Gov. Matt Mead announced today that he has appointed Michael K. Davis as the newest member of the Wyoming Supreme Court, according to a media release. Davis replaces Michael Golden, who retired after 24 years on the Supreme Court.Mead in a news release said “the appointment of a Supreme Court justice is a momentous event for any governor because it has lasting effects on our state and its law."   Mead added  he " received three well-qualified nominees and had a very tough decision. Judge Davis has significant private practice experience, a proven tenure on the bench, and strong writing skills. I believe he is an excellent choice to join the highest court in the state.”

The Judicial Nominating Commission presented three nominees to Mead. The Commission is chaired by Wyoming Supreme Court Chief Justice Marilyn Kite. Other members include Robert Shively, Bruce Salzburg, Jeremy Michaels, Richard Bridger, Shelly Christianson and Gina Monk.

Davis was born in Kansas. He received his J.D. from the University of Wyoming. He was an associate and then a partner at the Yonkee and Toner law firm in Sheridan from 1980 to 2008, when he became a district judge in the First Judicial District. Davis is an Army veteran and has been active in the Wyoming State Bar and in activities promoting the improvement of trial advocacy in the bar. He is a judicial fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers.

More From KGAB