My name is Christopher Burnett, and I'm honored to serve as Allegan County’s 57th District Court Judge.

My family's roots in Allegan County run three generations deep. My grandfather coached and taught in Plainwell. My parents, Jim and Becky Burnett, raised our family here, and my father has practiced law across the street from the courthouse since 1975. Today, my wife, Bethany, teaches in Allegan Public Schools, and our three children attend school right here in our community. Allegan County is more than where I serve. It's home.

Over 20 Years of Experience From Every Side of the Courtroom

Before taking the bench, I spent nearly two decades practicing law right here in Allegan County. I represented parents and children in neglect and abuse cases, defended people facing felony charges, handled divorce and custody disputes, and prosecuted cases for many of our local municipalities. That experience from every angle of the courtroom, defense, prosecution, and civil practice, gives me the perspective a judge needs to apply the law fairly.

A Proven Record on the Bench

I have taken the role of District Court Judge for Allegan County extremely seriously. Our courts impact lives in our community every day. This job is not for trivial or unstable behaviors. By being committed to thorough preparation, honesty, and the rule of law; I am earning the trust of the staff, attorneys, and citizens who rely on this court every day.

Serving Those Who Served Us

As judge, I lead both the Veterans Treatment Court and the Sobriety Treatment Court, programs that offer real alternatives to traditional sentencing. These specialty courts reflect my belief that justice is not one-size-fits-all, and that when we give people a meaningful path forward, our entire community benefits.

Committed to Fairness, Stability, and the Rule of Law

In my years as an attorney, my job was to advocate for individual clients. As your judge, my role is broader: to protect the integrity and stability of the system itself. I am committed to applying the law impartially, treating every person with dignity and respect, and ensuring that our court remains a source of stability for everyone in Allegan County.

I'm asking for your vote because I believe our courts are strongest when they are led with experience, impartiality, and deep roots in the community they serve.