HINTON, W.Va. – A new judge, prosecutor and returning prosecutor were sworn into office in Hinton on Monday.
Judge Amy Mann was sworn in as the next circuit court judge for the 30th Judicial Circuit which includes Summers and Monroe counties.
Mann served as an assistant prosecutor in Summers County for ten years, she was also a lawyer for her father’s firm Mann and Mann for fifteen years.
“I’m sure that I will have a lot to learn and so that’ exciting. I’m 61 and a lot of people at 61 are thinking about retiring and I’m taking on a whole new career so I’m really looking forward to that,” said Mann.
Mann is replacing the retiring Judge Robert Irons. After swearing Mann in, Irons gave Mann his gavel and also a bench book full of advice. Mann says she never aspired to be a judge but says she hopes to follow in Judge Irons’ foot steps.
“I hope to be a humble judge, an honest judge, a fair judge and a hard working judge,” said Mann.
A new top prosecutor for Summers County was also sworn in alongside Mann. Former Summers County Assistant Prosecutor, Chris Lefler is Summers County’s new prosecuting attorney. Lefler also worked as an assistant prosecutor in Raleigh County.
“I’ve worked under great attorneys my entire career and many prosecutors. I think it’s a natural progression. Eventually you’re ready to assume the role and take on the main role of an elected official,” said Lefler.
Lefler also has experience as a private attorney.
Former Prosecuting Attorney, Kristin Cook did not seek re-election and ran for circuit court judge but lost to Mann. She will return to the prosecuting attorney’s office as an assistant prosecutor.
Returning prosecuting attorney for Monroe County, Justin St. Clair was also sworn in alongside Mann and Lefler.
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