Panel recommends fourth judge for circuit

In 2008, the council made a similar recommendation for the Piedmont Judicial Circuit when it said that the local circuit had the highest priority among 10 circuits for a new superior court judgeship.

The latest recommendations will be sent to Gov. Nathan Deal and the General Assembly to be considered for legislative action during the 2012 session.

New judgeships are created by the General Assembly; the bill authorizing a new position provides for the effective date, initial term and stipulates election or appointment of the initial judge.

Designated judges of the Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, superior courts and the limited jurisdiction trial courts serve on the Judicial Council.