Chief Superior Court Judge Kristina Cook Graham, serving on the Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit, recently declared that she will not be pursuing re-election in the upcoming 2024 race. Appointed as the fourth Superior Court judge in 1992 by Gov. Zell Miller, Judge Graham has successfully sought re-election eight times, contributing to a notable 32-year tenure in the circuit, overseeing Catoosa, Chattooga, Dade, and Walker Counties. She has held the position of circuit chief judge since 2016.
In her retirement statement, Judge Graham, daughter of renowned attorney Bobby Lee Cook, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to serve the citizens, stating, “After much reflection, I have made the decision not to seek re-election this year. I feel I leave our judicial circuit in a very healthy and professional state.”
During her tenure, Judge Graham has played a significant role in the establishment of three accountability courts, securing state funding for these initiatives. These include a drug court, a mental health court, and a parental accountability court, all accessible to residents of the four counties. Notably, the drug court has seen over 80 graduates, contributing to the programs’ success in reducing incarceration, fostering good citizenship, and enhancing participants’ quality of life.
In her retirement announcement, Judge Graham urged voters to carefully consider candidates and select individuals deeply invested in the community’s well-being. “Select an individual that has invested time and energy into your community and the beliefs that make your community strong,” she advised. As the upcoming election approaches, the spotlight now turns to candidates vying for this esteemed position in the Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit.
