Dec. 7, 2021

Judge Rickye McKoy Mitchell today announced that she would retire from the bench on Sept. 1, 2022. In an accompanying video (below), she described her decision as “not a farewell, but a next step.”

Her statement:

“Greetings, Colleagues and Community!

“After 24 years of Judicial service, I will retire from the Bench effective September 1, 2022. However, my commitment to the community, especially its children, will never retire. I look forward to collaborative opportunities to positively impact the lives of children and the entire community for years to come.

“God has given me a tremendous platform on the Judicial Bench through which I hope I have used my voice to make a difference in the lives of many in the Courts and the community. It is difficult to put into words the depth of my appreciation for this community. Please know that I look forward to our continued connection through the courts, community, and our individual and collective relationships.

“With much appreciation!”

– Judge Rickye McKoy-Mitchell

McKoy-Mitchell was appointed by Gov. Jim Hunt in 1998 at age 39 to the seat vacated by Judge Jim Lanning when he was appointed to the Superior Court bench. Less than five months after being sworn in, McKoy-Mitchell faced the voters in a contested race.