Inside the New Office of Conflict Counsel

In this episode of Asked and Answered, Alane and Kierstin welcome Lesa Engle, Director of SRPMIC’s new Office of Conflict Counsel. Lesa explains how the office provides representation when Legal Services or the Defense Advocate’s Office has a legal conflict, and how conflict cases will now be handled within the Community rather than contracted out. She also introduces the Tribal Court Advocate Pathway Program, a year‑long paid training program for enrolled SRPMIC members interested in becoming tribal court advocates. For those curious about practicing law in tribal court, the episode also references their earlier show, Changes to Legal Practice in Community Court (January 21, 2026). An information night for the Tribal Court Advocate Pathway Program will be held on August 24, 2026. Questions? Email [email protected]. ********************* Call for Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community Artists! O’odham Action News wants to publish your artwork.  Visual or Literary!  Deadline is November 20, 2026 General Guidelines Submit your Artwork