Separate juvenile judges in Omaha opened the doors of the Douglas County Justice Center on Saturday, November 23, to celebrate National Adoption Day with the community. Starting with a press conference, the celebration continued with adoption hearings in the juvenile courtrooms on the second and third floors.

Awarded to: Norma Argueta, Senior Secretary, District 3A

Dual court clerk Traci Loker, based in Stockville, works in a very old building with persistent maintenance issues. This past year, building challenges have only intensified. Despite dealing with bats, mold, leaks, lack of air conditioning, loss of running water, and continuous construction, Loker has remained dedicated to ensuring access to justice. Her commitment extends to commuting to other counties for court hearings when needed.

Traci, thank you for bringing humor and a positive attitude to the many trials and tribulations that go beyond your clerk duties.

Awarded to: Taileigh Sorensen, Problem-Solving Court Coordinator; AOCP, Problem-Solving Courts, Lincoln

Taileigh Sorensen has excelled as Nebraska's first Problem-Solving Court Coordinator for a family treatment court and the nation’s first child-welfare domestic violence coordinator. Her innovation, creativity, and dedication have established her as a trusted and invaluable team member. Her passion for learning, leadership, and collaboration is unmatched, making her a tremendous asset to the Problem-Solving Court and the families of Lancaster County.

In observance of the holiday, Court and Probation Offices will be closed on 11/11/2024.

Amid the applause of family, friends, and distinguished guests, Chief Justice Mike Heavican bid farewell to his role as Nebraska's 31st Chief Justice. In an October 30, 2024, ceremony filled with complimentary remarks from some of Nebraska’s highest-ranking public officials, Chief Justice Heavican reflected on his 18 years of service. He highlighted the many accomplishments of his fellow justices and expressed deep gratitude to the members of his administrative team throughout his tenure.

Chief Justice of the Nebraska Supreme Court, Mike Heavican, presented Judicial Branch Recognition Awards to individuals and team members on October 29, 2024, during the Nebraska Judicial Branch’s 16th annual recognition event.

Supreme Court Justice Jeffrey Funke has been named Nebraska’s next Chief Justice as Chief Justice Mike Heavican retires at the end of the month.

At a news conference held on October 25, 2024, Governor Jim Pillen announced the appointment, with Chief Justice Heavican, Lt. Governor Joe Kelly, and Justice Funke’s family present at the podium.

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.

Nebraska trial judges installed new association presidents during their annual meetings in late October. Presidential terms began on October 11, 2024.

The associations and their newly appointed presidents are: