Alapaha Judicial Circuit; superior courts; provide for an additional judge

Alapaha courts gain a third judge

Beginning January 1, 2026, the Alapaha Judicial Circuit has three superior court judges instead of two. The Governor's appointment authority takes effect when the act becomes law. The appointed judge's term runs from January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2028, and continues until a successor qualifies. Voters elect the first successor in a nonpartisan election in 2028 for a four-year term starting January 1, 2029. Later elections follow Georgia's superior court election rules and occur in the year each four-year term ends. Judges remain in office until their successors qualify. Candidates must identify their seat by naming the incumbent they seek to replace, or choose a seat with no incumbent. The added judge and successors must meet the same qualifications as other Georgia superior court judges. The added judge has the same powers and protections, including authority to serve in other circuits and permitted appeals. Circuit judges share court business and may set practice rules consistent with Georgia's Constitution and laws once the added judge qualifies. A majority settles disagreements; without a majority, the senior judge, serving as chief judge, controls. Court terms operate as one panel with equal authority, and any circuit judge may handle official court papers and proceedings. Any circuit judge may draw and seat juries for one judge or several judges at once. The state and counties pay the added judge and successors at existing circuit rates, including expense allowances and applicable county salary supplements. Circuit judges may also hire an additional court reporter, whose pay follows existing law; hiring is not required. Circuit counties must provide suitable courtrooms, office space, phones, furniture, equipment, supplies, and needed staff beginning January 1, 2026. Counties pay the act's authorized court expenses from their own treasuries. The law states no dollar amounts.