The courtroom was filled with well-wishers Friday, Feb. 21 as Judge Emily Niezer Johnston was sworn in in front of family and friends.

Johnston was officially sworn in earlier this year, but Friday’s reception was an opportunity for her to thank those who have supported her on her road the to the bench.

“I am overwhelmed by the support that I received, and I will work hard to make you proud and to make our court system the best it can be. It’s a huge honor to give back to a community that has given so much to me,” Johnston said to packed courtroom. “My goal today and every day is that justice is the star of the show. I really can’t tell you how much I appreciate you.”

She also thanked her mom Kay, her father, the late Charlie Niezer, a former prosecutor, and her sister, nieces and a host of supporters.

“I want to thank my sister Alice, for being there. My niece Mary Claire, my niece Anna, and Alice’s husband, Ben. Thank you so much for all of my teachers, for all of my employees, employers and co workers. I learned so much from all of you, and it’s really all come together right here in this job.

“Last but not least, I want to thank my kids. When I was deciding whether or not to run. I sat them down and I told them, the good, the bad, the Ugly. It was a lot (for them to take on).”

Johnston, who previously served as the attorney for the Cullman County Commission, replaced outgoing two-term Circuit Judge Martha Williams.