Bowling Green’s 40 Under 40: Colton Givens

Story by Amelia Bowen

When Colton Givens describes his legal practice, he often likens himself to a family doctor. Just as a general practitioner cares for patients through every season of life, Colton handles a broad range of civil litigation, federal criminal defense and transactional work, guiding clients through whatever legal challenges come their way. Raised in Morgantown, Kentucky, Colton was the first in his family to graduate from college, earning his undergraduate degree from Murray State University before completing his legal education at the University of Kentucky College of Law. After law school, Colton honed his skills through prestigious clerkships with two federal judges, U.S. Senior District Judge Thomas B. Russell and U.S. Senior Circuit Judge Eugene E. Siler. Working closely with both jurists instilled in him a foundational standard for his own career. He saw firsthand how crucial it was to prioritize fairness over favoritism, focusing on reaching the correct result rather than the popular one. Today, even as a dedicated advocate fighting for his clients, Colton constantly strives to achieve outcomes that are both legally sound and morally right. Returning home to Butler County in 2018, Colton joined Kerrick Bachert PSC. His commitment to the profession and his clients culminated in January 2026, when his colleagues named him a Shareholder in the firm. Beyond his daily caseload, Colton is deeply invested in strengthening the legal community. He actively serves in leadership roles across several professional organizations, including the Bowling Green-Warren County Bar Association, the Kentucky Defense Counsel and the Kentucky Bar Association CLE Committee. Through these roles, Colton focuses heavily on mentoring law students and young associates, ensuring the next generation of attorneys has the guidance they need to succeed. He is also a strong proponent of maintaining civility in the courtroom, believing firmly that attorneys can advocate fiercely and disagree without being disagreeable. “I cherish the opportunity to teach and encourage young lawyers,” Colton says. “We should never pull the ladder up behind us.” For Colton, moving back home also meant reconnecting with the community that shaped him. His parents, Chris and Gina, still reside in Butler County, where his father works for WRECC and his mother works at the high school. Being close to family has been one of the greatest blessings of his return. That local connection shines through in his extensive community service. Colton serves as District Board Treasurer for the Butler County Extension Office, an organization he grew up participating in through 4-H youth development programs. Through Kerrick Bachert, he regularly hosts an annual Chamber of Commerce luncheon to educate local business owners on new Kentucky state laws. Colton even finds time to compete in the firm-sponsored Green River Catfish Festival fishing tournament each year. Reflecting on his journey over the past decade, Colton encourages others to stay open to new experiences, embrace every opportunity and make time for life outside the office. Looking ahead, he remains focused on serving his hometown, supporting his colleagues and helping clients successfully navigate their most important moments.