A solid state circuit-breaker switch has a first solid state switch coupled to a positive terminal of a high voltage source, a second solid state switch coupled to a return terminal of the high voltage source, and a diode connected between the switches. A load is coupled between the switches and in parallel with the diode such that voltage transients across the load are limited during turn of conditions. Related methods of operating the switch during turn-on and turn-off events within rated current operation are described, as are turn-on and turn-off events in overload conditions.