MADISONVILLE, KY – The Kentucky Courts of Justice announced that Governor Steve Beshear has appointed a Madisonville Attorney to a District Court Judgeship. William R. Whitledge, 68 year old, was appointed to fill the seat vacated by Judge Rob Soder who retired to serve on the State Senior Judge Program.

Whitledge's name was submitted last month for consideration by the Governor.  A local committee submitted Whitledge's name along with the names of two other attorney's.  Attorney's Kimberly Gilliam and Christopher were also considered for the position.  The committee consisted of local attorney's Charles Franklin and Keith Cartwright along with Sue Kyle, Carol Ligon, Larry Oglesby, and Chris Crowley.

Whitledge has practiced law for 42 years.  He graduated with his undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Kentucky, graduating from U.K. in 1967.  He is also former President of the Hopkins County Bar Association, and was chosen by former Governor Paul Patton to serve as the commissioner of the Mine Safety Review Commission in 2002.

After attending a one day session in Frankfort, he will begin serving the Hopkins County District Court Bench.

Following this term, Whitledge plans to run for the seat in next year's election.

Information provided to iSurf by Kentucky Office of the Courts

Tim Moore, News Director – iSurf News