Gov. Rhoden Appoints Kellen Willert as Fourth Circuit Judge

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 8, 2026

Contact: Josie Harms

Gov. Rhoden Appoints Kellen Willert as Fourth Circuit Judge

PIERRE, S.D. - Today, Governor Larry Rhoden announced the appointment of Kellen B. Willert as a circuit judge in the Fourth Circuit, a vacancy created by the departure of Judge John Fitzgerald.

"Kellen has been a devoted student of the law and is a perfect fit to serve as a judge," said Governor Larry Rhoden. "His life experience, military service, and commitment to family will help him apply the law with fairness, accountability, and compassion. I am confident that Kellen will be an asset to the Fourth Judicial Circuit."

Kellen B. Willert has a wide range of experience in in the legal field, ranging from estate planning to municipal law and complex litigation to military law. Willert graduated cum laude from South Dakota State University and earned his Juris Doctor with honors from the University of South Dakota School of Law. Willert served as a law clerk for the Fifth Judicial Circuit before moving to practice in Belle Fourche.

"I am humbled, honored, and grateful for Governor Rhoden placing his trust in me to serve in this position," said Kellen B. Willert. "While I am sad to close the private practice chapter of my life and leave those who have mentored and supported me for many years, I look forward to this next chapter serving the citizens of the Fourth Judicial Circuit in this role. I will strive to impartially uphold the law with integrity and fairness."

Willert and his wife have three children. He is a Lieutenant Colonel in South Dakota Army National Guard. You can find a photo of Willert here.

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