Drug Court Judge Resigns

Judge Amanda F. Williams, the Drug Court Judge in the Brunswick, GA judicial circuit, resigned earlier this month from her judgeship. Williams was elected to the bench in 1990 and her courtroom was featured on the March 2011 NPR radio program "This American Life." The show showed Judge Wililams to be in breach of the drug court philosophy and was holding court participants to indefinite jail terms. The Georgia Judicial Qualifications Commission made an investigation into ethics violations. In November, 2011 a 14 court ehtics complaint was filed against Judge Williams be the Commission. She was charged with making false statements and being tyrannical, among other other things. In December, Judge Williams indicated that she would be resigning. It is possible that she may still face felony criminal charges for allegedly lying to JQC investigators in the ethics probe.

Many court systems, including Hall County Courts, have a DUI and Drug Court program. These programs are actually part of someone's sentence. They are usually at least 12 months in length and require weekly court appearances, random drug screens, and weekly (or more frequent) counseling and group sessions at the participants expense. Fines and fees are extremely high in these programs. Any type of non-perfect compliance, such as getting in arrears in payment, being late reporting for a random drug test or screen, or missing a session of counseling can lead to being locked up. Allegations were that Judge Williams abused her power in presiding over such a program.

If you are facing a DUI or drug related charge in Hall County or Gainesville, Ga, our Hall Co. DUI lawyers can help. Whether you are a first lifetime arrest or repeat DUI or drug offender, our DUI lawyers will fight hard and get you the best possible results on your case. Call today for a free case consultation.

In addition, our Gainesville lawyers also frequently serve clients in Winder ( Barrow County ) alcohol and drug offenses such as DUI and Possession of Marijuana as well as minor in possession. Contact Mr. Lawson regarding your Barrow County case as well if you need help getting the best possible results.