Three candidates nominated for Alaska Supreme Court vacancy

The Alaska Judicial Council has nominated three candidates for an upcoming vacancy on the Alaska Supreme Court, creating the potential for the first majority-female Supreme Court in Alaska history. The nominees are Kate Demarest, Josie Garton, and Aimee Oravec, who were selected unanimously by the council. The final selection will be made by Governor Mike Dunleavy within 45 days to replace retiring Justice Peter Maassen.

Kate Demarest is a senior assistant attorney general with expertise in environmental and social issues, while Josie Garton has a background in public defense and representing victims of domestic violence. Aimee Oravec, an attorney from Fairbanks, has experience in utilities law and previously served on the Judicial Council.

The selection process included a statewide survey of registered attorneys, with Garton receiving the highest rating. The new justice appointed by Dunleavy will bring an end to a series of retirements on the Alaska Supreme Court due to the constitutional requirement that judges retire at age 70.

The Alaska Beacon originally reported on this development, covering the independent, nonpartisan news of Alaska state government. The Council’s decision to nominate candidates for the upcoming vacancy marks a significant step towards gender diversity on the Alaska Supreme Court.

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