The Escambia County Commission chambers were filled to capacity Monday afternoon, but not to witness action by the commissioners.

With dozens of family members and friends attending, Doug Agerton took the oath of office as he began a six-year term as the county’s probate judge.

Administering the oath was Rachel Agerton, who just happens to be the new judge’s mother and a former probate judge herself.

“I’m so excited for Doug,” Rachel said just before administering the oath of office to her son. “He’s ready to go to work.”

Doug Agerton began his portion of the ceremony by asking his church pastor to offer a blessing over the event and his service to the county citizens.

“I feel privileged and honored to be the probate judge for Escambia County,” Agerton said. “I’m ready to get to work and get started on these next six years in the probate office.”

Agerton, who replaces, Emilie Mims,  said his first official day on the job “went well” and leads him to believe it’s going to be a good term of office.

“I feel like this is where I’m supposed to be,” Agerton said Tuesday. “Everything has gone well on my first day at work. I have been really busy and I know that I’ve helped some people — even on my first day. That’s why I’m here and it’s a good feeling when you’re able to help someone even in a bad situation. I know things will go well here, especially with these ladies here. Mama hired them and I’ve known them for a long time. I feel really comfortable here. It just feels like home.”