from the bench FRANKJUDGE

Recently, a number of familiar faces have stepped into new judicial roles within the 20th Circuit Court, including the Hon. J. Frank Porter as Chief Judge. Lee County Bar Association caught up with a few of these hardworking judges and gained insights and an update about the term ahead.

The Honorable J. Frank Porter was elected by his colleagues as the next chief judge of the 20th Judicial Circuit. His two-year term runs through June 30, 2025.

Chief judges are responsible for ensuring the circuit court and county court administrations run smoothly and efficiently. Additionally, the chief judge enters administrative orders to oversee the court's daily operations. A chief judge is also in charge of assigning judges, controlling dockets, regulating the use of courtrooms, considering statistical data of cases and promoting the prompt and efficient administration of justice.

Judge Porter recently corresponded with Res Gestae about his philosophy and goals as Chief Judge.

I started my new job as Chief Judge on July 1, 2023. Former Chief Judge Michael T. McHugh is due great admiration for leading us for the past eight years.

The initial changes I have made are new administrative judges for Lee County. Having served in that capacity for most of my judicial career, I understand the added workload and believed it was time for some relief for Judges Laboda, Carlin and Paluck. We owe them much thanks for serving.

New Lee County administrative judges are Judge Michael T. McHugh, Circuit Civil; Judge Elisabeth Adams, Family; Judge Robert Branning, Circuit Criminal; and Judge Devin George, County Court. Thank you to these colleagues for taking on this new role.

My philosophy is to be deliberate and thoughtful before making decisions. A change should not be made just for the sake of making a change. I have an open mind, but remember when making your pitch: Less is more!