Justice Venters Sworn In FRANKFORT, KY (WEKU) - Formal investiture ceremonies for the newest justice of the Kentucky Supreme Court have been held at the State Capitol.

Following the recent retirement of former chief justice Joseph Lambert, a judicial nominating commission recommended three lawyers to fill his unexpired term. Governor Beshear chose Daniel Venters of Somerset, who has almost 25 years experience as a district and circuit court judge. Venters immediately began hearing cases.

"Oyez, oyez. Silence is commanded for the justices of the Supreme Court of Kentucky, while they are sitting."

One month into his new job, family, friends, colleagues and dignitaries gathered at the State Capitol to witness Venters' formal investiture. Among those praising him was Governor Beshear, who couldn't resist pointing out Venters is a West Virginia native and Ohio State graduate.

"But, then he got a lot smarter," Beshear joked. "He had the good sense to get his law degree in Kentucky and move to the Bluegrass State permanently. So, I chose not to hold those prior errors in judgments against him!"

Beshear says Venters is highly respected.

"He listens. He treats people with respect and dignity and he follows the law."

Congressman Hal Rogers, who gave Venters his first job out of law school, says he has great respect for the man, whom he called a personal friend and confidant.

"The judge is here today to join your ranks and serve the 3rd Supreme Court district with the same intelligence, same forthrightness, fairness and strong work ethic that I saw some 33 years ago. The governor has chosen wisely."

"Do you solemnly swear that you will support the constitution of the United States and the constitution of the Commonwealth?"

Chief Justice John Minton delivered the oath of office, after which Justice Venters, assisted by his mother Mary and wife, Jane Adams Venters, donned his black, judicial robe.

"Congratulations, Justice Venters!"

After taking his seat on the bench, he was welcomed by his colleagues. Chief Justice Minton praised Venters' recent return to private practice.

"That is a very, very important perspective for us to have. So we're glad to have a practicing lawyer among us who understands what it's like to be in the trench and having to face folks like us on a regular basis, and deal with clients and issues in the practice of law. That's a very important grounding, Dan, and we're glad that you bring that perspective to this group."

For his part, Justice Venters told the gathering he's been blessed in life, "far beyond what I deserve," but says he never envisioned serving on the state's highest court.

"This is, judicially speaking in Kentucky, where the buck stops. I feel awed by that responsibility, but at the same time I'm comforted here by the fact there are six other honorable and brilliant people with whom I share that responsibility. And I'm sure if I get too far afield, they will rein me in."

The supreme court seat is on the November ballot, but Justice Venters has no opposition. Hyden lawyer Leonard Brashear qualified to run, but recently withdrew his name from consideration.
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