News

News

Chief justice signing proclamation
March 18, 2024
Nebraska Chief Justice Michael Heavican held a proclamation signing for Nebraska Trial Court Week on Monday morning, March 18; the first day of the 2024 week-long celebration. Nebraska Public Media live-streamed the proclamation signing for those unable to attend. The significance of celebrating the staff who work in trial courts was underscored during the ceremony. Trial court clerks attended to highlight the critical role of the court system in Nebraska communities, emphasizing the dedicated...Read more
March 15, 2024
Gene Cotter, Deputy Administrator for Operations, accepted the 2024 University of Nebraska School of Criminology and Criminal Justice (CCJ) Award for Outstanding Community Service on behalf of the Judicial Branch. The University acknowledged the growing partnership between the Branch and the University in creating internships and other opportunities that highlight and offer employment prospects to CCJ students in Lincoln and Omaha. The internships are open to all students enrolled in Nebraska's...Read more
Wendy Moore and Kelley Golden
March 14, 2024
Awarded to: Wendy Moore and Kelley Golden Assistant Judicial Administrators– District 4, Douglas County Court When Douglas County Courts Judicial Administrator stepped away earlier this year it was imperative that strong leadership continue in Nebraska’s largest court. Wendy and Kelley stepped in to ensure a seamless transition as the Court pursued a new administrator over the next several months. Truly a dynamic duo, Wendy managed the day-to-day operations of the Courts while Kelley handled...Read more
March 12, 2024
The Midwest Nebraska Problem-Solving Court, Adult Drug Court, located in Dawson County, recently held a graduation ceremony and celebration on March 7, 2024, at the Dawson County District Court in Lexington. This ceremony marks a significant milestone for program graduates Jose Zelaya and Oscar Corpeno Roque with the completion of an intensive program focused on comprehensive drug treatment, close supervision, and full accountability. The Honorable Judge Michael Piccolo presided over the...Read more
March 11, 2024
The Nebraska State Bar Foundation recently celebrated the outstanding contributions of three Nebraska judges during its annual Fellows Dinner in Omaha. District Court Judge Shelly Stratman and County Court Judge Sheryl Lohaus were recognized for their exceptional public service, while retired Judge John Colborn was honored with a prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. The event, held on March 9, 2024, served as a meaningful occasion to highlight the dedication and commitment of the three...Read more
March 7, 2024
The Nebraska Supreme Court was invited to hear oral arguments followed by a student question-and-answer period on March 7, 2024. During the argument session, the Court heard three cases in the law school courtroom, making the Court’s business accessible to law students on campus. The first question asked of the justices was whether the Court strategizes about questions to ask attorneys during oral arguments. Answers came from several justices, the first of which was Justice Stacy, who noted...Read more
March 7, 2024
Judge Riko Bishop, Nebraska Court of Appeals, organized a panel of law clerks to discuss the function and duties of appellate clerks to an audience of over 40 law students and instructors at the University of Nebraska College of Law. The panel followed morning arguments of the Nebraska Supreme Court at the college, where panel members discussed everything from office space to the variety of cases seen by the Court of Appeals and the Supreme Court. Hearing about the day-to-day responsibilities...Read more
March 6, 2024
Nebraska District Court Judge Terri S. Harder of Minden, Nebraska, was invited to sit with the Nebraska Supreme Court on March 6, 2024. Harder heard arguments in the case of S-23-0627, Raysean Barber v. State of Nebraska . In this case, the district court determined that Appellant’s claim fell within the battery exemption under the Political Subdivision State Tort Claim Act, and the district court granted the State’s motion to dismiss the case for lack of subject-matter jurisdiction. On its own...Read more
March 6, 2024
Stephanie R. Smith was sworn in as Clerk Magistrate of the Hall County Court in Grand Island on March 6, 2024. She will work in Grand Island for Judges Arthur Wetzel, Bryan McQuay, and Alfred Corey. As clerk, Smith is responsible for providing public service and managing the records, finances, and general operation of the courts. She will also work with the Administrative Office of the Courts and Probation to identify and implement improved efficiencies in the court office. Photo: Judge Art...Read more
Amanda Cox
February 29, 2024
Administrative Assistant for the Adult Probation Services Division, Amanda Cox, extended her support to the Attorney Services Division during a hectic time. She swiftly adapted to a new role, handling numerous tasks with ease. She efficiently assisted attorneys with Continuing Legal Education (CLE) inquiries and annual filings. She also managed CLE submissions from various sponsors and promptly resolved account issues. Her ability and adaptability were consistently remarked upon by coworkers...Read more

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