Judicial Vacancy

Wyoming Supreme Court Chief Justice Lynne Boomgaarden, Chair of the Judicial Nominating Commission, announced an opening in the Sheridan County Circuit Court of the Fourth Judicial District. Sheridan Media’s Ron Richter has the details.

The judicial vacancy is the result of Circuit Court Judge Sheryl Smith Bunting’s resignation, effective September 16, 2026. The position is located in Sheridan. Wyoming’s circuit courts decide cases involving traffic tickets, protection orders, misdemeanor crimes, eviction actions, small claims complaints, and civil actions resulting in damages less than $50,000.

According to information from the Wyoming Judicial Branch, the Judicial Nominating Commission will accept expressions of interest from qualified individuals until 5:00 pm on Thursday, June 11, 2026. The new judge will be sworn in on September 17, 2026. Required forms and instructions on applying are available on the Wyoming Judicial Branch’s website.

Under Wyoming law, to serve as a circuit court judge, an individual must be a resident of the state and be licensed to practice law in Wyoming. The JNC encourages all qualified applicants to apply.  Following interviews and a review of the submitted materials, the JNC will submit a list of three names to the governor, who will appoint an individual from that list.