For approximately the last thirty years Georgia Supreme Court Justice Robert Benham has convened periodic informal gatherings of this state’s minority judges in a much needed effort to create opportunities for fellowship, mentoring and continuing judicial education. In 2004, then Gate City Bar President Clarence Johnson agreed to meet at Atlanta’s famous Paschal’s restaurant with Judges Penny Brown Reynolds, Calvin Graves, Crystal Gaines and others to discuss the creation of the GCBA Judicial Section. On January 27, 2005, the first Officers and Board members of the section were sworn in and duly installed.

The general purpose of our organization is to assist Georgia judges in the performance of their responsibilities and to foster positive relations between the bench and the bar. In addition, through various community outreach programs, the Judicial Section seeks to build bridges with other organizations, constituencies and the community at large, all with the goal of increasing public trust and confidence in the justice system. The GCBA Judicial Section is committed to improving public awareness and a better understanding of what judges do everyday by working with the faith community, our schools, the business as well as non-profit community, and other civic leaders.

Members enjoy access to continuing judicial education programs, committees, a newsletter, a judicial speakers’ bureau and social events. Our established projects include our annual Journey to Judge autobiographical school presentation, Third Grade in school reading program and church Law Day programs.