Sean M. Tanko has been named as the probate commissioner for the Eighth Judicial District Court. He is expected to join the court by June. He replaces former Probate Commissioner Wesley Yamishita who retired in November 2021.
Tanko has more than 19 years of probate experience, including work as a sole proprietor of a law firm. His areas of practice include probate, estate planning, trust administration, and guardianship. He served as a pro tem probate commissioner for the district court for more than nine years. Tanko received a J.D. degree from Creighton University Law School in Omaha, Nebraska, and his undergraduate degree from Creighton University.
The probate commissioner is charged with hearing court matters pursuant to Nevada Revised Statutes, making findings of fact and conclusions of law. The commissioner also procures the attendance of witnesses by issuance of subpoenas, requires the production of evidence, takes evidence, and rules on its admissibility. The post also includes other responsibilities that contribute to the efficiency and effectiveness of service to those in probate cases.