On Tuesday, October 28, 2025, the Miami Herald reported that a federal lawsuit had been filed against Fulton County Superior Court Judge Shermela J. Williams following an incident in October 2023 where she ordered the jailing of a 21-year-old woman who was supporting her mother during a divorce trial.
The lawsuit, filed in the Northern District of Georgia on October 22, alleges that Judge Williams acted without legal authority when she instructed deputies to detain Molly Dennis.
According to the complaint, the incident occurred as Judge Williams was concluding the divorce trial and delivering her findings. She reportedly stopped mid-sentence and directed Dennis to stand, subsequently accusing her of felonies related to an event that had been discussed during the proceedings. The complaint states that Williams then told a deputy to “put Molly in custody for me,” and to “show her what that cell looks like.”
Dennis, an Alabama resident who had been subpoenaed to testify at the trial, was held in a holding cell for a period ranging from 15 to 45 minutes. The lawsuit claims that as a result of this detention, Dennis experienced humiliation, fear, and emotional distress. After being held, she was returned to the courtroom.
The incident has drawn significant scrutiny, with the Georgia Judicial Qualifications Commission recommending Judge Williams’ removal from her position. The commission issued a report on October 2, following a hearing panel, charging Williams with 31 counts of judicial misconduct related to the treatment of Dennis and other cases over which she presided.
Christopher Pixley, Dennis’ attorney, issued a statement on October 28, emphasizing the importance of equal and fair treatment under the law for all citizens. He asserted that the lawsuit against Judge Williams is based on the premise that no individual, including a sitting judge, should be considered above the law. Pixley stated that the outcome of the case could have broad implications, affecting the rights of everyone.
In addition to Judge Williams, the lawsuit also names Fulton County Sheriff Patrick Labat and 10 unnamed deputies as defendants.
The judicial commission’s report indicates that Dennis’ parents’ divorce was highly contentious. During the trial, Judge Williams reportedly interrupted lawyers to address Dennis directly, labeling her as “Team Mom” and making comments about her having “daddy issues.” The commission noted that Williams’ behavior caused Dennis increasing anxiety.
The lawsuit details that the event leading to the accusation of felonies involved Dennis entering her father’s apartment with his permission. The father had accused Dennis or her mother of breaking or stealing some of his belongings. Judge Williams brought up this incident while concluding the trial, accusing Dennis of felonies and threatening her with a lengthy prison sentence, according to the complaint.
The commission’s report further reveals that Dennis felt humiliated when she was handcuffed in front of the courtroom and believed she was being arrested. While in the holding cell, she cried until her release. Upon her return to the courtroom, Judge Williams reportedly asked Dennis how she felt about being jailed, to which Dennis responded, “Horrible.” The report states that Judge Williams then lectured Dennis about her behavior, the consequences of her choices, and her “daddy issues.”
Attorneys representing Williams in the misconduct proceedings have stated their intention to challenge the commission’s recommendation for her removal. Williams has since acknowledged that jailing Dennis was wrong, stating that she intended to teach Dennis a “lesson” and help her by scaring her, according to the commission.
Dennis is seeking an unspecified amount in damages for claims including unlawful seizure, false imprisonment, and deprivation of liberty without due process. She has demanded a jury trial.
Source: Miami Herald
