Three Finalists Selected for Duluth Judgeship
The state has nominated three attorneys to fill a vacancy in the 6th Judicial District.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Criminal Justice
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The state recommended three finalists to fill an open seat in Duluth's 6th Judicial District. These candidates will be considered for the appointment left vacant by the upcoming retirement of Chief Judge Leslie Beiers.
Why it matters
The appointment is necessary to maintain judicial operations in the 6th Judicial District following the departure of a long-serving judge. The final decision rests with the governor to ensure the position is filled effectively.
The state has submitted a list of three finalists for the 6th Judicial District judgeship. The selection process remains in the final review stage as the office prepares for a leadership transition.
The players
Leslie Beiers
She is the outgoing Chief Judge of the 6th Judicial District whose retirement created the vacancy.
Lilo Stuecher
She is an assistant county attorney and one of the three finalists recommended for the judgeship.
Vicky Wanta
She is an assistant county attorney and one of the three finalists recommended for the judgeship.
Aaron Welch
He is a senior assistant county attorney in the Range Criminal Division and a finalist for the judgeship.
The details
All three finalists, Lilo Stuecher, Vicky Wanta, and Aaron Welch, are currently employed at the St. Louis County Attorney's Office. Stuecher and Wanta serve as assistant county attorneys, while Welch works as a senior assistant county attorney in the Range Criminal Division.
Timeline
The state submitted the list of three finalists on October 12, 2026.
Legal Context
The current selection process for the 6th Judicial District judgeship follows the established protocol for filling a seat vacated by the retirement of Chief Judge Leslie Beiers. Judicial appointments in this jurisdiction adhere to state-mandated recommendations to ensure consistency in legal leadership.
This appointment will dictate the leadership of the local court, impacting the administration of justice for residents in Duluth and the broader 6th Judicial District. The outcome will influence the bench's composition as the court transitions to new oversight.
The takeaway
The selection of in-house county attorneys as finalists suggests a focus on local expertise for the vacant bench. Residents can expect further updates once the governor completes the final vetting and appointment process.
Further reading
For additional context on the local court system, visit Criminal Justice.
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