The investiture ceremony for Judge Jason J. Hammes took place on March 14, 2025, at the Burleigh County Courthouse. The event was attended by Supreme Court Justices, current and retired district judges, and judicial referees.
Judge Hammes graduated from the University of North Dakota School of Law in 2007. His career includes working within the Minnesota Courts, serving as an assistant state’s attorney in Burleigh County, and acting as a prosecutor for the City of Bismarck before becoming a Judicial Referee in 2019. He began his six-year term as a district judge on January 1, 2025.
Presiding Judge Cynthia Feland welcomed guests and the family of Judge Hammes. During the ceremony, daughter Hannah Hammes highlighted her father's even temperament and listening skills. Daughter Sage Hammes assisted while Judge Feland discussed the significance of the robe.
Zack Pelham, representing SBAND's Board of Governors and ABA Delegate, presented a gavel to Judge Hammes on behalf of SBAND. Chief Justice Jon Jensen administered the official Oath of Office.
In his remarks, Judge Hammes expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve as a district judge and thanked those who contributed to his professional development.