Rob Philyaw Sworn In As New Juvenile Judge

Longtime Juvenile Court Judge Suzanne Bailey administered the oath of office to her successor, Rob Philyaw, on Wednesday afternoon.

Judge Bailey's final day on the job was Tuesday.

The new judge won the appointment from the County Commission.

Judge Philyaw said, "Somebody said it makes perfect sense that I would become a kid judge because I am just a big kid myself. There’s some truth to that. But let me tell you, this kid is excited to be here, excited to be a part of this endeavor that over 135 people, get excited about every day, where people love what they do and do it for the right reason – taking care of the kids of Hamilton
County."

IHe recalled talking with his father about Juvenile Court over Thanksgiving 2002.

He said, "I never gave my parents much trouble growing up, so my dad’s important words of wisdom usually came in timely funny one-liners, many that he couldn’t have used from the pulpit. But we had a great conversation that day about his observations that morning in the lobby of Juvenile Court.

"He passed away way too young the next summer on June 23, 2003. So while he is not here today, I am glad he saw it. I have memories of that day, and I know what he thought about the work that goes on here from our conversations that day and following. He would be proud today. I can think of several funny one-liners he would use on me today. I am so glad that we were able to use his bible that he preached from in this ceremony today."

Judge Philyaw again thanked Judge Bailey, saying, "She has been so gracious in sharing her
last full days here with me. We have confided in each other things that will remain in confidence, we have laughed at some of the things she “discovered” in her office, and we have talked about the important tasks ahead."

He took issue with a statement by Judge Bailey that she did not have much family left in Chattanooga. He said, "You have family here and your legacy will live on in us and in this court, but more importantly in the many young lives that have been affected by your caring judgment, love of children, and commitment to the law."

Judge Philyaw said, "I pledge to you, Judge Bailey, and to you all to do all that is humanly possible, to the very best of my ability, to lead this court through next decade and through the changes that come with that, with the skill and passion that this court has enjoyed. And, yes, I realize that includes attending all of the dinners, rallies, speeches, and picnics that any human can endure over the next 15 months. Seriously, I pledge to do all of those things that hopefully will  allow me to be like that judge over there (Judge Bailey) when my work here is done.

"Thank you all, again. God bless the United States and Hamilton County, and God Bless This Court."