Sebelius names new judge for 2 counties

Gov. Kathleen Sebelius has named a Tonganoxie attorney to be the new district judge for Leavenworth and Atchison counties.

Michael Gibbens, 58, was named to the bench Friday, filling the vacancy left by retiring Judge Philip C. Lacey.

Gibbens has an extensive legal background, including serving as a prosecutor, civil litigator and municipal judge.

He graduated from Baker University and earned his law degree from Washburn University.

He is currently a managing member of the law firm of Gibbens, Sutton and Sonntag.

Gibbens is married with four children and five grandchildren.