Dear Neighbors,
DeKalb County has faced more than its share of adversity in recent years. We should not lose sight of the fact, however, that our community remains one of the most desirable places in Metro Atlanta to live, work, and raise a family.
I prefer to focus on the good in our community. On the bench, that means focusing on the good in each and every citizen that appears in our court.
DeKalb State Court has jurisdiction over misdemeanor criminal offenses. Some of the citizens who appear in my courtroom as defendants are at risk of recidivism – possibly with a felony charge the next time – which makes it important to give them individual attention.
In my courtroom, we strive to find ways to give citizens the opportunities they need to make their lives better, giving them a second chance at success. Young citizens with truancy issues receive encouragement to stay in school or complete their GED. Citizens with addiction or mental health issues receive encouragement to get treatment.
I address these issues directly with the citizens in need, rather than punting them to a county probation officer or otherwise allowing them to become lost in our judicial system.
State Court also is the main court for civil cases that end in money judgments. If you are an attorney or party in a civil case, I hope you will find me to be a cordial and well-prepared judge working hard to maintain the top-notch reputation of our DeKalb State Court bench.
I love DeKalb County and have devoted nearly 11 years to public service, first in the Georgia House of Representatives and now on the State Court. If you see me in our community, I hope you will stop and say hello. You can also follow me on Facebook and Twitter.
It’s a privilege and pleasure serving you!
Judge Mike Jacobs 