Haslam Appoints Gibbons Public Defender in Second Judicial District

NASHVILLE – Gov. Bill Haslam has appointed Andrew J. Gibbons of Kingsport as public defender for the Second Judicial District, which serves Sullivan County. Gibbons will replace Stephen Wallace, whose retirement is effective November 1.

Gibbons has been an assistant public defender in the district since 2001. In that position, he handled a wide range of criminal defense cases. A lifelong resident of Sullivan County, Gibbons has worked closely with Wallace in his previous position.

“We are fortunate to have someone with Andrew Gibbons’ experience,” Haslam said. “He is very familiar with the day-to-day operations of the public defender’s office, and the people of the Second Judicial District will benefit from his background.”

“I would like to thank Governor Haslam for giving me this opportunity and having faith in me,” Gibbons said. “Mr. Wallace leaves big shoes to fill, and he has set a high standard for our office.”

Gibbons was with the law firm of Worley & Associates in Kingsport from 1999-2001. He received his law degree from Ohio Northern University in 1997 after receiving a bachelor’s degree from East Tennessee State University in 1995.

Gibbons has been active in the community, serving as a member of the board of directors of Holston Valley Hospital and Medical Center, a member of the Gideons International Kingsport East Camp, a member of the board of the Sullivan County Soccer Association and a member of the board of Friends of Warriors Path State Park.

He and his wife, Greta, are members of the Sunnyside Baptist Church in Kingsport. They have three children, Campbell, Max and Laura Beth.