Governor Names New Chief Justice For Nebraska Supreme Court

A new Chief Justice has been chosen to fill the big seat in the Nebraska Supreme Court.

Governor Dave Heineman has chosen Mike Heavican to replace Chief Justice John Hendry in October when Hendry steps down.

United States Attorney and former Lancaster County Attorney Mike Heavican was chosen out of three candidates to be named Nebraska's 23rd Chief Justice of the Nebraska Supreme Court.

59-year-old Mike Heavican was formally named Wednesday.   

Heavican will replace John Hendry who served for eight years.   

Heavican says he respects the work and leadership Hendry exercised and wants to have similar priorities.   

As for specifics on his priorities, he says he needs time to figure them out.    “

As a former Chief Federal Prosecutor and Civil Lawyer in Nebraska, Governor Heineman says Heavican will bring more than 30 years experience in Nebraska courts.   

Governor Heineman also noted Heavican's tireless work ethic, strong sense of responsibility, leadership and ability to navigate disagreements.

Heavican will assume leadership of the high court when Chief Justice John Hendry steps down on October 2nd.