NORFOLK, Neb. -- Due to the retirement of Judge Mark A. Johnson, the District Court Judge in the Seventh Judicial District is vacant and ready to be filled. 

The Judicial Nominating Commission has provided both Judge Michael Long and attorney Ryan Stover from Norfolk, and has been sent to Governor Jim Pillen for consideration. 

Ryan began practicing law at Carney Law in Norfolk before coming to Stratton, DeLay, Doele, Carlson and Buettner in June 2014. He has experience working for the Nebraska Workers Compensation court and volunteers as a coach for the Nebraska State Bar Foundation Mock Trial competition at Norfolk Catholic.

Ryan’s practice consists of personal injury, criminal defense, family law, estate planning and civil litigation.

Starting in 1996, Michael Long has served as the County Court Judge, 7th Judicial District performing his duties as judge for Antelope, Cuming, Knox, Madison, Pierce, Stanton, and Wayne Counties.

The 7th Judicial District covers Antelope, Cuming, Knox, Madison, Pierce, Stanton, and Wayne counties.