On Monday, December 30, 2024, JeffCountyNews.com reported that Magistrate Judge Dennis Reiling, the longest-serving judge in Kansas, is set to retire after a remarkable 50 years on the bench. The official retirement ceremony is scheduled for noon on January 13, coinciding with the swearing-in of newly elected officials from the November General Election. Following the ceremony, a retirement reception will be held in the courtroom to honor Reiling’s extensive career.

In May, Reiling received recognition at the Kansas Judicial Conference, where he was presented with a framed certificate acknowledging his unprecedented tenure. Chief Justice Marla Luckert, who made the presentation, stated that his record of service is unlikely to be surpassed. The certificate bears the signatures of all current Supreme Court justices.

Although judges in Kansas are mandated to retire at the age of 75, they are permitted to complete their current four-year term. Reiling, who is currently 78, began his last term just a year shy of this retirement age. Having first entered the judicial system, Reiling filed for the position of Probate Judge in June 1974, winning a primary election against Republican incumbent Dr. Jesse Wilson. The 1974 election also allowed voters the option to eliminate party politics in judicial selections through a retention ballot.

After winning the election unopposed in 1976, Reiling became a magistrate judge on January 1, 1977, serving the four-county 2nd Judicial District. As a non-lawyer judge, he was given 18 months to become certified and achieved this status within six months. His office walls display his certification certificate, signed by the justices of that time.

In addition to his role as a magistrate judge, Reiling served as a municipal judge in Oskaloosa and Valley Falls, and he continues to oversee cases in several municipalities in Jefferson County, including Meriden and Ozawkie, as well as Holton and Hoyt in Jackson County. Between 1999 and 2001, he also acted as a tribal judge for the Prairie Band Pottawatomie Tribe.

Reiling’s journey into the judiciary began unexpectedly while he was managing a tavern in Wathena. His decision to file for the probate judge position came after a visit to support his sister during her divorce proceedings. Initially contemplating a position in a new savings and loan institution, he chose instead to pursue the judicial role.

Throughout his career, Reiling has handled a wide range of cases, including small claims, civil matters, traffic court, and misdemeanor trials. For felony cases, he manages first appearances, arraignments, and preliminary hearings before passing them on to a District Judge. He has seen significant changes in the legal landscape over the past five decades, particularly regarding the rising prevalence of methamphetamines compared to earlier drug issues, such as marijuana.

Technological advancements have also transformed the court system. Reiling noted that all cases are now online, although the system faced a major cyberattack in October 2023, which delayed operations for several months. He emphasized the efficiency gained through digital systems, allowing him to sign documents remotely before arriving at court.

In addition to his judicial duties, Reiling has officiated countless weddings, a role he intends to continue post-retirement. His experiences range from courthouse ceremonies to unique venues, including a memorable wedding in California, where he was invited to perform the ceremony for a close friend of his late daughter.

Reiling had a retirement reception on December 19 at the Jackson County courthouse, marking his last day of duty in that county. He shared the event with retiring Holton attorney J. Richard Lake, whose practice dates back to 1978. Reiling’s successor will be Brian Yearout, a Wellington native with prior experience as a deputy county attorney.

Reiling and his wife, Linda, reside in Oskaloosa. They have four daughters and six grandchildren, with an additional grandchild expected soon. Despite facing health challenges, including bouts with cancer, Reiling is committed to staying active in his community following his retirement. His 1997 Lincoln Town Car, affectionately called his “land yacht,” has become a familiar sight in local towns, signifying that court is in session.

 

 

Source: JeffCountyNews.com