Document - Judicial Selection in the States

Judicial Biographies
District 3A
Donald J. Bormann
District Associate Judge
Year of Appointment: 2000
Background and Education:
Judge Bormann was born and
raised in Emmetsburg, Iowa. He
received his bachelor’s degree
from the University of South
Dakota in 1964, and also his law
degree from the University of
South Dakota in 1966. He was
Editor-in-Chief of the South
Dakota Law Review from 1965
through 1966.
Career: After graduation from law school, Judge Bormann
clerked for Federal Judge Axel J. Beck in Aberdeen, South
Dakota He then worked in Legal Aid on the Rosebud
Indian Reservation in Mission, South Dakota. Judge
Bormann returned to Emmetsburg and entered general
private practice with Joseph Hanson, Les Pritchard,
and John F. Doran. Judge Bormann remained in private
practice for the next 32 years until being appointed
district associate judge.
Community Activities: During his general private practice
years, Judge Bormann was involved in Kiwanis, St. Pat’s
Association, Emmetsburg Jaycees, Emmetsburg Little
E-Hawk Wrestling Club, and Emmetsburg E-Hawk Booster
Club. For approximately 25 years, Judge Bormann was on
the board of directors of Horizons Unlimited.
Professional Activities: Judge Bormann was in charge of
the presentations of the American Bar Citizenship Awards
in Palo Alto County until his appointment. He is a member
of the Palo Alto County, Iowa State, and American Bar
Associations, and the Iowa Judges Association.
Family: Judge Bormann is married and has three children.
24 Voter Information