Call for applications for Chief Water Court Judge
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News from Rob Bird, Montana Judicial Branch
MONTANA - The Judicial Branch will begin accepting applications today through Feb. 28, 2025, for the Chief Water Court Judge. Current Chief Water Court Judge Stephen Brown was appointed to fill the duration of the current term, which expires on July 31, 2025. The position is appointed by the Chief Justice and will expire on June 30, 2029.
Applicants must submit a cover letter and a resume by Feb. 28, 2025, at 5 p.m. to rbird@mt.gov. Applications must be submitted electronically. To be considered an applicant must be a citizen of the United States who has resided in the state two years immediately before taking office and admitted to the practice of law in Montana for at least five years prior to the date of appointment.
Public comment will begin March 1, 2025. Applicants must receive a minimum of three support letters in order to be forwarded for consideration.
The Water Court was created by the 1979 Montana Legislature. It has exclusive jurisdiction over the adjudication of all water-rights claims in Montana. More than 200,000 water rights claims will eventually be adjudicated through the Water Court.
The person appointed to the position is subject to Senate confirmation in 2025.
Chief Water Court Judge Appointment Schedule
Notice from Chief Justice February 10, 2025
Notice of vacancy; request for February 10, 2025
applications (cover letter and resume)
Application deadline February 28, 2025
Public Comment closes: applicants March 30, 2025
with a minimum of three support letters
forwarded to Chief Justice
Appointment deadline April 30, 2025
