McKinley, Joseph H. Jr. Born 1954 in Owensboro, KY Federal Judicial Service: Judge, U.S. District Court, Western District of Kentucky Nominated by William J. Clinton on May 24, 1995, to a seat vacated by Ronald E. Meredith. Confirmed by the Senate on August 11, 1995, and received commission on August 14, 1995. Served as chief judge, 2011-present. Education: University of Kentucky, B.S., 1976 University of Louisville School of Law, J.D., 1979 Professional Career: Private practice, Owensboro, Kentucky, 1979-1991 Commissioner, Kentucky Oil and Gas Conservation Commission, 1982-1990 Assistant county attorney, Daviess County, Kentucky, 1985-1987 Hearing officer, Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Cabinet, 1990-1991 Judge, Kentucky Circuit Court, Sixth Judicial Circuit, First Division, 1992-1995