East Cobb resident named full-time Cobb Magistrate Court Judge

Michael McLaughlin has been a part-time magistrate judge in Cobb County since 1985 while continuing a private law practice. Judge Michael McLaughlin, Cobb Magistrate Court

On Friday it was announced that he was one of two new full-time judges to the Cobb Magistrate Court. The other is Sonja Brown, a Kennesaw resident who has been a deputy chief assistant district attorney in DeKalb County.

They are replacing Kellie Hill, recently elected to Cobb Superior Court Judge, and Gerald Moore, who is retiring.

McLaughlin has lived in East Cobb for 30 years, and his new post begins in January. He was chosen after an open application and interview process and his appointment by Chief Magistrate Brendan Murphy was confirmed unanimously by Cobb Superior Court judges.

Here’s what Murphy said about McLaughin in a release issued by Cobb County government:

“Judge McLaughlin has been an important part of the Court’s firm foundation, and Judge-designate Brown’s experience will bring a fresh perspective to ensuring access to justice at the People’s Court. This is the hard-working and caring team our community needs, especially during this difficult time of pandemic and economic disruption.”

The Magistrate Court, commonly referred to as “the people’s court,” is open 24/7/365 and hears small claims matters, evictions, weddings and various pretrial court proceedings, including criminal arraignments and bond hearings.

McLaughlin is the longest-serving part-time magistrate judge in Cobb, and has worked under six chief magistrates. He is a member of the Cobb County Bar Association and the Council of Magistrate Court Judges. He has taught other judges through the Institute of Continuing Judicial Education and aspiring paralegals at Kennesaw State University.

He is a graduate of Florida State University and the John Marshall College of Law.

“To be able to serve as a full-time judge is truly the pinnacle of my legal career. I so appreciate Judge Murphy’s confidence in allowing me to serve in this capacity.”

McLaughlin and his wife Michelle have two grown children and attend Johnson Ferry Baptist Church and the Catholic Church of St. Ann.