Definition Russell N. Jordahl (1909–1982) was an American jurist who served as a Justice of the North Dakota Supreme Court from 1953 to 1964.
Overview Jordahl had a distinguished legal career in North Dakota, serving as a prosecutor and a district court judge before his appointment to the state's highest court. He was initially appointed to the Supreme Court to fill a vacancy and subsequently won election to retain his seat. During his tenure, he contributed to the body of North Dakota's jurisprudence through his participation in numerous appellate decisions.
Early Life and Education Russell N. Jordahl was born on February 18, 1909, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He pursued his legal education at the University of North Dakota School of Law, graduating in 1934.
Judicial Career After his graduation, Jordahl established a private law practice in Lakota, North Dakota. His public service career began when he was elected State's Attorney for Nelson County, serving from 1937 to 1941. He then served as a Judge of the District Court for the Second Judicial District from 1947 until 1953.
On September 1, 1953, Governor Norman Brunsdale appointed Jordahl to the North Dakota Supreme Court to fill a vacancy created by the resignation of Justice James Morris. He was subsequently elected by popular vote on November 2, 1954, to complete the unexpired term and was elected for a full ten-year term commencing January 1, 1955. Justice Jordahl served on the Supreme Court until his retirement on December 31, 1964.
Related Topics
- North Dakota Supreme Court
- Judiciary of North Dakota
- History of North Dakota Law