
[co-author: Stephanie Kozol]*
On May 27, Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon announced the appointment of Ryan Schelhaas as interim attorney general (AG). Schelhaas succeeds AG Bridget Hill, who will join the Wyoming Supreme Court as its newest justice. Governor Mark Gordon has indicated he plans to nominate Schelhaas as the permanent replacement, enabling him to serve the remainder of the term as the state’s attorney general.
Schelhaas has served in the Wyoming AG’s office since 2003. He began his career as a tax litigator, representing the Wyoming Department of Revenue. His practice expanded over the years through representing a variety of state departments and boards, including the Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources, Military Department, and Livestock Board, among others.
In 2006, Schelhaas was promoted to section supervisor in the Civil Division. His leadership was further recognized in March 2015 when he was elevated to Civil Division deputy by former AG Peter Michael. Since 2019, Schelhaas has served as chief deputy AG, managing a range of legal, criminal, and civil matters under AG Bridget Hill.
Before joining the AG’s Office, Schelhaas practiced as a civil litigator at Hirst Applegate in Cheyenne. He holds a bachelor’s degree and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Wyoming.
Why This Matters
Schelhaas’ appointment is notable for his extensive institutional knowledge and decades-long tenure within the office.
*Senior Government Relations Manager