Official portrait
Governor Brad Little announced on Tuesday that Fourth District Judge Jason Scott has been appointed to the Idaho Supreme Court. The appointment fills a vacancy created by the upcoming retirement of Chief Justice Richard Bevan, ensuring the state’s highest court maintains its full complement of justices through the autumn transition.
Why It Matters
The composition of the Idaho Supreme Court directly influences how state laws are interpreted and applied across all nine judicial districts. With Chief Justice Bevan stepping down, Governor Little’s selection preserves continuity in a court that has recently ruled on significant issues ranging from reproductive rights to educational governance.
For Idaho voters, this appointment ensures that the seat will be filled by a judge who already understands the state’s legal framework and constitutional standards, rather than an outsider unfamiliar with local jurisprudence.
What Happened
The governor’s office confirmed that Scott, an Idaho native, will assume his duties on October 30, coinciding with Bevan’s official retirement date. The announcement follows a selection process designed to find a candidate with deep roots in the state and substantial bench experience.
Scott brings more than two decades of legal experience to the high court. Before joining the bench, he spent 15 years at the prominent Boise law firm Hawley Troxell, serving as a partner for seven of those years. His practice focused primarily on civil litigation, giving him extensive trial experience.
“Judge Scott has dedicated his career to the law and to serving the people of Idaho,” Governor Little told the Idaho Capital Sun in a statement regarding the appointment. “His experience as a practicing attorney and a district judge gives him a strong understanding of both the courtroom and the broader legal system.”
By The Numbers
- 1997: Scott graduated from Duke University School of Law, following an accounting degree from Idaho State University.
- 2014: Scott was first appointed to the district bench, where he has served for 12 years.
- October 30: The date Chief Justice Bevan retires and Scott’s term begins.
- Fourth District: The judicial district Scott currently serves, which includes Ada County.
Zoom Out
Scott’s tenure on the district court has included presiding over several high-profile cases that tested state policies. He heard arguments in a legal challenge to Idaho’s strict abortion ban and managed an open meetings lawsuit involving the University of Idaho’s attempted acquisition of the University of Phoenix.
In addition to his duties in Ada County, Scott serves as the presiding district judge for Valley County. His background includes early career service as a law clerk for a U.S. district judge, providing him with exposure to federal procedural standards before entering private practice.
The transition at the top of the court also involves internal leadership changes. Justice Robyn Brody was elected by her colleagues to succeed Bevan as chief justice. This internal promotion ensures that administrative leadership remains stable even as new members join the bench.
What’s Next
Scott is expected to begin participating in court proceedings immediately upon Bevan’s departure in late October. The appointment does not require legislative confirmation, as Idaho governors hold the authority to fill supreme court vacancies directly.
Residents and legal professionals will likely see Scott’s influence on upcoming rulings involving state statutory interpretation and constitutional questions. His prior experience handling complex civil litigation suggests he will bring a practical perspective to appellate review.
“For twelve years, I’ve given my all to serving the people of Idaho as a district judge,” Scott told the Idaho Capital Sun regarding his new role. “I’m grateful to Governor Little for entrusting me with the opportunity to continue in public service as a justice of the Idaho Supreme Court.”
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