Graham Investiture Packs Circuit Court Room Jan. 5
Prosecuting Attorney Becomes Probate Judge

In a spontaneous moment, Wanda Graham, mother of new Probate Judge Clayton Graham, gives her son a hug following his investiture. Pictured (from left) are Judge Graham's sons, Austin and Ellis, his wife, Jamie, holding son Sawyer, Mrs. Graham, Judge Graham, and his daughter, Drew.

The Circuit Court room on the third floor of the county building in St. Ignace offered standing room only during the formal swearing in ceremony of Clayton Graham to his new elected role as probate judge Friday, January 5. He was formerly the Mackinac County Prosecuting Attorney.

Judges and attorneys from Chippewa, Luce, and Mackinac counties joined family and friends of Judge Graham, and Mackinac County employees as Circuit Court Judge Charles Stark performed the installation.

"This ritual marks Clayton's passage from advocate to referee and law enforcer to protector," said Judge Stark. "Among the many absolutes we hope for in our judges are training, courage, and humility."

The probate court serves Luce and Mackinac counties, deciding cases including juvenile delinquency and estates. In family court issues, Judge Graham will preside over cases involving divorces, paternity, child custody, child support, and personal protection orders.

After taking the oath of office, Judge Graham's wife, Jamie, and children, Austin, Ellis, Drew, and Sawyer, placed his judicial robe around his shoulders.

"The court system is the cornerstone of our democracy," he said to those gathered. "As you look around the world, those countries that are successful have a justice system.

"Our justice system is not perfect, but I assure you that I will do the very best that I can in this job."

He said he recognized the significance of the position.

"It is not the person that's important in this job, but the position that's important, and I hope that never escapes me," he said. "I hope that I am able to keep that promise, if nothing else."

Former County Sheriff Larry Leveille called the court to order and Prentiss "Giz" Brown offered introductions. The Reverend Nancy Barkat of the First Presbyterian Church of Newberry gave the invocation and Judge Graham's aunt, Rosie Prater, offered the convocation.