District Judge Deborah Oakes Evans, 87th Judicial District, announced she will not run for re-election to a sixth term. Judge Evans was elected in November 2002, beginning her service on January 1, 2003. Her current term ends December 31, 2022. The 87th Judicial District is composed of Anderson, Leon, Freestone and Limestone Counties.
Upon election, Judge Evans became the first female District Judge in each of her four counties and the first Republican to serve in the 87th Judicial District.
Having run in a contested race in 2002, she has stood for election four subsequent times with no opponent.
“I feel very honored that the citizens in my four counties have placed their confidence in me for five terms. I have steadfastly tried to be a good judge, to make decisions based on what the facts are plus the law as I understand it and to do so fairly and promptly.”
“I also want to thank the citizens of Anderson, Limestone, Freestone and Leon counties for their support over the years. I have also been blessed to serve with many fine colleagues, both those on the bench, the employees and elected officials in all of my counties and the attorneys who practice before me. Additionally, I had a number of judicial mentors who were always willing to offer guidance and assistance to a new District Judge, including but not limited to former 87th Judicial District Judge Sam Bill Bournias, Judge Dick Black (77th Judicial District), Judge Bascom W Bentley (369th), Judge James M. Parsons (3rd), Judge Jerry Calhoon (349th), Judge Kenneth Keeling (278th), Judge William McAdams (12th) and Judge Donald l Kraemer (12th). Their guidance was invaluable.”
“Following my retirement as the current sitting judge of the 87th District, I intend to serve as a Senior District Judge, which will allow me to sit by assignment at different districts across the state.” Judge Evans will remain in office, serving the 87th District, until December 31, 2022. A new Judge will be elected in November 2022 and begin his or her term on January 1, 2023
