The North Dakota Supreme Court made that decision following Judge John Grinsteiner plans to retire Aug. 20.

When a district judge leaves, the Supreme Court determines whether to keep the judgeship in the present location, move it elsewhere or abolish it. The decision is based on statewide caseload data and comments from interested parties including attorneys and judges.

Justices said the district has experienced a 23% population growth since 2000, and more than 80% of the population lives in Burleigh-Morton counties, the Bismarck Tribune reported. Caseload trends project felony filings to increase significantly this year.

“This Court determines the office is necessary for effective judicial administration in the South Central Judicial District,” justices said in their order.

The South Central Judicial District includes Burleigh, Emmons, Grant, McLean, Mercer, Morton, Oliver, Sioux and Sheridan counties. It has seven judges chambered in Bismarck, two judges in Mandan, and one judge in Washburn.