On Tuesday, February 25, 2025, Patch reported that Georgia Supreme Court Chief Justice Michael P. Boggs has resigned from his position on the state’s highest court. Boggs submitted his resignation letter directly to Governor Brian Kemp, which has been made available to the public. His resignation will take effect on March 31, marking the end of the Supreme Court’s current term.

In his resignation letter, Boggs expressed his intention to return to private practice in South Georgia, citing family and personal obligations as key reasons for his decision. He noted that his wife had recently retired from full-time teaching, prompting a reevaluation of their priorities. “After much prayer and reflection,” Boggs stated, “I have decided that the time has come for me to begin the next chapter of my life.” He expressed gratitude for the support he received during his tenure and acknowledged the contributions of his colleagues in the judicial system.

Boggs was appointed to the Georgia Supreme Court by former Governor Nathan Deal in December 2016. During his time on the court, he successfully won reelection in both 2018 and 2024, before assuming the role of chief justice in July 2022. Over his 25 years in public service, Boggs has held various positions, including state representative, superior court judge, and appeals court judge.

Supreme Court officials recognized Boggs for his efforts to enhance judicial security and address the civil justice gap within the state. They highlighted his initiatives aimed at ensuring that trial courts received necessary state resources and addressing case backlogs that arose due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, he was involved in exploring the implications of generative artificial intelligence within the judicial system and establishing cooperative initiatives with the State Bar of Georgia’s Office of Bar Admissions and the Supreme Court’s Committee on Access to Justice.

In his resignation letter, Boggs reflected on his two decades of judicial service, stating that he found it rewarding to contribute to improvements in Georgia’s judicial system. He expressed pride in being a steward of public trust and highlighted the significant progress made during his tenure.

Boggs also acknowledged his gratitude towards Governor Nathan Deal and the citizens of Georgia for the opportunity to serve as chief justice. He credited his accomplishments to the dedicated jurists, court professionals, and staff members who supported him throughout his career. He expressed special appreciation for his friends and the public who have offered their support over the years.

In addition to his judicial duties, Boggs has been actively involved in various councils and commissions related to criminal justice reform and mental health initiatives. He served as a member of Georgia’s Special Council on Criminal Justice Reform and co-chaired the Georgia Criminal Justice Reform Council. Currently, he is involved with Governor Kemp’s Georgia Behavioral Health Reform and Innovation Commission, where he chairs the Mental Health Courts and Corrections Subcommittee.

Following Boggs’ resignation, Governor Kemp will appoint a new justice to fill the vacancy on the Supreme Court. Subsequently, the court will select a new chief justice to succeed Boggs.

 

 

Source: Patch