Jennifer Nelson officially kicked off her campaign for District Court Judge this week by announcing the launch of her website and social media.
Nelson was the first candidate to officially file in November. She is seeking election for the 56th Circuit, District Court, Division 1, which includes Caldwell, Livingston, Lyon and Trigg counties. The seat is currently held by Judge James Redd of Trigg County, who has filed his intent to run for Circuit Court Judge with the expiring term of retiring Judge C.A. “Woody” Woodall, III.
According to a release, Nelson was born in Paducah and moved to Princeton in 2008. She received her law degree from the University of Louisville in 2005 and her undergraduate degree from Murray State University in 2000. She is married to Adam Brooks, of Benton.
Nelson’s private practice encompasses all areas of domestic relations, guardianship issues and cases involving children and families. The release says she recently argued before the Kentucky Supreme Court supporting the rights of “non-biological” fathers.
Nelson says she loves being a lawyer. She went on to say she has never run for office because she never wanted to do anything else. Nelson adds she sees this as an opportunity to serve the communities and the individuals and families directly impacted by the Courts.
Nelson has reportedly been active in the foster care system as a foster parent and training volunteer. She has three children, ages 7, 11 and 12, and is a proud supporter of the Special Olympics.
Judicial races in Kentucky are non-partisan races, however, two other candidates — Matt Schalk and Brandon Knoth — have filed for the seat requiring a primary in May. The top two vote-getters will appear on the ballot in the General Election in November.
