Yvonne Kauger’s interpretation of the law and the paths she’s blazed outside the courtroom have shaped the foundation of Oklahoma’s justice system for decades. When the 87-year-old retires Dec. 1, she’ll collectively be the longest serving Oklahoma Supreme Court justice and staff attorney.

After Justice Yvonne Kauger failed a retention vote Nov. 5, the state's Judicial Nominating Commission is accepting applications from those who want to be considered to fill her seat.

Yvonne Kauger’s interpretation of the law and the paths she’s blazed outside the courtroom have shaped the foundation of Oklahoma’s justice system for decades.

The search follows the Nov. 5 election when Justice Yvonne Kauger became the first Oklahoma Supreme Court justice to lose a retention vote.