Kentucky Supreme Court Elects First Woman Chief Justice Debra Hembree Lambert

FRANKFORT — The Kentucky Supreme Court has elected Debra Hembree Lambert as its next chief justice, marking a historic milestone as she becomes the first woman to hold this position. Lambert, a Bell County native currently serving as the Deputy Chief Justice, will officially start her four-year term on January 6, 2025.

In a statement, Lambert expressed her gratitude for the opportunity. “I am both humbled and honored to have been elected by my colleagues to serve as the chief justice for the next four years,” she remarked. She acknowledged the significant responsibility that comes with leading the judicial branch, emphasizing the hard work and efficiency of judges, clerks, and administrative staff across the state.

Lambert’s career spans more than 17 years in various judicial roles. She earned her undergraduate degree at Eastern Kentucky University and graduated from the University of Kentucky College of Law in 1989. After serving as an assistant commonwealth’s attorney and city attorney in Mount Vernon, she returned to private practice before her election to the Kentucky Court of Appeals in 2014.

In addition to her judicial roles, Lambert has chaired the Kentucky Judicial Commission on Mental Health, which focuses on addressing mental health disorders, substance use disorders, and disabilities. Chief Justice Laurance B. VanMeter, who is stepping down and not seeking re-election, praised Lambert’s dedication and experience, expressing confidence in her leadership capabilities.

Justice Lambert resides on Lake Cumberland in Pulaski County with her husband, Joseph Sharpe. She has a family of two sons and two stepdaughters, along with four grandchildren. Lambert’s ascension to chief justice highlights a pivotal moment in Kentucky’s judicial history and sets a precedent for future leadership within the state’s judicial system.