EPHRATA — Brian Gwinn was sworn in Thursday as Grant County District Court judge in front of a packed house in the Grant County District Court courtroom.

With his family in attendance, every seat filled and people lining the walls.

After the ceremony, he said being a judge is a different way to keep on serving the community. He’s excited to work with the people of Grant County in a new role, he said.

“It feels great,” he said.

After taking the oath, Gwinn gave a short speech.

“I’m looking forward to this new venture and challenge,” he said. “Becoming a judge has been a goal of mine and I’m excited for this new legal opportunity.”

Gwinn said he seemed to be attracted to jobs and pastimes that courted controversy – attorney and a defense attorney, coach, referee and umpire, and a deejay at weddings.

“I know I’m not here to make everyone happy,” he said. “I’m here to do the best job I can do, and provide to our community.”

He expressed gratitude to his wife and their three children, his parents and extended family. His parents taught him hard work, earning his way, taking on new challenges and working to be successful, he said.

“Those four values have never changed,” he said.

Gwinn was an attorney for 21 years before being appointed to the district court position. He has worked for the Grant County public defender’s office since 2013.

In his speech, he thanked his colleagues in the public defender’s office and his boss Brett Hill.

“It’s a great bunch to work with and I really enjoyed being part of the team. I want to personally thank Brett Hill for his friendship and guidance over the years.”

He also expressed gratitude to his colleagues in the legal profession, and the coaches and kids he met while coaching and officiating.

Gwinn replaces Tyson Hill, who was appointed to an open position on the Grant County Superior Court bench in April. Gwinn’s position will be up for election in November 2022.