Meet Judge Sonyja J. George

Judge Sonyja George was appointed to the Clayton County State Court bench by Governor Brian Kemp in December 2022. Prior to serving as a State Court Judge, Judge George gained years of judicial experience by serving as a full-time Magistrate Judge for approximately seven years. Two of those years, she served as the Presiding Judge where she presided over a variety of cases, while also being responsible for managing ten judges.

Judge George began her legal career as an attorney with Cobb County Juvenile Court, where she served for seven years as a Juvenile Defense Attorney, representing juveniles charged with delinquent acts as well as parents involved in child abuse and neglect cases. In addition to working with Juvenile Court, Judge George started the Law Offices of Sonyja J. George P.C., a full-service law firm handling a wide variety of Civil and Criminal Defense matters. She later went on to serve as a Special Assistant Attorney General Associate, representing The Department of Family and Children Services.

Judge George also serves as a part-time Adjunct Instructor with Georgia State University where she has taught such courses as Evidence, Criminal Law, and Criminal Procedure. In addition to her professional obligations, Judge George devotes her time to Community and Bar-related activities. She frequently serves as a Career Day Speaker for various schools, and Mock Trial Volunteer Judge. Judge George is a member of the Georgia State Bar Association, Clayton County Bar Association, Gate City Bar Association (Judicial Section), and Georgia Association of Black Women Attorneys (Mentor). Judge George is a recipient of the 2019 Georgia State University Alumni 40 under 40 award. She is a 2020 graduate of the GABWA Judicial and Public Office Academy, and a 2022 recipient of the Judge Andrew A. Mickle Outstanding Instructor Award. When not working, Judge George enjoys spending time with her husband and children, and serving as a mentor and volunteer.