TRIBAL COURT
NATIVE VILLAGE OF GOODNEWS BAY
Ensuring justice with due process, integrity, accountability, and respect for human dignity, with and emphasis on non-punitive judgements and rehabilitation.
Tommy Ayojiak
Tribal Court Master Judge
MISSION & PHILOSOPHY
The Goodnews Bay Tribal Court serves as the judicial branch of the Native Village of Goodnews Bay, upholding justice through fairness, cultural integrity, and respect for human dignity. Our mission is to ensure that every case is guided by due process, accountability, and compassion-rooted in the values of our Yup’ik heritage.
We believe that true justice strengthens both the individual and the community. By integrating traditional wisdom with modern judicial practices, the Tribal Court promotes healing responsibility, and restoration over punishment. Each judgment honors our ancestors’ teachings and our people’s right to safety, respect, and self-determination.
“Our philosophy reflects the belief that justice is not only a process, but a path toward balance; one that restores harmony within families, reaffirms that authority of our Tribal Council, and preserves the dignity of every Tribal Member who stands before the Court.”
JUDICIAL CODE & AUTHORITY
The Tribal Court Judicial Code, adopted in September 2024 after extensive community meetings and a unanimous vote by the Traditional Village Council, established the legal framework for the independent judicial branch of the Native Village of Goodnews Bay.
The code defines court procedures, outlines jurisdiction, and formalizes the Tribe’s authority to administer justice according to the Constitution & Bylaws, code and traditional laws.
COURT LEADERSHIP, ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Master Judge Tommy Ayojiak
Presides over court proceedings, ensures due process, and leads the judicial branch.
Contact:
Tommy.a@nvgb.org
Judge Brian Barnes
Contact:
Barnesbrian06@gmail.com
Judge Elsie Barnes
Contact:
Gnurivrun@gmail.com
Judge Homer Galila
Contact:
info@nvgb.org
JUDICATION & CASE TYPE
The Tribal Court has jurisdiction over civil, criminal, and family matters that occur within the Traditional Village of Goodnews Bay or involve Tribal Members. Cases are heard according to Tribal laws, with respect for both individual rights and community well-being.
Common Case Types Include:
*Family and child welfare.
*Land and resource disputes.
*Community safety and ordinance enforcement.
*Substance abuse and recovery-related cases.
*Juvenile and restorative justice proceedings.
*Appeals of court decisions.
COURT PROCEDURES &
HOW TO FILE A CASE
Filing Process:
1. Obtain Forms: Pick up forms from the Tribal Court Office or download them below.
2.Complete & Submit: Fill out the forms accurately and return them to the Court Clerk.
3.Review & Scheduling: The Clerk will assign a case number and schedule hearings.
4.Notification: Parties are notified of their hearing date and any required materials.
5.Hearing & Resolution: Judges review the case and issue a decision guided by fairness, tradition, and due process.
RECOVERY & HEALING PROGRAMS
The Tribal Court Recovery Camp (healing to wellness court diversion program) provides and alternative to punitive sentencing by focusing on healing and accountability. Participants engage in counseling, cultural activities, and peer mentorship to address trauma and addiction.
Core Services Include:
*Trauma-informed individual and group counseling.
*Culturally grounded healing circles.
*Family engagement and mentorship.
*Housing, employment and education support.
This program reflects the Tribe's belief that justice should heal, not harm-helping individuals rebuild their lives while restoring balance within the community.
The Judicial Branch
Tribal Court Judicial Code: Adopted September 2024
- Developed after multiple community meetings.
- Approved by a unanimous vote of the Traditional Village Council.
- Provides the framework for an independent judicial branch for the Native Village of Goodnews Bay.
- Formalizes court procedures.
Tribal Court Administrator: Manages the administration of the tribal court system, ensuring proper scheduling, compliance, and support.
Master Judge: Chief judicial officer who presides over cases and leads the judicial branch.
Tribal Judges: Three or four judges serve with the Master Judge in a traditional circle court system that emphasizes due process, fairness, and rehabilitation over punitive measures.
Tribal Court Clerk: Maintains records, files, and organizes court cases.
2025 COURT CALENDAR
CASE | DATE & TIME | CODE | JUDGES |