Judge Alfred Corey of the County Court in Grand Island and Judge Derek Weimer of the District Court in Sidney were honored with the Nebraska Supreme Court’s highest awards in early October at the Court’s 2024 meeting in LaVista. Corey received the Improvement of Community Relations award, and Weimer was awarded the Improvement of the Judicial System award by Chief Justice Mike Heavican at the Court’s annual judicial awards luncheon. These awards recognize judiciary members for exceptional projects and accomplishments that go beyond their regular judicial duties.

Improvement of Community Relations

Corey has served on the 9th Judicial District County Court bench in Hall County since his appointment to the bench in 2017. He is actively involved in the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges, Nebraska’s Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative, and the Through the Eyes of the Child Initiative within his judicial district.

Under his leadership, Corey has fostered collaboration between various stakeholders, including frontline organizations, law enforcement, attorneys, mentors, probation officers, the Department of Health and Human Services, and schools, all working together to improve the juvenile justice system. As a result, Hall County has seen a significant reduction in juvenile petitions, law enforcement interactions, and probation intakes over the past year and a half.

He also played a pivotal role in expanding an opiate detox center in Hall County, which is slated to house a juvenile reception center aimed at keeping young offenders within the community.

Corey’s approachable leadership style and passion for his work inspire others to contribute to strengthening the judicial system and community relations. He is regarded as a mentor and leader, someone who fosters trust and encourages open, candid discussions to achieve the best outcomes for youth and families involved in the court system.

His ongoing dedication to serving the community has significantly increased trust and confidence in the courts of the 9th Judicial District.

Improvement of the Judicial System

Weimer began his judicial career in 2009 on the District Court bench in the 12th Judicial District. He was recognized for his innovative use of technology to improve court efficiencies. Weimer leads a team eager to explore new technological tools, learn new processes, and overcome challenges that come with technological advancements. He openly recognizes that technology is essential in addressing the challenges faced by the courts.

Weimer has championed the use of court computer applications including Docket, Sign Desk, Judge Portal, paperless court files, and electronic exhibits in District Court. To ensure successful implementation, he regularly meets with the district court clerks in the counties he serves, addressing their challenges and working collaboratively to develop solutions. These meetings foster teamwork, which in turn, creates consistency and uniformity for court users.

Weimer’s volunteerism also extends to his participation in various committees, notably the Bench-Media Committee, where he actively engages with news reporters to encourage their coverage of Nebraska’s court system.

Closing Remarks

Chief Justice Heavican concluded the awards ceremony saying, “On behalf of the Nebraska Judicial Branch and everyone here, I extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to Judge Corey and Judge Weimer. They exemplify outstanding service to the judiciary and are truly deserving of this recognition.”

Photo: Judge Alfred Corey, Grand Island, with his award for Improvement of Community Relations and Judge Derek Weimer, Sidney, with his award for the Improvement of the Judicial System following presentation by Chief Justice Mike Heavican, October 2024 ceremony.