Governor calls for applications for judge in Twentieth Judicial District

With recently elected district court judge Kenneth Cotter facing felony charges and opting against taking the oath of office in 2025, Gov. Greg Gianforte is calling for applicants and nominations for the vacancy in the Twentieth Judicial District.

The judicial district is comprised of Lake and Sanders counties.

The Governor’s Office said any lawyer in good standing who has the qualifications for holding the office may apply or be nominated for the post.

The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. Monday, Jan. 13. Apply at nominatejudges.mt.gov.

The Governor’s Office said the public will be given the opportunity to provide letters of support or other comments at the same link from Tuesday, Jan. 14 until Wednesday, Feb. 12.

According to a news release from the Governor’s Office, applicants must receive at least three letters of support to be considered for appointment by the governor.

Judicial appointments are subject to confirmation by the Senate.