Governor calls for applications for judge in Twentieth Judicial District

With recently elected district court judge Britt 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.

Judge John Mercer currently holds the job and, in an email, he said he planned to submit his application on Monday to be considered for the position again.

Citing portions of his application, Mercer said he had only expected to complete the remainder of outgoing Judge Kim Christopher’s term and then return to his law practice in early 2025.

“Now, with the unusual circumstances resulting in a second unexpected vacancy, I consider it my duty to apply for this important position,” Mercer wrote. “On a personal level, I have found the judgeship to be challenging, educational, and fulfilling.

“I am willing to give up the private practice of law for service on the Court. It would be my honor to receive this appointment and stand for election for the remainder of the term in November 2026.”