Deadline extended for judge job

A committee looking for a new Flathead County Justice of the Peace has extended the deadline until Dec. 1.

"We aren't comfortable we have a representative sample [yet]" of people who could do the job, said lone Flathead County Justice of the Peace David Ortley, who is on the committee.

Flathead County commissioners approved funding for a half-time judge position to help Ortley, who has an overwhelming case load.

The ideal candidate would be an attorney, willing to work for about $24,000, plus benefits, but there is no requirement that the position needs to be filled by an attorney.

Ortley said nine people applied for the job. One withdrew his or her application. Of the rest, three were attorneys and the committee interviewed four people. Those people are still under consideration.

But the committee decided that the application period "wasn't open for a very long time," and decided to extend it. "We really have to look out for the best interest of the county," Ortley said. The position was announced at the end of October, with the original deadline just weeks away.

Justices of the peace adjudicate both civil and criminal matters. They must be citizens of the United States and must reside within the county. By law, justices are not required to be attorneys, but Ortley said it is his experience that an attorney would have a much easier time with the job.

In addition to Ortley, the selection committee includes County Attorney Ed Corrigan, chief public defender Bob Allison, Ortley's office manager, and a community professional. They will submit finalists to the county commissioners for approval. Whoever is chosen will serve until fall of 2006.

"We encourage anyone who has the experience and background to submit a letter," Ortley said.

Letters of interest and a resume should be sent to Raeann Campbell, Flathead County Human Resources Officer, 800 South Main Street, Kalispell, MT 59901.