Gov. Nathan Deal on Monday appointed Jefferson attorney Robert D. Alexander to fill the vacancy in the State Court of Jackson County.

Alexander, a partner with the firm Davidson, Hopkins & Alexander, P.C., will fill the judgeship left vacant with the Oct. 8, 2010, death of Judge Jerry Clinton Gray.

The appointment takes effect upon swearing-in, which should occur within two weeks.

Alexander, 36, serves as Jefferson Municipal Court judge.

Alexander earned his juris doctorate from University of Georgia School of Law and earned his undergraduate degree, a bachelor's degree in English and history, from Presbyterian College. He and his wife, Lori, have two children.