Cohen: U.S. Senate Confirms Judge John Fowlkes

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Steve Cohen (D-TN-9) today announced that the U.S. Senate has voted to confirm Judge John Fowlkes to serve as District Court Judge for the Western District of Tennessee.  Congressman Cohen recommended Judge Fowlkes to President Obama.

“Judge John Fowlkes is a superb lawyer and judge,” said Congressman Cohen.  “I invited recommendations and advice from a cross section of respected members of the legal community including the Memphis Bar Association, the Ben Jones Chapter of the National Bar Association, the Trial Lawyers Association, the Women’s Bar Association, and others.  Everyone consulted had the highest praise for Judge Fowlkes’ legal acumen, unquestionable integrity and work ethic.  I commend President Obama for the fine choice he has made by appointing Judge Fowlkes.  President Obama has been diligent in appointing individuals who have stellar records and superior attributes, which is confirmed by his appointment of Judge Fowlkes.  Judge Fowlkes is highly intelligent, well-respected and admired throughout Memphis and Shelby County for his commitment to the law.  Judge Fowlkes has dedicated his life to public service and ensuring justice many years ago and will make a great District Court Judge for the Western District of Tennessee.  It was my pleasure to recommend him.  He will serve Memphis and the Western District of Tennessee well.”

Judge John Thomas Fowlkes, Jr. has been a judge of the Shelby County Criminal Court since 2007, where he presides over felony and misdemeanor criminal matters.  From 2002 to 2007, Judge Fowlkes was the Chief Administrative Officer for the Shelby County Government.  Previously, Judge Fowlkes served as an Assistant United States Attorney in the Western District of Tennessee from 1989 to 2002 and an Assistant District Attorney General in the Shelby County District Attorney General’s Office from 1979 to 1989.  He began his legal career as an Assistant Public Defender in the Shelby County Public Defender’s Office in Memphis, Tennessee.  Judge Fowlkes received his J.D. in 1977 from the University of Denver School of Law and his B.A. in 1975 from Valparaiso University.

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