NORFOLK, Neb. – Gov. Jim Pillen has named Jason S. Doele of Norfolk as the newest district court judge for the Fifth Judicial District, which encompasses Boone, Butler, Colfax, Hamilton, Merrick, Nance, Platte, Polk, Saunders, Seward, and York counties. The announcement marks a significant addition to the district's judicial framework.

Doele brings a wealth of experience to the bench, having practiced law for many years in Norfolk. Since February 2010, he has been a partner at Stratton, DeLay, Doele, Carlson, Stover & Stratton. Before that, Doele was with the firm of Jewell, Collins, DeLay, Gray and Flood, also in Norfolk, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the local legal community.

Licensed to practice in both Nebraska and South Dakota, Doele has actively participated in the Nebraska State Bar Association, serving in various roles and committees. He is also a member of the Madison County Bar Association, where he previously served as president, reflecting his commitment to the legal profession and community service. Beyond his legal work, Doele is a board member of Faith Regional Health Services and the Lutheran Community Hospital Board. He also volunteers as a mock trial coach through the Nebraska State Bar Foundation, mentoring aspiring legal professionals. Doele is an alumnus of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and earned his juris doctor from the University of South Dakota School of Law.

Doele's appointment fills the vacancy created by Justice Jason M. Bergevin's move to the Nebraska Supreme Court, ensuring the Fifth Judicial District continues to operate with a full complement of judicial expertise.