Front Row L-R: CJ Kirk, CJ Blum, CJ Moss( Chatham County). Back Row L-R: CJ Aten, CJ Dallas, CJ Holmes, CJ Anderson
CJ Blum: It’ s amazing! Our camaraderie actually began when we all realized that, for the first time, all of the Metro Chiefs were women. We are all very supportive of each other, having bonded over the often intense responsibilities that come along with being the Chief Magistrate of a busy Metro County. We get together on occasion to discuss issues, share ideas, and learn from each other. I’ ve had the pleasure and privilege of visiting Judges Holmes’ and Anderson’ s Courts. I’ ve also hosted Judges Holmes, Aten, and Kirk here in Gwinnett. Right now, we’ re trying to coordinate another field trip to Judge Kirk’ s Court. I’ m thankful that I’ ve gotten to know each of these talented women not only as colleagues, but also as friends.
CJ Camp: This is a hard-working group of women. We have lots of cases filed in Magistrate Court. Since there are a lot of cases in which the parties are unrepresented by attorneys, Magistrate Judges have to be very patient with the parties and have to be great listeners. When I began practicing law, you rarely saw a woman on the bench. However, with more women entering the practice of law, it is natural that more women are becoming judges.
CJ Dallas: On some levels, it is a significant accomplishment for women to hold such positions of leadership. We have a very close connection and try to be there for each other. It ' s so important to be able to call, text, or e-mail a question to one of the " Sister Judges " and know that they will respond. Not to cast dispersions on the male judges, but I suppose women approach and react to situations in a unique manner. I believe that, by virtue of our being more nurturing, we respond to persons in our court with a mindset toward healing and restoration instead of a focus on being strictly punitive.
CJ Kirk: It’ s terrific. The majority of us connected in 2015 and meet regularly to connect our courts, standardize our practices, and ensure we are prepared
The Official News Publication of the Atlanta Bar Association THE ATLANTA LAWYER 25