Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians

Tribal Court Judges

Interim Chief Judge Michael Long

Interim Chief Judge Michael Long is a dedicated legal professional who has served the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians (GTB) and its' community since the late 1990's, holding various vital positions such as Guardian Ad Litem Attorney, Associate Judge and most recently as Tribal Attorney within the General Counsel office. With a profound understanding of tribal, state, and federal laws related to Tribal Nations, he has been instrumental in upholding justice and advocating for Native American rights. Judge Long also brings a wealth of experience from his previous private practice where he delved into a wide range of legal domains. This diverse background equips him with a comprehensive perspective on the legal landscape, ensuring a well-rounded approach to complex cases. Judge Long's commitment to the law was cemented when he earned his Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from the University of Detroit in 1996. His education, coupled with his extensive legal career, has positioned him as an invaluable asset to the GTB Tribal Court, ensuring that justice is served with integrity and excellence.

Associate Judge: Vacant

The GTB Tribal Court serves as a court of general jurisdiction, handling a wide range of cases at the trial level. These include civil, criminal, juvenile, traffic, Indian Child Welfare (ICW), minor trust and all other cases. As a pivotal institution and separate branch of government for the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, the Tribal Court plays a vital role in delivering justice through the legal system for the Grand Traverse Band and its' community.

The GTB Tribal Court operates on weekdays, Monday through Friday, with standard hours of operation between 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed holidays/GTB closures. This dependable schedule ensures accessibility to the community it serves. Additionally, the Tribal Court actively manages multiple grants, each tailored to specific goals, objectives, activities and project timelines. For detailed information regarding these grants, interested parties are encouraged to contact the main court line, where the court staff can provide comprehensive details and answer any inquiries about these initiatives.