Gov. Kotek seeks applicants for Union and Wallowa County Circuit Court vacancy
Adrielle Hasara
Salem, ORE. (KTVZ) — Gov. Tina Kotek announced today that she is accepting applications for a judicial vacancy on the Union and Wallowa County Circuit Court. This opening in the 10th Judicial District follows the upcoming retirement of Judge Thomas B. Powers.
Judge Powers is scheduled to retire on Dec. 1, 2026. Gov. Kotek stated she will fill the position by appointment, emphasizing her commitment to selecting judges based on merit and encouraging applications from lawyers with a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences.
Applications for the judicial vacancy must be received by 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 13, 2026. Interested applicants should address their completed forms to Richard A. Lane, General Counsel, Office of the Governor. Forms must be submitted via email to Shevaun Gutridge at shevaun.gutridge@oregon.gov, as mail or hand delivery will not be accepted.
Candidates must meet specific eligibility requirements as outlined in ORS 3.041 and 3.050. At the time of appointment to the court, the individual must be a citizen of the United States, a resident of Oregon and a member of the Oregon State Bar. Additionally, ORS 3.041(two) mandates that the person filling the vacancy must either reside in or maintain a principal office in the judicial district or an adjacent judicial district.
For any questions regarding the appointment process, or to request an interest form, individuals can contact Shevaun Gutridge directly at 503-378-6246 or via email at shevaun.gutridge@oregon.gov. The judicial interest form is also available online.
Judge Powers’ retirement takes effect Dec. 1, 2026 and Gov. Kotek will fill the position by appointment.