Chief Justice Steven R. Jensen has announced the reappointment of Judge Gregory J. Stoltenburg as Presiding Judge for the Third Judicial Circuit in South Dakota. This decision follows Chief Justice Jensen's own reselection as Chief Justice of the South Dakota Supreme Court.
According to Article V, Section 11 of the South Dakota Constitution, presiding judges are appointed by the chief justice and serve at their discretion. These judges act as administrative heads for their respective circuits. The Third Judicial Circuit encompasses Beadle, Brookings, Clark, Codington, Deuel, Grant, Hamlin, Hand, Jerauld, Kingsbury, Lake, Miner, Moody and Sanborn counties.
"Judge Stoltenburg exemplifies what it means to lead with integrity and dedication in the Third Judicial Circuit," stated Chief Justice Jensen. "His practical and insightful leadership of the circuit has continued to improve and uphold the standards of justice and the smooth operation of the courts in the circuit."
Judge Stoltenburg completed his undergraduate studies at South Dakota State University in 1986 and earned his juris doctor from the University of South Dakota School of Law in 1995. His career includes roles such as a law clerk for the South Dakota Supreme Court from 1995 to 1996 and various positions within Deuel County's legal system until 2012. He also practiced privately during this period. Additionally, he served in the South Dakota Army National Guard from 1981 to 1993 and again from 1995 to 2017. Appointed as a circuit court judge for the Third Judicial Circuit in 2013, he has held his current position since 2015.