The San Manuel Tribal Court was established under the San Manuel Judicial Code in 2003. After several years of development, the court opened on October 23, 2009. The court exercises general civil jurisdiction over tribal citizens and persons who have consented to tribal jurisdiction, either expressly or implicitly by entering the San Manuel Reservation or engaging in contractual relations with the tribe. The tribal court does not hear gaming-related disputes, which are handled in accordance with the tribal-state compact.
The San Manuel Tribal Court consists of the trial court and the appellate court. The trial court’s Chief Judge acts as the chief administrator of both the trial court and the appellate court.
The Chief Judge and appellate judges are appointed by the General Council, in consultation with the Judiciary Committee. Pro tempore judges (temporary judges) are appointed by the Business Committee, in consultation with the Judiciary Committee and the Chief Judge.
