Leon County Courthouse Renamed in Honor of Judge Aikens

Photo and plaque of Judge Aikens.

On November 22, 2024, community leaders, colleagues, family, and friends gathered in the Leon County Courthouse to celebrate the retirement of Judge Augustus D. Aikens, Jr., followed by a dedication of the courthouse in his honor. After a judicial career of 27 years, Judge Aikens was Leon County’s longest-serving county court judge.

As an attorney, Augustus “Gus” Aikens had his own law practice in Leon County and a 20-year career serving the State of Florida. He also served in legal and other capacities in the U.S. Army and Florida National Guard and retired as a full colonel after 30 years. His lifetime of service impacted not only Leon County but the state and the nation as well.

Chief Justice Carlos G. Muñiz appeared via video and thanked Judge Aikens for his dedication to the judiciary and the citizens of Florida. He said, “Judge Aikens, your career of service is a model for the rest of us to admire and follow. You have set a remarkable standard of excellence and personal integrity.”

A host of speakers recounted personal and professional stories about Judge Aikens and the influence he had on their lives and the lives of so many others. Their stories illustrated a career that was dedicated to justice, service, and integrity.

Second Judicial Circuit Chief Judge Frank Allman acknowledged Judge Aikens’ remarkable career and thanked the Leon County Commission for supporting the renaming of the courthouse in recognition of his contributions to the county.

Former Chief Judge Jonathan Sjostrom said that he presented the idea of renaming the courthouse in Aikens’ honor because he thoroughly embodies the best judicial qualities of diligence, competence, humility, and integrity.

Colonel Timothy D. Kerns spoke of Aikens’ military career and said he was “one of the most capable, reliable, and trustworthy officers I’ve ever served with.” He noted that Aikens earned the Bronze Star for his service during Operation Desert Storm and the Legion of Merit Medal for a career of exceptionally meritorious service.

In his own remarks, Judge Aikens reflected on a career he described as "a labor of love." He expressed his sincere thanks to all of the colleagues, friends, and family who enriched his life and helped him become the man he is. He also thanked the Veterans Treatment Court team and noted that it was fitting that his last official duty as judge was to oversee graduations from the program that he worked to establish in 2015.

Following the retirement ceremony, participants moved to the lawn at the front of the Leon County Courthouse for the dedication ceremony. Mayor John Dailey, Commissioner Carolyn D. Cummings, several judges, and other dignitaries reflected on the impact Judge Aikens has had on Leon County, which made the courthouse dedication such a fitting tribute. At the conclusion of the dedication ceremony, the new signage marking the Judge Augustus D. Aikens, Jr. Leon County Courthouse was unveiled to the cheers and applause of those in attendance. Inside the renamed courthouse, a photo and plaque are also on display to commemorate Judge Aikens’ dedication and service to Leon County.

In retirement, Aikens said he looks forward to spending time with his wife La Grande and their five children and 17 grandchildren. He also said he suspects his wife has been keeping a list for many years of things for him to do.

The newly dedicated Judge Augustus D. Aikens, Jr. Leon County Courthouse.