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Van Aernam v. Nenno

Matter Name: Van Aernam v. Nenno
Client Name:Kenneth Van Aernam
Case Summary: Member of Seneca Nation of Indians brought an action in United States District Court against a New York State Court Judge to enjoin him from exercising jurisdiction in a matrimonial case which already was the subject of a default divorce decree entered in the Peacemakers Court of the Seneca Nation on Indians. After analyzing the various factors relevant to recognition of tribal court jurisdiction, the Court granted a permanent injunction against the New York State Courts and the defendant judge enjoining and restraining them from exercising any jurisdiction over the matrimonial case in state court and from conducting any contempt proceedings or enforcing any orders previously granted in state court.
Date of DecisionJune 9, 2006
Practice Area Indian Law