Before his first day overseeing the 21st Judicial District, Division 3, Judge Grant D. Bannister provided a moving speech to a crowd of what felt like a hundred spectators.
Bannister’s friends, family, colleagues and fellow judges packed the courtroom in the Riley County Courthouse on Friday to welcome Bannister to his role as the newest judge in the county. Before this, Bannister served 19 years as an attorney in Manhattan with Knopp & Bannister Law Firm. Judge Meryl D. Wilson swore in Bannister after giving his advice and thoughts on the demanding shoes Bannister will now fill.
“I’ve been doing everything I can to prepare for this moment,” Bannister told KMAN, “I’m looking forward to it. It is my intention to, of course, be just and make good decisions. But also, to treat those who come before me with dignity. I (will) be timely with my decisions and efficient. But most of all, make sure there is justice for all.”
Bannister indicated he is one of many attorneys in his family, who itself has a long history within the Riley County area.
Following Bannister’s swear-in was a reception where he would answer questions and be congratulated for this step in his career. Bannister officially begins his duties as 21st Judicial District judge on Monday, Oct. 17.
