On Sunday, June 29, 2025, ABC24 reported that Shelby County Judge Paula Skahan retired after more than two decades of service. Skahan, who presided over the Shelby County Criminal Court Division 1, announced her retirement in January 2025.
First appointed to her position in December 2004 by then-Governor Phil Bredesen, Skahan was elected to the bench in 2006. In her resignation letter to Governor Bill Lee, she expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the community over the past 20 years, emphasizing the honor it was to fulfill her judicial duties.
The Criminal Court Clerk’s Office acknowledged Skahan’s departure as marking the conclusion of a significant era for the Shelby County Criminal Court. Following her retirement, four candidates have emerged to fill her judicial seat.
The applicants—Jahari M. Dowdy, Lora D. Fowler, Raymond J. Lepone, and Kenya N. Smith—will be interviewed during a public hearing scheduled for July 16 at 9 a.m. This event will take place in the Historic Courtroom (Room 325) at the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law.
Members of the public are invited to attend the hearing and may voice any objections regarding the candidates, either orally or in writing. After the interviews, the Commission is expected to vote on the nominees and forward their recommendations to Governor Bill Lee for consideration.
Source: ABC24
