Matthew McGivney, Livingston County’s newest judge
by Judy Williams
August 14, it was official. Attorney Matthew McGivney was officially sworn in as Livingston County’s newest judge. The formal investiture ceremony was held at the historic Livingston County Courthouse with Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Bridget McCormack administering the oath. Friends, family and fellow judges packed the courtroom to witness the ceremony.
McGivney was appointed in June by Governor Gretchen Whitmer to replace David Reader in the 44th Circuit Court following his resignation. The appointment fills the partial term left by Reader, and ends at noon on January 1, 2021. McGivney would be required to run for reelection in November 2020 in order to serve the final two years of Reader’s unexpired term.
Prior to his appointment, McGivney was a partner at McGivney Law Firm, PLLC in Brighton and Stockbridge. He began practicing law in 2001 when he joined his father’s practice representing clients in domestic relations, probate and estate planning, criminal defense, personal injury, and real estate cases. McGivney received his Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies in Social Science from Michigan State University and his Juris Doctor degree from the MSU’s College of Law.
According to a press release from Whitmer’s office, “McGivney is a well-known, well-liked, and well-respected attorney who has spent his career ensuring that the law is applied fairly to all Michiganders.” It went on to say, “His previous experience in the circuit court gives him a heads up in the transition to this new role, and he will be a great addition to the bench.”
