Georgia Gov: Jaletta Long Smith

Jaletta has a law degree from the University of Arkansas and a bachelor's degree in communications and Spanish from Clemson University. She lives in Gwinnett County with her husband Andy and their two children. 

Before her judicial appointment, Jaletta was a litigation associate at Andersen, Tate, and Carr and previously, worked as a law clerk. 

Jaletta Long Smith is a State Court Judge in Gwinnett County. She was appointed by Governor Brain Kemp in 2022 and is currently running for re-election. 

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Has served as a state court judge since 2022.

Was a litigation associate, focusing on civil litigation and appellate matters.

Was a law clerk for three judges and handled a wide range of civil and criminal appeals at the highest state court level as well as federal civil and criminal trial matters.

Has a law degree from the University of Arkansas.

- Has served as a state court judge since 2022.
- Was a litigation associate, focusing on civil litigation and appellate matters.
- Was a law clerk for three judges and handled a wide range of civil and criminal appeals at the highest state court level as well as federal civil and criminal trial matters.
- Has a law degree from the University of Arkansas.

Legal Experience

As of April 23, 2024, Jaletta Long Smith did not have a website or any information online.

Ethics & Conduct

Judicial Philosophy

Judicial Administration

Community Involvement

Jaletta Long Smith

- Despite their name, State Courts in Georgia have limited jurisdiction within their county. State Court Judges also have limited jurisdiction over the types of cases they hear, as opposed to Superior Court. 
- State Court Judges hear misdemeanors, like traffic tickets. They also issue arrest and search warrants and hold preliminary hearings in some criminal cases. 
- State Court Judges hear most civil matters that aren't related to land titles, divorce, or cases involving non-monetary damages (those matters are handled by the Superior Court).
- State Court Judges are elected in non-partisan county wide elections and serve four year terms. The Governor can appoint State Court Judges when vacancies arise. 


Local Judges who hear misdemeanors and some civil cases