Thompson Wins Appointment for Interim General Sessions Judge in Close Vote Against Griggs
Local Attorney and Municipal Judge Harriet Thompson was appointed Interim General Sessions Judge by the Hardeman County Commission at its meeting on Tuesday, February 20, 2024.
“I’m so excited and can’t wait to begin. It is such an honor to be appointed by the County Commission to this position. I think that I will be the first woman to serve as General Sessions Judge in Hardeman County. I have practiced law before three excellent General Sessions Judges since I came to Hardeman County. I hope that I can incorporate their knowledge and skills into my judgeship,” said Attorney Thompson.
The position will become open upon the retirement of Judge Boyette Denton on Sunday, March 31, 2024. Judge Denton announced his upcoming retirement last month.
In a letter sent to the County, Judge Denton said, “Regretfully, this letter is to inform you that I have plans to retire, effective March 31, 2024. This has not been an easy decision nor was it one that I intended on having to make. When I ran for re-election, I never anticipated having to end my career before the completion of my elected term. As you know, I have Parkinson’s disease and it has progressed to the point where I have very limited mobility, in getting from one area to the next without falling and injuring myself.”
Two qualified individuals, Rickey Griggs and Harriet Thompson, submitted letters of formal application for consideration by the County Commission. Both applicants spoke to the commission and took time to answer questions from the commissioners.
After the presentations and questions ceased, Commissioner Grantham nominated Thompson for the position of Interim General Sessions Judge. Commissioner Bell seconded the nomination. Commissioner Lake then nominated Griggs and was seconded by Commissioner Weems.
The commission voted 10-6, with Bell, DeBerry, Gilliam, Grantham, Hensley, Kennamore, Lanier, Sain, Vickers, and Wright voting for Harriet Thompson.
Commissioners Bufford, Jenkins, Lake, Miller, Polk, and Weems voted for Rickey Griggs.
Harriet Thompson is appointed to serve after Judge Denton’s retirement until the August election, when the voters will elect a candidate to fill the remainder of Judge Denton’s term.
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