Chief Justice Steven R. Jensen has announced the reappointment of Judge Cheryle Gering as the Presiding Judge for the First Judicial Circuit in South Dakota. This decision comes after Jensen's own reselection as Chief Justice of the South Dakota Supreme Court.
The role of presiding judges, who are appointed by the chief justice according to Article V, Section 11 of the South Dakota Constitution, involves acting as administrative heads of their respective circuits. The First Judicial Circuit includes several counties: Aurora, Bon Homme, Brule, Buffalo, Charles Mix, Clay, Davison, Douglas, Hanson, Hutchinson, McCook, Turner, Union and Yankton.
"Judge Gering’s steadfast leadership and dedication continue to strengthen the First Judicial Circuit," said Chief Justice Jensen. "Her tireless work ensures that justice is served fairly and efficiently, and her unwavering commitment to professionalism is exemplary."
Judge Gering's educational background includes an undergraduate degree from the University of South Dakota obtained in 1988 and a juris doctor from the University of Iowa College of Law earned in 1991. She began her career as a trial lawyer in private practice until her appointment as a circuit court judge for the First Judicial Circuit in 2011. Her initial appointment as presiding judge was made by retired Chief Justice David Gilbertson in 2017.