Gibbons names Teuton judge

Gov. Jim Gibbons has named Robert Teuton to the seat vacated by retiring Clark County Family Court Judge Gerald Hardcastle.

Since judicial filings for this year's elections closed Jan. 18, Teuton will serve through the end of Hardcastle's term in December 2010.

Teuton is currently supervising attorney for the Clark County District Attorney's family support division, which includes 13 lawyers and a total of 250 staff.

Teuton was one of three appointees recommended by the Judicial Selection Commission. This vacant position was also the first where candidates were considered in an open forum by that commission.

Under Nevada law, the governor names his appointee from a list of three finalists presented by the commission. Gibbons described all three candidates as highly qualified.