The Nebraska Judicial Branch has announced the designation of presiding judges for county courts across its twelve judicial districts for 2026. The presiding judge in each district is responsible for overseeing county court services, including delegating administrative duties to judicial administrators and clerk magistrates. These duties cover areas such as case management, facilities, personnel, and court records.
According to the announcement, “The presiding judge oversees county court services within the judicial district (§ 6-1459. Presiding judges). Key responsibilities include delegating administrative duties to judicial administrators and clerk magistrates in areas such as case management, facilities, personnel, and court records. The presiding judge also reviews county court audits to ensure compliance with accounting practices.”
Presiding judges are also tasked with serving as liaisons to several organizations and agencies. As stated in the release: “Liaison duties extend to the Administrative Office of the Courts, Supreme Court, Nebraska State Bar Association, local and state government agencies, and district media.”
Additionally, they are required to organize at least one meeting per year involving judges or other key staff within their districts. “The presiding judge organizes and chairs at least one meeting per year for judges, judicial administrators, and/or clerk magistrates within the district,” according to the announcement.
The list of appointed presiding judges for 2026 includes:
– District 1: Linda Bauer
– District 2: S. Colin Palm
– District 3: Timothy Phillips
– District 4: Marcela Keim
– District 5: Andrew Lange
– District 6: Frank Barron
– District 7: Ross Stoffer
– District 8: Kale Burdick
– District 9: Bryan McQuay
– District 10: Michael Mead
– District 11: Tanya Roberts-Connick
– District 12: Aaron Conn
These appointments outline leadership roles that will guide county court operations throughout Nebraska’s judicial districts during the upcoming term.
