Idaho has received 84 applications so far from throughout the nation to replace former state courts Administrative Director Patti Tobias, who left this fall to take a position with the National Center for State Courts, Chief Justice Roger Burdick told lawmakers today in his annual “State of the Judiciary” address. Burdick said the state has benefited from continuing to work with Tobias on the ongoing implementation of the Justice Reinvestment Act through the state’s contract with her new employer.

While the search is on for Tobias’ replacement, Burdick said the court has formally appointed former Chief Justice Linda Copple Trout as interim administrative director, and Senior Judge Barry Wood as deputy director. “It is unprecedented in the nation to have a former chief justice come back to serve as administrative director,” Burdick said. “We are very grateful for her service. I can say without reservation both have the complete trust and backing of the Idaho judiciary.”