Read Retirement Letter to Gov. Jim Pillen here
After serving 18 years on the Nebraska Supreme Court bench, Chief Justice Mike Heavican has announced his retirement to occur on October 31, 2024.
Gov. Jim Pillen congratulated Chief Justice Heavican on his retirement and thanked him for his public service to the state of Nebraska. Gov. Pillen said Heavican has served Nebraska’s Supreme Court with professionalism, rooted in deep regard for the rule of law.” Pillen added that Chief Justice Heavican often repeats to others the observation he made to him about walking into the Supreme Court Chamber. “He noted that each time felt like the very first – conveying a wonderment, love and appreciation for a career that has resulted in immense satisfaction and fulfilment.”
Lt. Gov. Joe Kelly served with Chief Justice Heavican during his time in the Lancaster County Attorney’s Office. He said: “In different roles – in the Lancaster County Attorney’s Office, U.S. Attorney’s Office, and as the Chief Justice of the Nebraska Supreme Court – he has been the perfect example of all that a public servant should be.”
Attorney General Mike Hilgers thanked Chief Justice Heavican for his lifetime of service to Nebraska and congratulates him on his retirement. Hilgers says “the Chief Justice’s record of service to the State is virtually unmatched. He has spent the entirety of his legal career in public service, serving as our State’s U.S. Attorney and the Lancaster County Attorney. As Chief Justice, he has provided exemplary leadership for our judiciary, traveling the State every year to visit courthouses and judicial branch employees.”
Pursuant to law, the Judicial Nominating Commission will solicit the names of potential nominees to be presented to Gov. Pillen for consideration of appointment.
