By NEAL WAGNER / Managing Editor

ALABASTER – Attorney Patrick Kennedy touted his “drive, conservative philosophy” and past experience as reasons for running to replace retiring Circuit Court Judge Dan Reeves.

Kennedy announced his candidacy on Aug. 20, making him the second to throw his hat in the ring to replace the longtime county judge. Birmingham attorney Lara Alvis announced her candidacy for the spot in late June.

“I am excited by the opportunity to be a candidate for Circuit Judge,” Kennedy wrote in an email. “I believe I have the drive, conservative philosophy, and best experience to serve on the 18th circuit.”

In 2014, Kennedy, a Republican, was one of three finalists selected by the Shelby County Judicial Commission to replace retiring judge Hub Harrington.

Kennedy has been operating his private law practice in Alabaster since 2001, and focuses on areas of juvenile law, criminal law, family law and civil law. Since 2004, he has been under contract with the Administrative Office of Courts to handle juvenile law matters.

Kennedy also has worked in several municipal courts in Shelby County over the years, including time serving as a prosecutor.

“I am humbled that my peers recommended me for a judicial appointment in the past,” Kennedy wrote. “And I will fight to earn the votes of all Shelby County residents.”

Kennedy served as an airborne infantry soldier in the Army National Guard for eight years, and has been a Boy Scouts den leader, committee member and assistant scoutmaster for more than 10 years.

From 2010-2011, Kennedy served as a baseball coach at Kingwood Christian School in Alabaster. He lives in Alabaster with his wife, Julie, and their three children: 16-year-old Patrick, 12-year-old Wilson and 7-year-old Lauren. The family is active at the Branch at Mission Hills Church.

“Shelby County is our home,” Kennedy wrote. “Julie and I have chosen to raise our family here.  This county is important to me.  I will strive every day to be fair and treat people with respect.  As your next judge, I pledge to work hard for the citizens of Shelby County.”