About Judge Jeffrey Taylor

I lived my early years in Eastern Kentucky, Johns Creek to be exact. My summers in Pike County were spent with my grandparents and cousins playing backyard baseball, catching crawdads, fishing, roller skating, and just playing outside.

We later moved to Mt. Sterling, where my dad was a basketball coach and my mom was a teacher. I inherited my dad’s love of athletics, with basketball topping that list. Being part of a team made me a better person both on and off the court. I felt a responsibility to win, not only for myself, but for my teammates, my family, and my community. I worked day and night to get better, to be better. My hard work paid off and I was awarded a scholarship to play basketball at then NCAA Division II Randolph-Macon College in Virginia.

Moving to Virginia was exciting, however, I knew that I would have to work harder than ever before both in the classroom and on the hardwood. That I did. I am proud to say that I hold the team record for the most three pointers scored in a single season. We also played in two NCAA tournaments. More importantly, I earned my Bachelor’s degree in History and English and was accepted into law school at what is now the University of Illinois-Chicago.

Being a small-town boy in Chicago was an adjustment. My friend played for the White Sox, so watching his games helped me make it through the cold weather months in the Windy City. I was exposed to an abundance of Chicago’s culture, good pizza, and jazz/blues clubs. I was also challenged by many gifted students and professors. Never one to back down from a challenge, I strove to be better. My Trial Advocacy Professor, a Federal Judge, encouraged me to become a trial attorney. She felt I had the qualities that make a good litigator—genuineness, fair-mindedness, and good control of my emotions when rulings didn’t go my way or evidence was presented against me. I took her advice to heart.

After graduation, I moved to Lexington to begin my legal career. I found my way to Landrum & Shouse, LLP. It was the best job, hands down. I learned from so many talented trial attorneys before developing my own practice group and becoming a Partner in the firm. My work allowed me to travel the entire state, successfully trying many cases before jurors and judges in most counties of the Commonwealth. I have always felt that my years as a basketball player prepared me for my career as a trial attorney. While I have never been the smartest person in the courtroom, I have never been outworked or out-prepared. My motto has always been PITMOV, “Preparation Is The Mother of Victory”. Basketball taught me that.

This past year, my life came full circle when I became the coach of the Trinity Christian Academy high school boys’ basketball team. Basketball has been so good to me. I aim to give back to my athletes by teaching them to be committed, accountable, and productive, not just on the court but off. I think we are off to a good start. My players surprised me by attending my formal judicial investiture in January. It was unexpected but much appreciated. I cannot wait to get back at it next season. Go Titans!