Judge Ann B. Harris has been elected Chief Judge for the Cobb Judicial Circuit, beginning her two-year term yesterday. Her appointment reflects the trust her colleagues have in her judicial experience.
According to the Cobb County's website, Judge Harris has served on the Superior Court bench since her election in July 2014, handling a caseload that includes criminal, domestic, and civil cases. She also presides over the Mental Health Accountability Court, which focuses on rehabilitation for those with mental health issues in the criminal justice system, and the Parental Accountability Court, which helps individuals with child support issues become more supportive parents through programs like job placement and substance abuse treatment.
Judge Harris’ influence extends beyond Cobb County, with her work in partnership with the Republic of Georgia to improve its justice system. She has helped strengthen their courts and establish better jury trial protocols.
Before joining the bench, Judge Harris served as an assistant district attorney in Cobb County for 19 years. She prosecuted the first felony elder abuse case in Georgia and was instrumental in drafting the state’s first human trafficking laws in 2006. She has also been involved in community service, including chairing MUST Ministries and being a member of the Smyrna Optimist Club.
Harris earned her law degree from Vanderbilt University and her bachelor’s from Auburn University. She is married to Jim, and they live in Smyrna with their rescue dog, Bert.
