In February, Gov. Phil Bredesen appointed Ginger Wilson Buchanan to fill the vacancy created by Judge John Hagler's retirement. Judge Buchanan immediately began serving as Circuit Court Judge for the Tennessee Circuit Court's 10th Judicial District. For the "official" swearing in, Gov. Bredesen will travel to Cleveland on Tuesday.
At the time of her appointment, Gov. Bredesen said he was "pleased to appoint Ginger to this seat," and appreciated "her willingness to serve her community in this capacity."
After the appointment, Judge Buchanan was sworn in during a private family ceremony and has been presiding over cases since that time.
Officials said the governor had been unable to travel to Cleveland for the investiture ceremony until this date due to the legislative session and state budgetary issues.
Judge Buchanan had been in private practice in Cleveland since 1995. She graduated from the University of Tennessee School of Law in 1995.
She also served as a Bradley County Commissioner from 2003 to 2006 and has acted as Bradley County's attorney in planning, engineering and building inspections.
Since 1996, she has participated in the Legal Aid Pro Bono program, which provides legal services at no cost to individuals in need. She is currently an active member of the Rotary Club of Cleveland and attends First United Methodist Church.
Judge Buchanan resides in Cleveland with her husband, John, and their two daughters.
The formal swearing in ceremony will be conducted at 4 p.m. on Tuesday on the second floor of the Bradley County Courthouse.
Friends, family, and supporters from the 10th Judicial District are invited to join Judge Buchanan and Gov. Bredesen for the special event.