On Monday, February 23, 2026, Law360 reported that Fulton County Superior Court Judge Shermela J. Williams resigned from her position following a recommendation from the Georgia Judicial Qualifications Commission (JQC) for her removal.
The JQC cited dishonest testimony regarding allegations of misconduct, including the illegal arrest and false imprisonment of a witness. Williams, in a letter to Governor Brian Kemp, expressed that her resignation was bittersweet, highlighting her commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring fairness during her five years on the bench.
The resignation comes amidst a pending disciplinary case before the Georgia Supreme Court and a separate lawsuit filed by Molly Riley Dennis, who accuses Williams of violating her constitutional rights by improperly jailing her during her parents’ divorce proceedings. Williams had sought to dismiss the suit, claiming absolute judicial immunity.
Courtney Veal, director of the JQC, stated that Williams’ resignation was an attempt to evade accountability for her actions. Veal emphasized that the disciplinary case remains pending and that the Investigative Panel is considering further action.
Jamala S. McFadden, counsel for Williams, defended her client’s reputation as a community leader who dedicated herself to fairness, integrity, and access to justice. McFadden acknowledged Williams’ concerns about the fairness of the JQC process but stated that she made the difficult decision to resign.
The JQC initially charged Williams in 2024 with multiple counts of misconduct. These charges include intervening in a legal proceeding on behalf of her uncle, improperly delaying cases, and illegally detaining a witness during a divorce hearing. Additional allegations include an improper ex parte communication with a sorority sister regarding preferential scheduling in a child custody case, followed by a threat to take away her child after a recusal motion was filed.
Source: Law360
