Governor Kevin Stitt has appointed James Gilmartin as district attorney for Oklahoma’s 20th Judicial District, allowing him to take office ahead of his elected term following the resignation of District Attorney Melissa Handke.
The district includes Carter, Johnston, Love, Marshall and Murray counties. Gilmartin’s elected term begins Jan. 4, 2027.
“James has served Oklahoma communities throughout his legal career, and I am confident he will work diligently to uphold the law for the people of Carter, Johnston, Love, Marshall and Murray counties,” Stitt said in the Sept. 25 announcement.
Gilmartin owns the Law Office of James R. Gilmartin in Ardmore, where he has represented clients in criminal defense and family law matters since 2013. He previously served as an assistant district attorney in Carter and Oklahoma counties, handling misdemeanor and felony cases, conducting trials and reviewing criminal charges.
Gilmartin said he graduated from high school in Love County, and his wife, Kyndra, was born and raised in Marietta.
“District 20 has always been home to us, and the safety and security of its citizens is personal,” Gilmartin said.
“Serving as District Attorney has been a dream of mine since I began my legal career in the Oklahoma County District Attorney’s Office,” he said. “I am grateful for the Governor’s early appointment and thankful to the citizens of District 20 for placing their trust in me to serve as their District Attorney.”
