Fulton County Superior Court Judge Sharmella Williams could lose her job. Georgia’s judicial commission, the JQC (Judicial Qualifications Commission), has recommended that the state’s highest court remove her from the bench because of serious problems with how she handled her job.
This kind of recommendation is rare and shows how serious the claims against her are.
What Did the Judge Do Wrong?
The JQC listed several issues, but some of the most serious ones involve how she used her power:
- Jailing a Young Witness Without the Right: The most alarming claim is that Judge Williams put a 21-year-old witness in jail during a divorce case. She later admitted that she did not have the legal right to do this, saying she just wanted to “send a message.”
- Trying to Help Friends and Family: The commission also claims that Judge Williams tried to improperly use her position to influence family court cases involving her own uncle and a sorority sister. This suggests she was not neutral, which is required of a judge.
- Other Issues: She is also accused of having improper private talks with lawyers and taking too long to make decisions in cases.
What Happens Next?
The JQC has sent its recommendation for removal to the Georgia Supreme Court, which will make the final decision.
Judge Williams has pushed back on the idea of being removed. She has told the commission that she thinks a suspension (being taken off the job for a period) would be a more suitable punishment.
You can learn more by watching the original news report below.
