A committee charged with recommending a new Lawrence County Common Pleas Court judge has unanimously endorsed Ironton attorney Scott Bowling to replace the late Frank McCown, who died in May.

Craig Allen, who chaired an 11-member committee made up of both local and state leaders, said the endorsement was made during a telephone conference call Aug. 24. Bowling’s name was then forwarded to Gov. Ted Strickland for his approval.

If the governor gives his approval, Bowling will serve the remainder of McCown’s term. The next election for common pleas judge is in November 2008.

“We all seemed satisfied he is well qualified and has the commitment to both the court and the judicial system.” Allen said.

Bowling said he was pleased to have gotten the committee’s approval.

“I am very much honored by the panel’s recommendation and trust they have placed in me,” Bowling said. “I am anxiously waiting to hear from Gov. Strickland’s office as to his endorsement.”

Bowling pointed out the panel’s recommendation is non-binding. The governor can either accept it or reject it.

Of the 11-member panel appointed to recommend a judicial candidate, six were area residents: Craig Allen, Donald Simmons, Eric Bradshaw, Bonnie Holmes, Elaine Payne and David McCown.

Frank McCown was a Lawrence County Common Pleas judge for 11 years.

The addition of Bowling will add the second new face to the common pleas court this year. Last year, Richard Walton retired as judge, however, he did hear cases on assignment while McCown was ill and has continued to do so after McCown’s death. Charles Cooper was elected last year to replace Walton and took his oath of office in January.

Bowling, 41, is a graduate of Symmes Valley High School, Ohio University and Capital University Law School. He has practiced law nearly 11 years. He and his wife, Donna, have two sons.

Of the 11-member panel appointed to recommend a judicial candidate, six were area residents: Craig Allen, Donald Simmons, Eric Bradshaw, Bonnie Holmes, Elaine Payne and David McCown.

Frank McCown was a Lawrence County Common Pleas Judge 11 years.

The addition of Bowling will add the second new face to the common pleas court this year. Last year, Richard Walton retired as judge, however, he did hear cases on an as-needed basis while McCown was ill and has continued to do so after McCown’s death. Charles Cooper was elected last year to replace Walton and took his oath of office in January.