East Central Judicial District Presiding Judge John Irby is set to retire on December 31, 2024. Reflecting on his judicial career, Judge Irby shared, “At about 10 years into my legal career I felt that I had the ability (or the means to learn how) to serve as a judge. I was so fortunate to be given the opportunity in 2002 and to continue for the next 22+ years. I have been fortunate to enjoy what I do and to enjoy the people that I did it with."
In honor of his retirement, colleagues and staff gathered at the Cass County Courthouse on December 23, 2024, for a celebration.
During this event, Judge Irby engaged with Judge VandeStreek and staff from the Southeast Human Service Center who were involved in his Treatment Court.