Press Releases | Tennessee Administrative Office of the Courts

Outgoing General Sessions Judges Conference President Victoria Bowling passes the gavel to newly elected President, Judge Lonnie Thompson

Judge Thompson speaking at the conference with Judge Bowling looking on

From the Piano Bench to the Judicial Bench, Judge Lonnie Thompson Boasts a Love of Music and Law

November 19, 2025

Shelby County General Sessions Court Judge Lonnie Thompson was one of five children born to a single mother in an impoverished neighborhood in South Memphis. He attended Memphis City Schools with no idea he would end up in the legal field. Instead, Judge Thompson dreamed of a future in music.…

Jim Holcomb named Judicial Safety Program Manager

November 17, 2025

Nashville, Tenn. – The Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) has welcomed Jim Holcomb as its new Judicial Safety Program Manager.

In this role, Holcomb has begun leading a coordinated, proactive strategy to protect the people who serve Tennessee’s justice system. He is the primary…

Council Accepting Applications for Upcoming Court of Appeals Eastern Section Vacancy

November 10, 2025

Nashville, Tenn. - The Governor’s Council for Judicial Appointments is now accepting applications to fill a vacancy on the Tennessee Court of Appeals, following the retirement of Judge D. Michael Swiney on January 12, 2026.

Qualified applicants must be licensed attorneys who are at least…