Judge Shattuck addresses the County Commission
General Session Court Judge Clarence Shattuck announced Wednesday that he is retiring after 36 years on the bench.
His resignation is effective April 1.
It will be up to the County Commission to name his replacement.
Judge Shattuck said, "Only after much thought, discussion with family and friends, prayers and the consideration of age has this decision been made. No doubt, I will miss my colleagues, staff, court officers and the clerks of the Criminal and Civil divisions of Sessions Court, all of which have done, and are doing, an outstanding job for the county.
"Also, I will miss the many fine attorneys who have practiced in Sessions Court and the outstanding staff of the Chattanooga Bar Association.
"I am honored and appreciate the opportunity the commission gave me over 36 years ago, and the citizens who have elected me on five occasions since. I have loved my job and have looked forward to coming to work every day and have tried to do my best for Hamilton County and its citizens.
"In the past 36 years there have been a number of changes affecting Sessions Court. It is gratifying to have been involved in the improvements, and I am thankful to the commissioners and the mayor for their assistance in the implementation.
"Hopefully, the commission will have time to meet the legal requirements, interview the candidates and be able to fill the vacancy quickly after my retirement date. Maybe, if provisions are made, I will be able to come back and sit for my colleagues when necessary.
"Thank you. I have been blessed."
Judge Shattuck said there have been 26 Sessions judges and he has served with 12 of them.
When he became a judge, there were three Session judges and now there are five.
He said he was the first Sessions judge to be appointed by the County Commission. Prior to that, that appointments were by the governor.