Judge Stephanie R. Hayden Investiture - Nov. 6 Photos Thursday, November 9, 2023

The formal Investiture Ceremony for Judge Stephanie R. Hayden was held on November 6, 2023 at the Cass County Courthouse.  Several Supreme Court Justices, District court judges and legislators were in attendance. 

In Chief Justice Jon Jensen's remarks, he noted that the judicial vacancy was created by the 2023 legislative session with the addition of three additional judgeships, two of which were assigned to the East Central Judicial District. Chief Jensen thanked the legislature for recognizing "...the need for additional judicial officers to provide service to the citizens of North Dakota."  Chief Jensen also thanked Judge Hayden for applying to the appointment, saying, "You bring an incredible knowledge to the bench. In particular your experience in handling juvenile matters will be a significant asset," referencing Judge Hayden's experience as a judicial referee in the East Central Judicial District since 2020, presiding over a variety of cases including family law disputes and parental rights, juvenile court matters and restraining order cases.

Judge Hayden, assisted by her husband, Christopher Hayden, is sworn in by Supreme Court Chief Justice Jon Jensen 

Judge Hayden, with her son Christian, at left, is presented with her robe.