Samuel Kohn is a member of the Apsáalooke Nation (Crow Tribe of Montana) and has nearly 15 years of experience helping Indian Tribes and Alaska Natives to interpret and advance their unique legal status and political relationships with the United States. Sam represents Indian Tribes, Alaska Natives, and tribal consortia in matters of self-governance and self-determination, matters related to Indian lands and related compliance, and other engagement with the United States, all while bearing in mind the unique challenges that tribes should consider when trying to obtain the best possible long-term outcomes.
Sam served previously as Senior Counselor to the Assistant Secretary – Indian Affairs of the Department of the Interior. In this role, he supported the Assistant Secretary’s relationship with all Indian Tribes and Alaska Natives. Sam advised the Assistant Secretary on implementation of the Indian Self-Determination Education and Assistance Act, including Public Law 102-477, negotiation of collaborative stewardship agreements, protection of cultural and historic resources, Indian arts and crafts, fee-to-trust and right of way issues, Indian water right settlements, gaming matters, and roads and transportation matters.
In addition to his work in Indian law, Sam has managed nearly all stages of litigation. He has taken or defended depositions, briefed and argued motions, and won appeals, in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, D.C. Circuit, and California Court of Appeal.
Prior to joining the firm, Sam served as a law clerk in the United States District Court for the District of Montana and the Montana Supreme Court. Sam also worked at an international firm as a member of their Native American Law and Policy, Federal Regulatory and Compliance, and litigation practice groups. He also has worked as Assistant Regional Counsel in the Office of General Counsel in the United States Department of Health and Human Services. Sam also supported Senator Max Baucus (D-MT) as part of his staff on the United States Senate Committee on Finance.
Sam is a sought-after lawyer for tribes, tribal governments and businesses and individuals navigating complex and interconnected legal, political, and policy challenges.
