Supreme Court Justice Jeffrey Funke has been appointed as Nebraska's next Chief Justice, following the retirement of Chief Justice Mike Heavican at the end of October. The announcement was made by Governor Jim Pillen during a news conference on October 25, 2024. Present at the event were Chief Justice Heavican, Lt. Governor Joe Kelly, and members of Justice Funke’s family.
Justice Funke expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve in this new capacity, representing the entire state. His career on Nebraska's Supreme Court spans eight years, preceded by positions as a county court judge and a district court judge.
Earlier in October, Funke was among four candidates reviewed by a judicial nominating commission. The other candidates considered for the role included Sarpy County Court Judge PaTricia Freeman from Papillion, Saline County District Judge David Bargen from Adams, and Lancaster County District Judge Ryan Post from Lincoln. Reflecting on his fellow candidates, Funke stated: “As I said to the judicial nominating commission, they are three excellent candidates.”
In his remarks during the announcement, Funke acknowledged those working within Nebraska's judicial branch: “I want to thank the 1,500 people that work in the judicial branch,” he said. “They are the heart and soul of what we do, why we do it, and how we do it." He emphasized their dedication and creativity in serving the public.
Funke also extended his appreciation to trial court judges across Nebraska: “I really want to thank our trial judges. We have great judges," he noted. "I'm looking forward to working with them to carry on the judiciary's good work.”
With Justice Funke stepping into his new role as Chief Justice, a vacancy will arise in Nebraska’s 5th Judicial District of the Supreme Court.