Governor Rhoden Appoints Magistrate Judge Callahan as Fourth Circuit Judge
Gov. Larry Rhoden announced the appointment of Magistrate Judge Chad Callahan as a circuit judge in the Fourth Judicial Circuit, a vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Mike Day.
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release: April 24, 2026
Contact: Alisa Bousa, Public Information Officer, via email or 605.773.2031
PIERRE, S.D.—Gov. Larry Rhoden announced the appointment of Magistrate Judge Chad Callahan as a circuit court judge in the Fourth Judicial Circuit, a vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Michael W. Day.
“Judge Callahan is a man of integrity who communicates clearly, calmly and professionally,” said Gov. Rhoden. “I have no doubt that he will uphold the rule of law, show care to everyone in his courtroom, and keep our state strong, safe and free.”
Judge Callahan grew up in Johnstown, Pa. He graduated from the University of Pittsburgh Johnstown in 1994 with a bachelor’s degree in political science and graduated from Ohio Northern University in 1998 with a juris doctorate. Judge Callahan began his career in private practice and later served as a public defender in Pennington County. From 2013 to 2017, he served as an assistant attorney general under Attorney General Marty Jackley. He currently serves as a magistrate judge in the Fourth Judicial Circuit.
“I am truly honored and grateful that Governor Rhoden has chosen me. I will do my best to continue to earn his faith in me,” said Judge Callahan. “I’d also like to acknowledge the judge that I will replace, Michael Day, who has served the Fourth Circuit as an attorney since 1983 and as a circuit judge for the last 13 years. He will be greatly missed as he begins his well-earned retirement.”
The Fourth Judicial Circuit serves Butte, Corson, Dewey, Harding, Lawrence, Meade, Perkins and Ziebach counties.
View a photo of Judge Callahan.
—30—
About South Dakota Courts: The Unified Judicial System (UJS) consists of the Supreme Court, Circuit Courts and State Court Administrator’s Office. The Supreme Court is the state’s highest court and final decision maker on South Dakota law. The Circuit Courts are the state’s trial courts where criminal proceedings and civil litigation are handled. The State Court Administrator’s Office provides centralized administrative assistance and support services for the South Dakota judiciary. Learn about the Unified Judicial System.