BY JAMI CUSTER
Reporter

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Cherokee Nation Supreme Court Justice Kyle Haskins tendered his resignation to Principal Chief Bill John Baker this week to pursue other aspects in his life.

CN Courthouse administrator Lisa Fields said Haskins’ resignation is effective June 1.

Haskins said there was no particular reason for resigning and that he sees it as a retirement.

“It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve the Cherokee people. I am Cherokee by blood and Cherokee by heart. I am very proud,” Haskins said. “My mother asked that I always give back to my Cherokee people, and I am sad that she passed before seeing me sworn in as associate justice.”

Baker confirmed that the received Haskins’ resignation and accepted it.

“I understand his desire to move on to other pursuits after almost six years on the Supreme Court and wish him well in his future endeavors,” Baker said. “His service and commitment to our Nation, our laws and our sovereignty are appreciated.” 

Jim Gray, CN Communications and Government Relations executive director, said the administration has not found or appointed a successor.

Former Principal Chief Chad Smith appointed Haskins to the Supreme Court in 2006 and again in 2008. Haskins’ term is set to expire on Dec. 31, 2018.

Haskins is a graduate of Enid High School, Oklahoma State University and the University of Tulsa College of Law. He is also a former partner in the law firm of Crawford, Crowe, Bainbridge & Haskins.  

Haskins began serving as a juvenile court referee in 1997 and then as a state court special judge in 1999. Haskins has also served on the CN Election Commission and as an adjunct law professor at the University of Tulsa College of Law. 

jami-custer@cherokee.org

918-453-5560