ST. PAUL — The state is looking for applicants to fill a judge vacancy in southeast Minnesota.

The Commission on Judicial Selection announced the vacancy in Houston County, part of the Third Judicial District, earlier this week as Judge James A. Fabian is retiring. Mower County is also part of the Third Judicial District.

The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. The following qualities will be considered for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The application process is now open for this vacancy.

Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by writing to commission chair Lee E. Sheehy at 116 Veterans Service Building, 20 West 12th Street, St. Paul, MN 55155, or by contacting Andrew Olson, deputy director of appointments, at atandrew.c.olson@state.mn.us.

A cover letter and resume should also be submitted with the application. Application materials are due by close of business on Monday, April 13, 2015.

Interviews are scheduled to be held on Friday, May 1 at the Winona County Courthouse.