GIVENS RUNNING FOR JUDGE

2/24/25

Clay County States Attorney Phillip Givens announced he is running for Resident Judge of the Fourth Judicial Circuit in the 2026 election.

Givens says he has dedicated his career to upholding justice, protecting our communities, and ensuring the law is applied fairly and consistently.  He was raised with the values of hard work, perseverance, and service.  A proud Southern Illinois native, he graduated from Gallatin County High School in 2004 before earning his bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois in 2008.

Givens says a judge must possess the highest qualities of fairness, firmness, and impartiality to uphold justice in all areas of the law.  Judges serve as neutral authorities in the courtroom, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to be heard and that the law is applied with integrity and consistency.

Givens said that his experience spans across multiple roles, including serving as a Public Defender, private civil attorney, Assistant State’s Attorney, Assistant Attorney General, and now, as Clay County State’s Attorney.  This well-rounded perspective has given him invaluable insight into the legal system from every angle.  A judge must not only make decisions but also understand the reasoning behind each argument.  Our Circuit deserves a judge who understands the challenges, concerns, and viewpoints of those who come before the court.