Former ADA Robert Bryan Jones sworn in as circuit judge serving Dallas, Perry, Wilcox, Hale and Bibb counties

Robert Bryan Jones was sworn in as the new circuit judge for the 4^th judicial circuit on Feb. 28, replacing retiring Judge Collins Pettaway Jr.

Jones, who had worked in the district attorney’s office for 12 years, was appointed by Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey. The 4^th circuit serves Dallas, Wilcox, Perry, Hale and Bibb counties.

“I will not let you down,” Jones said after taking the oath of office. “And I will not let this community or this circuit down.”

Jones recalled victims, grieving families and even defendants whose lives were forever changed by the decisions made in courtrooms across the circuit. He emphasized that communities must work together to address the deeper issues that lead to crime.

“We’ve got to get God back in our communities,” Jones said. “That’s the only way things are going to change.”

Jones thanked his family for their support, especially his wife, who managed the home and raised their children while he attended law school at night and worked long hours as a prosecutor.

Before administering the oath, retiring Judge Pettaway, whose health struggles with advanced stage diabetes and kidney failure are well known throughout the circuit, spoke warmly of his successor. Pettaway urged Jones to stay grounded, avoid creating errors and rely on faith when the law alone does not provide clarity. He presented Jones with his personal Bible, calling it a gift that had guided him through his own years on the bench.

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District Attorney Robert Turner Jr. described Jones as a prosecutor who carried heavy caseloads without complaint. He said that Jones’ character, not ambition, defined his service.

“The role does not create your character,” Turner said. “Your role reveals your character.”

Turner also noted Jones’ loyalty to the mission of justice and his ability to handle difficult cases with fairness and steadiness. He expressed confidence that Jones would bring the same qualities to the bench.

Judge Don McMillan noted that Jones’s experience officiating sports would serve him well on the bench.

“Remember that you’re the referee,” McMillan said. “Call the balls and strikes. Keep the parties inside the lines. And listen to your wife when she tells you not to do anything wrong.”

Selma attorney and State Bar President-Elect Jana Garner spoke of the judiciary’s essential role in the fabric of American life and praised the circuit’s long tradition of strong judges. She described Jones as a natural fit for the position, someone whose temperament and integrity have been evident both in the courtroom and in the community.