Florence Municipal Judge Ben Graves Announces Candidacy for Circuit Judge

by Staff June 4, 2015

written by Staff June 4, 2015 1 comment

FLORENCE– Florence Municipal Judge Ben Graves has announced his candidacy for Circuit Judge as a Republican against the incumbent Democrat, Billy Jackson. Ben Graves and his wife Mindy Goodwin Graves, are both Florence natives, and have three children – Charlie, Ann Hensley, and Jane Ellis. A graduate of the University of North Alabama and the University of Alabama School of Law, Judge Graves’ background includes a diverse history in both law and business. He grew up working here in Lauderdale County for his grandfather’s company, Hensley Properties, before going off to law school. Judge Graves’ decision to run for Circuit Judge comes from a desire to serve the community that raised him and to make a real difference in the lives of Lauderdale County residents.
In the upcoming months, Judge Graves will be traveling throughout Lauderdale County, meeting with voters and talking to them about his background and his vision for the Circuit Court. The Republican Primary election will take place on March 1st, 2016.
The Circuit Court is a state trial court that hears both civil and criminal cases. They deal with civil claims of $3,000 or more, as well as most felony crimes. They also hear cases that have been appealed from the District Court. Circuit Judges serve for terms of 6 years.