Jamie Brooks is running to keep chancellor seat
Since April 2023, thoug, he has served as judge of the Anderson County Chancery Court.
Brooks was appointed to the post Tennesse Gov. Bill Lee.
He is currently filling the vacancy created by the resignation of Nichole Cantrell.
In Tennessee, the process to appoint judges to fill a vacancy is thorough, he said.
Brooks and his three opponents in the coming election each applied to fill the vacancy.
Under the rules, the Trial Court Vacancy Commission interviews the candidates in a public forum and submits its recommendation to the governor.
Then, the governor makes the selection after a review of resumes, personal interviews, and community support.
“Jamie is a highly qualified attorney who will bring significant legal experience to the Seventh Judicial District,” Lee said. “I appreciate his leadership and am confident he will serve Tennesseans with integrity.”
Since being appointed, Brooks said, he has gotten the docket back in order – disposing of more than 1,100 cases in just a few months.
Now he is turning some of his attention toward the campaign trail, where he will seek the Republican nomination to be able to continue his work, he said.
Integrity and experience are two areas of focus for Brooks’ campaign.
“Nothing prepares you for the position of chancellor like experience,” he said. “My 37 years practicing law have laid a great foundation for the work that needs to be done. I’m grateful for Gov. Lee’s confidence in my experience.”
After graduating from law school at the University of Tennessee in 1985, Brooks went into private practice with James Frank Wilson at Wilson & Brooks P.C.
After Wilson retired, Brooks continued in practice until his appointment by the governor.
He said he has handled thousands of cases in Chancery Court.
“Chancery Court is vital to our citizens,” Brooks said.
“This court handles family law matters such as adoptions, orders of protection, child support, child custody and divorce.
“Additionally, [it handles] all estate matters and contract and real property disputes,” he said.
“The experience and temperament of the judge who hears those cases matters,” Brooks said.
“With so much riding on the outcomes, you don’t want a judge who doesn’t have the experience of dealing with these types of complex cases.”
With the Republican primary quickly approaching on March 5, Brooks said he is working hard to earn the support of voters across the county.
Whether knocking on doors or participating in parades and other community events, Brooks said he is enjoying the process.
“I’m not a politician who has been out here planning a political future,” he said. “I enjoy serving, and believe I have the experience to do the job well.
“At the end of the day, as chancellor, I simply pledge to listen courteously, be attentive, consider thoughtfully, and uphold the law.”
See more about Brooks at chancellorjamiebrooks.com.