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Magistrate Court
Welcome to the Upson County Magistrate Court. I am Judge Hannah E. Arnette, Chief Magistrate of Upson County, and it is my distinct honor to serve this community. As a lifelong resident of Thomaston, I have dedicated my career to our local judicial system to ensure that our court remains fair, accessible, and committed to justice for all.
Magistrate Court is often called the people’s court because it is where many citizens first interact with the legal system. I take that responsibility seriously and am committed to upholding the law with fairness, integrity, and respect for everyone who comes before the court. Whether resolving disputes, addressing legal concerns, or ensuring due process, my goal is to make the judicial system clear and accessible to all.
The trust you have placed in me through the electoral process is both humbling and inspiring, and I am honored to serve this community. If you have any questions about the role of Magistrate Court, I encourage you to explore the resources on our website or contact our office for assistance.
Thank you for allowing me to serve Upson County.
About Magistrate Court
The Magistrate Court was established in 1983 through legislative action, replacing the former Small Claims Courts that were presided over by Justices of the Peace. Every county in the State of Georgia maintains a Magistrate Court, with each court led by a Chief Magistrate elected by local citizens. In many counties, additional magistrates serve in an associate capacity, assisting with related casework.
Effective July 1, 1999, the General Assembly enacted a law capping the Magistrate Court’s civil jurisdiction at $15,000. However, there is no monetary limit for landlord/tenant and rental disputes, over which the court maintains exclusive jurisdiction.
Magistrate Court judges are also responsible for approving all criminal warrants issued within Upson County. In most criminal cases in the City of Thomaston and Upson County, law enforcement officers obtain the warrant before seeking judicial approval.