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)