LINCOLN — Governor Jim Pillen has appointed Justice Jeffrey Funke of Nebraska City as the next Chief Justice of the Nebraska Supreme Court. Funke succeeds Chief Justice Mike Heavican, who is set to retire at the end of October.
Justice Funke, who has served on the Supreme Court since 2016, received high praise from Governor Pillen, who highlighted Funke’s judicial temperament and commitment to upholding the law. “He has all the attributes we expect from the court,” Pillen stated, expressing confidence in Funke’s ability to meet the challenges ahead.
Funke’s judicial journey began when he graduated from the University of Nebraska College of Law in 1994. Initially aspiring to become a county court judge, he gained experience in various legal roles, including deputy public defender and county attorney for Otoe County. He was first appointed as a county court judge in 2007 by former Governor Dave Heineman, later elevated to the 2nd District Court in 2013 and then to the Supreme Court in 2016.
The appointment process for Nebraska’s judges is thorough. A commission identifies vacancies, interviews candidates, and forwards at least two recommendations to the governor. In the case of Heavican’s seat, four judges applied, with all four names advanced for consideration. The other candidates included judges PaTricia Freeman, David Bargen, and Ryan Post.
Funke will officially take over as Chief Justice after taking the oath of office next week. He expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and acknowledged Heavican’s significant contributions to the judiciary over his 18 years of service.
With Funke’s elevation, a vacancy is created in the Nebraska Supreme Court District 5, which includes southeast Nebraska, excluding Lancaster County. The nominating commission will soon begin the process of finding a replacement for Funke.
All Nebraska justices earn a salary of $225,055.35, reflecting the important roles they play in the state’s judicial system.
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