Jurisdiction Over an Indian Child

Jurisdiction Over an Indian Child Generally. A tribal court may assume jurisdiction over any Indian Child, whether the Indian Child lives on or off a reservation, at any time. Any Native American Tribe to which a child belongs has the right to accept or deny jurisdiction of the said child and to help with placement resources. Determination of heritage. MDCPS will determine whether or not a child has Native American heritage upon making contact with a family. Once MDCPS determines a child has Native American heritage, the appropriate Native American Tribe will be notified so that the Tribe may accept or deny jurisdiction of said child. Allegations occurring on Native American tribal lands. MDCPS has no jurisdiction to investigate allegations of abuse or neglect occurring on Native American tribal lands without tribal consent.