donarell green

Donarell Green Athens Clarke County Magistrate Court judge

Describe what you're seeing in the courtroom these days. What cases stand out? What factors matter in how you decide on a case?

As a result of COVID-19, we are not seeing as many cases as is typical. Nevertheless, we are pressing forward as best we can under the circumstances in all the matters we handle. We conduct bond hearings by video between the courthouse and the jail video systems. We continue to conduct in-person civil hearings and preliminary hearings with strict adherence to screening, sanitizing, distancing, and other safety protocols. Each of the cases that we handle have a significant impact on someone’s life and, often, the lives of others in our community; therefore, every single case stands out. Bond hearings are the cases where you most often see someone who has never been arrested, so, in those instances, it is an opportunity to educate and plant a seed in someone that may change the course of their life for the better. I try to seize those opportunities when they arise. The factors that drive my deliberation and decision making in these cases are the facts, the law, and the exercise of judgment that is fair, efficient, compassionate, rational, informed, consistent, and reliable to the best of my abilities. We are all the sum total of our experiences in life and I would like to think that has helped me a great deal on the bench.

Having children and grandchildren of your own, what do you want to make sure all kids know as they explore the community?

Have love for your community. Seek out opportunities to become the best version of yourself. Know that education, hard work, faith, and the content of your character can make your dreams become reality. Reading, writing, studying, discipline, and a good work ethic can create a pathway of success and stability for you, your family, and your community. You will be challenged and tested, but you have what it takes to overcome any obstacle you may encounter. You can do it and your community believes in you.

How important is it for you to stay connected with your hometown’s criminal justice system? What experiences have brought clarity to your understanding of this system?

The Judges in Athens, Georgia are an indispensable part of the criminal justice system in our community. It is, therefore, necessary that we stay connected, stay informed, stay educated, stay vigilant, and stay dedicated to the continued advancement and uplift of our system of justice. It is extremely difficult to recall any single experience or even set of experiences that have brought clarity to my understanding of the criminal justice system, but, if I had to pick one thing that has helped in that endeavor, it would be MY FAITH and MY EDUCATION. More than clarity, my goal has been one of continued research, learning from others and experiences, and serving the community when and where I can. I have gained great satisfaction from representing our youth and their families and working closely with all the professionals in our criminal justice system over the years.

Is the criminal justice system changing? If so, in what direction? Please evaluate that direction.

I am encouraged by our accomplishments with accountability courts and focus on diversity on the bench. Representation is extremely important to the administration of justice and engenders confidence in and respect for our system of justice. It is important that all of our citizens see themselves in our justice system and know that they will be treated fairly and with respect. There also seems to be a growing public interest in the legal system in general which has inspired many of our citizens to get involved in worthy community service programs, pursue education, and stay informed. This is very helpful and very important to an efficient, effective, and accountable system of justice.

As an Athenian, business owner, and government official, what are your aspirations as you continue your Judgeship?

My aspiration is to be the absolute best Father and Grandfather I can be. As a Judge in Magistrate Court, I aspire to take one day at a time, one case at a time, and do my absolute best as a public servant each day. Stay involved in the community. Support the youth. Do what you can to help heal those of us suffering from poverty, alcohol/drug abuse, mental illness, and domestic violence.