Governor Kay Ivey on Wednesday announced the appointment of Judge Benjamin Bowden to the Alabama Court of Civil Appeals.
Bowden has held the position of Circuit Judge of the 22nd Judicial Circuit in Covington County since his election in 2016. Previously, Bowden served as Probate Judge of Covington County from 2008 until 2016.
Bowden has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Alabama and a juris doctor from the University of Alabama School of Law. Bowden received his officer’s commission through the U.S. Air Force ROTC program. Upon graduation in 1992, he entered the U.S. Air Force Judge Advocate General’s Corps, serving at Bitburg Air Base, Germany, and Aviano Air Base, Italy.
After leaving active duty in 1997, Bowden joined the Andalusia law firm of Albrittons, Clifton, Alverson, Moody & Bowden, P.C. He had a general litigation practice while also serving as the municipal prosecutor for the City of Andalusia and as an Assistant District Attorney. He successfully prosecuted two capital murder cases, one of which was the longest jury trial in the history of Covington County.
Bowden was mentioned in an ongoing civil lawsuit by Byron Mathews against the trustees of the Mabel Amos Memorial Fund. The lawsuit claims scholarships from the fund went to Bowden’s daughter to attend Southern Methodist University based on “favoritism, not financial need.”
“Judge Bowden’s impressive record as a legal scholar is matched by his exemplary performance as an attorney, prosecutor and judge. He has steadfastly demonstrated a dedication to justice and fairness under the law. I have the utmost confidence that he will serve with the highest integrity,” Ivey said.
Bowden will fill the vacancy on the Alabama Court of Civil Appeals left by Bill Lewis. Ivey appointed Lewis to the Alabama Supreme Court on Tuesday following Justice Jay Mitchell's resignation.
“I am humbled by the confidence Governor Ivey has shown in allowing me to serve on the Alabama Court of Civil Appeals,” Bowden said. “Angie and I are thrilled at this new opportunity. I’m a public servant at heart, and I look forward to serving the people of Alabama in this important and exciting way. Can’t wait to get started!”
Bowden remained a member of the Air Force Reserves until his retirement in 2023 with the rank of Colonel. Bowden’s appointment is effective immediately.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email [email protected].
Don't miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning.
