History has been made, as Circuit Judge Joeletta Barrentine became the first ever female circuit or district judge in the 198-year history of Walker County.

She was sworn in on Friday in the county seat of Jasper and now sits on the bench on Alabama’s Fourteenth Judicial Circuit, which covers Walker County.

“To the people of Walker County, I am grateful beyond measure for the confidence that you have placed in me,” said Barrentine before a socially-distanced crowd at the Community Health Building in downtown Jasper. “I pledge to you all to discharge the duties of my office to the best of my abilities. I will strive with all that I am and all that is within me to live up to your expectations.”

“The rule of law must always be followed,” she continued. “The oath that I have solemnly taken before y’all today means that I will do my job without any fear of intimidation, or favor. And I will rule in each case independently of my personal beliefs. The rule of law must always be followed.”

A Republican, Barrentine won a high-profile primary in March of last year. She then faced no opposition in November’s general election. The new judge was previously in private practice.

Also sworn in on Friday was presiding District Judge Henry Allred. A Republican, he was elected to a third term in 2020.

“I have two daughters, so it was very special to me and my family for me to be sworn in by Walker County’s first female judge,” commented Allred.

Sean Ross is the editor of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @sean_yhn