Gov. Mark Dayton will choose from three finalists for a seat on the Minnesota Court of Appeals from the 7th Congressional District.

The three, selected by the Commission on Judicial Selection, are vying for the seat that becomes vacant this summer when Judge Roger M. Klaphake reaches mandatory retirement.

The finalists are:

Heidi Davies,  the chief assistant Clay County attorney where she prosecutes criminal cases, including drugs, assaults and weapons cases. 

Judge Michael Kirk, a Seventh Judicial District Court judge since 1989, appointed by Gov. Rudy Perpich.

Judge Randall Slieter,  an Eighth Judicial District Court judge since 1994,when he was appointed by Gov. Arne Carlson.

Dayton will announce the selection after interviews are conducted over the next few weeks.