FULTON COUNTY
CLERK OF SUPERIOR AND MAGISTRATE COURTS
FROM THE DESK OF Madam Clerk
Dear Fulton County Residents and Constituents,
It is with immense pride that I present to you the Clerk of Superior and Magistrate Courts Annual Report, Empowering Fulton County. This report reflects our journey over the past year as we continue to prioritize innovation, equity, and service excellence in every facet of our work. I am also honored to manage a $20 million budget with unwavering integrity, ensuring that every resource is maximized to serve you better.
In 2024, we deepened our commitment to empowering the people, organizations, and businesses that make Fulton County a beacon of progress and possibility.
From enhancing our community engagement efforts to leveraging technology that streamlines our court systems, we have worked tirelessly to build a stronger, more accessible justice system for all.
Empowering Our Constituents
Our mission is centered on ensuring every resident feels empowered to navigate their legal matters with confidence. Last year, we processed tens of thousands of court filings with precision, significantly reduced wait times for records retrieval, and expanded access to our digital resources, including enhanced e-filing systems.
By prioritizing user-friendly solutions and transparency, we are removing barriers and making our courts more accessible to every Fulton County resident. Whether through streamlined services or new initiatives, we are equipping our constituents with the tools and information they need to succeed.
Empowering Our Communities
Fulton County’s strength lies in its diversity, and our team has made it a priority to connect with and serve all facets of our community. In 2024, we hosted impactful events like the historic mass swearing-in ceremony and strengthened partnerships with schools and nonprofits to bring civics education to life.
Through community programs promoting equity and accessibility, we transformed the courthouse into not only a place of legal resolution but also a trusted resource for all residents.
Empowering Our Employees
The success of our courts is made possible by the dedication and passion of our employees. We implemented advanced training programs in 2024 to equip our team with the skills and knowledge to provide stellar customer service at every interaction.
Our employees are the face of the Clerk’s Office, and their professionalism, empathy, and commitment to excellence have not gone unnoticed. Your overwhelmingly positive feedback inspires us to continuously raise the bar and ensure that every visit to our office is a positive and empowering experience.
Empowering the Next Generation
As public servants, we have a responsibility not only to meet the needs of today but also to invest in the future of our community. Through courthouse tours, mentorship programs, and educational initiatives, we are inspiring the next generation to engage with and understand our justice system.
By fostering connections with schools, youth organizations, and emerging leaders, we are planting seeds of empowerment that will grow for years to come.
Empowering Through Data and Results
Each milestone reached in 2024 reflects our unwavering commitment to measurable progress. Some of our achievements include:
– Processing tens of thousands of filings with record-breaking accuracy and efficiency.
– Expanding online resources, resulting in a significant increase in digital accessibility for attorneys and residents.
– Drastically reducing record retrieval times, ensuring residents have the information they need without unnecessary delays.
These achievements are more than numbers; they represent lives changed, challenges resolved, and a community that is better served.
Looking Ahead
As we move forward, my vision remains clear: to lead with compassion, foster innovation, and strengthen the bond between our courts and the people of Fulton County. Together, we will continue to empower our community by breaking down barriers, enhancing services, and creating a justice system that inspires trust, confidence, and hope.
Thank you for your trust and support as we work toward a brighter future for Fulton County. It is an honor to serve you, and I look forward to continuing this journey together.
With Gratitude and Commitment,
Ché Alexander Clerk of Courts
Cabinet Members
Chief Tim Ezell CHIEF DEPUTY CLERK CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER
Chief Elizabeth Markowitz
CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER
Chief Deryl Belser
CHIEF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER
Chief Rita Johnson
CHIEF COMPLIANCE OFFICER
Organizational Chart
Constituency Services
Superior Civil
Budget, Procurement & Grants
OPERATIONS
Human Resources
Community
EXTERNAL AFFAIRS
Madam
PEOPLE. PURPOSE. PASSION.
Led by the Honorable Ché Alexander, we welcome you to the Office of the Fulton County Clerk of Superior and Magistrate Courts, where our motto, “People. Purpose. Passion,” guides everything we do. We firmly believe that people are at the heart of our work and it is their needs that drive our purpose and ignite our passion.
As proud servants of the largest constituency in the state of Georgia, we are dedicated to upholding our mandated duties with the utmost care and diligence. Our core responsibilities encompass correctly processing and safeguarding all Criminal, Civil, Real Estate, Board of Equalization and other ancillary records originating in Fulton County. Many consider the Clerk’s Office to be “the heartbeat of the justice system,” and it is that immense responsibility that further motivates us.
In addition to our proficient management and safeguarding of vital county documents, we actively engage in various information management, financial management, and administrative functions within the judicial system. By ensuring operational excellence, we strive to deliver efficient and effective services to the community we serve.
Understanding that the demands of our office continue to grow, we frequently look to embrace and leverage technology to increase accuracy and efficiency in all of our processes. Our relationship with technology positions us to be the Clerk’s Office of the future.
However, our commitment extends well beyond the confines of our office walls.
We understand the significance of community engagement and actively coordinate and participate in numerous events and initiatives. Our aim is twofold: to contribute to the eradication of crime and to educate citizens about the wide range of services our agency provides. Together, we can make a profound impact on our community.
To fulfill our purpose and make a lasting impact, we are dedicated to implement diverse community outreach initiatives. We pledge to provide information, education, and resources to those in need, empowering individuals to navigate the justice system with knowledge and confidence. By forging partnerships with community organizations, schools, and local businesses, we create a network of support that amplifies our collective efforts.
At the core of our success lies the positive impact we make in people’s lives. Collaboration and inclusiveness are ingrained in our values, and through frequent community engagement and cross-justice system collaborations, we vow to build stronger relationships and foster trust. It is our vision to reshape the overarching perception of the justice system, promoting fairness, accessibility, and equality.
“People. Purpose. Passion.” This is not just a motto—it’s a guiding principle that propels us forward. We are honored to serve the people of Fulton County, and with their support, we can achieve remarkable things. Together, let us pursue positive change, driven by the needs of our community and fueled by our unwavering passion.
FULTON COUNTY’S FIFTEEN CITIES
Atlanta
Alpharetta
Chattahoochee Hills
College Park
East Point Fairburn
Hapeville
Johns Creek
Milton
Palmetto
Roswell
Sandy Springs
South Fulton
Union City
FULTON COUNTY Serving All of
Atthe Clerk of Superior and Magistrate Courts, we take immense pride in serving every corner of Fulton County, from the bustling streets of Atlanta to the vibrant communities of Milton, Roswell, Fairburn, College Park, and beyond. In 2024, we had the privilege of engaging in meaningful community service in each of these cities, building stronger connections and ensuring that every resident feels supported and empowered.
With three convenient office locations— Downtown Atlanta, the North Annex in Sandy Springs, and the South Annex in College Park— we are committed to making our services accessible to all. Whether you visited us in person, connected through our digital platforms, or attended one of our outreach events, it has been our honor to serve you with the highest standards of care and professionalism.
Our mission is to ensure that every resident, business, and visitor has access to efficient, equitable, and compassionate service, no matter where they are in Fulton County. We look forward to continuing to serve you and building a stronger community together.
Empowering CONSTITUENTS
We proudly facilitated numerous swearing-in ceremonies, celebrating the dedication and service of public officials and professionals across Fulton County.
Our historic Mass Swearing-In Ceremony brought together a diverse group of leaders in a single, inspiring event, showcasing the unity and strength of our community.
In addition to in-person events, we embraced technology to host virtual swearing-in ceremonies, ensuring that individuals could take their oaths of office conveniently. By offering both in-person and virtual options, we’ve made it easier than ever for those serving our county to begin their work with efficiency and integrity.
Each swearing-in ceremony is more than a formal tradition: it’s a moment of pride and renewal for Fulton County, and we’re honored to play a part in empowering the leaders who shape our future.
Empowering Our Seniors Through
EDUCATION: R.E.A.A.C.T. AND BINGO TOUR
In 2024, we relaunched and rebranded the Real Estate Activity Alert Contact Tool (R.E.A.A.C.T.) Program alongside our Bingo Tour, visiting senior living communities across Fulton County to raise awareness about real estate and deed fraud. These events combined education with engagement, offering vital information in a relaxed and interactive environment.
Through these efforts, we empowered hundreds of senior citizens with the knowledge to identify and prevent scams targeting their homes and property. By blending important conversations with fun activities like bingo, we created a welcoming atmosphere where residents could ask questions, share concerns, and leave with resources to protect themselves and their families.
The fight against fraud starts with education, and we’re proud to lead this initiative to safeguard our most vulnerable community members.
Educating
OUR CONSTITUENTS
Education is a cornerstone of our mission, and last year, we proudly hosted numerous initiatives to empower Fulton County residents with the knowledge they need to navigate legal and civic matters. Our notary training sessions equipped participants with the skills and tools to perform their duties confidently.
Additionally, our Lunch and Learn series offered residents, attorneys, and community members the opportunity to explore the wide array of services provided by our office, from filing processes to record retrieval and beyond. These events combined expert guidance with open dialogue, creating spaces for learning, connection, and empowerment.
Educating
OUR CONSTITUENTS
By bringing these educational opportunities directly to the community, we’re not just sharing information –we’re fostering confidence and ensuring everyone has access to the resources they need.
The Georgia Association of Paralegals (GAP) Conference provided paralegals the opportunity to discuss and expand their knowledge regarding filing procedures.
Providing Second Chances
RECORD RESTRICTION EVENTS
We were honored to partner with the District Attorney’s Office for their record restriction events. These events offer assistance toward a fresh start to individuals with eligible felony records.
These events are a vital part of our commitment to restorative justice, helping participants expunge their records and remove barriers to employment, housing, and other opportunities.
By working together, we’ve empowered countless residents to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to their communities. Offering a second chance isn’t just about clearing a record—it’s about restoring hope, dignity, and the opportunity for a brighter future. We are honored to support this transformative initiative and remain dedicated to creating pathways to success for all.
Empowering EMPLOYEE EXCELLENCE
OUR COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE
At the Clerk of Superior and Magistrate Courts, exceptional customer service is at the heart of everything we do. Whether constituents visit our Downtown, North Annex, or South Annex locations, our team is committed to providing compassionate, knowledgeable, and efficient assistance every step of the way.
Our staff takes immense pride in serving Fulton County with professionalism and care, and the positive feedback we’ve received from residents is a testament to their dedication. From reducing wait times to guiding visitors through complex processes, our team goes above and beyond to ensure every interaction is a positive one.
We are incredibly proud of our staff’s hard work, empathy, and commitment to excellence. As the face of our office, our dedication to delivering stellar service continues to inspire trust and confidence in our community.
Serving Beyond the Office
OUR STAFF’S VOLUNTEERISM
At the Clerk of Superior and Magistrate Courts, our dedication to Fulton County goes far beyond the workplace. In 2024, our incredible staff stepped up to volunteer their time and talents in various community initiatives, from supporting local events to participating in charitable drives and outreach programs.
OUR STAFF’S VOLUNTEERISM
We believe that serving our community isn’t just a job, it’s a calling. Whether helping organize events like the Pride Parade, mentoring students, or assisting at community service projects, our team is committed to making a positive impact both inside and outside the courthouse.
Our generosity and commitment exemplify our office’s values, and we are deeply proud to go above and beyond to uplift Fulton County. Together, we are not only working for our community but building stronger, more connected neighborhoods.
EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT
Our team’s hard work and dedication are the foundation of our success, and we take pride in recognizing their outstanding achievements through our employee awards. From honoring perfect attendance to celebrating individuals who go above and beyond in their roles, our staff awards highlight the commitment and excellence that define our office.
What makes these recognitions even more special is the power of peer nominations. Our employees lift one another up by acknowledging their colleagues for exceptional performance, teamwork, and customer service. Our employee engagement initiatives are a reflection of the supportive and driven culture we’ve built together, and a culture that empowers us to serve Fulton County with pride and professionalism.
EMPLOYEE EXCELLENCE By the Numbers: Annual 2024
81,129 Initial Cases Subsequent Filings
OUR PRESENCE AT THE PRIDE PARADE
Our office was proud to participate in the Atlanta Pride Parade, standing alongside our vibrant LGBTQIA2S+ community to celebrate diversity, inclusion, and equality. Partnering with local leaders and volunteers, we showcased our commitment to creating a justice system and workplace that uplifts every resident, regardless of their background or identity.
Our presence at the parade reflects our belief that true service goes beyond the courthouse walls: it means honoring the richness of our community and fostering a culture of respect and belonging. We are proud to celebrate the diversity that makes Fulton County stronger.
Supporting Community Spirit
FAIRBURN CITY PARADE
We were excited to join the Fairburn City Parade, celebrating the warmth, unity, and vibrant culture that define this thriving community. Our team proudly marched alongside local businesses, organizations, and families, showcasing our commitment to supporting the people we serve both inside and outside the courthouse.
By participating in events like the Fairburn City Parade, we strengthen our bond with residents and reinforce the shared values that make Fulton County such a special place to call home. It was a joy to see the community come together in celebration, and we look forward to future opportunities to support and uplift our neighbors in Fairburn.
Celebrating
NATIONAL ADOPTION DAY
National Adoption Day was a heartwarming occasion for our office, as we proudly assisted in uniting families through our essential court services. Whether guiding them through the final steps of the adoption process or offering reassurance during a momentous day, we were honored to play a part in creating new family bonds. Our office also had the honor of creating gift baskets for all of the children being adopted, and we loved coming together as an office to make it a special ceremony for everyone.
Each adoption represents hope, love, and the beginning of a beautiful new chapter for parents and children alike. We remain committed to ensuring every family’s journey is met with compassion, efficiency, and the highest level of care.
Standing Against
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
Our office was honored to join the community in observing the annual Domestic Violence Vigil with Partnership Against Domestic Violence, a solemn event dedicated to raising awareness and honoring the survivors and victims of domestic violence. By partnering with advocacy groups, local leaders, and compassionate supporters, we emphasized our commitment to providing resources, legal support, and a safe space for those affected. Through education, outreach, and collaboration, we remain dedicated to uplifting survivors, promoting healing, and advocating for a future free from abuse.
Empowering NEXT GENERATION the
Mentoring the Next Generation
COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY OUTREACH
Our Clerk firmly believes in the power of mentorship to shape the leaders of tomorrow. She regularly speaks at schools to inspire and guide students in their academic and professional journeys. A proud alumna of Georgia State University (GSU), she returned to her alma mater to mentor and motivate the GSU football team. Emphasizing the values of discipline, determination, and civic responsibility both on and off the field. Through these mentorship initiatives, our office strives to invest in young minds and nurture the talent and potential that will shape Fulton County’s future.
Empowering Young Women
THROUGH MENTORSHIP
Our office proudly collaborates with local nonprofits to mentor and support girls and young women in Fulton County, nurturing their leadership abilities and self-confidence. Through workshops, one-on-one mentoring, and community-building events, we encourage these future leaders to dream boldly and realize their full potential. By empowering the next generation of young women, we are investing in a brighter and more equitable future for all of Fulton County.
Opening the Doors to Justice
COURTHOUSE TOURS
Engaging the next generation is a priority for our office, which is why we regularly host courthouse tours designed especially for young people. By guiding students through the halls of justice, we offer them a firsthand look at how the court system works, spark their curiosity about legal and civic careers, and demystify the processes that shape our communities. These tours not only educate but also inspire our youth to consider their role in upholding fairness and justice in Fulton County.
FULTON COUNTY STUDENTS
In partnership with recording artist Young Dro, our office hosted a back-toschool event that provided backpacks and essential school supplies to students throughout Fulton County.
By bringing together local leaders, community partners, and dedicated volunteers, we aimed to alleviate financial burdens and ensure children are wellprepared for the academic year. This collaborative effort not only equipped students for success but also reinforced our commitment to supporting families in our community.
CLOSING REMARKS FROM Madam Clerk
“As proud as we are of our accomplishments, we recognize there is always more work to be done.”
As we bring the 2024 Empowering Fulton County: Annual Report to a close, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to each of you—the residents, community partners, and dedicated team members who make our progress possible. It has been an extraordinary journey of growth, innovation, and service, marked by countless moments of transformation in the lives of the people we serve.
From expanding access to justice and delivering stellar customer service to educating and uplifting our neighbors, each milestone we’ve achieved is a testament to what we can accomplish when we come together with a shared vision. We have risen to every challenge with determination and heart, confident in our ability to bring about meaningful change for every corner of Fulton County.
Yet, as proud as we are of our accomplishments, we recognize there is always more work to be done. The future promises new opportunities to deepen our commitment to the community, embrace technological advances, and break down barriers to justice. Our partnerships with local organizations, our efforts to engage youth and empower the vulnerable, and our passion for continuous improvement will remain central to our mission.
I invite you to stay connected, stay involved, and continue believing in our collective power to uplift one another. Every act of service, step forward, and conversation we engage in shapes a brighter, more just future for all. Together, we can transform our courts into places of clarity, compassion, and trust— hallmarks of a community that truly believes in empowering every voice.
Thank you for the honor of serving you, and for your unwavering support and partnership. Here’s to another year of growth, innovation, and opportunity in Fulton County.
Ché Alexander
