In 2001 Cowichan Tribes entered into a Community Tripartite Agreement with the federal and provincial Solicitor General's offices to provide liaison services to the local RCMP and parole/probationary staff.  The result has been improved relations with the local RCMP detachment and a sub-office opened at the Band office, with three officers assigned 80% of the time to the Reserve.

A Justice Committee recommends policies and programs to Chief and Council, as well as overseeing implementation.  Day-to-day duties are managed by the Community Justice Coordinator.  Community Justice is funded by the Band's own-source revenue.

Cowichan Tribes has a Justice Coordinator whom is designated to review all required files and areas that require justice review.  The Justice Coordinator works closely with the RCMP, Conservation, and Dept. of Fisheries and Oceans.  Close working relationship with the Provincial Court House, Provincial Court Judge.

Services

Restorative Justice

The Justice Coordinator has designed a procedure working with the enforcement agencies to develop a Restorative Justice process.  The group involves two retired social workers; they review and implement a RJ process for the first time offenders.  Referrals are directed to the group from the Provincial Crown Council office for Alternative Measures.  The group works closely with the Corrections Canada on developing a strategy for community citizen's release from Institutions, and support services.  The Justice Coordinator works with the Ministry and assists in facilitating "Respectful Relations" and "Substance Abuse Management" programs.

Alternative Sentencing
Court judges confer with Cowichan Tribes about alternatives to standard sentencing options.

Parole Liaison
Develop community re-entry strategies for Cowichan members who are incarcerated in federal or provincial institutions, based on consultation with family members, the community, the parolee, and their parole officer.

By-Law Enforcement/Animal Control
Collects business licences, provides protection from stray dogs, notifies members about bear and cougar sitings.