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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: Matthew Lesky
Associate Judge Matthew Lesky has been practicing the field of indigenous law from the beginning of his legal career. He was one of the first two individuals to graduate from the ILPC certificate program at Michigan State College of Law in 2005. Judge Lesky began his legal career in the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians (“LTBB”) Legal Department as in-house counsel. Following his time as in-house counsel, he served two terms as the Tribal Prosecutor for LTBB. After serving as Tribal Prosecutor, he went into private practice focusing on family law, criminal defense, child abuse and neglect, and juvenile delinquency. His work as a prosecutor and as a private attorney has given him a broad base of experience and perspectives that he brings to the bench. Judge Lesky is grateful for the opportunity to serve the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians (GTB) and is hopeful that his experience benefits the GTB community.