The Navajo Nation Courts are celebrating their 60th anniversary at this year's annual Justice Day events. Each year, the courts observe the establishment of the Navajo Nation's own judicial system with activities at celebrations known as Justice Day. See press release. The schedule for Justice Days is as follows:

Pro Se Classes

Kayenta Judicial District Court hosts a free class for those that need assistance in representing themselves on civil legal issues in Navajo courts. The next class is Friday, March 8, 2019, at 10 a.m. For more information, please call (928) 697-5541.

Shiprock Judicial District will be holding pro se classes on February 28, 2019, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. with the topic of probate. For more information, please call (505) 368-1270.

The To'hajiilee/Alamo Judicial District staff attorney will present to the public on the legal process used by the Courts of the Navajo Nation on March 4, 2019, at 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the To'hajiilee Court House, and on March 5, 2019 at 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Alamo Court House. For more information, contact Alisha R. Thompson at (505) 908-2817. See To'hajiilee flyer and Alamo flyer.

The DNA People's Legal Services is hosting a Pro Se Clinic at the Dzil Yijiin District Court on February 28. The workshop will cover name change, correction of record, divorce, paternity, guardianship for minor, validation of marriage, probate. See flyer. Info: 928-725-3781.

Aneth Judicial District has a pro se clinic on March 8, 2019, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Aneth Judicial District Court Room. For more information, please call (435) 651-3545. See flyer.

FY18 Annual Report released

The Fiscal Year 2018 Annual Report has been released as of March 1, 2019, and is available under the Branch Reports tab at the top of this webpage.

Resource Meeting

February 27, 2019: Aneth Judicial District, at 9:00am in the Utah Navajo Health System second floor conference room

Public service announcement

The Dzil Yijiin Judicial District Court is closed February 26, 2019 due to the special school board election happening. The court is located within the Pinon chapter house where the election is taking place and court staff cannot be in the chapter house during that time.

Pro Se Classes
Aneth Judicial District will hold a pro se clinic for self-represented litigants on February 22, 2019, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., at the District Court. See flyer.

Tuba City Judicial District holds monthly pro se classes. The next one is Tuesday, February 19, 2019, at 9 a.m. Participants are asked to arrive no later than 8:30 a.m. For more information, please call (928) 283-3140.

Resource Meetings

February 21, 2019: Save Our Schools: Juvenile Healing to Wellness Courts resource meeting at Chinle Judicial District Court. 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

February 22, 2019: Crownpoint Judicial District

Navajo Nation Judicial Branch closed February 22, 2019

The Navajo Nation Judicial Branch will be closed Friday, February 22, 2019, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. due to inclement weather. Judicial Branch employees will be granted 8 hours administrative leave.

Navajo Nation Judicial Branch closed February 21, 2019

Chief Justice JoAnn Jayne issued the following statement: The Navajo Nation Judicial Branch employees are granted 8 hours administrative leave on Thursday February 21, 2019, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. due to inclement weather. The branch will assess the weather Thursday to determine whether it warrants an additional 8 hours of administrative leave for Friday, February 22, 2019. As always, the safety of the Judicial Branch employees and their families are of utmost importance at this time. The branch is also concerned about the safety of our Diné people.

Two-hour delay for Judicial Branch

The Judicial Branch of the Navajo Nation will observe a 2-hour delay the morning of Tuesday, February 19, 2019, due to inclement weather.

Public service announcement

Window Rock Judicial District Court domestic violence hearings scheduled on February 22, 2019, will be conducted at the Law and Order Committee Conference Room beginning at 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on that date. For more information, please call (928) 871-6626.

Judicial Branch closure

The Judicial Branch of the Navajo Nation is closed on Monday, February 18, 2019, in observance of President's Day. If you should have any questions, please contact the appropriate court or program.

Resource Meetings

February 11, 2019: Naasgo Hozho Whindzin resource meeting, Alamo Court, Alamo, N.M. Information: 575-854-2668 or reginaroanhorse@navajo-nsn.gov

Public service announcement

Aneth Judicial District will be closed Friday, February 1, 2019. Services will resume the next business day on February 4, 2019.

Chief Justice addresses Council at winter session

JoAnn B. Jayne, Chief Justice of the Navajo Nation, introduced herself to the 24th Navajo Nation Council during her quarterly report on January 28, 2019. Chief Justice Jayne said that the Judicial Branch is working toward the vision of resolving cases as soon as the courts can. Read press release.

Resource Meetings

January 29, 2019: Aneth Judicial District, Whitehorse High School hogan, Montezuma Creek, Utah, at 10 a.m.

January 24, 2019: Crownpoint Judicial District

January 24, 2019: Save Our Students: Juvenile Healing to Wellness Court resource meeting, Chinle Judicial District, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Pro Se Classes

Aneth Judicial District has a pro se class scheduled for January 18, 2019 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the Aneth Judicial District courtroom.

Public service announcement

The Judicial Branch of the Navajo Nation will be closed January 21, 2019, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Quarterly Judicial Branch report released

The Fiscal Year 2019 First Quarterly Report is available on the Branch Reports page on this website. Click on the "Branch Reports" tab on the banner.

Public service announcement

The Supreme Court, Kayenta Judicial District Court and Chinle Judicial District Court will be closed on January 15, 2019. Window Rock Judicial District will be closed January 15, 2019, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Crownpoint, Dilkon, Ramah, To'hajiilee/Alamo and Tuba City Judicial District Courts will be open on January 15, 2019; however, there will be no court hearings taking place at those courts.

All other judicial district courts and programs of the Navajo Nation Judicial Branch are open and court hearings will be conducted as scheduled, unless parties are otherwise officially notified.

If you should have any questions, please contact the appropriate court or program.

Alamo and To'hajiilee Court closures

Alamo Court is closed January 2-3, 2019, due to inclement weather conditions. To'hajiilee Court is closed January 2, 2019, and will re-open January 3, 2019, at 10 a.m.

Judicial Branch holiday closure

The Judicial Branch of the Navajo Nation is closed December 31, 2018, and January 1, 2019. The branch will reopen January 2, 2019.

The Judicial Branch of the Navajo Nation will be closed December 24-26, 2018. The branch will reopen December 27, 2018. The Judicial Branch wishes all a happy and safe holiday season.

Public service announcement

Ramah Judicial District will be closed December 21, 2018, from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Dilkon Judicial District Court is closed 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, December 21, 2018.

The Administrative Office of the Courts, Supreme Court and the central offices of Peacemaking Program and Probation & Parole Services administration will be closed December 21, 2018, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Window Rock Judicial District will have limited services on December 21, 2018.(505) 775-3218.

To'hajiilee-Alamo Judicial District will be closed Friday, December 21, 2018.

Aneth Judicial District is closed 12 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Friday, December 21, 2018.

Pro Se Classes

Dilkon Judicial District has pro se clinics during the last two days of the month. Call ahead to confirm that the class is being held at (928) 657-8140. Schedule is: Divorce –October 30, 2018, November 29, 2018, December 27, 2018; Name Change, Correction of Record, Paternity, Guardianship, Validation of Marriage - October 30, 2018, November 29, 2018, December 27, 2018; Probate –October 31, 2018, November 30, 2018, December 28, 2018.

Aneth Judicial District has a pro se clinic on December 14, 2018, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. See flyer.

Tuba City Judicial District is holding pro se clinics on November 27, 2018, and December 18, 2018. Participants should be at court at 8 a.m. For more information, see the flyer.

Resource Meetings

December 14, 2018: Dilkon Judicial District. Please call (928) 657-8140 for more information.

December 14, 2018: Tuba City Judicial District Criminal Justice Summit from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m

December 20, 2018: Ramah Judicial District

Public service announcement

Chinle Judicial District is closed December 14, 2018, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Grants administrator awarded Community Leader of Distinction

Raquel Chee, the Judicial Branch's grants administrator, was presented a Community Leader of Distinction award on December 4, 2018, during the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention's 2018 Tribal Youth Conference for her work in securing grant funding for the Navajo Nation Judicial Branch. Read the press release.

Screening and recommendation of probationary judges delegated to Judicial Conduct Commission

The Judicial Conduct Commission has been delegated the authority to screen judge and justice applicants and recommend probationary appointment of judges and justices of the Navajo Nation. The Law and Order Committee of the Navajo Nation Council approved legislation sponsored by Delegate Otto Tso to amend the Commission's plan of operation and to delegate the Committee's authority. See press release.

Navajo Nation Probation & Parole Services Awarded 2018 Second Chance Act Grant

Navajo Nation Probation and Parole Services was awarded a $200,000 federal grant to improve employment outcomes for people returning to their communities from prison or jail. The award is a part of the 2018 Second Chance Act grant program funded and administered by the U.S. Department of Justice's Office of Justice Programs. Read more.

Pro Se Classes

At Dilkon Judicial District, DNA Legal Services provides Domestic Abuse Protection Services. Services include assistance with petition/forms and legal advice for representation in court on October 22, 2018; November 5, 2018; and November 18, 2018. This service is provided 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., weather permitting, on the dates indicated. For more information: call Barbara Willeto at (928) 871-4151.

Kayenta Judicial District is holding free pro se classes on Wednesday, September 5, 2019 at 10 a.m.; Friday, October 19, 2018, at 10 a.m.; Friday, November 2, 2018, at 10 a.m.; and Wednesday, December 5, 2018, at 10 a.m. Download flyer.

Aneth Judicial District Court is holding a pro se clinic on November 16, 2018, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. See flyer.

Tuba City Judicial District is holding pro se clinics on November 27, 2018, and December 18, 2018. Participants should be at court at 8 a.m. For more information, see the flyer.

Resource Meetings

November 16, 2018: Dilkon Judicial District. Please call (928) 657-8140 for more information.

December 11, 2018: Chinle Judicial District at 9 a.m.

Peacemaking Program offices closed

Peacemaking Program staff have a meeting and training scheduled for November 27-28, 2018, and will be out of the office those days. Peacemaking Program offices will re-open Thursday, November 29, 2018.

Holiday closure

The Judicial Branch of the Navajo Nation will be closed November 21-23, 2018, in observance of Thanksgiving and Navajo Nation Family Day. The branch will reopen November 26, 2018.

Judicial Branch closed for Veterans Day

The Judicial Branch of the Navajo Nation will be closed on Monday, November 12, 2018, in observance of Veterans Day. The branch will resume regular operating hours Tuesday, November 13, 2018.

Dzil Yijiin Judicial District Court closed Nov. 6

Dzil Yijiin Judicial District Court will be closed on Tuesday, November 6, 2018. The court is closed because it is located within the Pinon Chapter House and the chapter house is a polling place for the 2018 Navajo Nation General Election. Any questions, please call (928) 725-3781.

Supreme Court oral arguments to be heard Nov. 2

The Supreme Court of the Navajo Nation has scheduled oral arguments for two cases on November 2, 2018. The Court will be hearing oral argument at 10 a.m. in Irwin Jones v. Navajo Nation Division of Economic Development, No. SC-CV-18-13, and at 1 p.m. for Geoffrey Bia v. Navajo Nation Insurance Services Department Risk Management Program, No. SC-CV-54-16.

Limited services for Peacemaking Program

The Peacemaking Program offices will be providing limited services the week of October 29, 2018. Traditional Program Specialists and central administration of the Peacemaking Program are out of their offices for training October 29, 2018, through November 2, 2018, and will return to their offices on November 5, 2018. The program's Office Technicians will be in the district offices.

Quarterly report released

The Fourth Quarterly Report of Fiscal Year 2018 for the Judicial Branch has been released and can be found on the Reports page of this website.

Resource Meetings

October 11, 2018: Dzil Yijiin Judicial District. Please call (928) 725-3781 for more information.

October 16, 2018: Chinle Judicial District at 9:00 a.m. Please call (928) 674-2070 for more information.

October 26, 2018: Tuba City Judicial District Criminal Justice Summit from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Alamo-To'hajiilee Judicial District Court closure

The Alamo-To'hajiilee Judicial District Courts will be closed Friday, October 5, 2018, for employees to attend mandatory traning.

Pro Se Classes

The Aneth District Court will hold a Pro Se Clinic every other month to educate its customers on how to file a Pro Se action. Next one is October 5, 2018 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Aneth Judicial District Court. See flyer.

Dilkon Judicial District Court closure

The Dilkon Judicial District Court will be closed Monday, October 1, 2018, for staff to attend mandatory training.

Pro Se Classes

Dzil Yijiin Judicial District has a pro se class on September 25, 2018. Please call (928) 725-3781 for more information

Resource Meetings

September 27, 2018: Crownpoint Judicial District at 9:00 a.m. Please call (505) 786-2072 for more information.

Shiprock Judicial District closure

The Shiprock Judicial District Court will be closed on September 27, 2018. For more information, please call (505) 368-1270.

Resource Meetings

September 21, 2018: To'hajiilee resource meeting. 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the To'hajiilee Court.

Window Rock Court, Supreme Court and AOC closure

The Window Rock Judicial District Court, Supreme Court and Administrative Office of the Courts are closed as of 1:30 p.m. on September 14, 2018. Window Rock Judicial District Court cases scheduled for the afternoon of September 14, 2018 will be continued.

Judicial Branch closed for Labor Day

The Judicial Branch of the Navajo Nation will be closed on Labor Day, Monday, September 3, 2018.

Window Rock Judicial District closed Aug. 31

The Window Rock Judicial District will be closed Friday, August 31, 2018. Any questions, please call (928) 871-6626.

Pro Se Class

Aneth Judicial District staff attorney and traditional program specialist are presenting on pro se probate and quiet title actions in Navajo courts to grazing permittees at Toadlena Chapter on August 22, 2018, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Judicial Branch closed for Navajo Nation Code Talkers Day

The Judicial Branch of the Navajo Nation will be closed on Tuesday, August 14, 2018, in recognition of Navajo Nation Code Talkers Day. The branch will resume regular operating hours on Wednesday, August 15, 2018. See press release.

Pro Se Class

Aneth Judicial District will be holding its pro se clinic on August 10, 2018, at 2 p.m. See flyer for more information.

Supreme Court orders Navajo Nation Labor Commission to hear and adjudicate cases

In an opinion issued June 29, 2018, the Navajo Nation Supreme Court granted a writ of mandamus that recognized previously seated members of the Navajo Nation Labor Commission (Labor Commission) must serve until a successor is appointed and ordered the previously appointed and newly appointed members to "hear and adjudicate cases without further delay." See press release.

Closures for mandatory training

Ramah Judicial District will be closed Friday, August 3, 2018, for staff to attend mandatory training.

Aneth Judicial District will have limited service on Tuesday, July 31, 2018. The Aneth Judicial District will be closed Wednesday, August 1, 2018, due to mandatory training. Please call (435) 651-3545 for information.

Pro Se Class

Kayenta Judicial District will hold a pro se class on August 1, 2018, at 10 a.m. Please call (928) 697-5549 for more information.

Felix confirmed to Commission on Navajo Government Development

July 20, 2018: Rachel R. Felix was confirmed for a two-year appointment to the Commission on Navajo Government Development as the Judicial Branch representative on Thursday, July 19, 2018. The legislation to confirm Felix was approved by the Council with a unanimous vote of 16-0. Felix was appointed by the Honorable Chief Justice JoAnn Jayne. See press release.

Online payments now accepted for three more judicial district courts

July 19, 2018: People needing to pay for civil traffic fines from the Crownpoint, Dilkon and Tuba City Judicial Districts may now pay online through the link on this page after creating an account. Scroll down to "Links" and click on the "Pay Online" icon. Credit card payment is currently only being accepted online at this time.

AOC and Supreme Court closure

The Administrative Office of the Courts and the Supreme Court will be providing limited services on Monday, July 23, 2018, and Tuesday, July 24, 2018. The Peacemaking Program administration will be closed Monday, July 23, 2018, and Tuesday, July 24, 2018. The administrative services officers from the AOC and Supreme Court will be in the offices to accept telephone calls and take messages. The limited services and office closures are due to staff attending mandatory training.

Chief Justice delivers report to Navajo Nation Council

Chief Justice JoAnn Jayne delivered her quarterly report to the Navajo Nation Council during its summer session on Monday, July 16, 2018. In the report, she noted that one of the mandates of the Judicial Branch is to educate the people. Read the press release.

Quarterly report for Judicial Branch released

The Third Quarterly Report for Fiscal Year 2018 of the Judicial Branch of the Navajo Nation is now available through this link.

Window Rock District Court temporarily re-locating services

July 27, 2018: The Window Rock Judicial District Court is providing services at its temporary location at the Administrative Office of the Courts conference room until further notice. Please call (928) 871-6626 for more information.

Window Rock Office of Probation and Parole Services is currently working out of the Peacemaking Program office in Window Rock until further notice due to the facility issues at the Window Rock Judicial District Court. The WR OPPS may be reached at (928) 871-6625.

July 13, 2018: The Window Rock Judicial District Court is now temporarily located in the Administrative Office of the Court conference room and will be providing limited services at this location, including acceptance of filings, until further notice. The AOC is located east of the Navajo Nation Veterans Memorial Park in Window Rock, Arizona.

July 12, 2018: The phone line for the Window Rock District Court is (928) 871-6626. All hearings scheduled for this week will be rescheduled to a later date. The Court will notify parties through their mailing addresses of new hearing dates.

July 11, 2018: The Window Rock Judicial District Court is closed July 11, 2018, due to issues with its facility. Court hearings will be continued and reset to another date. The Court will re-open July 12, 2018, at 8 a.m. at the former Supreme Court office at the Butler building next to Navajo Nation Vital Records Office until further notice. The Judicial District Court will be providing limited service to the public such as accepting filings, answering questions and issuing temporary protection orders at the temporary site. For now, phone calls are being taken at the Window Rock Peacemaking Program office at (928) 871-7008.

Public service announcement

The Peacemaking Program administrative office and Window Rock office are without Internet on July 11, 2018. It is currently unknown when Internet services will resume for those offices. The program may be contacted at (928) 871-6388 or (928) 871-7008. Thank you for your patience.

The Window Rock Judicial District will be closed beginning at 4 p.m. on July 9, 2018, through 5 p.m. on July 10, 2018, due to facility issues.

The Judicial Branch of the Navajo Nation will be closed Tuesday, July 3, 2018, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

The Shiprock Judicial District is closed July 2, 2018, due to issues with the facility. Telephone calls for Shiprock Judicial District are referred to the Office of Probation and Parole Services at (505) 368-1278.

The Judicial Branch of the Navajo Nation will be closed Wednesday, July 4, 2018. The branch will resume regular operating hours Thursday, July 5, 2018.

The Dilkon Judicial District Court will be closed June 28, 2018, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Judicial Branch updating strategic plan

The Judicial Branch of the Navajo Nation has begun work to update its strategic plan to best serve the public and the Navajo Nation.The strategic planning work session enabled the branch to reflect on its history, set long term goals and priorities, identify obstacles and strategic actions, and come to a consensus on the components of a vision for the branch. The three components identified as central to the long term vision of the Judicial Branch include judicial independence, confidence in our traditional values and identity, and public trust and accountability. Read the press release.

Public service announcement

The Judicial Branch of the Navajo Nation will be closed Wednesday, July 4, 2018. The branch will resume regular operating hours Thursday, July 5, 2018.

The Supreme Court of the Navajo Nation will be closed June 4-5, 2018, and will re-open on Jue 6, 2018.

The location of oral argument for Jim vs. Navajo Nation Division of Public Safety, No. SC-CV-70-17, has changed to the Navajo Nation Supreme Court hearing room. The Supreme Court is located east of the Navajo Nation Veterans Memorial Park, Window Rock, Navajo Nation (Arizona).

Credit card and online payments now accepted at three more judicial districts

Three more Navajo Nation courts have now implemented ePayment for the public to pay for civil traffic fines within their judicial districts. Aneth, Chinle and Shiprock Judicial Districts are now online with ePayments.

The ePayment implementation allows the public to pay for civil traffic fines by credit card on a secure website and to view their cases after creating an account on JusticeWeb. These judicial districts are also able to accept credit card payments at the counter or over the phone. Without this new system in place, paying for fines requires payment only by money order, which can be an inconvenience for many. Payment with money order is still accepted at all judicial districts.

The link to request an account to make payments is available on the www.navajocourts.org website under "JusticeWeb." Users will be able to search for payments owed using their name and citation number. There is a 5 percent processing fee to make payment by credit card. See press release.

Public service announcements

The Judicial Branch of the Navajo Nation will be closed Monday, May 28, 2018, in recognition of Memorial Day. The branch will resume regular operating hours Tuesday, May 29, 2018.

The Judicial Branch will be closed Friday, June 1, 2018, in recognition of Navajo Nation Memorial Day. The branch will resume regular operating hours Monday, June 4, 2018.

Supreme Court schedules oral arguments in two cases

The Supreme Court of the Navajo Nation has scheduled oral arguments for May 23, 2018, at 10 a.m. in the Law and Order Committee Conference Room in Window Rock, Ariz., in Bahe v. Navajo Nation Labor Commission and concerning Navajo Engineering and Construction Authority, No. SC-CV-15-18. The Court has also scheduled Jim vs. Navajo Nation Division of Public Safety, No. SC-CV-70-17, for oral argument on May 29, 2018, at the Navajo Nation Labor Commission hearing room at 10 a.m. See press release.

Public service announcement

The courts, offices and programs of the Judicial Branch of the Navajo Nation will be closed Friday, May 11, 2018, in observance of Navajo Nation Police Officer Day.

The Alamo Court of the Navajo Nation will be closed Friday, May 4, 2018, for court staff to assist with the To'hajiilee Court Justice Day. The Alamo Court staff may be reached at the To'hajiilee Court that day at (505) 908-2817 or 2818.

The Tuba City Judicial District of the Navajo Nation will be closed Friday, May 4, 2018, from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. for staff development. For information, please contact the Tuba City Judicial District Court at (928) 283-3140.

Supreme Court and AOC to hold first Justice Day at new offices

Chief Justice JoAnn B. Jayne invites the public as the Supreme Court of the Navajo Nation and the Administrative Offices of the Courts hold the first Justice Day at their new offices on May 9. The Supreme Court's Justice Day is commemorating the Year of Naaltsoos Sani with the theme, "Diné be'iina' Náás Yilyéél dóó bee Hada'ííníilní," which translates to, "Perpetuate Diné Way of Life Through Resilience." Staff from the Judicial Branch's Peacemaking Program will be conducting educational presentations on the theme and on the Treaty of 1868. See more.

Public service announcement

April 25, 2018: The Shiprock Judicial District main phone line (505-368-1270) is not working. Please call the Shiprock Judicial District Family Court at (505) 368-1286 or the District Court at (505) 368-1280 or 1468 to reach the court.

The registration form for service providers to set up at the Supreme Court/Administrative Office of the Courts Justice Day on May 9, 2018, may be emailed to karenfrancis@navajo-nsn.gov.

Kayenta Judicial District is holding Amnesty Day and Mobile Court

The Kayenta Judicial District is holding Amnesty Day for individuals to address bench warrants on April 30, 2018. The Amnesty Day provides individuals with the opportunity to come in and resolve outstanding warrants at the judicial district without fear of being arrested. Navajo Nation Public Defender, the Office of the Prosecutor and Probation and Parole Services will be on-site to help resolve the outstanding warrants. See flyer.

In addition, the Kayenta Judicial District will be offering its mobile court services for easy access for users to Navajo court related information and processes on Friday, April 20, 2018, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Tsa'ah bii Kin Chapter House in Inscription House, Ariz. Mobile court services include new Navajo Nation court case filings, pending family and district court case inquiries, fine/fee payments, probation services, peacemaking services and free pro se legal clinic. See flyer. See press release.

Public service announcement

The Judicial Branch of the Navajo Nation will be closed Monday, April 23, 2018, in recognition of Navajo Nation Sovereignty Day. The branch will resume regular operating hours Tuesday, April 24, 2018. Sovereignty Day commemorates the landmark United States Supreme Court decision in Kerr McGee v. Navajo Tribe, which recognized the Navajo Nation's inherent right to impose taxes on non-Navajos without approval by the Secretary of the Interior. The case was decided on April 16, 1985.

Judicial Branch courts, programs and offices in Window Rock, Arizona, are closed Friday, April 13, 2018.

FY18 2nd Quarterly report released

The Judicial Branch of the Navajo Nation has released its Fiscal Year 2018 Second Quarterly Report. The report is available under the Branch Reports tab on this page.

Public service announcement

The Judicial Branch of the Navajo Nation will be closed Friday, March 30, 2018. The branch will resume regular operating hours Monday, April 2, 2018.

Kayenta's Mobile Court scheduled for Navajo Mountain

The Kayenta Judicial District is will be offering its mobile court services for easy access for users to Navajo court related information and processes on Friday, March 23, 2018, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Naatsis'áán Chapter House in Navajo Mountain, Utah. Mobile court services will include new Navajo Nation court case filings, pending family and district court case inquiries, fine/fee payments, probation services, peacemaking services and free pro se legal clinic. For more infromation, please call (928) 697-5541.

Upcoming Justice Days commemorate the creation of the Navajo court system

The public is invited as the Navajo Nation Judicial Branch observes Justice Day at its judicial districts throughout the months of April and May to commemorate the creation of the Navajo Nation's own court system on April 1, 1959. Not only is this year the 59th anniversary of the Navajo Nation's court system but it is also the 150th year since the signing of the Treaty of 1868, which returned the Navajo people to their sacred homeland and recognized a nation-to-nation sovereign relationship between the United States and the Navajo Nation. Many of the Justice Day activities will commemorate both anniversaries. See press release. The schedule for Justice Days is as follows:

Peacemaking highlighted in radio interview with San Juan School District (Utah)

March 13, 2018: Trevor Olsen, the San Juan (Utah) School District Comprehensive Services Director, speaks to KSJD, San Juan public radio, on the implementation of a grant to support Native students in the district. Peacemaking is used to address students' behavior problems with restorative methods instead of punitive measures. Stanley Nez, Traditional Program Specialist with the Peacemaking Program, has been working with the school district. Hear the interview at this link.

Proclamation recognizes March as Missing Persons Awareness Month

On March 12, 2018, the branch chiefs of the Navajo Nation government signed a Proclamation recognizing March 2018 as Navajo Nation Missing Persons Awareness Month. Click here to read the Proclamation.

Public service announcement

Dilkon Judicial District will be closed Thursday, March 1 , 2018, for staff training.

Window Rock Judicial District Court will be closed Tuesday, February 27, 2018, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., for in-service training.

The Judicial Branch of the Navajo Nation will be closed Monday, February 19, 2018, in observance of President's Day. The branch will resume regular operating hours Tuesday, February 20, 2018.

2018 proclaimed The Year of Naaltsoos Sání

The Navajo Nation Branch leaders signed a proclamation recognizing 2018 as, "The Year of Naaltsoos Sání," (The Treaty of 1868). Chief Justice JoAnn Jayne, President Russell Begaye, Vice President Jonathan Nez and Speaker LoRenzo Bates signed the proclamation at the Navajo Nation Museum January 9, 2018. The proclamation was initiated due to this year being the 150th year since the treaty was signed by Navajo leaders and Indian Peace Commissioners on behalf of the United States on June 1, 1868, at Fort Sumner, New Mexico. The signing of the treaty resulted in the Navajo people returning home to the lands between the Sacred Mountains and created a nation-to-nation relationship with the United States government. See press release and Proclamation.

Judicial Branch and NTU recognized with honorable mention for Best Practice

The Office of the Chief Justice and Navajo Technical University won an Honorable Mention for Best Practices during the Navajo Nation Public Safety Summit for implementing the Navajo Court Transcription Program. The awards for Best Practices were announced during the Navajo Nation Public Safety Summit, where participants gathered to discuss public safety issues and make goals and objectives for the coming year. See press release.

Public service announcement

Judicial Branch employees are authorized one hour administrative leave from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. on January 31, 2018, per Chief Justice JoAnn Jayne. The administrative leave is granted for employees to respect the sacred occurrence of the eclipse that will take place the morning of January 31, 2018.

Tuni confirmed as probationary district court judge

Rhonda Tuni was confirmed as a probationary district court judge by the Navajo Nation Council on January 25, 2018, with a vote of 20 in favor and none opposed. Chief Justice JoAnn Jayne gave Tuni the oath of office following approval of confirmation. See press release.

Jayne confirmed probationary Chief Justice

JoAnn Jayne was confirmed as probationary Chief Justice of the Navajo Nation by the Navajo Nation Council on January 24, 2018. Jayne took the oath of office delivered by Associate Justice Eleanor Shirley immediately following the vote on her confirmation. See press release.

Public comment sought for proposed criminal rules of procedure

The Navajo Nation Supreme Court has received a petition to amend parts of the Navajo Rules of Criminal Procedures. The Supreme Court has the authority to adopt, and thereby amend, rules of pleading, practice and procedure applicable to all proceedings in courts of the Navajo Nation. The Navajo Nation Code, at 7 N.N.C. § 601, requires consultation and public comment to adopt rules of procedure. Public comment and consultation on the proposed Rules are being accepted from January 24, 2018 through February 23, 2018, at 5 p.m. Please direct all input to Karen Francis, Government Relations Officer, at karenfrancis@navajo-nsn.gov by that date. See announcement and petition.

FY2018 1st Quarterly Report released

The quarterly report for Fiscal Year 2018 First Quarter is now available on the Branch Reports webpage.

Public service announcements

The Judicial Branch of the Navajo Nation will be closed Monday, January 15, 2018, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The branch will resume regular operating hours Tuesday, January 16, 2018.

As of January 9, 2018, the Information Technology, Fiscal Services and Human Resources offices of the Administrative Office of the Courts are located at the new modular AOC building east of the Navajo Nation Veterans Memorial Park.

Aneth Judicial District will have a Pro Se Clinic on January 19, 2018, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Aneth District Court and will have Pro Se Probate and Quite Title of grazing permits presentation at the Teec Nos Pos grazing committee meeting on January 29, 2018, at 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Oral arguments for Nacogdoches Oil & Gas, Inc., v. Shiprock District Court and Concerning Benally's Pumping Services, LLC, will be held January 9, 2018, at 10 a.m. at the Dine' College North Campus, 1228 Yucca St., Shiprock, Navajo Nation (New Mexico).

Supreme Court reverses OHA decision in Sherlock v. NEA

The Navajo Nation Supreme Court reversed a decision of the Office of Hearings and Appeals that allowed an individual elected to the Chilchinbeto Community School Board to remain in her elected position after the Navajo Election Administration sought to remove her due to two state misdemeanor convictions. The Court stated in its opinion that the voting public "must be able to rely on the statutory protections of our laws, as well as the truth of candidates' statements as to their qualifications." See press release.

2016-2017 Press Releases and Announcements