Chief Justice Gilbertson celebrates anniversary

On Apr 17, 1995, David Gilbertson became a Justice of the South Dakota Supreme Court. This Apr. 17, he observed his 25th Anniversary on the Supreme Court. For the last 19 years he has also served as Chief Justice of the Court.

Since the current constitutional provisions were enacted in 1972 this is the longest length of service by an individual Justice. Chief Justice Gilbertson stated, “During the past 25 years, it has been the highest honor of my life to serve the citizens of South Dakota as a Justice. I tried my best and how well I did I will leave to the evaluation of others. Each year has brought with it new challenges. The most recent challenge of COVID-19 and trying to keep the courts of South Dakota open is a crisis I never imagined I would have to face. However, the dedicated service by the judges and employees of South Dakota’s judicial system is making that happen.”

Chief Justice Gilbertson faces mandatory retirement in January of 2021.

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