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HB557 • 2025

Northeastern Judicial Circuit; superior courts; provide for a sixth judge

Northeastern Judicial Circuit; superior courts; provide for a sixth judge

Active

The official status still shows this bill as active or still awaiting another formal step.

Sponsor
Hawkins, Lee
Last action
2026-02-03
Official status
Senate Read and Referred
Effective date
Not listed

Plain English Breakdown

The official summary lists 'to declare inherent authority' and 'for other purposes,' but does not explain what these mean.

Adding a Sixth Judge to the Northeastern Judicial Circuit

This bill amends state law to create a sixth judge position for the superior courts in Georgia's Northeastern Judicial Circuit.

What This Bill Does

  • Amends Code Section 15-6-2 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated to provide for a sixth judge of the superior courts of the Northeastern Judicial Circuit.
  • Provides that the Governor will appoint this additional judge.
  • Provides for an additional court reporter for the circuit.
  • Authorizes county governing authorities in the circuit to provide facilities, office space, supplies, equipment, and personnel for these judges.

Who It Names or Affects

  • The superior courts of the Northeastern Judicial Circuit
  • The Governor regarding judicial appointments
  • County governments within the Northeastern Judicial Circuit responsible for providing resources

Terms To Know

Northeastern Judicial Circuit
A specific group of counties in Georgia that share superior courts.
Superior Court
The main trial court for serious cases and major legal disputes in the state system.

Limits and Unknowns

  • The official summary mentions providing for effective dates but does not list a specific date.
  • The source material does not specify which counties are included in the Northeastern Judicial Circuit.
  • The document does not state how much money is needed to pay for the new judge, reporter, or facilities.

Bill History

  1. 2026-02-03 Georgia General Assembly

    Senate Read and Referred

Official Summary Text

Northeastern Judicial Circuit; superior courts; provide for a sixth judge