Minnesota Lawyer//June 2, 2026//

Gov. Tim Walz on Tuesday announced a coming vacancy on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of Judge Michelle A. Larkin.
The seat is designated for Minnesota’s 6th Congressional District. Walz has asked a merit selection panel consisting of leadership in his administration, the chair of the Commission on Judicial Selection, and the at-large members of the commission to solicit applicants, review candidates, and recommend finalists for appointment.
The application process is now open for this vacancy. Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lieutenant Governor via e-mail at [email protected]. Applicants must have resided in the 6th Congressional District for at least one year to be eligible for appointment to this seat. Application materials are due by 4 p.m. June 23 and should be addressed to Walz.
The judges on the Court of Appeals have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lieutenant Governor at [email protected].