Spokane County Superior Court Judge Neal Rielly announced today that he will retire from the bench in August.

Rielly, who served 15 years as a judge and 6 ½ years as a court commissioner, said he will step down Aug. 29.

“I’m really thrilled about it,” said Rielly, 66. “I want to take my life in a new direction. I don’t feel burned out, but I feel a younger person should take the helm.”

Rielly leaves two unfilled years on his term. Washington Governor Chris Gregoire will appoint someone to fill the term prior to the next election.

“It’s been a great time,” Rielly said. “I have truly loved it.”