GA HB750

Increases the number of judges on the State Court of Forsyth County from two to three, effective July 1, 2026

The third judge will be appointed by the Governor for an initial term from July 1, 2026 through December 31, 2028, with subsequent judges elected in nonpartisan elections beginning in 2028 for four-year terms

Creates the position of chief judge, designated as the judge with the longest continuous service on the court

Chief judge responsibilities include managing courtroom space in consultation with the Superior Court chief judge, preparing the court's budget, establishing personnel criteria, and coordinating with county officials on facility needs and operational efficiencies

Chief judge must regularly meet with all judges to discuss court issues, collaborate on case management and sentencing best practices, and manage assignments for visiting state court judges