Asked & Answered - your community podcast for all things legal

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Latest Episodes:

Quick Questions, Real Answers: Busting SRPMIC Legal Myths Sep 24, 2026

In this rapid‑fire edition of Asked and Answered, Kierstin and Alane take the hot seat while special guest Blessing McAnlis‑Vasquez tests them on common legal myths in SRPMIC. From paternity and child custody misconceptions to questions about juvenile prosecution, Miranda rights, consent for searches, and recording conversations, the hosts break down what’s true, what’s false, and why these myths persist. The conversation highlights how legal processes actually work in both civil and criminal contexts in the Community and encourages listeners to reach out to the appropriate SRPMIC legal office for real‑world advice.
Questions? Email askedandanswered@srpmic-nsn.gov.

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Salt River Summer Speaker Series
Last Tuesday of every month (June-Sept)
Salt River Council Chambers
Dinner: 5-6p
Presentation: 6-7p
45min presentation, 15 min Q&A

Open to the public

Jury Duty in SRPMIC: What to Expect Sep 04, 2026

In this episode of Asked and Answered, Kierstin and Alane break down how jury duty works specifically in the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. They explain what jurors do, how juries are selected, what “voir dire” means, and why unbiased jurors are essential for both criminal and civil trials. The hosts discuss how many people are typically summoned, how alternates work, when someone can be excused, what happens if you miss jury duty, and what to wear when appearing in court.

Questions? Email askedandanswered@srpmic-nsn.gov.

Standards of Courtesy and Decorum for the Courts of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community

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Salt River Summer Speaker Series
Last Tuesday of every month (June-Sept)
Salt River Council Chambers
Dinner: 5-6p
Presentation: 6-7p
45min presentation, 15 min Q&A

Open to the public

Inside the New Office of Conflict Counsel Aug 14, 2026

In this episode of Asked and Answered, Alane and Kierstin welcome Lesa Engle, Director of SRPMIC’s new Office of Conflict Counsel. Lesa explains how the office provides representation when Legal Services or the Defense Advocate’s Office has a legal conflict, and how conflict cases will now be handled within the Community rather than contracted out. She also introduces the Tribal Court Advocate Pathway Program, a year‑long paid training program for enrolled SRPMIC members interested in becoming tribal court advocates.

For those curious about practicing law in tribal court, the episode also references their earlier show, Changes to Legal Practice in Community Court (January 21, 2026). An information night for the Tribal Court Advocate Pathway Program will be held on August 24, 2026.

Questions? Email askedandanswered@srpmic-nsn.gov.

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Salt River Summer Speaker Series
Last Tuesday of every month (June-Sept)
Salt River Council Chambers
Dinner: 5-6p
Presentation: 6-7p
45min presentation, 15 min Q&A

Open to the public

Updating SRPMIC's Mental Health & Competency Laws Jul 23, 2026

In this episode of Asked and Answered, Alane Breland and Kierstin Anderson walk listeners through proposed updates to SRPMIC’s mental‑health and competency laws. They explain how the new Emergency Apprehension process would allow qualified mental‑health professionals—not just police—to initiate help during a crisis, along with the addition of assisted outpatient treatment and improved post‑hospital coordination to support safer transitions back into the community.

SRPMIC Office of the General Counsel Proposed Ordinances

Questions or comments on the proposed changes? Email askedandanswered@srpmic‑nsn.gov.

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Salt River Summer Speaker Series
Last Tuesday of every month (June-Sept)
Salt River Council Chambers
Dinner: 5-6p
Presentation: 6-7p
45min presentation, 15 min Q&A

Open to the public

Navigating Divorce Under SRPMIC’s Updated Code Jul 03, 2026

In this episode of Asked and Answered, Alane Breland and Kierstin Anderson break down the newly updated divorce laws in SRPMIC. They explain the major code changes, including the shift to no‑fault divorce, new rules around property division, preliminary injunctions, spousal maintenance calculations, and the addition of prenuptial and postnuptial agreements. They also discuss when to file in tribal court versus state court, how settlement conferences can ease conflict, and what to expect when working with Legal Services or the court.

The conversation aims to help community members understand their options, prepare for the process, and avoid common pitfalls.

Questions? Email askedandanswered@srpmic-nsn.gov.

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Salt River Summer Speaker Series
Last Tuesday of every month (June-Sept)
Salt River Council Chambers
Dinner: 5-6p
Presentation: 6-7p
45min presentation, 15 min Q&A

Open to the public

Travel Smart: What SRPMIC Families Should Do Before Vacation Jun 18, 2026

In this episode of Asked and Answered, Alane Breland and Kierstin Anderson share practical steps to prepare for a safe and stress‑free summer vacation. They discuss important documents to have in place before traveling, temporary care and control for children, and the option of updating your will. They also cover home‑safety tips recommended by SRPD (Salt River Police Department). Whether you're traveling with family or heading out on a kid‑free getaway, this episode offers helpful reminders to make sure you’re ready for the unexpected.

Questions or topic ideas? Email AskedAndAnswered@srpmic-nsn.gov.

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Salt River Summer Speaker Series
Last Tuesday of every month (June-Sept)
Salt River Council Chambers
Dinner: 5-6p
Presentation: 6-7p
45min presentation, 15 min Q&A

Open to the public

Safety and Healing in SRPMIC: A Conversation About Domestic Violence May 29, 2026

In this episode of Asked and Answered, hosts Alane Breland and Kierstin Anderson discuss domestic violence in Indigenous communities, exploring how historical trauma, colonization, and jurisdictional barriers shape the experiences of victims today. They explain the role of both the Prosecutor’s Office and Legal Services in supporting victims, how orders of protection work inside and outside SRPMIC, and why reporting can be so difficult.

Questions or topics for future episodes can be sent to AskedAndAnswered@srpmic-nsn.gov.

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Salt River Summer Speaker Series
Last Tuesday of every month (June-Sept)
Salt River Council Chambers
Dinner: 5-6p
Presentation: 6-7p
45min presentation, 15 min Q&A

Open to the public

2026 MMIP Awareness Month in SRPMIC May 02, 2026

This episode of Asked and Answered focuses on MMIP Awareness Month in SRPMIC as hosts Kierstin Anderson and Alane Breland discuss what MMIP means, why the Community observes it for an entire month, and the events taking place on May 5. They explain the factors that contribute to the MMIP crisis such as jurisdictional challenges, historical and generational trauma, gaps in resources, and the escalation of domestic violence and coercive control. The conversation also touches on the Turquoise Alert system, its limitations, and the importance of early reporting and accessible support. Community members are encouraged to attend the MMIP events and reach out for services whenever needed.

Questions or comments can be sent to AskedAndAnswered@srpmic-nsn.gov.

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Salt River Summer Speaker Series
Last Tuesday of every month (June-Sept)
Salt River Council Chambers
Dinner: 5-6p
Presentation: 6-7p
45min presentation, 15 min Q&A

Open to the public

You Are Invited to 2026 Law Day Apr 17, 2026

In this episode of Asked and Answered, Alane Breland and Kierstin Anderson team up to share everything you need to know about SRPMIC’s 2026 Law Day celebration. They break down the meaning of Law Day nationally and explain how this year’s Community theme, "Rooted in Tradition, Rising Together”, reflects the collaborative, service‑driven approach of Salt River’s legal departments.

Join us on May 1st for Law Day. This is a family friendly event. We hope to see you there!

Have questions or comments? Email us at AskedAndAnswered@srpmic-nsn.gov

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Salt River Summer Speaker Series
Last Tuesday of every month (June-Sept)
Salt River Council Chambers
Dinner: 5-6p
Presentation: 6-7p
45min presentation, 15 min Q&A

Open to the public

Conversation With Judge Deer - Part 2 Apr 03, 2026

In Part 2 of our conversation with Presiding Judge Deer, host Kierstin Anderson shifts from personal history to one of the most important, and often misunderstood, areas of law in SRPMIC: probate. Judge Deer explains what probate is, why it matters for families, and how the process works in tribal court.

Questions or comments? Email us at AskedAndAnswered@srpmic-nsn.gov

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Salt River Summer Speaker Series
Last Tuesday of every month (June-Sept)
Salt River Council Chambers
Dinner: 5-6p
Presentation: 6-7p
45min presentation, 15 min Q&A

Open to the public

Conversation With Judge Deer - Part I Mar 13, 2026

In this episode of Asked and Answered, host Kierstin Anderson sits down with Presiding Judge Deer for a conversation that goes beyond the bench. Judge Deer shares his path from teaching in Los Angeles to serving in the Salt River Courts, his return to the Community, and his journey to becoming Presiding Judge. He also offers practical guidance for anyone preparing for court, explains judicial responsibilities, and reflects on ethics, professionalism, and community interaction. The episode wraps with personal stories and lighter moments from his early days on the bench.

Questions or comments? Please email us at AskedAndAnswered@srpmic-nsn.gov

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Salt River Summer Speaker Series
Last Tuesday of every month (June-Sept)
Salt River Council Chambers
Dinner: 5-6p
Presentation: 6-7p
45min presentation, 15 min Q&A

Open to the public

Proposed Amendments to Truancy Ordinance Feb 20, 2026

Proposed changes to the truancy code are on the table. Don’t panic! In this episode of Asked & Answered, Kierstin and Alane will walk you through what could change, what won’t, and what families should know.

Helpful Links:

The Office of the General Counsel – Proposed Ordinances

Comment Period ends March 3, 2026

Have notes or questions? Please email us AskedandAnswered@srpmic-nsn.gov.

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Salt River Summer Speaker Series
Last Tuesday of every month (June-Sept)
Salt River Council Chambers
Dinner: 5-6p
Presentation: 6-7p
45min presentation, 15 min Q&A

Open to the public

Wills: What Are They and Why They Matter - Part II Feb 13, 2026

WILLS Part II: Kierstin sits down with Denise and Rebecca to discuss why wills are important. Learn more on this week's episode of Asked & Answered.

Have questions? Don't hesitate to send us an email to askedandanswered@srpmic-nsn.gov

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Salt River Summer Speaker Series
Last Tuesday of every month (June-Sept)
Salt River Council Chambers
Dinner: 5-6p
Presentation: 6-7p
45min presentation, 15 min Q&A

Open to the public

Changes to Legal Practice in Community Court Jan 21, 2026

Same Community Court. New rules of admission. Here’s what to know before you step up to the bar.

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Salt River Summer Speaker Series
Last Tuesday of every month (June-Sept)
Salt River Council Chambers
Dinner: 5-6p
Presentation: 6-7p
45min presentation, 15 min Q&A

Open to the public

Wills: What they are and why they matter Jan 21, 2026

WILLS: What are they? Why do they matter? Where do I start? Learn more on this week's episode of Asked & Answered.

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Salt River Summer Speaker Series
Last Tuesday of every month (June-Sept)
Salt River Council Chambers
Dinner: 5-6p
Presentation: 6-7p
45min presentation, 15 min Q&A

Open to the public

Hello, can you hear me? Apr 28, 2025

Alane and Kierstin discuss the upcoming SRPMIC Law Day on May 1st, 2025 and they discuss how they both ended up in the legal profession.

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Salt River Summer Speaker Series
Last Tuesday of every month (June-Sept)
Salt River Council Chambers
Dinner: 5-6p
Presentation: 6-7p
45min presentation, 15 min Q&A

Open to the public

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