The State Bar of Georgia announced on Apr. 21 the appointment of Matthew M. “Matt” McCord as a Superior Court judge for the Griffin Judicial Circuit, following his selection by Governor Brian Kemp.
This appointment is significant for Fayette, Pike, Spalding, and Upson counties, which make up the Griffin Judicial Circuit. The new role reflects Judge McCord’s long-standing involvement in Georgia’s legal system and commitment to public service.
Christopher P. Twyman, president of the State Bar of Georgia, said in a letter: “On behalf of the State Bar of Georgia, I am writing to extend congratulations to Stockbridge and Hampton Municipal Court Judge Matthew M. ‘Matt’ McCord on his appointment by Gov. Brian Kemp to serve as a Superior Court judge for the Griffin Judicial Circuit, covering Fayette, Pike, Spalding and Upson counties.” Twyman continued: “Judge McCord will be well served by his 26 years of experience in the legal profession and justice system, maintaining a private law practice in McDonough as well as his judicial service. He has also served as a judge pro tempore for the State Courts of Henry, DeKalb and Fayette counties and is a former assistant solicitor in Clayton County and former assistant district attorney for the Alcovy Judicial Circuit. Additionally, he served two terms as president of the statewide Council of Municipal Court Judges.” Twyman added: “By accepting this appointment, Judge Matt McCord demonstrates his continued commitment to serving the public and the justice system. We wish him well in this capacity of judicial leadership.”
The Georgia Bar Association serves as the main professional organization for lawyers across Georgia according to its official website. The association funds its programs primarily through membership fees and voluntary contributions according to its official website. It also provides conference facilities at its Atlanta-based Bar Center according to its official website.
The association offers various initiatives focused on mental health support, mentorship opportunities—including running one of America’s first required mentoring programs—and inclusion within Georgia’s legal community according to its official website. It recognizes outstanding work through an annual awards program honoring local bar associations according to its official website.
With substantial membership from attorneys practicing both within Georgia and elsewhere according to its official website, it promotes duty among members while advancing justice administration and legal knowledge statewide according to its official website.
Looking ahead, Judge McCord’s appointment underscores ongoing efforts by both state officials and professional organizations like the State Bar toward strengthening leadership within Georgia’s judiciary.