Former U.S. Attorney for Arizona Joins Squire Sanders Native American Law Practice

September 14, 2009

PHOENIX, Sept. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Diane J. Humetewa, a nationally recognized expert in Native American law and former United States Attorney for the District of Arizona, has joined global law firm Squire, Sanders & Dempsey L.L.P.

Humetewa will work out of both the firm's Phoenix and Washington, D.C. offices, focusing on Native American law and client assignments involving water, natural resources, energy and real estate. She will bring additional depth to the firm's national trial practice and work closely with the firm's lobbying affiliate, Squire Sanders Public Advocacy, LLC, based in Washington, D.C.

"We are delighted and honored to have Diane join us," said Squire Sanders chair R. Thomas Stanton. "She has an unmatched profile and reputation in the Native American and local legal communities and will be an invaluable asset for both tribal governments and private clients in the areas of water, natural resources and energy, among others."

Arizona is home to 22 federally recognized tribes, which together occupy approximately 20 million acres of land and control a substantial portion of the state's water rights. The tribes are a significant driver of Arizona's economy, with Northern Arizona University estimating that they provide some $300 million in annual tourism revenue. In 2007, the 15 Arizona tribes with gaming operations reported gross revenues approaching $2 billion. Gaming revenues are shared with the state and fund a variety of education, health care and other programs that benefit Arizona residents.

"Diane is joining us at an opportune time, given the increasing Native American demand for legal and legislative services in the Southwest and in Washington, D.C.," said Robert L. Matia, Phoenix office managing partner. "Her extensive background in these areas complements our existing practices. We are very excited to welcome her to Squire Sanders."

Humetewa said the Squire Sanders one-firm philosophy played a key role in her decision.

"I was looking for a firm that offered a genuine team environment, an interest in building relationships and making investments for the long term, and a desire to work with tribal governments," she said. "Squire Sanders - which has served many clients for decades and some for a century - offers that. It was difficult to leave public service, but I am excited about the opportunities I see at Squire Sanders."

A member of the Hopi tribe, Humetewa was the first Native American woman to serve as a U.S. Attorney. She served in that role for Arizona from December 2007 until retiring Aug. 2, 2009. She represented the more than eight million Arizona residents and supervised more than 300 employees.

Humetewa carried civil and criminal dockets while with the U.S. Attorney's Office. During a public service career that began in 1986, Humetewa also served as counsel to the U.S. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, then chaired by Sen. John McCain, and counsel to the Deputy Attorney General. In those positions, she analyzed and drafted federal legislation in the areas of Native American gaming, welfare reform, archeological and cultural protection, and fiscal appropriations. She also conducted nationwide training for the Department of Justice (DOJ) on Indian Country jurisdictional and legal issues, and served as a member of the Native American Ad Hoc Advisory Group to the U.S. Sentencing Commission. She also served as the DOJ liaison to Arizona's 22 tribes.

Humetewa said many tribes are focusing on sustainable development. Some recent projects include proposed wind and solar energy projects, and a spring training home for the Arizona Diamondbacks.

"Tribal governments are interested in development, but with a long view, and not at the expense of their environment or culture," said Humetewa. "Squire Sanders understands the importance of balancing those potentially conflicting priorities, and the firm has deep experience in the areas of law that affect and interest tribal governments."

Humetewa received her J.D. in 1993 and her bachelor's degree in 1987, both from Arizona State University. She is a board member of the Morris K. Udall Foundation and has served as Advisory Council member for the Indian Legal Programs at Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law at Arizona State University. She also has served as a judge pro tem on the Hopi Tribal Appellate Court.

About Squire Sanders: Founded in 1890, Squire, Sanders & Dempsey L.L.P. has lawyers in 32 offices and 15 countries around the world. With one of the strongest integrated global platforms and a longstanding one-firm philosophy, Squire Sanders provides seamless legal counsel worldwide.

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