IN THE PROFESSION
The proposal has also received significant support from leaders of the State Bar of Georgia. A letter signed by numerous former State Bar presidents urges support for the amendment, emphasizing that judicial elections should focus on“ integrity, experience, competence, temperament, impartiality, and commitment to the rule of law.” The letter argues that partisan labels can create a perception that judicial decisions are influenced by politics and that nonpartisan elections can reinforce public confidence in judicial independence.
The measure also offers a useful civics lesson. Constitutional amendments begin under the Gold Dome, but legislators cannot change Georgia’ s foundational law alone. After clearing the General Assembly’ s supermajority requirement, the decision moves directly to the electorate.
In November, Georgia voters— not lawmakers, judges or lawyers— will have the final word.
If the ballot initiative receives the requisite affirmative vote, it would not eliminate elections for probate judges or change their duties, jurisdiction or qualifications. It would establish a uniform statewide method of electing probate judges without partisan designation.
All the CLEs You Need
Atlanta Bar is your one-stop-shop for your CLE needs, with opportunities to learn from experts in the field and network with your peers and area leaders. Need a more flexible CLE option? We have a 24 / 7 on-demand library of archived Atlanta Bar CLE programs.
Log on today! https:// atlantabar. org /? pg = CLE-Programs
www. atlantabar. org THE ATLANTA LAWYER 11