Walter Viar

Walter Viar is a sole practitioner representing Native American tribes and tribal interests.  Mr. Viar earned his Juris Doctor from the University of San Diego School of Law in 2004 where he was a member of the Phi Delta Phi international legal fraternity, which is offered to students in the top 25% of their class.  Upon graduating from law school, Mr. Viar began his legal career with Sonosky, Chambers, Sachse, Endreson & Perry, LLP, a firm specializing exclusively in Native American law.  While at that firm, Mr. Viar handled a variety of Indian law issues including Indian gaming, water rights, federal recognition, and employment disputes. 

Mr. Viar used the experience he gained at that firm and applied it to his current practice where he works as a sole practitioner focusing on the various legal issues facing Indian tribes and their members.  Some of the matters he's recently handled include historical and archival research, sovereignty issues, CEQA/AB52, conservatorships, and state taxation as it applies to tribes and tribal land.  In addition, Mr. Viar has worked with and built relationships with lobbyists and state representatives in both the California State Senate and Assembly.

As a descendant of the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, Mr. Viar grew up understanding the ongoing issues faced by Native Americans throughout the state and has been fortunate to have maintained a close relationship with his tribe.  It is Mr. Viar's goal to support the rich culture and legacy of Native American tribes and he strives to provide quality and affordable legal services for tribes who face the inevitable challenges that arise for Native Americans throughout California.