Native American Program of Legal Aid Services of Oregon – Portland, OR

Dedicated Legal Advocacy for Tribal Communities

The Native American Program of Legal Aid Services of Oregon (NAPOLS) is a specialized nonprofit law office committed to protecting the rights and sovereignty of Native American individuals and tribes. Operating under the umbrella of Legal Aid Services of Oregon (LASO), NAPOLS provides critical legal assistance to low-income tribal members who might otherwise struggle to navigate the complex intersection of state, federal, and tribal law. Since 1979, the program has been a cornerstone of justice in the Pacific Northwest, handling cases that touch on the very heart of indigenous identity and rights.

Protecting Indian Rights and Heritage

NAPOLS focuses on legal issues that are unique to Native American communities. The attorneys here possess deep expertise in Indian Law, a specialized field that governs the relationship between tribes and the U.S. government. Their services are often life-changing for their clients and include:

• Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA): Representing parents and tribes in state court proceedings to prevent the breakup of Indian families and ensure that Native children remain connected to their culture.
• Estate Planning and Indian Wills: Drafting wills and handling probate matters specifically for trust property, ensuring that land and assets are passed down according to federal regulations and tribal custom.
• Tribal Court Representation: defending the rights of individuals in tribal justice systems, which operate independently of state courts.
• Tribal Status and Enrollment: Assisting individuals with issues related to tribal membership, treaty rights, and access to benefits.

A Mission of Justice

As a non-profit, NAPOLS is driven by a mission to achieve justice for low-income communities. They provide free legal information, advice, and full representation to those who qualify. The staff is culturally competent and dedicated to empowering Native clients, often traveling to reservations and rural communities to ensure access to services. Located in the Sunnyside neighborhood of Portland, the office serves as a hub for advocacy, education, and legal defense for Oregon’s first peoples.

Contact NAPOLS today to find out if you qualify for free legal assistance.