Daviess District Court Judge Shannon Meyer is seeking another term in Division 3, saying she hopes to continue the work she’s begun since joining the bench in early 2022.
“I’m seeking re-election because I truly enjoy the workload and because our community matters to me,” Meyer said. “I’ve worked hard to bring clarity and fairness to every case before me. I believe my experience and balanced approach continue to serve our community well.”
Meyer was appointed by Gov. Andy Beshear on Jan. 18, 2022, to fill the unexpired term of Judge Nick Burlew, who retired in late 2021. She was sworn in nine days later and won the seat outright during the October 2022 election. She is now completing her first full four-year term.
In criminal cases, Meyer said she has emphasized consistency and public safety.
“I’ve focused on maintaining a consistent, lawful approach to bond decisions while protecting our public from defendants who are found to be a danger to themselves or others,” she said.
She added that she relies heavily on pretrial data when setting bonds.
“I carefully consider pretrial scores and the alleged facts in the current complaint when making bond decisions,” she said. “If I believe there’s a likelihood of reoffending while on pretrial release or failure to appear for hearings, then you can bet that I’m going to set a higher bond.”
Efficiency has also been an ongoing priority.
“I’ve focused on resolving cases more quickly by minimizing unproductive or unnecessary court appearances,” she said.
Meyer said she applies that same emphasis on clarity to civil matters.
“I’ve made it a point to ensure that all litigants, whether represented or not, leave understanding the process and the reasoning behind my decisions.”
Beyond the courtroom, Meyer has become increasingly active with the Kentucky District Judges Association. She serves on the group’s legislative committee and was elected in September to the statewide role of secretary.
“It was my true honor to be elected to serve as Secretary of the Kentucky District Judges Association,” she said. “I appreciate the confidence of my statewide colleagues, and look forward to the work ahead supporting our shared goals.”
Looking ahead, Meyer said she hopes to expand programs aimed at early intervention and rehabilitation if voters give her another term.
“If the good people of Daviess County allow me the opportunity to continue serving as District judge, I will advocate for increased funding for our juvenile treatment court, which is one of only two such programs in the state,” she said.
She also wants to bring Teen Court to the county — a diversion program for first-time, non-violent offenders who have admitted guilt. Another priority is addressing what she described as an “alarmingly high” number of DUI cases.
“I don’t know what’s causing it, but we’ve got to address it to keep our roadways safe for everyone,” she said.
Meyer’s interest in the law traces back to her childhood in Paintsville. Her father and other relatives were attorneys, including former Kentucky Gov. Bert Combs.
“Uncle Bert and Uncle Stan were really great men, gentlemen in the true sense of the word,” Meyer said. “I just thought the world of them, and their influence on me was profound.”
During law school, she clerked for then-Court of Appeals judges Lisa Hughes and William Knopf — both of whom later served on higher courts.
“They set an example of professionalism, integrity, and compassion,” Meyer said. “Watching them work shaped my understanding of judicial responsibility, and the lessons I learned from them prepared me well to serve my community.”
Meyer said she hopes voters understand how seriously she takes the role and how much she values the opportunity to do it.
“I’d like the people to know just how much I enjoy my work,” she said. “I’m committed to applying the law fairly, treating people with kindness and dignity, and making decisions that reflect sound judgment. I’m proud of the work I’m doing and would be honored for the voters to allow me to continue that work.”
Are you a candidate? Here’s how to be featured.
If you’re planning to run for office in 2026, we want to hear from you. Email us at [email protected] to set up an interview.
There’s no cost to be included. We believe voters deserve equal access to candidate information, and that begins with giving you space to share your vision.
