Rockdale County Probate Court Spotlights Its Women Judges
March 31, 2025WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH
Breaking Barriers:
Rockdale County Probate Court Spotlights Its Women Judges
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we recount a bit of Rockdale County Probate Court History and honor the two trailblazing women who have served as its judges.
Rockdale County’s legal history dates to its founding in 1870, with its first courthouse established in 1871. At that time, the duties of today’s Probate Judge were carried out by an official known as the Ordinary. A century later, in 1983, Georgia adopted a new state constitution, which renamed the Court of Ordinary to the Probate Court.
Building on this history, in 1993, Rockdale County reached a historic milestone with the election of Judge Lillis Brown, the first woman to serve as Judge of the Rockdale County Probate Court. A graduate of Mercer University and John Marshall Law School, Judge Brown began her legal career in the Rockdale County District Attorney’s Office before serving as Clerk of Magistrate Court and Assistant Magistrate Judge.
During her 20-year tenure as Probate Court Judge, she spearheaded a project to organize and catalog historical county records she discovered in the old vault in the basement of the Rockdale County Courthouse. In addition to her contributions to preserving county history, Judge Brown played a vital role in the Council of Probate Court Judges of Georgia, ultimately serving as the Council’s President.
Beyond her judicial service, Judge Brown has been deeply involved in community organizations and projects. She served as President of the Rockdale Council for the Prevention of Child Abuse, was named Pilot of the Year by the Pilot Club of Conyers—an organization dedicated to assisting individuals with brain-related disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease—and served on both the United Way Board and the Recreation Commission.
After three decades of service and five terms in office, Judge Brown retired in 2013. Despite her passion for volunteerism and professional accomplishments, she has found her greatest fulfillment in two roles closest to home. In a 1996 news article, Judge Brown shared that, among all the positions she had held in the justice system and community service, being a mother was “the most important job and most enjoyable.” However, as she prepared for retirement in 2012, Judge Brown reflected in another interview that “her most honorable title is that of grandmother to eight beautiful children.” Since that interview, she has welcomed another grandchild, further enriching her cherished role as a grandmother.
A member of First Baptist Church, Judge Brown is married to Dusty Brown and has two children, Rev. Stacey Hanson and Carey Hanson.
Continuing the legacy of trailblazing women in the Rockdale County Probate Court, Judge Stephanie Anderson was appointed Associate Judge of the Rockdale County Probate Court in October 2021 by Chief Probate Court Judge Gary Washington. In the 151-year history of Rockdale County, Judge Anderson became only the second woman to hold a judicial position in the Probate Court and continues to serve as associate probate court judge today.
A native of Decatur, Georgia, Judge Anderson earned her bachelor’s degree from Hampton University and her Juris Doctor from the University of Georgia School of Law, where she served as President of the Black Law Students Association and a member of the Moot Court Board.
In private practice, she has dedicated her career to estate planning and probate matters, advocating for families across Georgia. She has also been a featured speaker and panelist for organizations such as 100 Black Men of Atlanta, Inc., the Georgia Association of Black Women Attorneys, and various churches and community groups in Metro Atlanta.
Beyond her legal career, Judge Anderson is a life member of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) and serves on the Shepherd Center Board of Trustees. The Shepherd Rehabilitation Hospital provides specialized care for individuals with traumatic brain and spinal injuries, stroke victims, and those affected by multiple sclerosis.
Judge Anderson is married, has one daughter, and is also a proud owner of a sheepadoodle.
During Women’s History Month, the Rockdale County Probate Court honors and recognizes the contributions of Judge Lillis Brown, Judge Stephanie Anderson, and all the women who continue to pave the way in Rockdale County’s judicial system.
A Valentine’s Day Ode to My Amazing Team
February 14, 2025A Valentine’s Day Ode to My Amazing Team
From
Judge Gary W. Washington
February14, 2025
Roses are red, violets are blue,
I’ve got the best team—there’s no court like you!
From guardianships to wills galore,
You handle it all and then ask for more.Mary, the maestro, keeping us right,
With wisdom and grace, she’s our guiding light.
Jaime, so steady, sharp as can be,
Making tough tasks look easy, effortlessly!Jacqui keeps everything moving along,
With laughter and spirit, she keeps us strong.
LaChandra, a force—so clever, so keen,
Turning paperwork chaos into a well-oiled machine!Tye, with precision, and always so bright,
Bringing her skill to make things just right.
Vivian, a powerhouse, loyal and true,
With a heart of gold and a to-do list that grew!Ariel, with kindness and a welcoming cheer,
Spreading good vibes all throughout the year.
And Erica, so focused, quiet, and wise,
Keeping things steady with sharp, watchful eyes!Judge Anderson, with knowledge so keen,
Estate planning skills like none we’ve seen!You make me look good, you make work a delight,
Through long days and filings, you keep things so tight.
Happy Valentine’s Day to my dream team so grand,
Rockdale Probate Court—the best in the land! ❤️🍩JUDGE WASHINGTON SWEARS IN MEMBERS OF THE ROCKDALE COUNTY HOSPITAL AUTHORITY.
December 20, 2024
Olde Town Fall Festival
October 19, 2024Due to the Olde Town Fall Festival on October 19, 2024, we have postponed the Law Library Series event, From Court Orders to Access: A Panel Discussion on Adult Emergency Mental Health Resources Available in Rockdale County.
We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. We're actively working to reschedule this important event for 2025. Please check back for updates on the new date and time.
PUBLIC NOTICE
October 05, 2024Please be advised that due to a fire at the Bio-Lab facility, ALL Rockdale County Government facilities, including the Probate Court, will be closed through Friday, October 7th. See Judicial Order below.
ORDER CLOSING PROBATE COURT
October 04, 2024In response to the gas clouds resulting from a fire at a nearby Bio-Lab facility, and in accordance with the judicial emergency declared by the Chief Judge of the Rockdale County Superior Court, which has been extended through Friday, October 4, 2024, it is
HEREBY ORDERED that the Probate Court of Rockdale County shall be CLOSED from October 1, 2024, through Friday, October 4, 2024. The Court will reopen on October 7, 2024, unless otherwise ordered.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that all filing deadlines currently set for October 1, 2, 3 or 4 are herby extended to October 7, 2024
SO ORDERED this 1st day of October, 2024
Rockdale County’s Chief Probate Clerk: More Than Just a Public Servant
September 10, 2024
The Rockdale County Probate Court is pleased to announce that Mary Hawk, our esteemed Chief Probate Clerk, has been recognized for her outstanding performance in the Rockdale County PEARL Program MDT. Ms. Hawk’s dedication and hard work have significantly impacted the program's mission to protect elderly and disabled adults. We are grateful for her commitment to our community.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Ms. Hawk on this well-deserved recognition. Her accomplishments are a source of pride for our court and the community we serve.
Untagling the Estate - Behind the Bench
September 10, 2024
Legacy Planning - Behind the Bench
August 06, 2024
Certified Mail Set to Increase July 14, 2024
July 14, 2024The USPS has increased the price of stamps and mailing services. You may find more information about that here (link to article https://www.pitneybowes.com/us/postal-information/usps-rate-change-overview.html).
Beginning July 14, 2024, the Rockdale County Probate Court will now charge $10 for certified mail services needed for estate, guardianship, and conservatorship cases.
In Safe Hands - Behind the Bench
June 25, 2024
Behind the Bench: A Speaker Series on Probate Court Functions and Services
May 15, 2024“Rockdale Probate Court is pleased to announce Behind the Bench: A Speaker Series on Probate Court Functions and Services coming soon!
Chief Probate Court Judge Gary Washington Revolutionizes Access to Vital Records with Launch of User-Friendly Platform on the Anniversary of the End of Civil War
April 08, 2024Conyers, Georgia – On April 9th, 2024, Chief Probate Court Judge Gary Washington proudly introduces VitalDirector, an innovative platform provided by Permitium, set to elevate accessibility and efficiency for probate court customers. This cutting-edge solution empowers individuals to manage the processing, payment, and issuance of vital records, all from the convenience of their own homes.
"We are excited to partner with Permitium and introduce VitalDirector to the State of Georgia and the citizens of Rockdale County," expressed Judge Washington. "This user-friendly platform offers residents a fast, easy, and cost-effective method to request certified copies of birth, death, and marriage certificates online. VitalDirector not only ensures compliance with statutory requirements but also expedites processing times, enhances security measures, and provides a seamless experience for all applicants."
"Launching this user-friendly platform during the week of the 159th anniversary of the Civil War's end on April 9, 1865, underscores the vital role the judiciary should play in ensuring equal access to justice and the courts for all," remarked Judge Washington. "By embracing technological advancements, our aim is to empower all individuals with a seamless process for accessing vital records, thereby fostering inclusivity and efficiency within our community."
Judge Washington’s decision to implement VitalDirector reflects a proactive approach to meeting the evolving needs of the community. “We commend Judge Washington for recognizing the growing demand for online access to vital records,” remarked Chris Perez, Vice President of Sales at Permitium. “This forward-thinking solution allows citizens to initiate requests through a unified interface, whether applying in person or online. It aligns perfectly with his commitment to exceptional probate court service delivery."
To utilize the platform, individuals can visit the Probate Court's official website and follow the intuitive instructions for submitting their certificate requests. Once processed, certificates will be securely delivered to the applicant's designated address, ensuring confidentiality and peace of mind.
Vital Records Going Digital:
March 27, 2024Vital Records Going Digital:
New Online Ordering System Coming Soon!We’re excited to announce the upcoming launch of our new online system for purchasing vital records! We have partnered with Permitium to provide VitalDirector, a user-friendly platform that will allow you to request birth, death, and marriage certificates, all from the comfort of your own home.
A few benefits of the upcoming system:
- Faster processing times
- Secure and convenient online application
- Track you order status in real-time
- Multiple payment options
Stay tuned!
Publication Rates Set to Increase in January 2024
November 07, 2023In the 2023 legislative session of the Georgia General Assembly, HB 254 was passed and signed by Governor Brain Kemp on May 3, 2023. This Bill includes an amendment to O.C.G.A. § 9-13-143(a) changing the rates for legal advertisements.
Beginning January 1, 2024, the publication fee schedule is as follows:
Rockdale County Probate Court becomes an Article 6 Court
July 01, 2022On July 1, 2022, as a result of the 2020 United States Census, the Rockdale County Probate Court became an Article 6 Probate Court. Under the Georgia law, Article VI Probate Courts are those courts in any Georgia county having a population of more than 90,000 according to the most recent United States decennial census. See O.C.G.A . Sections 15-9-4 and 15-9-6. According to the 2020 United States Census Rockdale County’s population is 93,570.
Rockdale County Probate Court now has expanded jurisdiction beyond its former jurisdiction as a non-Article 6 Probate Court. As an Article 6 Probate Court, Rockdale County Probate Court now has concurrent jurisdiction with the Rockdale County Superior court in proceedings regarding:
- Declaratory judgments involving fiduciaries;
- Tax motivated estate planning of wards’ property;
- Approval of certain settlement agreements;
- Adjudication of actions involving trusts, trustees and trust directors;
- Adjudication of petitions to construe a power of attorney or review the agent’s actions;
- Adjudication of petitions to grant an agent authority under a power of attorney;
- Adjudication of petitions for direction or construction of will or trust;
Whereas non-Article 6 Courts cannot conduct jury trials, Rockdale County Probate Court can now conduct jury trials. Further, whereas appeals from non-Article 6 Courts are made to the county superior court, appeals from the Rockdale County Probate Court are now made to the Georgia Court of Appeals or the Georgia Supreme Court, as is appropriate.
Cases filed or opened after July 1, 2022, will be considered an Article 6 case and will file Article 6 procedures for the history of the case. The opening of the case means the first pleading that is filed for the case. See Porter v. Frazier, 57 Ga. 614 (1987).
Further, the Georgia Code requires Article 6 Probate Court judges to have the same qualifications as the county Superior Court judge, including being an attorney admitted to practice law for at least seven years.
Rockdale County Probate Judge Gary Washington has been admitted to practice law in Georgia for more than thirty years.