SIOUX FALLS (Dakota News Now) – Governor Larry Rhoden announced on Thursday that Kellen B. Willert has been appointed as circuit judge in the Fourth Judicial Circuit. “Kellen has been a devoted student of the law and is a perfect fit to serve as a judge,” said 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.”
Willert brings a wide range of legal experience to the bench, with a background spanning estate planning, municipal law, complex litigation, and military law. He graduated cum laude from South Dakota State University before earning his Juris Doctor with honors from the University of South Dakota School of Law.
He went on to serve as a law clerk for the Fifth Judicial Circuit before entering private practice in Belle Fourche. “I am humbled, honored, and grateful for Governor Rhoden placing his trust in me to serve in this position,” said 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.”
Beyond the courtroom, Willert serves his state and country as a Lieutenant Colonel in the South Dakota Army National Guard.
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