Justice David K. Overstreet and the Illinois Supreme Court have announced the appointment of Brian Shinkle as a Resident Circuit Judge for Edwards County in the Second Judicial Circuit.
Mr. Shinkle was appointed to fill the Second Circuit vacancy created by the death of Judge Michael J. Valentine on November 5, 2024. The appointment of Mr. Shinkle is effective February 10, 2025, and will conclude on December 7, 2026, following the November 2026 general election. “It was an honor to nominate Brian Shinkle to fill the role of Resident Circuit Judge in Edwards County,” Justice Overstreet said. “Without hesitation the Justices of the Illinois Supreme Court confirmed Mr. Shinkle during January Term. Mr. Shinkle brings a plethora of knowledge and experience to the bench. I am confident in his ability to serve the people of Edwards County.” Justice Overstreet recommended the appointment to the full Court following a review of applicants by a four-person screening committee. The committee members were: The Honorable David Franklin (ret.) who served as committee chair; attorney Jeffrey Fleming of Jeffrey Fleming Attorney at Law; attorney Gregory Stewart of Conger & Elliott, Prof. Corp; and attorney Letitia B. Wiggins of Wiggins Law, LLC. Mr. Shinkle has 30 years of experience in law and has worked in general practice at the Law Office of Brian Shinkle since 2008. From 2013 to 2022 he served as Public Defender for White and Edwards counties and has continued since 2022 to serve as Edwards County Public Defender, representing indigent clients as appointed by the court. He is additionally a City Attorney for Albion since 2022. From 1992 to 2008 Mr. Shinkle served as Edwards County State’s Attorney, overseeing criminal prosecutions and winning election four times. Mr. Shinkle served in the United States Marine Corps in active duty and in reserve employment. “I am honored by the nomination of Justice Overstreet and my appointment as Resident Circuit Judge of Edwards County. It is one of the most humbling experiences of my life,” said Mr. Shinkle.
“My appointment follows a terrible tragedy. Judge Mike Valentine's contribution to our lives will not be forgotten. I will bring to the bench the character, values and work ethic developed through my Marine Corps career and 30 years practicing law in Edwards County. I look forward to serving the people of the Second Circuit."
Mr. Shinkle earned his bachelor’s degree from Wabash College and earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Memphis School of Law.
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