Seventh Judicial Circuit Judge James R. Clayton is retiring effective April 1, 2024.
Clayton received his undergraduate and law degrees from Stetson University and was admitted to The Florida Bar in 1978. He was first elected circuit judge in 2002 and was subsequently re-elected without opposition in 2008, 2014, and 2020.
As a circuit judge, Clayton served in the Juvenile, Felony, and Probate/Guardianship divisions. He served as chief judge of the 7th Judicial Circuit from July 1, 2021, until June 30, 2023. Before joining the court, Judge Clayton worked in private practice for more than 20 years, most recently with former law partner Mike Teal.
Clayton’s position will be filled by gubernatorial appointment.
