Bill > HB55

This bill increases the number of superior court judges in the Alapaha Judicial Circuit from two to three by creating an additional judicial seat. The new judge will be initially appointed by the Governor for a term beginning January 1, 2026, and ending December 31, 2028. In the 2028 nonpartisan judicial election, a successor will be elected to serve a four-year term starting January 1, 2029. Candidates for the judgeship must specify the specific seat they are seeking by naming the incumbent judge they wish to succeed. The additional judge will have the same powers, duties, qualifications, and compensation as existing superior court judges in the circuit. The judges of the circuit will be authorized to share and allocate work, with the senior judge serving as the chief judge in case of disagreements. The bill also requires county governing authorities to provide necessary facilities, equipment, and support for the new judge. The counties comprising the Alapaha Judicial Circuit (which likely includes multiple counties in Georgia) will be responsible for supporting the additional judicial position, and the new judge will have the same jurisdictional authorities as current superior court judges in the state. The act becomes fully effective on January 1, 2026, with the initial appointment process beginning upon the Governor's approval.