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:

As I near the conclusion of my time as Chief Justice, one of the most expansive initiatives undertaken during my tenure is also nearing completion—the statewide upgrade of trial courtroom technology across Nebraska. In the fall of 2021, following the challenges we faced during the pandemic, our Supreme Court committed to ensuring that our trial courts are equipped with modern audio-visual (A/V) systems to meet the demands of the present and future.

Probation’s AC4E Award has been presented to Amy Champoux, Probation Supervisor from District 3J during the Probation Management Meeting in April 2024.

AC4E Award recipients personify the eight principles of evidence-based practice, four core values of AC4E, and one vision and mission. AC4E Award recipients create a culture rooted in the values and importance of AC4E and exemplify coaching for excellence, as evidenced by their team’s success.

County Court Assistant Clerk Julie Kuhl demonstrated her multifaceted skill set during the Chief Justice's Summer Tour visit to Auburn. Kuhl not only invited and hosted local guests but also prepared former Clerk Magistrate LaRita Weber's signature star-shaped cookies, a beloved tradition baked every year for Law Day.

Thank you, Julie, for your continued support and celebration of law-related education in your community. 

The Judicial Nominating Commission public hearing for Chief Justice of the Nebraska Supreme Court will be livestreamed beginning at 10:00 a.m. on October 4, 2024. During the hearing, the Commission will receive information on the qualifications of candidates to fill the vacancy in the office of Chief Justice due to the retirement of Chief Justice Michael G. Heavican effective October 31, 2024.

View the livestream on Nebraska Public Media here. 

The third Thursday of October is recognized as Conflict Resolution Day and the American Bar Association recognizes the third week of October as Mediation Week to promote mediation and the work of neutrals.

When you ask someone what is the first thing that comes to mind when you say conflict, it’s common for that first thought to be negative. People generally don’t like being in conflict because it’s uncomfortable. Tensions can be high and there may be mistrust, and usually there is poor communication.

Probation’s AC4E Award has been presented to Marc Kohmetscher, Chief Probation Officer from District 9 during the Probation Management Meeting in April 2024.

AC4E Award recipients personify the eight principles of evidence-based practice, four core values of AC4E, and one vision and mission. AC4E Award recipients create a culture rooted in the values and importance of AC4E and exemplify coaching for excellence, as evidenced by their team’s success.

Retirement Open House
In honor of Chief Justice Michael G. Heavican
For 18 Years of service on the Nebraska Supreme Court

October 30, 2024
4:00-7:00 PM, Remarks by Dignitaries at 5:00
Nebraska State Capitol
2nd Floor Rotunda

Parking is available on the street and in the lot south of the Capitol at S. 16th & H Streets.

No gifts, please.

Chief Probation Officer for District 1, Melanie Stormer, showcased her exceptional and multi-talented skill set during the Chief Justice's Summer Tour in August, when the Nebraska Supreme Court visited Southeast Nebraska. Stormer was instrumental in organizing every aspect of the event, from coordinating substantive presentations to arranging a ribbon-cutting ceremony complete with certificates and refreshments. Her versatility and outgoing personality make her an everyday hero in the community.

On September 10, 2024, the Nebraska Court of Appeals marked Constitution Day with a special session held at Nebraska Wesleyan University. College students and local high schoolers attending the event were reminded that Constitution Day is officially observed on September 17.