Six months have passed since I came to the AOC as director. During these times of challenge and change, I have made it my goal to help chart a new course for judicial administration in Georgia. While I am mindful of the strengths and weaknesses of the agency’s past, I have in mind a more cooperative future for all the groups and agencies that make up the judicial branch.

I believe the present moment is too dangerous to waste our energy, our resources and our political capital engaged in turf battles within the court system. We can best serve the people of Georgia by working together for system improvements—if not in agreement, at least in an atmosphere of mutual respect and candid communication. My goal as director is to begin to build trust, to open avenues of communication, and to establish standards of professionalism at the AOC that can be relied upon to foster cooperation.

During the 2010 legislative session, the AOC is hosting a weekly meeting of key staff members for the judges’ councils, appellate courts and lobbyists from the State Bar and other groups to share information. My hope is that this group will mark a new beginning in working together to present a united front for the issues facing the judicial branch. In the past our public disagreements have done little to enhance our prestige with the Governor and members of the General Assembly. The AOC’s legislative agenda is to promote a judiciary united by its determination to meet the challenges of these tight budgetary times.

A more cooperative future for the judicial branch must be nourished and actively cultivated. I ask for your support, patience and commitment to help this effort take root and flourish.