Council of State Court Judges newsletter [Vol. 10, no. 2 (Fall 2004)]

Council of
State Court Judges
Newsletter

Volume 10, Issue 2

All About the Council

Our condolences go out to Judge Brown-Reynolds (Fulton) on the passing of her mother and to Judge William Todd, Jr. (Rockdale) on the passing of his father. Our condolences also go out to the family of former State Court Judge George E. Oliver (Chatham) on his passing. The Council would also like to send best wishes to Judge Gibson (Ware) for a speedy recovery from his hospitalization, and to Judge Daniel (Burke) for a healthy springback from his broken leg.

this year. They are: Judge Ogden Doremus (Candler), Judge Michael Bankston (Mitchell), Judge William Todd (Rockdale), Judge Lisa Gross (Screven), Judge Earl McRae (Coffee), Judge Mike Thomas (Miller), Judge Alton Adams (Stephens), and Judge Mike Fennessy (Bankston). Chief Judge Howard Cook (Gwinnett) and Chief Judge Robins (DeKalb) will be taking Senior Status while the rest will pursue other endeavors.

Congratulations and welcome to our newest members, Judges J. Kelly Brooks (Charlton), Samuel C. Finster (Chattooga), Judd Drake (Candler), Hermann Coolidge, Jr. (Chatham), Robert Preston (Coffee), Barbara J. Mobley (DeKalb), Randy Rich (Gwinnett), Danny Shepard (Miller), Richard Waters, Jr. (Mitchell), Nancy Bills (Rockdale), Grady Reddick (Screven), James Irvin (Stephens), and Russ Barnes (Sumter), who are featured on page 4.
The Council would like to give a fond farewell to those respected jurists who will be leaving the bench at the end of

Congratulations to Judge Lawrence (Clarke) who has been appointed to the National Drug Court Institute faculty and who conducted training at their annual conference this summer in Milwaukee, WI.
Judge Gordon (DeKalb) spoke on What Jurors Really Think of Lawyers to attendees at the Atlanta Bar Association's Litigation Section's meeting in Atlanta on April 9th. Judge Wong (DeKalb) spoke on Jury Selection and Other Issues A Perspective from the Bench to attendees at the Institute for Continuing Legal Education's (ICLE) program "Civil

Technology Notice

If anyone is interested in joining in discussing substantive legal issues that might come up in your court on any given day with your colleagues, please send Judge Studdard an email at bstuddard@co.henry.ga.us.
Judge Iannazzone and Judge

Studdard are investigating hosting of this exchange either by listserv (general email discussion group) or by reactivation of Sidebar (allows threaded discussion). Once the decision has been made, the system will be set up and notification will be made.

Fall 2004

Litigation for Younger Lawyers" in Atlanta on April 23rd. Judge Mather (Fulton) was a panelist discussing Trial Tactics In Reference To Emergencies to attendees at the Institute for Continuing Legal Education's (ICLE) program "Urgent Legal Matters" at Sea Island on September 4th.
"...and we have to draw the line somewhere." message on Chief Judge Prather's (Muscogee) fax after he had to turn it off due to "... an Atlanta lawyer's..." attempt to fax a 54 page document through his machine.
If you have information about yourself or your fellow Council members, please call Stephan to let him know for future editions of the newsletter.

Check Out Our New Feature: Judge Profiles
on Page 10!

What's Inside

Mock Trial Season Review pg 2

Meet the New Judges

pg 3

Judge for the Day

pg 6

Fall Conference Committee Meetings pg 8

Fall Conference

Education Agenda

pg 9

Judge Profiles

pg 12

Appellate Reception Pictures

pg 14

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Mock Trial 2004 Season Review

The Mock Trial program had a busy and exciting 2004 season. The regional competitions were held around the state in February. The winning teams from these fifteen regions congregated at the State Finals, held at the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center in Lawrenceville on March 13 & 14. After the preliminary rounds, the teams from Jonesboro High School (Jonesboro), Grady High School (Atlanta), Clarke Central High School (Athens), and Lee County High School (Leesburg) remained as the semi-finalists. Following the elimination of two teams, the two finalist spots belonged to Jonesboro and Clarke Central, and eventually Clarke Central came out in the end as the 2004 State Champion. Presiding Justice Leah Ward Sears, Supreme Court of Georgia, and Judge Cynthia J. Becker of the DeKalb County Superior Court presided during the final round of competition.
Clarke Central went on to represent the state of Georgia at the National Mock Trial Tournament, held on May 7 & 8 in Orlando. Out of the 44 teams competing from all over the country, Clarke Central placed 23rd. Several of our judges participated in the Mock Trial competitions this year.
Judge Edward Carriere (DeKalb) served as Presiding Judge at the national competition, as well as at state finals with Judges Kent Lawrence (Clarke), Henry Newkirk (Fulton), and Toby Prodgers (Cobb).
Assisting in regional organization were Judges Linda Cowen (Clayton) and Morris Braswell (Clayton) for the Southern Crescent region, Judges Bill Adams (Bibb) and Bob Richardson (Houston) for the Central Georgia region, Judge Kent Lawrence (Clarke) for the Northeast Georgia region, Judge Toby Prodgers (Cobb) for the Cobb County region, Judge C.J. Gober

(Cherokee) for the Canton region, Judges Edward Carriere (DeKalb) and Wayne Purdom (DeKalb) for the Decatur region, Judge Henry Newkirk (Fulton) for the Atlanta region, Judges Bob Mock (Gwinnett) and Pam South (Gwinnett) for the Lawrenceville region, Judge Susan Forsling (Fulton) for the Metro Atlanta region, and Judge Greg Fowler (Chatham) for the Southeast Georgia region.
Judge Robert McDuff, Judge Irma Glover, Judge Kathryn Tanksley, Judge Roland Castellanos, and Judge Bridgette Campbell, all from the State Court of Cobb County, presided during the Cobb Regional competition.
Attorney coaches were Judge John Carbo (Clayton) for Jonesboro High School, Judge Douglas Gibson (Ware) for Ware Magnet School, and Chief Judge Melodie Clayton (Cobb) for the Walker School. Special thanks to all of our judges who took part in the events this year.
State Court Judges who volunteer to serve on a mock trial regional coordinating team may assist the coordinator with any or all of the following: secure the trial site for day of competition, recruit presiding judges and/or attorney evaluators, oversee the orientation of judges and evaluators prior to each round of competition, and serve as presiding judge during competition rounds as needed.
The GA High School Mock Trial Committee wishes to announce its intention to place a bid in Charlotte, North Carolina in May, 2005 to host the National High School Mock Trial Tournament in Atlanta in 2008. The event is scheduled to be held on May 811, 2008, with the tournament being held on May 9 & 10. The committee is very hopeful that they will receive the courthouse space needed and asks for the support of the Council in this

State Court Judges Newsletter
endeavor. The hosting of this event will highlight the mock trial program and its sponsors at the national level. Please support the committee!
If you have any questions or comments about GA High School Mock Trial, contact Stacy Rieke at (404) 5278779, stacyr@gabar.org, or visit the website at www.gabar.org/mocktrial.asp
My apologies to anyone whose name was left out of this article who participated in Mock Trial.
2005 Season Competition Dates
Mark Your Calendar Now For These Important 2005 Mock Trial Season Dates:
Team Registration Deadline: Friday, October 1, 2004
Law Academy Registration Deadline: Friday, October 1, 2004
Regional Competitions: (only one date will affect your region): Weekend #1: 18/19 February 2005 Weekend #2: 25-26 February 2005
State Finals: March 11 & 12, 2005
National Tournament (Charlotte, NC): May 4-8, 2005
Please Recycle

State Court Judges Newsletter

Welcome the New Judges!

Randy Rich (Gwinnett)
Randy is 37 years old, and grew up in Snellville, Georgia. Randy is a graduate of the University of Georgia and Georgia State
University College of Law, where he graduated with honors. Randy practiced law in the law firm of Rich & Smith in Lawrenceville for 12 years and handled litigation for the firm. Randy is married to Bonnie Rich who is also an attorney, formerly with the Office of General Counsel for Primarica Life Insurance Company. They have a two year old son Miller, and a 15 week old daughter, Holland. Bonnie is currently a full time mother. Randy and Bonnie are active members of Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Snellville. Randy has taught litigation courses at Emory (NITA), GSU, and UGA. Randy has also regularly taught litigation, courtroom ethics, and advanced evidence at GSU since 1995. Judge Rich will take office on January 1, 2005.

Nancy Bills (Rockdale)
Nancy attended the University of Georgia for both undergraduate and law school. She was an Assistant District Attorney with the Rockdale Judicial Circuit for over ten years during which time she served as
the Solicitor of State Court and the Chief Assistant District Attorney. She has been in private practice with Gentry & Waldrop, which became Walker & Waldrop, since she left the District Attorney's Office. Her private practice consists of criminal defense, family law, juvenile and part time Solicitor for the City of Conyers Municipal Court. Nancy has been married to her husband, Jeff, for fourteen years this February and they have a ten year old daughter named Mary Dabney. They are active members of Conyers Christian Church where Nancy serves as the Nursery Director. Nancy is a member of the Rockdale Rotary Club where she has had five years of perfect attendance. She is the Community Building Chair on the

Welcome Tracy Powell

The Council is pleased to welcome Tracy Powell as our new administrative assistant. Tracy was added to provide much needed help to our staff. Tracy is a senior at Georgia State University, pursuing a B.A. in Political Science. She worked as a legislative

intern for the Administrative Office of the Courts for the 2003 and 2004 legislative sessions, and is now working for our Council. Tracy resides in Gwinnett County, and looks forward to graduating with her degree in December, 2005.
Tracy can be reached at 404-4635400, or at powellt@gaaoc.us . Through December, she is in the office Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

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United Way Advisory Board, is a founding member of Project Renewal, the local domestic violence intervention program and is a volunteer with the Truancy Intervention Program.
Nancy loves to travel, exercise and read in her spare time.
Judge Bills will take office on January 1, 2005.
J. Kelly Brooks (Charlton)
Kelly was born on November 19, 1962 in Jacksonville, Florida, but came home from the hospital to comfortable confines of Charlton County, Georgia. In 1980, he graduated from Charlton County High School and in 1984 graduated cum laude from Georgia Southern University with a BBA in Accounting. He is a 1987 graduate of the University of Georgia
School of Law and passed the Bar Exam in February, 1987. After working in Atlanta for two years with an international accounting firm in its tax division, Kelly returned to his home town of Folkston, where he worked as an associate attorney for John B. Adams from June 1989 until December 31, 1989. Since January 1, 1990, Kelly has been a partner with Mr. Adams in the law firm of Adams & Brooks. Since June, 1989, Kelly has been engaged in the general civil and criminal practice of law. He also has an active probate practice, including estate planning for small estates. Since 1991, Kelly has been the City Attorney for the City of Folkston. He was an elected member of the Charlton County School Board from 1993 through 1996. Since January, 1997, he has been the attorney for the Charlton
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State Court Judges Newsletter

Welcome the New Judges! continued

County School Board. Since August, 1993, he has been Judge of the Municipal Court of the City of Nahunta. Since February, 1997, he has been Judge of the Municipal Court of the City of Hoboken.
Kelly is a member of First Baptist Church of Folkston, where he teaches an adult couples Sunday School class, serve on the deacon board, chair the finance committee, and sing in the adult choir. He enjoys spending time with his family, fishing, and broadcasting Charlton County High School Football games as play by play announcer on the local radio station. Kelly is married to his high school sweetheart, Nancy Brock Brooks, a registered nurse currently employed by the Charlton County Health Department as a school nurse. They have three children, Patrick (17), Thomas (15), and Hannah (12).
Judge Brooks took office on July 12, 2004.
Hermann Coolidge, Jr. (Chatham)
Hermann Coolidge, Jr. was born in Savannah, Georgia on August 15, 1948. He is the son of Martha Coolidge and the late
Judge Hermann Coolidge, Sr., United States Bankruptcy Judge for the Southern District of Georgia.
Hermann graduated from the University of Georgia with a BA degree in Sociology in 1970. He enrolled in the Walter F. George School of Law at Mercer University in the fall of 1970 and graduated in the Spring of 1973. While in law school, Hermann was a member of the Editorial Staff of the Mercer Law Review and President of Phi Alpha Delta Legal Fraternity. Upon graduation, Hermann returned to Savannah where he immediately joined the

Chatham County District Attorney's Office as an assistant district attorney. After two years of prosecutorial work, Hermann left and became a member of the law firm which became known as Ranitz, Mahoney, Coolidge, & Maloney. Hermann was a member of this firm for over 27 years. In 2001, Hermann left the firm and became a solo practitioner.
In addition to the general practice of law, Hermann has continuously served for over 23 years in the Municipal Courts of Tybee Island, Thunderbolt, and presently in Garden City and Port Wentworth.
Hermann is married to Dr. Carol Ann Clark-Coolidge, a plastic surgeon who is a partner in the firm of Finger and Associates. Hermann has two children, Elizabeth, age 29, who is a special education teacher in Rhode Island, and Hermann III, age 26, who is employed at Kennickell Printing Company. Carol Ann and Hermann have four Yorkies: Cay, Lukey, Brandy, and Hooksie.
Judge Coolidge will take office on January 1, 2005.
Judd Drake (Candler)
Judd Drake grew up in Candler County where he graduated from Metter High School. He attended the University of Georgia where he received his undergraduate degree in business. He obtained his law degree from Mercer University. After practicing law in the Atlanta area for two years, Judd returned to Candler County to raise his family and opened his law practice. His law practice focuses on representing local governments, real estate, wills and estate matters, and trial work. He presently serves as the Candler County

Attorney. Judd was appointed Chief
Magistrate Court Judge in December of 2000 by the Honorable William C. McMillan, Jr., Chief Judge of the Superior Court for the Middle Georgia Circuit. His term expires at the end of this year. Judd has served as President of the Metter-Candler County Chamber of Commerce and the Metter Rotary Club. He is married to Lee Drake, a second grade teacher at Metter Elementary School. They have two children: Abby, 6, and Austin, 4. The Drakes are actively involved in the Metter United Methodist Church.
Judge Drake will take office on January 1, 2005.
Danny S. Shepard (Miller)
Danny S. Shepard was born September 2, 1953, in Colquitt, Georgia. He is married to Dawn Phillips Shepard and they have
two children, Brittany (19) and Blake (14). Danny is a graduate of Mercer University with a BA degree in political science, magna cum laude, in 1975. Danny obtained his Juris Doctor degree in 1978 from the Walter F. George School of Law at Mercer. He was a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. Danny has practiced law in Colquitt, Miller County, since 1979. He was a partner in the firm of Rentz & Shepard until 1999. From 1999 until the present he has been a sole practitioner, engaging in general civil and criminal practice, handling both trials and transactions. Danny has served as the County Attorney for Miller County from 19811996 and from 2001 to the present. He has also been the Judge of the Municipal Court for the City of Colquitt
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State Court Judges Newsletter

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Welcome the New Judges! continued

since 1980 and for the City of Damascus since 1986. He is a member of the State Bar of Georgia and has been admitted to practice in the Georgia Court of Appeals and Supreme Court of Georgia as well as the U.S. District Courts for the Middle and Northern Districts of Georgia. He is also a member of the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association.
Danny is a director and former chairman of the Colquitt-Miller County Chamber of Commerce. He and his family are active members of the Macedonia Free Will Baptist Church where Danny is a deacon and Sunday School teacher. He enjoys reading and golf. Judge Shepard took office on September 9, 2004.
Richard L. Waters, Jr. (Mitchell)
Richard Waters is a partner in the law firm of Powell & Waters in Camilla. He holds both a J.D. and B.A. from Mercer University. He
has served as the Solicitor of the Juvenile Courts of Mitchell and Baker counties since 1999. He also currently serves as the Municipal Court Judge for the City of Sale City. He currently serves on the State Board of the Y-Clubs of Georgia. He is member of the Camilla United Methodist Church and the Camilla Rotary Club. He is married to Ginna Waters, also from Camilla, and he has two children, Campbell (5) and Max (2). Judge Waters will take office on January 1, 2005.

Bob Preston (Coffee)
Bob Preston is a life long resident of Douglas, Georgia. He and his wife, Norma, married in 1969. They have three children (Bill,
Robert, Jr., and Ashley) and three grandchildren.
Bob received his Juris Doctor from Mercer University in 1966. He was admitted to the Bar that year and joined his father, M.L. Preston, in private practice in Douglas. His father had started his 61st year in the private practice of law when he passed away in 1991. Bob's oldest child, Bill, joined him in the practice in 1996. The organizations in which Bob has been or currently is involved include: Member, First Baptist Church of Douglas for over 50 years, deacon for over 30 years, and twice served as Chairman of Deacons fellowship; Past President of Douglas Lions Club; served on Foundations of South Georgia College and East Central Technical College; Review Panel, State Bar of Georgia; Douglas Rotary Club; Past President, Waycross Judicial Circuit Bar Association; YMCA local fund raising chairman for more than 20 years; Past Chairperson, local Heart Association; Coffee County Mental Health Association; Douglas-Coffee County Chamber of Commerce (Past Chairman); Advisory Board, SunTrust Bank (Douglas Division). The primary areas of Bob's practice include insurance defense litigation, real estate, wills, trust, and estates. The practice represents several Douglas banks and many insurance companies. Judge Preston will take office on January 1, 2005.

Sam Finster (Chattooga )
Sam Finster was born and raised in northwest Georgia. He began law school in Atlanta in 1981. Sam was appointed as the Summerville Municipal Court Judge in May of 1986
and has served on that bench consecutively for eighteen years.
Sam has been a member of the Optimist Club and is a member of the VFW, American Legion and Chamber of Commerce. He is also a volunteer with Floyd Heyman Hospice Care and does legal work for their terminally ill patients at no charge. He works closely with social workers in that organization. Sam is a member of the Trion Heights Baptist Church and is an inactive deacon having been ordained on June 27, 1993. Sam sponsors HOP (Hooray for Our Progress) program at Summerville Middle School and has done so since its inception eleven years ago. This program encourages students to raise their grades by one letter grade. Judge Finster took office on July 12, 2004.
Barbara Mobley (DeKalb)
Barbara, a native of Waynesboro, Burke County, Georgia, was raised in Tampa, Florida. She is married to a schoolmate, Elder James L. Savage, Jr. and
has a daughter and three grandchildren.
Barbara received her Bachelor of Science degree from Savannah State University in Savannah, Georgia, her Master of Social Work degree from the University of
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State Court Judges Newsletter

Judge for the Day Program

Intro:

1. Even though your particular county commission handles many issues, the Georgia General Assembly (State Legislature) has a significant effect on us. Not only is approval of the legislature (through local legislation) needed for creation of State Court judgeships, but also legislation is acted upon which directly affects the State Court. Issues legislated that affect us run the gamut from jurisdictional to substantive legal to personal entitlements and benefits (e.g.: salary and retirement).
2. The legislature meets annually for 40 working days, convenes on the second Monday in January and has been adjourning in the late-March/early-April time frame.
a. Judge for the Day will operate on Mondays through Thursdays (excluding holidays and recesses), as Friday is a limited day of business in which most legislators attempt to get back home for the weekend. b. Due to frequent last minute recesses throughout the session, your date might be cancelled/switched and I will let you know at the earliest moment if that should happen.
3. The goals of Judge for the Day are for you to: a. let all legislators and policy makers (but particularly your county's delegation and others you already have a relationship with) know the Council's positions on introduced legislation and State Court issues in general. b. ensure a State Court presence at key committee meetings (usually Judiciary and Special Judiciary in both the House and Senate), including answering questions and testifying if necessary. c. network in general to enhance the status of the State Court.
4. Your participation is essential to the betterment of justice through a strong State Court system and Council.

Procedure:

1. Ensure that you confirm your day with the Executive Director as far in advance as possible and, conversely, let the Executive Director know if there is a problem with an already scheduled appointment.
2. Arrive in the morning on your day and meet with the Executive Director. {EXACT TIME AND LOCATION WILL BE GIVEN TO YOU WHEN I CONFIRM BY SENDING YOU A MAP AND THIS INFORMATION WHEN I ACTUALLY LOCK YOU INTO A DATE WHICH I WILL DO IN THE EARLY JANUARY TIME FRAME}
3. You will be given all of the information that you need for the day's activities, including notes on any positions taken by the Council, committee meetings, etc.
4. In the morning you will be able to meet with legislators and observe the general session of the House and Senate. After lunch, you will usually attend committee or sub-committee meetings (usually the House or Senate Judiciary or Special Judiciary, but sometimes others).
5. Upon completion of your day, you are entitled to submit for reimbursement of your per diem (mileage, lunch, parking and lodging, if necessary). The reimbursement form with instructions can be found on our website at http://www.georgiacourts.org/councils/state/meetings.html under the Meetings button or I can give you a manual one when I see you.
6. Thanks for your support, and I hope to see you!

Respectfully Yours,

Stephan J Frank, Esq. Executive Director

State Court Judges Newsletter

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Judge for the Day Sign-up Sheet

It is imperative that I hear from you as soon as possible so that I can properly schedule in advance. Please check your calendar, xerox this page, check the appropriate box with accompanying information and fax back to (404) 463-0844 as soon as possible. The legislature convenes the second Monday in January of each year (which would be January 10th of next year) and is in session for 40 workdays (the 40 days are never consecutive due to holidays and recesses). Just select your choices and, after you are slotted, if there is a recess, I will let you know as far in advance as possible.

Name ________________________

County ________________________

_____ I wish to participate in Judge for the Day Program this upcoming legislative session AND will be able to on this date:

First Choice:

________________________ __________ ____________________________________

Month

Date

Day of the week (ensure it matches date)

Second Choice: ________________________ __________ ____________________________________

Month

Date

Day of the week (ensure it matches date)

Third Choice: ________________________ __________ ____________________________________

Month

Date

Day of the week (ensure it matches date)

_____ It would be difficult for me to participate in Judge for the Day Program this legislative session, BUT if you cannot get enough Judges, I will participate (assume if you check this box that you will not participate unless the Executive Director contacts you) _____ I cannot participate in Judge for the Day Program this legislative session
Once a schedule has been made (January time frame), I will confirm and send a map to each one of you who I actually lock into a date. Thank you for your participation, I hope to see you in Atlanta, and best wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season.
Please Xerox this page, fill out, and fax to 404-463-0844
Judge for the Day 2004 Participants

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State Court Judges Newsletter

Fall Conference Committee Meetings

Jekyll Island Club Hotel Jekyll Island, GA

Tuesday, October 12, 2004 11:30am 12:30pm Budget (Judge Peppers - Chair) Judges Carriere, Doremus, Ginsberg and Lawrence (Location TBD)
2:30pm 3:30pm Legislative (Judges Newkirk and Slaby Co-Chairs) Judges Braun, Carriere, Castellanos, Darden, DelCampo, Dettmering, Doremus, Forsling, Fowler, Gillis, Ginsberg, Gober, Iannazzone, Jordan, Mobley, Smith, Tanksley, Thompson (Al), Wong and Wynne [Snacks] (Location TBD)
3:30pm 4:30pm Strategic Planning (Judge Purdom - Chair) Judges Braun, Carney, Carriere, Clayton, Cole, Cook, Doremus, Ginsberg, Iannazzone, Lawrence, Little, McDuff, Peppers and Todd [Snacks] (Location TBD)
4:30pm 5:00pm Nominating (Judge Little - Chair) Judges Braun, Carbo, Cole, Doremus, Lawrence and Turner (Location TBD)

Wednesday, October 13, 2004 8:00am 9:30am Executive Committee Breakfast (Judge Carriere - President) Judges Carney, Clayton, Cole, Edgar, Newkirk, Peppers, Roberts, Salter, Sams, Slaby, Studdard and Turner [Breakfast] (Location TBD)
8:00am 9:30am Senior Judge Committee (Judge McDuff - Chair) Judges Carnes, Carpenter, Houston, McDuff, McLaughlin, Pace, Phillips, Slaton, Smith and Ward [Breakfast] (Location TBD)
9:30am 10:30am Education (Judge McLaughlin - Chair) Judges Campbell (Bridgette), Carbo, Cole, Cook, Hamrick, Jordan, Little, Mock, Purdom, Reeves, Robins, South, Studdard and Rich Reaves [Snacks] (Location TBD)
9:30am 10:30am Probation (Judge Todd - Chair) Judges Adams (Alton), Bankston, Cranford, McClelland and Watkins [Snacks] (Location TBD)

10:30am 11:30am Benchbook (Judge Purdom) Judges Adams (Bill), Iannazzone, McDuff and Studdard [Snacks] (Location TBD)
10:30am 11:30am New Judge Mentoring (Judge Little - Chair) Judges Carbo, Castellanos, Clayton, Cowen, Mikell, Salter, Sams, Todd and Rich Reaves [Snacks] (Location TBD)
12:00pm MAIN PROGRAM BEGINS FOR THE DAY
5:00pm MAIN PROGRAM ENDS FOR THE DAY
5:00pm 5:30pm Council District Meetings Each district will simply go to a different section of the main room, step outside onto the porch or sit in the lobby. Each District Chair will let you know at the end of the Main Program.
7:00pm - 9:00pm Council Dinner (Location TBD)

5:00pm 5:30pm Personnel (Judge Cole - Chair) Judges Carriere, Little and Newkirk (Location TBD)

If your name has accidentally been left
off of a particular committee, please call Stephan at the Council office to let him know.

State Court Judges Newsletter

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Fall Conference Education Agenda

Jekyll Island Club Hotel Jekyll Island, GA October 13 - 15, 2004
Topics & Speakers Being Considered
{* = confirmed presenter; # = invited presenter}

Wednesday, October 13, 2004 12 noon - 1pm (1 hour) E-filing Solutions for GA Judges Judge Henry Newkirk* & Mr. Christian Brown*
1 pm - 2 pm (1 hour) Contempt of Court in GA Direct & indirect procedure and right to counsel issues Georgia Court of Appeals Judge TBA#
2 pm - 3 pm (1 hour) Business Meeting: Council of State Court Judges

8 am - 9 am (1 hour) Update: GA Indigent Defense Operations Atty. Mike Mears# or Atty. Jim Martin#
9 am - 10 am (1 hour) Lessons of DUI Drug Court Practice Mr. Wes Huddleston*, National Council on Drug Courts
10 am - 12 noon (2 hours) Probation Alternatives in Sentencing Dr. Kenneth Robinson*, Correctional Counseling, Inc., Memphis, TN

3 pm - 4 pm (1 hour) Fraudulent Financial Reporting: Closely Held Business Valuations & Reading a Financial Statement Atty. Dennis Gerschick*
4 pm - 5 pm (1 hour) Update: Civil Case Law Judge Brenda Cole*

1:30 pm - 4:30 pm (3 hours) J&H Immersion: The Many Aspects of Mobile Home Living, by author Martin Clark*, a Virginia Circuit Court Judge
Friday, October 15, 2004 8 am - 9 am (1 hour) Case Assistance Exchange Judge Howard Cook*

Thursday, October 14, 2004 8 am - 9 am (1 hour) Complex Litigation: Handling Multiple Party Suits Judge Gino Brogdon#
9 am - 10 am (1 hour) Judicially Hosted Settlement Conference Judge Phil Etheridge*

9 am - 10 am (1 hour) Update: DUI & Traffic Law DMVS Court Liaison Officer*
10 am - 12 pm (2 hours) Update: Criminal Case Law Judge Ben Studdard* {FRI } including handling SRLs on pleas & at trial

New Judge Orientation
Will be held December 6-10, 2004
Institute of Continuing Judicial Education, Athens, GA
More details to follow from ICJE.

2005 Fall Conference Update
Please note that the dates for the Fall 2005 Conference at Jekyll Island have been changed. The conference will now be held from October 19 21, 2005, at the Jekyll Island Club, instead of the prior dates of October 12 14, 2005.

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State Court Judges Newsletter

Remember the Last Time We Were at Jekyll?

There Were Meetings!

There Was Entertainment!

President Carriere Welcomed New Judges

There Was Learning!

There Was Good Food!

State Court Judges Newsletter

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Remember the Last Time We Were at Jekyll?

There was Golf!

There Was a Good Time Had By All!

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State Court Judges Newsletter

NEW FEATURE

This new section aims to personalize our Council newsletter and to help our judges learn more about each other. We hope that this new section will add to the camaraderie amongst our judges.
Judge Maureen Gottfried, State Court of Muscogee County

Iwas born in Washington, D.C. and my family moved to the Atlanta area when I was six. I moved to Columbus in 1986 when I finished law school at the University of Georgia School of Law. When I entered law school, I thought that I wanted to go into Corporate law, but, after participating in the Prosecutorial Clinic, I decided to go into prosecution. I was hired by then Solicitor Andy Prather, and expected to remain in Columbus for a year so, and then return to Atlanta, and my family. Instead, I got two family members to relocate to the Columbus area.
I am one of ten children, nine of whom are still living. My husband George and I have three of our own Colleen Byrne is 9, Claire Ann is 7, and George John IV is 5. Hobbies?? Are you serious?? Actually, we are a soccer family. All three kids are playing, and I have been coaching for 5 years. The last couple of seasons, I was coaching two teams, but I am cutting back to just one team this season. I have been playing soccer since the 4th grade, when the Y leagues first started offering soccer for girls. I started playing again with the Columbus Adult Soccer Association, taking time off for pregnancies! My husband and I played together in a coed league this summer. I am also the President of the Columbus Youth Soccer Association. Other than that, in my "spare" time, I will read anything that I can get my hands on, and do some limited knitting and needle work. I love to cook, and just wish that I had more

time to do so. My father has gotten into the habit
of taking us all on a family vacation. With my siblings, their spouses, and their kids, that group runs about 40. We have done Cape Cod, an Alaskan cruise, and a trip to Canada. The best was probably a two-week tour of Ireland,
which included a stay at a manor house that is part of our ancestry, and is still run by distant relatives. The most amazing part was that there were 40 of us going around the country in a chartered bus, and we all got along!! One of my more interesting legal experiences was sitting as a juror in a wrongful death suit. The issue of negligence was complicated by the fact that a husband was suing a bus driver for the State of Georgia in his own capacity, and as the guardian of his minor child over the death of his wife and the child's mother. It was further complicated since the case involved the question of contributory negligence by the father, and its effect on and award to the daughter. According to the Court of Appeals in Mathews v. Douberley, 207 Ga App. 578, we actually got it right. But, the most interesting part was seeing how a jury interacted and communicated. I am active in my Church's Parish Council, and am just finishing up my term as President of the Columbus Bar Association, Inc. I spent 11 years on the Board of Girl's, Inc. including a term as President. I have long been impressed with the work that that

organization does, and the opportunities it provides outside the time at the physical centers. It provides a safe environment for the girls to learn, grow, and just spend time. But, it also reaches beyond that time, and encourages them to try new things, to think outside the box, and to believe in themselves.
Strategic Planning Notice
Judge Purdom and the Strategic Planning Committee are busy at work and now seek to focus on public information and public relations of the State Court bench. One prominent example is the fantastic work of Judge Lawrence and the Mock Trial Committee in enhancing the State Court bench by our significant participation in and funding of the State Bar's Younger Lawyer Division's High School Mock Trial program.
Your input is encouraged on any program that you are facilitating in your jurisdiction that enhances your court and/or yourself. Furthermore, any suggestions in general that you might have for this initiative would be most welcome. Please contact Judge Purdom at wpurdom@randomc.com or drop him a letter at Judge Wayne Purdom, State Court of DeKalb County, 556 N. McDonough Street, Decatur, GA 30030.

State Court Judges Newsletter

Page 13

JUDGE PROFILES

Judge Toby Prodgers, State Court of Cobb County

My family and I live in Cobb County. My wife, Cynde, and I have two grown daughters, Katie and Molly, and two grown cats, Mooshie and Pooshie. Katie is currently living in Seattle and having a great adventure. Molly will graduate from Georgia Law School in 2005. Pooshie is an outdoor cat who behaves herself and Mooshie is an indoor cat who doesn't.
I grew up in the military and figure I have lived about ten percent of my life outside the country. I graduated from college in 1968 right in the middle of the post-Tet offensive military buildup, so despite my great intelligence and good looks I was drafted and sent to Vietnam as a rifleman in

the infantry. When I was separated from active duty in 1970 I came to Cobb County because my family had retired here. I have been in Cobb
County ever since. Cynde and I met here in 1974 and were married in 1976.
Thomas Hardy is one of my many "historical (non-legal)" heroes. He is, in my opinion, the greatest English language author ever. He was one of the first writers to look at life from the perspective of a female heroine. I believe that Tess of the d'Urbervilles changed the world. I jog, but not obsessively, and play golf once in a while. But my favorite hobbies are hanging out with Cynde, going to movies, visiting places and being with the kids. I deny that I watch

too much TV. On the professional side, my hero is
former Chief Justice of Georgia, Hiram Undercofler, for whom I had the privilege to clerk. He had great respect for lawyers and the legal profession. He believed that it is more important for judges to listen than to talk. He believed in brevity and clarity.
As to my affirmed opinions, they all hold special significance for me. As to my reversals, well, the Court of Appeals cannot always get it right.
I have had the privilege to be involved in many civic, charitable, and professional organizations which I have fooled into letting me serve in various leadership capacities. All have been worthwhile and fulfilling to me.

Welcome the New Judges! continued

Illinois Jane Addams School of Social Work, and her Juris Doctor from Southern Methodist University School of Law in Dallas, Texas. She is an attorney and has served as a Georgia State Representative since 1993. While a State Representative, she served on the Judiciary, Special Judiciary, Public Safety and Higher Education Committees. Barbara chaired the House Ethics Committee and served as the Historian for the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus.
Barbara is a member of the DeKalb Lawyers Association and the State Bar of Georgia. A trustee at Greenforest Community Baptist Church in Decatur, Barbara also serves as chair of the Greenforest International Missions Team. A true public servant, she serves

on the boards of several non-profit organizations.
Judge Mobley will take office on January 1, 2005.
Russ Barnes (Sumter )
Biography not available at this time. Judge Barnes will take office on January 1, 2005.

Grady K. Reddick (Screven)
Biography not available at this time. Judge Reddick will take office on January 1, 2005.
James T. Irvin (Stephens)
Biography not available at this time. Judge Irvin will take office on January 1, 2005.

Page 14

State Court Judges Newsletter
Appellate Reception
Another successful Appellate Reception was held this past June in conjunction with the State Bar's Annual Meeting in Orlando, FL. Initiated some years ago to honor the Justices and Judges whom the Council members deliver their wisdom to, this years' gathering featured a great turnout and a good time had by all.
Not only did we have such honorees as Chief Justice Norman Fletcher and Justice George Carley of the Supreme Court, Chief Judge J.D. Smith and Presiding Judge Gary Andrews of the Court of Appeals among others, but also we had a significant turnout amongst State Court Judges.
We look forward to seeing you at next year's Appellate Reception in Savannah.

State Court Judges Newsletter

Page 15

Orlando, Florida

June18, 2004

How to Get Out of a Speeding Ticket

A senior citizen gets pulled over for speeding...
Senior Citizen: Is there a problem, Officer?
Officer: Yes, you were speeding. Can I see your license please?
Senior Citizen: I'd give it to you but I don't have one.
Officer: Don't have one?
Senior Citizen: Lost it, 4 years ago for drunk driving.
Officer: I see... Can I see your vehicle registration papers please.
Senior Citizen: I can't do that.
Officer: Why not?
Senior Citizen: I stole this car.
Officer: Stole it?
Senior Citizen: Yes, and I robbed a bank

and stole a lot of money.
Officer: You what?
Senior Citizen: The bags of money and the weapons that I used are in the trunk if you want to see.
The Officer looks at the senior citizen and slowly backs away to his car and calls for back up. Within minutes 5 police cars circle the car. A police sergeant slowly approaches the car, clasping his half drawn gun.
Police Sergeant: Could you step out of your vehicle please!
The senior citizen steps out of the vehicle.
Senior Citizen: Is there a problem sir?
Police Sergeant: One of my officers told me that you have stolen this car, do not have a license and that you committed an armed bank robbery.
Senior Citizen: Armed bank robbery?

Police Sergeant: Yes, could you open the trunk of your car, please.
The senior citizen opens the trunk, revealing nothing but a spare tire.
Police Sergeant: Is this your car?
Senior Citizen: Yes, here are the registration papers.
The Police Sergeant is quite stunned.
Police Sergeant: The officer also claims that you do not have a driver's license.
The senior citizen pulls out a driver's license and hands it to the Police Sergeant. The Police Sergeant examines the license. He looks quite puzzled.
Police Sergeant: Thank you, but the officer told me that you didn't have a license, that you stole this car, and that you committed an armed bank robbery.
Senior Citizen: I bet that liar told you I was speeding too!

Council of State Court Judges
244 Washington Street, Suite 300 Atlanta, GA 30334

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

JUDGE ED CARRIERE President DeKalb County
JUDGE JOHN SALTER President-Elect Dougherty County
CHIEF JUDGE BEN STUDDARD Secretary Henry County
JUDGE BRENDA COLE Treasurer Fulton County
CHIEF JUDGE MELODIE CLAYTON Immediate Past President Cobb County
STEPHAN J. FRANK Executive Director
TRACY POWELL Administrative Assistant

JUDGE JACK E. CARNEY, JR. District 1 Bryan County
JUDGE SAM EDGAR District 2 Bacon County
JUDGE KELLY D. TURNER District 3 Lowndes County
JUDGE FLETCHER SAMS District 4 Fayette County
JUDGE RICHARD SLABY District 5 Richmond County
JUDGE JOSEPH IANNAZZONE District 6 Gwinnett County
JUDGE HENRY M. NEWKIRK District 7 Fulton County
JUDGE DONNY PEPPERS District 8 Walker County

ASHLEY G. STOLLAR Graphic Design