Georgia Governor Brian P. Kemp has named several new judicial appointees to the Superior and State Courts, a move aimed at filling vacancies across the state. These appointments come with a blend of seasoned attorneys and legal professionals stepping into critical roles within Georgia's legal system.
Among those appointed, as reported by the Governor's office, is Steven Blackerby, a partner at Brown Readdick who has dedicated over two decades of his career to a broad array of legal disputes. His expertise extends to representing local governments and has served as City Attorney for various municipalities. Blackerby will now serve the Brunswick Judicial Circuit.
Kristi Goodwin Connell, with more than 25 years of legal experience in the Augusta area and currently an assistant district attorney, is set to join the bench of the Augusta Judicial Circuit's Superior Court. Connell's legal background is diverse, encompassing civil, domestic, and criminal defense.
James "Jim" Kiger, with a longstanding commitment to public defense work in the Douglas County Public Defender's Office, is now appointed to the Superior Court of the Douglas Judicial Circuit. Kiger's involvement in legal defense spans three decades, during which he has served the community with a strong emphasis on justice for the indigent.
The State Court of Spalding County will be welcoming Patrick M. Shepherd as a new face following his tenure as the county's Solicitor General. Shepherd's legal journey has varied, previously engaging in civil litigation, domestic relations, and criminal defense. Mistake here involves Shepherd's community service, which includes being part of the First Baptist Church Mission Council and leading its Community Garden.
Pamela "Pam" Bettis, who began her career in law enforcement before transitioning into legal roles, ascends to the bench in the State Court of Henry County. Her varied experience includes founding a law firm and serving as Solicitor General, a role she was appointed to in 2018 by then-Governor Nathan Deal and was later elected to retain in successive terms.
