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HELENA, Mont. (AP) The state Supreme Court has rejected a petition against Yellowstone County's five District Court judges by Clerk Laura Brent.

A panel of five justices signed an order Tuesday dismissing Brent's request for a writ of prohibition against the judges. Brent filed for the writ in October, saying she felt the judges were threatening to hold her in contempt.

In November 2007, the judges issued 11 orders to Brent demanding changes in the operation of her office. The judges said there was disorganization and a lack of communication between their offices and the clerk's office.

In the order Tuesday, the justices said Brent's request was moot because a new clerk has been elected, and last month the judges assured Brent in sworn affidavits that they would not hold in her contempt during her remaining time in office.

Information from: Billings Gazette, http://www.billingsgazette.com (Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 12-26-08 1905CST | save this article / add to your favorites list