Gov. Henry appoints Pottawatomie County judge

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

Published: 27-Dec-2010

Governor Brad Henry has selected John Canavan to serve as the new district judge for Oklahoma’s 23rd Judicial District in Pottawatomie County.  The Shawnee resident succeeds Judge Douglas L. Combs who was recently appointed to the Oklahoma Supreme Court by Gov. Henry.  

During a legal career spanning three decades, Canavan has compiled a record of public service in the 23rd Judicial District.  He served as a state prosecutor there for 12 years, working as an assistant district attorney in Pottawatomie County from 1979 to 1991.

Canavan has also served as city attorney for Shawnee (1991 to present) and county attorney for Pottawatomie and Lincoln counties (1996-present) in addition to maintaining a private law practice.

Canavan, 56, holds a law degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Law and a bachelors’ degree from the University of Oklahoma.

“John Canavan has compiled an exemplary record of public service and will do an excellent job as a district judge,” said Gov. Henry.  “I have great confidence in his abilities and appreciate his willingness to serve.”

Gov. Henry selected Canavan from a recommendation list of three candidates compiled by the Oklahoma Judicial Nominating Commission.