About Kaighn
Kaighn Smith Jr.: Experienced Advocate for Tribal Sovereignty in Native American Law
Kaighn Smith Jr., a dedicated advocate for tribal sovereignty, has been fighting on behalf of Tribal Nations and their enterprises across the country for over 30 years. His commitment to defending indigenous rights extends far beyond the courtroom, encompassing a broad spectrum of legal areas including jurisdiction disputes, gaming matters, labor and employment relations, land-in-trust cases, and environmental advocacy.
Practice Areas
- Tribal Sovereignty Advocacy
- Gaming Law & Regulation
- Labor and Employment in Indian Country
- Land-In-Trust Disputes
- Environmental Policy & Litigation
Education & Credentials
- University of Maine School of Law, State: Maine, United States - JD Degree (Graduated 2010)
- Bar Admissions:
- Maine, United States (Admitted 2013)
Firms
Drummond Woodsum - Current Practice (Portland, Maine, United States)
Affiliations
- Native American Rights Fund
- Associate Reporter for the Restatement of the Law of American Indians, American Law Institute (2012-2021)
- Distinguished Practitioner in Residence, Cornell Law School (2021)
Languages
English
Awards & Recognitions
- Recognized as a Top Native American Law Practitioner by Chambers USA (Band 1, United States) since 2021.
- Listed in Best Lawyers in America (since 2008).
Kaighn Smith Jr. has authored the leading treatise on labor and employment law for Indian Country, Labor and Employment Law in Indian Country (2022), published jointly with the Native American Rights Fund.
Recognized for his commitment to advocating for indigenous rights and his role in shaping legal standards for tribal sovereignty through his teaching at Cornell Law School and participation as an amicus curiae advocate before the Supreme Court, Kaighn Smith Jr. continues to be a significant voice in the complex landscape of Native American law.
