JACKSON, Tenn. — Jennifer Covellis was sworn in this morning as Chancellor of the 26th Judicial District Chancery Court at the Madison County Courthouse, surrounded by family, friends, and members of the West Tennessee legal community.
Covellis was appointed by Governor Bill Lee on May 8 to fill the vacancy created by the elevation of the Honorable Steven W. Maroney to the appellate bench. The appointment is an interim appointment; Covellis will appear on the August 2026 ballot to fill the seat permanently. The 26th Judicial District serves Chester, Henderson, and Madison counties.
“I’m proud to see Jennifer Covellis take the office of Chancellor. I know she’s going to do a great job,” said Chancellor Maroney. “She’s appeared in court before me many times over the last five years. She’s always demonstrated professionalism, integrity and good judgment, and I know those qualities will serve her well and will serve the people of the 26th District well as she serves as Chancellor.”
Chancellor Covellis brings 15 years of legal experience to the bench, most recently as an attorney with Karnes Legal Services. She has also served as a Magistrate for the Madison County Juvenile Court. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Rhodes College and her Juris Doctor from Mississippi College School of Law.
“I’m grateful to accept the Governor’s appointment for Chancellor of the 26th Judicial District,” said Chancellor Covellis. “For the past 15 years, I’ve worked diligently in courts across West Tennessee serving families and children in my community in the private practice of law. Now, I look forward to serving my community by delivering fair, efficient and thoughtful justice — protecting families, respecting the law and strengthening trust in our courts.”
(PHOTO: Jennifer Covellis was sworn in this morning as Chancellor of the 26th Judicial District Chancery Court at the Madison County Courthouse. Appointed by Governor Bill Lee to fill the vacancy created by the elevation of the Honorable Steven W. Maroney)
3 thoughts on “New Chancellor of Tennessee’s 26th Judicial District sworn in at Madison County Courthouse”
Hello first I would to say congratulations on your win. My name is James Brent Beasley I am writing because an unjustified thing was done to me years ago concerning a illegal Sentence that I received out of Judge Witt Lafont Court room God bless his soul. Judge Lafont refused to go along with the District Attorney Office on a case 94-837 because of a no True bill had come back on the case . Mr James Thompson tried to Make the Judge change his mind but he wouldn’t do it. These papers will show you what took place. And because of these papers I suffer a grave deal. I was stabbed multiple times and nearly lose my life. It’s been a long time seeking Justice no one helping you is heart breaking when you know what took place. All I am asking for is equal treatment under the Law. The paperwork speaks for itself. I was charged with a gun all those years ago and knowing there were no gun involved hurts even more. I hope to be hearing from you soon my Family asking you for Justice and thank you for taking the time to care. James B Beasley. 7 Liddon Street Jackson TN. 731-928-0334
Congratulations,We need fairness, correction,and honesty back n the city. As a tax payer,voter,and home owner,I was out trying to get some juste for wife’s murder,but couldn’t get no help. But when leaving an ex sheriff’s house I stopped to help a motorist. At gateway tire they threatened us and I pulled out a badge to stop the threat,but was locked up .
Huge congratulations, Chancellor Covellis!
Hi there , my name is Michelle Campbell and I’ve been a proud Jackson resident since October 2021. Reading your bio and seeing how much you value family makes me so proud to have someone on the bench who is fair, trustworthy, and knows the law inside and out!
As a fellow parent/mom/bruh ( lol), I completely relate—the moment I saw those two pink lines, I knew motherhood was my purpose in life. I am so incredibly blessed with our wonderful blended family. My son, Austin is 16 and driving now, and my two stepdaughters bring so much absolute joy to my life. I’ve struggled deeply with depression in the past, and those amazing kids, along with my husband Michael Conatser, truly helped pull me out of it. They are my world! In fact, Michael and I are even talking about having another baby while we’re still young-ish!
Because of my own journey, I try to be a strong advocate for mental health awareness—especially since May is Mental Health Awareness Month!
Back in high school, I was a total Rotary Club nerd (Interact President for 2 years, gavel in hand and making tie-blankets for the Salvation Army!). Even though my disabilities keep me on small DIY projects these days, my empath heart still loves giving back and spreading good vibes. Our community is so blessed to have a fellow parent and mom, who is strong and honorable, to be that advocate for our truths in our justice system. Wishing you nothing but success in your new role!
Best,
Michelle Campbell (Conatser) and Michael Conatser
Pst.. Random fun fact: Pst.. Random fun fact:
Since I’m French-Cajun, I love that my name (Michelle) is literally just the French version of “Michael”! So Michael and I basically have the same name and the same initials !! Hence why I say “Campbell (like the soup)-Conatser!