Michael Godbe joins CILS as a Staff Attorney in the Bishop office. Michael will assist the tribes, Indian organizations, and native populations in Inyo, Mono, Tuolumne, Kern, and Alpine Counties. Michael will also provide legal services to low-income and senior individuals through two programs unique to CILS’ Bishop office: the Eastern Sierra Legal Assistance Project and the Inyo-Mono Senior Legal Program.

“I believe in CILS’ mission to advance and protect Indian rights and the sovereignty of tribes,” Godbe said. “I also have seen firsthand how legal aid can help low-income and older folks secure much-needed public benefits and stay in their homes.”

Michael joins CILS after three years in private practice in Wisconsin. “My prior legal practice was advocating on behalf of consumers facing abusive debt collection and employees facing discrimination in the workplace or wrongful termination. I am grateful to join the CILS community and feel fortunate to be able to use my legal training to advocate for the communities our office serves.”

Michael is excited to make his home in Owens Valley after regularly visiting the area for 20 years. He received his J.D. from Northeastern University School of Law and his B.A. in History from Vassar College.