female justice serving : Mary Muehlen Maring ( 1996-2013 ), Carol Ronning Kapsner ( 1998-2017 ), and myself ( 2014-present ). We planned a trip to visit Justice Levine in May 2020 , hoping to have a portrait done with all four of us . Unfortunately , we cancelled the trip due to COVID-19 and could not reschedule it before her passing .
I count it a personal honor to have followed and been inspired by Justice Levine and other women who have gone before me . I remember being in awe of Justice Levine when I appeared before the Court and when meeting her during the Court ’ s annual trips to the Law School . I felt her presence wearing her robe for my Supreme Court investiture . She was a devout advocate for juvenile justice and gender equity . With humility and pride , I strive to continue her work in a manner worthy of her early efforts . She unselfishly gave her time , intellect , and leadership to improve the world around her . I am regularly reminded during my commute between my home in West Fargo and Bismarck of the personal sacrifices she made to serve on the Court .
Women who are the first to do something are commonly described as breaking the glass ceiling . I see it slightly differently . Justice Levine was like a trailblazer who cut a path through the tall grass , making the way easier for me and others to follow . This role was reflected in her receiving the prestigious Margaret Brent Award in 1996 , given by the American Bar Association Commission on Women for her professional excellence and paving the way for other women in the profession .
Undoubtedly , this short article is not enough to recognize Justice Levine . I urge other groups to honor her contributions . I am pleased to announce a conference room at the Court will be named in her honor .
Recently , the State Bar Association of North Dakota ( SBAND ) Women ’ s Law Section unanimously voted to recommend an award named after her . While the criteria has not yet been established , I hope an award is approved to recognize her distinguished legacy . After all , SBAND ’ s visual icon is Lady Justice .
1 . Since 1985 , 25 women have been appointed or elected to district judgeships .
Justice Levine swearing in new attorneys to the State Bar .
Justice Levine was the first woman on the North Dakota Supreme Court , serving 11 years and one month on the Court .
DO YOU NEED an expert investigator ? Investigative assistance ?
FRANCIS W . GASPER , founder of Gasper Investigations , LLC is an award winning retired FBI Agent , attorney and licensed private investigator located in North Dakota , who specializes in working with attorneys to prepare and engage in complex litigation ; clients include corporations and banks addressing fraud , employee malfeasance as well as background reviews .
HIGHLY SKILLED AT CONDUCTING :
• Comprehensive research
• Reviewing large amounts of financial records and data
• Identifying , locating , and interviewing witnesses
• Gathering and summarizing admissible documentary evidence
• Asset searches
CONTACT :
Francis W . Gasper Gasperinvestigations . com frank @ gasperinvestigations . com ( 914 ) 584-2225
Private Investigator ND # 588 , MN # 2321 , IL # 115002658 , NY # 1100221129 , Member of NY Bar
SUMMER 2022 19