Georgia Supreme Court Chief Justice Michael Boggs will step down from his position at the end of March, concluding his tenure on the state’s highest court. He informed Governor Brian Kemp of his decision in a letter delivered Tuesday.
Boggs, who has served as chief justice since July 2022, stated he will return to private practice following his departure. In a statement released by the court, he emphasized his commitment to maintaining public trust and contributing to the state’s judicial improvements throughout his career, stating, “Throughout my service, I have endeavored to be a good steward of the public’s trust. During my 21 years as a judge, I have found it especially rewarding to contribute to efforts that improve our state’s judicial system for the citizens who rely on it to deliver justice for all.”
A native of Pierce County, Boggs cited growing personal and family obligations as a factor in his decision. His wife recently retired from full-time teaching, and he noted in his resignation letter that these changes influenced his choice to step away from the bench.
Boggs has spent over two decades in public service, holding roles as a state representative, a superior court judge, a Court of Appeals judge, and a Georgia Supreme Court justice. He was first appointed to the state’s highest court by then-Governor Nathan Deal in December 2016 and was twice reelected.
With Boggs’ departure, Governor Kemp will appoint a new justice to the court. The remaining justices have selected current Presiding Justice Nels S.D. Peterson as the next Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Georgia.
