Judge Irvine has announced that effective December 31, 2011 he will leave the Court of Appeals, Division One and become of counsel to  the Phoenix law firm of Fennemore Craig. To read Judge Irvine’s letter to the Governor, click here. Judge Irvine was appointed to the appellate bench by Governor Jane Dee Hull in 2002.  Prior to his appointment he was with the Arizona Attorney General’s Office, serving as Solicitor General and Chief Counsel of the Tax Section.  His areas of expertise included state and local taxation, Indian law and appellate practice.  For more details concerning Judge Irvine’s distinguished career, click here.  

Judge Irvine’s departure creates a vacancy on the Division One bench, and individuals from Maricopa County interested in being considered for appointment must submit a detailed written application to the Appellate Court Commission.  That application and details concerning the application process can be obtained here.  The Commission has 60 days to investigate and interview qualified applicants and to submit nominations for Governor Brewer’s consideration.