Justice Robyn Brody will assume the role of chief justice of the Idaho Supreme Court on October 1, 2026, marking a significant transition in Idaho’s highest court. Brody, currently serving as vice chief justice, will become only the second woman to lead the state’s judicial system since the position was established. The Idaho Judicial Branch announced the decision Thursday following a majority vote by sitting justices, as required by the Idaho Constitution.
Brody will succeed Chief Justice G. Richard Bevan, who announced his retirement effective October 30, 2026. Bevan has served in the chief justice role since 2021.
Background and Experience
Brody was first elected to the Idaho Supreme Court in 2016 and brings nearly three decades of legal experience to the position. She established her own law firm in Rupert in 2010 and has served as an adjunct professor at the University of Idaho’s College of Law. Beyond her judicial duties, Brody chairs Idaho’s Pro Bono Commission and leads the Idaho Supreme Court’s Language Access Committee. She also serves on the board of the Idaho Law Foundation.
Linda Copple Trout holds the distinction of being Idaho’s first female chief justice, having assumed that role in 1997.
Role of Idaho’s Chief Justice
As chief justice, Brody will serve as the executive head of Idaho’s entire court system and preside over the state’s highest judicial body. The position carries significant administrative responsibilities and a ceremonial duty: the chief justice traditionally delivers an annual address to the Idaho Legislature.
In a statement, Brody told the Coeur d’Alene Press, “I am honored to serve our state in this way, and I am grateful for the trust of my fellow justices.” Bevan expressed confidence in the transition, noting that “Our Judicial Branch is in excellent hands.”
The chief justice position is filled through a majority vote of the sitting justices, a process outlined in the Idaho Constitution. This governance structure reflects the state’s commitment to judicial independence and collegial decision-making at the appellate level.
Brody’s appointment underscores the evolving composition of Idaho’s judiciary and comes at a time when courts across the state continue to manage caseloads while navigating issues related to court administration and access to justice—areas to which her work on language access and pro bono service speak directly.