North Dakota Supreme Court Appoints New Chief Deputy Clerk
Dixie R. Holland has been selected to serve as Chief Deputy Clerk of the North Dakota Supreme Court, effective November 17, 2025, according to Ndcourts. The appointment brings a highly qualified legal professional with diverse experience in corrections, judicial clerkships, and district court operations to one of the state's most critical administrative positions.
Holland's selection represents the culmination of an impressive legal career that began after her graduation from Central High School in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Her journey through the legal profession spans over a decade, encompassing multiple sectors of the justice system before arriving at the state's highest court.
Educational Foundation and Early Career
Holland's academic credentials form the foundation of her legal expertise. She earned her bachelor's degree from the University of North Dakota in 2013, according to Ndcourts. Following her undergraduate education, Holland entered the corrections field, where she gained valuable experience in the criminal justice system until 2020.
This seven-year tenure in corrections provided Holland with practical insights into the operational aspects of the justice system, experience that would prove invaluable in her subsequent legal career. The transition from corrections to legal education marked a significant pivot in her professional trajectory.
In 2023, Holland achieved a major milestone by receiving her Juris Doctor from the University of North Dakota School of Law, according to Ndcourts. This accomplishment positioned her to enter the legal profession with both practical corrections experience and formal legal training.
Judicial Clerkship Experience
Immediately following law school graduation, Holland secured a prestigious position as a Law Clerk to North Dakota Supreme Court Chief Justice Jon J. Jensen, according to Ndcourts. This role provided her with intimate knowledge of the state's highest court operations and exposed her to the complex legal issues that reach the Supreme Court level.
The clerkship experience proved instrumental in preparing Holland for her current appointment. Working directly with Chief Justice Jensen allowed her to observe firsthand the intricate processes involved in Supreme Court decision-making and case management.
In August 2024, Holland transitioned to a new role as a staff attorney with the South-Central Judicial District Court, according to Ndcourts. This position broadened her experience within the state court system and provided additional perspective on district-level operations.
Comprehensive Role Responsibilities
The Chief Deputy Clerk position carries significant responsibilities within the North Dakota Supreme Court structure. According to Ndcourts, the role requires extensive legal research and analysis to make recommendations regarding matters before the Supreme Court. This research component demands both analytical skills and comprehensive understanding of legal precedent.
Additionally, Holland will assist the Clerk of Supreme Court in the administration and supervision of the Office of the Clerk, including management of the Court and administrative records, according to Ndcourts. These administrative duties encompass overseeing court operations and ensuring proper maintenance of legal documentation.
The Office of the Clerk maintains a commitment to providing high-quality service to the Court, members of the legal profession, and the public, according to Ndcourts. Holland's appointment reflects the court's dedication to maintaining these service standards.
Career Trajectory and Professional Development
Holland's career path demonstrates a strategic progression through various aspects of the legal system. Beginning with corrections work in 2013, she gained seven years of practical experience before pursuing formal legal education. This foundation provided her with a unique perspective on the justice system that extends beyond traditional academic preparation.
The decision to pursue law school while working in corrections shows Holland's commitment to professional advancement and legal expertise. Her successful completion of the Juris Doctor program in 2023 marked the beginning of her formal legal career.
The transition from Supreme Court law clerk to district court staff attorney, and now to Chief Deputy Clerk, illustrates a comprehensive understanding of different levels within the state court system. This varied experience positions Holland to excel in her new role.
State Court System Integration
Holland's appointment comes at a time when the North Dakota court system continues to evolve and modernize its operations. According to Ndcourts, the court system maintains active schedules of meetings and events, including Supreme Court Rulemaking sessions and Judicial Conferences scheduled for November 2025.
The timing of Holland's appointment, effective November 17, 2025, aligns with ongoing court system activities and demonstrates the continuity of operations within the state's judicial branch. Her extensive preparation through multiple roles within the system ensures smooth integration into this critical position.
Future Outlook and System Impact
Holland's appointment as Chief Deputy Clerk represents more than a personnel change; it reflects the North Dakota Supreme Court's commitment to maintaining operational excellence. Her diverse background spanning corrections, legal education, judicial clerkships, and district court experience provides a comprehensive foundation for success in this role.
The combination of practical corrections experience, Supreme Court clerkship insights, and district court operations knowledge positions Holland to contribute meaningfully to the court's mission of providing high-quality service to legal professionals and the public.
As Holland assumes her new responsibilities, her proven track record of professional growth and dedication to the legal system suggests she will continue the Office of the Clerk's tradition of excellence in supporting North Dakota's highest court operations.