News Item

Today, Governor Mark Dayton announced the appointment of Mr. Michael D. Wentzell as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. Mr. Wentzell will be replacing the Honorable Phillip T. Kanning, who retired earlier this year. The judgeship will be chambered at Chaska in Carver County.

“Michael Wentzell is an accomplished attorney and an exemplary public servant,” said Governor Mark Dayton. “Mr. Wentzell’s commitment to justice, ethics, and service make him the ideal candidate to serve the First District. I am confident he will carry out the responsibilities of this new role with honor and distinction.”

Wentzell serves as Chief Deputy Carver County Attorney, where he oversees office operations in relation to directing criminal, civil, and juvenile legal services. He previously worked as an Assistant Carver County Attorney and as an Associate Attorney with the law firm of Collins, Buckley, Sauntry, & Haugh, where he engaged in the general practice of law, including extensive work in family law. Mr. Wentzell received his B.A. with highest honors from Concordia College in Moorhead, MN, and received his J.D. with honors from the University of Minnesota Law School.

Additionally, Wentzell is actively involved with the Sexual Assault Interagency Council, Carver County Justice Advisory Council, Chaska Rotary Club, and is a former Professional Responsibility Ethics Investigator.