Clay County State’s Attorney Phillip Givens has officially announced his Republican candidacy for the at-large judgeship in the 4th Judicial Circuit for the 2026 election. This position has become available following the retirement of Judge Douglas Jarman in January.
Givens emphasizes that, as the current Clay County State’s Attorney, he has dedicated his career to upholding justice, protecting communities, and ensuring the law is applied fairly and consistently. A proud Southern Illinois native, Givens graduated from Gallatin County High School in 2004 before earning his bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois and his law degree from Southern Illinois University Carbondale School of Law in 2016. He became a licensed attorney that same year and has been guided by the values of hard work, perseverance, and service.
Since 2022, Givens and his family have made the 4th Judicial Circuit their home. He married in 2018, and together with his wife, they are raising three children.
Givens is running for judge because he believes in fairness, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to the rule of law.
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