Standing before a crowd of family, friends, colleagues and public officials, Alan Furr took the oath of office as the new district judge for St. Clair County on Friday.

Gov. Robert Bentley appointed Furr to the vacancy after appointing former District Judge, Phillip Seay to serve as Circuit Court judge. Seay filled the circuit court vacancy when Presiding Circuit Court Judge Charles Robinson retired.

“He brings a wealth of legal knowledge to the bench, and he’s a great asset to St. Clair County,” Seay said.

Before taking this appointment, Furr served as Pell City’s Prosecutor and worked Harmon Furr, LLC.  Furr previously served as Municipal Court Judge for the town of Argo.  He also sat in as special municipal court judge for both Ashville and Trussville.  Furr has been practicing law for more than 17 years.

Excited about the opportunity to serve citizens, Furr looks forward to helping young people and children in crisis.

“I hope to bring a sense of compassion, fairness and firmness to the juvenile court,” Furr said.

With one of the heaviest caseloads in the state, Furr recognizes the challenges of the tasks ahead.

“Being a judge is a serious endeavor, and you must recognize that seriousness,” Furr said.  “But there are times when serious situations need a little levity.  Humor helps lighten spirits and soothe troubled times.”

Outside of the courtroom, Furr is a musician.

“I taught myself how to play guitar when I was a boy,” Furr said.  “It’s just one of those things I picked up.”

Since 1975 Furr has participated in church music, leading worship, singing and playing the guitar.  Furr served as the former music minister of First Baptist Church of Springville. Now Furr is the worship leader at the First Baptist Church of Ashville.

A licensed private pilot, Furr also enjoys flying when time allows.