Press Release: Van Allsburg Reappointed Chief Judge of the 20th Circuit Court

The Michigan Supreme Court has reappointed Ottawa County’s 20th Circuit Court Judge Jon Van Allsburg to the position of Chief Judge for a term expiring December 31, 2019.  The position of Chief Judge is essential to the successful operations of the Circuit Court.  Pursuant to Michigan Court Rule, the Chief Judge has “administrative superintending power and control over the judges of the court and all court personnel” to supervise caseload management, monitor judicial workloads, assign the business of the court, develop policies, oversee court finances, and much more.

“I am grateful to the Michigan Supreme Court for providing this leadership opportunity and I look forward to continuing a collaborative relationship with our outstanding judges and court employees as we tend to the legal needs of the public,” said Judge Van Allsburg.  “The 20th Circuit Court has been a leader among trial courts in Michigan and we will continue our efforts to improve performance and provide excellent public service.”

Van Allsburg is an honors graduate of the Michigan State University College of Law and joined the Circuit Court in 2005 after a 25-year career in the practice of law, during which he served as chairman of the board of the Michigan West Coast (formerly Holland Area) Chamber of Commerce.  He will continue to be assigned to the Family Division of the Circuit Court, and he is also assigned to hear appeals from lower courts, municipalities, and state agencies.  In 2013 Van Allsburg was appointed by the Michigan Supreme Court to serve as the 20th Circuit Business Court judge and he also serves as Vice President of the Michigan Judges Association.