Experience & Qualifications
Trial Court Administrator for the First Judicial District of Idaho
Oversees the efficient operation of the court system through operation management, budgets, and multi-tiered government networking.
Lead Private Attorney in Schwartz Law - Wallace Office
Provided comprehensive legal representation in criminal and civil litigation, establishing a reputation for integrity and deep courtroom proficiency.
Deputy Public Defender for Kootenai County
Managing high-volume district court dockets and ensuring the efficient and strategic administration of justice through constitutional adherence and legal analysis.
Deputy Prosecuting Attorney for the City of Post Falls
Prosecuting criminal cases, with an emphasis on domestic violence, advocating for the safety and security of families within the city of Post Falls.
LOCAL TRUST
An 18-year legacy of legal service for the community.
"I support Lisa for District Judge because she is well versed in criminal law from both the prosecution and defense perspective. She will be a quick study in areas she may be less familiar with. Most importantly, she has the even demeanor to be an excellent jurist who will treat all parties fairly."
— Joel Hazel, in-house counsel and former member of the Idaho Judicial Council
“Lisa treated my case, and my family, with respect and patience. She made a difficult process understandable and never lost sight of the people involved.”
— Cristine Steckman
"As a colleague in the same legal office, Lisa was well prepared, competent, and attentive to her clients' needs. Her experience as a trial attorney, her knowledge of the law, and her role as the Trial Court Administrator gives her the perspective the First District needs to maintain civility and the rule of law."
— Jeanne Howe, private attorney
"I am proud to support my friend Lisa Chesebro for District Judge. I've known Lisa for more then 10 years and during that time I've seen her integrity, compassion, and deep commitment to fariness. Lisa has the knowledge and judgment our courts need and I have no doubt she will serve our communities with professionalism, fariness, and respect."
— Heather Hoy, director of non-profit programs
"I needed Lisa's help once. I will say she is very competent, professional, and down to earth. In my case she stood up for what was right and prevailed in the end. I believe she is a person of honorable character."
— David Bruce
Lisa. A Choice for Experience.
Lisa Chesebro is a dedicated legal professional with more than 18 years of experience serving Idaho’s justice system as a prosecutor, defense attorney, and court administrator. Raised on a small farm in northeastern Washington, she grew up with a deep appreciation for hard work, resilience, and community—values that continue to guide her approach to the law and public service.
Lisa earned her Juris Doctor, summa cum laude, from the University of Idaho College of Law, balancing the demands of school with raising her young son and managing significant financial challenges. These early experiences instilled in her a deep sense of responsibility, empathy, and commitment to fairness—qualities that have shaped her legal career.
She began her practice in southern Idaho with a private firm representing indigent individuals facing criminal charges. Through this work, Lisa saw firsthand the profound impact court decisions have on individuals and families. She developed a strong belief in the necessity of an impartial, accessible judiciary that treats all people with dignity and respect.
Over the course of her career, Lisa has worked on both sides of the criminal justice system, serving as a prosecutor and a defense attorney. She also ran a small law office in Wallace, gaining the perspective of a rural practitioner and an intimate understanding of the issues facing Shoshone County and surrounding communities. Colleagues consistently describe her as practical, solutions-oriented, and grounded in thoughtful, steady judgment.
Lisa currently serves as the Trial Court Administrator for Idaho’s First Judicial District. In this role, she works closely with judges, court staff, and justice partners to support efficient court operations and improve access to justice for the public. She also serves on the Board of the First District Bar Association, where she contributes to strengthening and supporting the legal profession.
In 2021, Lisa moved to the Silver Valley after meeting her husband, Pete Garner, and quickly became part of the mining community that shapes the region. Her son graduated from Kellogg High School after wrestling for the Wildcats, further deepening her ties to Silver Valley families, schools, and community life.
Lisa believes courts must remain fair, impartial, and rooted in the communities they serve. She is committed to ensuring that every person who comes before the court is heard, treated with dignity, and able to trust in a fair and thoughtful judicial process. Her extensive legal experience, balanced perspective, and proven leadership have prepared her to serve Shoshone County with integrity, professionalism, and respect for the rule of law.
EXPERIENCE • INTEGRITY • COMMUNITY