Matthew Marinelli joins the Native American Rights Fund after nearly two decades at the U.S. Department of Justice, where he litigated and advised on complex Indian Law, environmental, and natural resources matters nationwide. His practice included the defense of Tribal land and water rights, federal trust responsibilities, and Tribal sovereignty, as well as representation of the United States in cases involving the National Environmental Policy Act, the National Historic Preservation Act, and Constitutional takings. He also led and supported government-to-government consultations and negotiations addressing culturally and legally sensitive issues.
Throughout his career, Matt has worked extensively with Tribal Nations and intergovernmental partners, developed and coordinated multi-party coalitions, and resolved high-stakes disputes through both litigation and negotiation. Prior to his service at the Department of Justice, he clerked for the Alaska Supreme Court, an experience that — along with his long-standing ties to Alaska and Tribal communities — has informed his practice and commitment to the protection of Tribal lands, resources, and sovereign rights.
Matt served as faculty at National Advocacy Center Trial Advocacy Program and for Indian law courses at the Department of Justice. He also served on the Environment Division’s Electronic Litigation Committee. He brings significant litigation experience and institutional knowledge to advance NARF’s work in defense of Tribal sovereignty and natural resources.
Find Matt on LinkedIn.
Education
- Harvard Law School, J.D.
- Best Brief: First Year Ames Moot Court
- Appleseed Center for Electoral Reform: President and Director of Political Projects
- Washington University, B.A. Political Science
- Phi Beta Kappa
Admissions to Practice
- Courts in the District of Columbia
