New Circuit Court Judge Corey Seale Celebrated At Investiture Reception

Tuscaloosa County Circuit Court Judge Corey Seale was surrounded by colleagues and mentors as she formally celebrated her appointment to the bench.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 10:35pm

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A close-up painting of a judge's gavel resting on a wooden bench, with warm sunlight and deep shadows creating a contemplative, nostalgic mood.The investiture ceremony for Judge Corey Seale reflects the timeless traditions and solemn responsibilities of the judicial system.Tuscaloosa Today

Tuscaloosa County Circuit Court Judge Corey Seale was the guest of honor at an investiture ceremony to celebrate being sworn in. The reception featured opening remarks from retired Tuscaloosa County Circuit Court judge and former Alabama Supreme Court Justice John England, who reflected on Judge Seale's time as a prosecutor and her preparation in the courtroom. Judge Seale used her remarks to reflect on her legal career and the mentors who shaped it, including Judge England and Judge Almond.

Why it matters

The investiture ceremony marks an important transition as Judge Seale takes on her new role on the Tuscaloosa County Circuit Court bench. Her appointment follows the retirement of Judge Brad Almond, and she is tasked with continuing his legacy of fairness and respect in the courtroom.

The details

During the investiture reception, Judge England praised Judge Seale's thorough preparation and competence as a prosecutor, noting that he never saw her 'lost' in the courtroom. Judge Seale reflected on the mentorship she received from Judge England and the late Bob Prince, a renowned Tuscaloosa trial attorney, which helped spark her passion for trial work. She also emphasized the importance of professionalism among attorneys, even after contentious courtroom arguments.

  • The investiture reception was held on Thursday, April 16, 2026.
  • Judge Seale was recently sworn in as Tuscaloosa County's newest circuit judge, replacing Judge Brad Almond following his retirement.

The players

Corey Seale

The newest Tuscaloosa County Circuit Court judge, recently sworn in to replace the retiring Judge Brad Almond.

John England

A retired Tuscaloosa County Circuit Court judge and former Alabama Supreme Court Justice, who presided over cases prosecuted by Judge Seale during her time in the District Attorney's Office.

Brad Almond

The retiring Tuscaloosa County Circuit Court judge, whose leadership and mentorship Judge Seale aims to continue.

Bob Prince

One of Tuscaloosa's most storied courtroom titans, who helped spark Judge Seale's passion for trial work.

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What they’re saying

“In order for our system of justice to work, we need to have competent lawyers representing the state and representing the defense. That way you don't have to worry about, did they really do that? All you need to do is worry about whether or not you conducted the trial in the manner in which it was supposed to be conducted.”

— John England, Retired Tuscaloosa County Circuit Court Judge and Former Alabama Supreme Court Justice

“In all the cases we tried, I never saw her lost. She always knew where she was going with her case.”

— John England, Retired Tuscaloosa County Circuit Court Judge and Former Alabama Supreme Court Justice

“Judge England always had a way of taking a very serious case and getting very serious work done, but then also sort of cutting on the light for everyone. He just radiates light and joy, and that was the experience I had in his courtroom.”

— Corey Seale, Tuscaloosa County Circuit Court Judge

“I loved being in the courtroom. I loved being a prosecutor.”

— Corey Seale, Tuscaloosa County Circuit Court Judge

“Where in today's world does that type of thing happen? That you can completely disagree with someone and then walk outside and have the humanity to care about that person.”

— Corey Seale, Tuscaloosa County Circuit Court Judge

What’s next

Judge Seale will continue to preside over cases in the Tuscaloosa County Circuit Court, building on the legacy of fairness and respect established by her predecessors.

The takeaway

Judge Seale's investiture ceremony highlights the importance of mentorship and professionalism in the legal profession. As she takes on her new role, she is committed to upholding the values of justice, community safety, and respect that have defined the Tuscaloosa County Circuit Court.