Applications sought for Chief Water Court Judge

The Montana Judicial Branch is applications through Sept. 30 for the Chief Water Court Judge. Current Chief Water Court Judge Russ McElyea, who has served the Water Court since 2012, is retiring at the end 2024.

His position will be filled by the Chief Justice of the Montana Supreme Court for the duration of the current term expiring on June 30, 2025.

Applicants must submit a cover letter and a resume electronically by 5 p.m. Sept. 30to bmclaughlin@mt.gov. 

In order 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 been admitted to the practice of law in Montana for at least five years prior to the date of appointment.

Public comment will begin Oct. 1. 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.