The Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) was designed to resolve long-standing issues surrounding aboriginal land claims in Alaska, as well as to stimulate statewide economic development. Signed into law in 1971 by President Richard Nixon, the settlement transferred title to almost 44 million acres of land within Alaska to over 200 regional, village, and urban corporations.

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ANCSA aimed to provide Alaska Native communities with opportunities for self-determination and economic self-sufficiency while also seeking to balance the interests of various stakeholders in Alaska's vast and resource-rich landscape. As a result, ANCSA introduced unique legal structures specific to Alaska Natives that differ from traditional Western corporate and business law principles. Alaska Native Corporations serve the dual purpose of promoting economic development while preserving the cultural heritage and traditions of Alaska Natives. 

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Sorensen & Edwards offers counsel to Alaska Native Corporations to address legal challenges, disputes, and conflicts that may arise among shareholders, between corporations, or involving external parties regarding land use, resource development, or other corporate activities.