Judge Kim Wanker’s Professional Career
On May 24, 2011, Judge Kimberly A. (“Kim”) Wanker was appointed to the Fifth Judicial District Court, Department 1, by Governor Brian Sandoval, after the passing of long time Fifth Judicial District Judge John P. Davis. Judge Wanker is the first rural female District Court Judge in Nevada. Judge Wanker assumed her role as District Court Judge July 1, 2011.
Kim was born in Kansas and lived there until she was five, when her family relocated to Scottsbluff, Nebraska. She attended the Scottsbluff Public School System from first grade through high school, graduating from Scottsbluff Senior High School as class co-valedictorian.
She continued her education at Nebraska Western College (now Western Nebraska Community College), then earned additional degrees at the University of Nebraska and the University of Nebraska College of Law.
During college, Kim worked as both a Page and a Legislative Research Intern for the Nebraska Legislature - the only unicameral legislature in the United States. At the University of Nebraska, she achieved membership in Phi Beta Kappa after graduating with a perfect 4.0 GPA. Kim completed law school with Distinction and actively participated in numerous activities.
Kim’s Educational Background
Kim began practicing law in Colorado in 1987, then moved to Nevada in August 1989. She joined Gordon & Silver, Ltd. in Las Vegas and remained there until January 1995. Afterward, Kim founded her own firm, Kimberly A. Wanker, Ltd., working independently until being appointed to the bench on July 1, 2011.
She also served part-time as General Counsel for a construction company, overseeing its self-insured workers’ compensation program. Kim’s private practice primarily focused on representing businesses and public employers in employment law and litigation throughout Nevada and Colorado.
Kim has also represented clients before the United States District Courts for Nevada and Colorado, as well as the Ninth and Tenth Circuit Courts of Appeals.
Kim’s Legal Career
Judge Kim Wanker in the Spotlight
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Judge Kim Wanker's unique career and dedication to justice have earned recognition beyond the courtroom.
Her story has been featured in national media, highlighting her commitment to fairness, integrity, and service to the people of Nevada.
FEATURED FILM
The Hammer
A LIFETIME ORIGINAL MOVIE
In 2023, Judge Kim Wanker's remarkable journey inspired the Lifetime Original Movie The Hammer, starring Reba McEntire as Judge Kim.
The film tells the story of a respected Nevada judge known for her toughness, fairness, and unwavering commitment to justice.
Drawing inspiration from real events and Judge Wanker's experiences on the bench, The Hammer introduced her story to audiences nationwide.
FEATURED PUBLICATION
Pahrump Life Magazine
PAHRUMP LIFE MAGAZINE SEPT/OCT 2023
Judge Wanker has been featured in regional and national publications recognizing her accomplishments as Nevada's first rural female District Court Judge, her leadership in the courtroom, and her continued service to the communities of Nye and Esmeralda Counties.
My career has always been guided by a commitment to fairness, integrity, and the rule of law. It is the honor of my life to serve the people of Nye and Esmeralda Counties as their District Court Judge.
— Judge Kim Wanker
