GA Supreme Court Chief Justice To Step Down

ATLANTA — Long-serving Georgia Supreme Court Justice Harold D. Melton will step down this summer, more than a year before his four-year term as Chief Justice ends.

Melton, 54, announced his departure from the State Supreme Court on Friday in a statement to court staff and to the Georgia Judicial Council.

“July 31 will mark my 30th year working in state government, 16 years with the court,” he said in the statement. “This fall all three of our children will be attending college at the same time. Now is the time to explore opportunities for the next season of life that will allow me to best serve our legal community and my extended family.”

However, Melton said it was unclear what was on the horizon.

“I do not know what my next move will be,” he said. “With this announcement, I can begin the search process in earnest.”

Melton was appointed to the State Supreme Court by Gov. Sonny Perdue in July 2005 and became Chief Justice in August 2018.

He began working with the Georgia Department of Law in 1991, and in 2003 was appointed to be Perdue's executive counsel, representing the Governor's Office.

“We have done great work together for the benefit of the citizens of this great state, and this Court is well-positioned to continue the high calling that has clearly been set before us,” he told court staff. “I have such a peace and confidence that justice will continue to be served.”

Gov. Brian Kemp will name a new justice and said he expected Melton to remain a servant of the people in his future endeavors.

“Georgians in every community have benefitted from his steadfast commitment to the rule of law and public service, and I know he will continue to pursue those passions in the days ahead,” Kemp said.