Oregon's own Governor Tina Kotek is on the lookout for a new judge to take over the bench in Columbia County as Judge Cathleen B. Callahan steps down after years of service. The retirement, effective May 31, has opened up a spot on the circuit court and Kotek's office is welcoming applications to fill those robes.
The judge's seat won't be cooling off for long, as Kotek's administration has set a deadline of April 17, 5 PM, for eager legal eagles to throw their hats in the ring. Law professionals hoping to snag the gavel should direct their applications to Richard A. Lane, the General Counsel of the Governor's Office, and email their forms to Shevaun Gutridge at [email protected], according to a recent announcement. Remember, no mail or hand deliveries will be accepted, according to the State of Oregon.
"Governor Kotek fills judicial vacancies based on merit. She encourages applications from lawyers with a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences," as stated in the Governor's announcement. The Governor expressed her gratitude towards Judge Callahan for her committed service to the judiciary before turning her attention to finding a suitable successor.
Applicants should note that the state law is pretty clear on the prerequisites: you've got to be a U.S. citizen, an Oregon resident, and a member of the Oregon State Bar. Moreover, the law requires the appointee to set up shop in either the judicial district in question or one next door, as per the Governor's Office. So, if you're a legal hotshot who's eager to serve the public from the bench, your moment could be now.
