Front Row L-R : CJ Kirk , CJ Blum , CJ Moss ( Chatham County ). Back Row L-R : CJ Aten , CJ Dallas , CJ Holmes , CJ Anderson
CJ Blum : It ’ s amazing ! Our camaraderie actually began when we all realized that , for the first time , all of the Metro Chiefs were women . We are all very supportive of each other , having bonded over the often intense responsibilities that come along with being the Chief Magistrate of a busy Metro County . We get together on occasion to discuss issues , share ideas , and learn from each other . I ’ ve had the pleasure and privilege of visiting Judges Holmes ’ and Anderson ’ s Courts . I ’ ve also hosted Judges Holmes , Aten , and Kirk here in Gwinnett . Right now , we ’ re trying to coordinate another field trip to Judge Kirk ’ s Court . I ’ m thankful that I ’ ve gotten to know each of these talented women not only as colleagues , but also as friends .
CJ Camp : This is a hard-working group of women . We have lots of cases filed in Magistrate Court . Since there are a lot of cases in which the parties are unrepresented by attorneys , Magistrate Judges have to be very patient with the parties and have to be great listeners . When I began practicing law , you rarely saw a woman on the bench . However , with more women entering the practice of law , it is natural that more women are becoming judges .
CJ Dallas : On some levels , it is a significant accomplishment for women to hold such positions of leadership . We have a very close connection and try to be there for each other . It ' s so important to be able to call , text , or e-mail a question to one of the " Sister Judges " and know that they will respond . Not to cast dispersions on the male judges , but I suppose women approach and react to situations in a unique manner . I believe that , by virtue of our being more nurturing , we respond to persons in our court with a mindset toward healing and restoration instead of a focus on being strictly punitive .
CJ Kirk : It ’ s terrific . The majority of us connected in 2015 and meet regularly to connect our courts , standardize our practices , and ensure we are prepared
The Official News Publication of the Atlanta Bar Association THE ATLANTA LAWYER 25