Matthew Marinelli joins the organization 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 (NEPA), the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA), and related federal statutes. 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. He brings significant litigation experience and institutional knowledge to advance the organization’s work in defense of Tribal sovereignty and natural resources.