On Wednesday, April 15, 2026, the Tennessee Board of Judicial Conduct suspended Madison County General Sessions Court Judge Mark Patey, citing mental health issues that substantially interfere with the performance of his duties. The suspension is effective immediately and remains in place until further notice from the Board.
The Board’s decision states that Judge Patey is prohibited from exercising any judicial power or authority during this period. This includes, but is not limited to, holding court, issuing subpoenas, setting or resetting cases, issuing warrants, setting or changing bonds, administering oaths, or issuing oral or written rulings in any matter.
The Board has the authority to take action in cases where a judge is suffering from a temporary or permanent disability, whether physical or mental, that would substantially interfere with their ability to perform their duties promptly, orderly, and efficiently, according to Tennessee Code Annotated § 17-5-302(a). The Board is also authorized to use, exercise, and enjoy any of the powers normally exercised by courts of record in the state, as stated in Tenn. Code Ann. § 17-5-301(b).
The order specifies that the suspension does not preclude, conclude, or resolve any pending or impending matter other than the specific issue addressed in the order.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
