The retirement of longtime Judge Bradley Zell this past summer opens a new spot on the Second Circuit Court. Zell had served in the position for two decades.

Two local lawyers have stepped up to fill the vacancy. Both Doug Barnett and Eric Johnson have experience as prosecutors, and Johnson currently serves as a magistrate in the circuit.

Circuit Court judges in South Dakota stand for election every eight years. Voters in the circuit are eligible to vote. The Second Circuit includes Minnehaha and Lincoln counties.

The Dakota Scout asked both men about their backgrounds and what experiences they think would make them good judges.