Press Release - Office of the Governor

Murkowski Names Deputy AG Scott Nordstrand as Acting AG

February 9, 2005

(Juneau) - Governor Frank H. Murkowski today announced the appointment of Scott J. Nordstrand as Acting Attorney General effective February 11, 2005.

Nordstrand, currently the Deputy Attorney General overseeing the Department of Law's Civil Division, will fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Attorney General Gregg Renkes.

"Scott Nordstrand has solid legal credentials earned through nearly 18 years of private and public service in Alaska," said Murkowski. "Scott provides leadership and continuity to the department as it continues its important work serving Alaskans."

Prior to joining the Department of Law in January 2003, Nordstrand was a civil litigator and partner in the Anchorage law firm, Owens & Turner, P.C. His private practice focused on trial, appellate and administrative advocacy in employment relations, commercial disputes and personal injury matters.

As Deputy Attorney General, Nordstrand supervised over 135 attorneys and their staff in the Civil Division of the Department of Law. The Civil Division represents the state in all civil legal matters.

"I am grateful and honored that the Governor has given me the opportunity to lead the Department of Law during this transition. As Deputy Attorney General and part of the Attorney General's management team, I know and respect the skilled and dedicated professionals in the civil and criminal divisions of the department," said Nordstrand. "I recognize the enormous responsibility of this office and I am confident that the Department of Law will continue to provide the highest level of legal services to the state."

Nordstrand received his law degree from the University of North Dakota in 1987. In addition to his legal work he has served as an officer and director of the Mabel T. Caverly Senior Center in Anchorage and the Friends of Independence Mine Foundation, supporting restoration efforts at the historic state park in Palmer.

Chief Assistant Attorney General and legislative liaison David W. Marquez has been named Acting Deputy Attorney General for the Civil Division.

For additional information on the appointment, contact: Mark Morones at 269-6393.

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Department Media Contacts: Communications Director Patty Sullivan at patty.sullivan@alaska.gov or (907) 269-6368. Information Officer Sam Curtis at sam.curtis@alaska.gov or (907) 269-6269.