The Alaska Judicial Council announced Tuesday they are receiving applications for a soon-to-be open seat on the Kenai Superior Court.
According to a press release, Judge Jennifer K. Wells is retiring. She joined the Superior Court in 2017.
The release says applications will be accepted until Oct. 14. Applicants must be citizens of the United States and Alaska or residents of the latter for at least five years, and must be found in conformance with the Alaska Code of Judicial Conduct.
Applicants will be reviewed by the seven member Alaska Judicial Council — made up of three attorneys, three non-attorneys, and the chief justice of the Alaska Supreme Court.
According to the release, every applicant will be investigated, with criminal and credit records examined, previous litigation and disciplinary records checked, public comment solicited, all former employers contacted, and the Alaska Bar Association surveyed.
In January, a public hearing and interview will be held for all of the applicants for the vacancy.
Immediately following the hearing, an executive session will be called for the council to discuss the candidates. According to the release, a list of the most qualified applicants — with at least two names — will be produced. The governor will have 45 days to appoint a new judge from that list to the Kenai Superior Court.
