Sergent sworn in as circuit court clerk
May 1—CATLETTSBURG — After nine years of traveling across 14 of the commonwealth's 120 counties, Mary Hall Sergent is ready to dig back into her roots.
Boyd County Circuit Judge George Davis III appointed Sergent Boyd County Circuit Court Clerk and conducted the swear-in ceremony on Wednesday morning. Tracey Kelley retired from the position after nearly nine years in the role.
"I have big shoes to fill, but I'm going to do my very best," Sergent said in front of dozens gathered in Davis' court room on the third floor of the judicial center.
Sergent is a 1982 Ashland Blazer alumna and a 1989 University of Kentucky Law School graduate. She worked at a local law firm from 1989-97 and then practiced on her own from February 1997 until August 2015. She then joined the office of legal counsel for the Cabinet for Health and Family Services until January 2024.
"In my last job I traveled and covered 14 counties. I loved that work, but it's nice being back home," Sergent said.
Sergent said Kelley adequately laid the groundwork for her in order to ensure a seamless transition.
"She gave me everything I would need to know," Sergent said.
Sergent has been alongside Kelley and a staff of 15 since last Friday.
"I reassured them that I'm not going to come in and make big changes," she said. "That's not how I operate."
Sergent will work closely with Boyd County district judges (Devon Reams and Scott Reese) and circuit judges (Davis and John Vincent).
"I love all of these judges," she said.
Davis said Kelley will be missed, but he has full confidence in Sergent, who will be involved in civil, criminal, appeals and family cases, and more.
"(Sergent) understands how the local courts work," Davis said. "... She's practiced with every type of legal entity."
Davis said Sergent is a "great fit" who is personable and possesses exceptional management skills.
"I think she'll rise to the occasion and fill the void that's been left, and do a great job," said the judge.
Sergent will run unopposed for Circuit Court Clerk in the 2024 general election in November.
(606) 326-2664 — asnyder@dailyindependent.com
