Cite as: 10 CNCA § 1

This title shall be liberally interpreted and construed to fulfill the following expressed purposes:

1. To preserve and retain the unity of the family whenever possible and to provide for the care, protection, and wholesome mental and physical development of children coming within the provisions of this Title;

2. To recognize that alcohol and substance abuse is a disease which is both preventable and treatable;

3. To achieve the purposes of this title in a family environment whenever possible, separating the child from the child's parents or extended family only when necessary for the child's welfare or in the interest of public safety;

4. To provide judicial and other procedures through which the provisions of this title are executed and enforced and in which the parties are assured a fair hearing and their civil and other legal rights recognized and enforced;

5. To protect the interest of Cherokee Nation in preserving and promoting the heritage, culture, tradition and values of Cherokee Nation for its children;

6. To protect the child from abuse and to encourage a healthy, comfortable and constructive family life and environment for the children of Cherokee Nation.