Staff:

Ethel J. Abeita, Government Affairs Director

Phone: (505) 552-5781

Fax: (505) 552-6941

Email: eabeita@lagunapueblo-nsn.gov

James Burson, In- House Attorney

Phone: (505) 552-7022

Fax: (505) 552-6941

Email: jburson@lagunapueblo-nsn.gov

Diane K. Kie, Legal Assistant

Phone: (505) 552-5776

Fax: (505) 552-6941

Email: dkkie@lagunapueblo-nsn.gov

Scope of Work

The mission of the Government Affairs Office (GAO) is to manage the legal and governmental affairs of the Pueblo of Laguna by provision of legal services to the Executive Staff, Council, Departmental and Program Managers and Administrative Staff.

Government Affairs Director

The Director is responsible for the development of a strategic plan for the Pueblo's legal operations.  She establishes and maintains effective communications with federal and state legislative bodies and public and private organizations to stay abreast of pending legislation and legal matters having implications for the Pueblo.  She attends Council meetings, staff officers meeting and board/committee meetings as necessary.  The breath of legal services cover the range of issues the Pueblo handles in day to day operations including, but not limited to, economic development, gaming, taxation, Pueblo lands, natural resources, environmental issues, cultural preservation, civil and criminal laws, health and welfare issues, employment law, administrative matters and any issue that may have a potential impact on the Pueblo, employees and/or operations.

In-House Attorney

Under the direct administration supervision of the Director, the In-House Attorney provides legal advice, counsel and representation to the Executive Staff, department and program directors, and village officials as requested.  The In-House Attorney represents Pueblo interests before the Pueblo Courts, administrative hearings, and relations with federal agencies as necessary.  The In-House Attorney assists the Director in addressing the range of legal issues the Pueblo handles in day to day operations on all issues that may have a potential impact on the Pueblo, employees and/or operations.  He assists the Director in carrying out the responsibilities of the Government Affairs Office.

Legal Assistant 

The Legal Assistant provides administrative and law office management support to the Government Affairs staff.  She works closely with other Executive Staff in carrying out the responsibilities of the Government Affairs Office.