Attorney General Marty Jackley plans to return to private practice after finishing his term as the state’s chief lawyer and law enforcement officer, the law firm he’s rejoining announced Tuesday.
Jackley will become a partner at Gunderson, Palmer, Nelson and Ashmore, LLP, in January at the firm’s new location in Pierre. The Republican attorney general was previously a partner at the firm before being nominated in 2006 as U.S. attorney for South Dakota.
Jackley has served as state attorney general since 2009, and his final term is set to wrap up in January. The high-profile office takes on the state’s top legal cases and has served as a frequent springboard for gubernatorial hopefuls. Jackley unsuccessfully ran for governor this year, falling short in the Republican primary to Gov.-elect Kristi Noem.
Jackley capped his time as attorney general with a high-profile victory at the U.S. Supreme Court, which sided with South Dakota in a June ruling allowing states to force online shoppers to pay sales tax. Supporters called it a victory for the state and Main Street businesses.
David Lust, a partner at the law firm, said in a statement that Jackley has distinguished himself in public service. Jackley said in the statement that returning to the firm will give him the chance to continue what he has enjoyed in private practice and public office: serving South Dakota residents.
Jackley told The Associated Press that he would like to serve clients’ needs in business transactions and litigation, working in areas including construction, agriculture and real estate.
“It’s a good opportunity,” Jackley said. “Obviously, I’m going to miss public service, but I’ll have that opportunity to continue to still serve clients in the state and be active.”
Jackley said he isn’t ruling out future political opportunities, but has no immediate plans to re-enter politics. He said his focus will be on helping elect good candidates and serving his clients’ needs. State law prohibits Jackley from lobbying in South Dakota for two years after leaving office.
