Judge Bowling to lead statewide judges’ organization
Judge Victoria “Vicki” Hopper Bowling, Anderson County General Sessions Court Division I judge and president of the Tennessee General Sessions Judges Conference, stands with Judge Lonnie Thompson, Shelby County General Sessions Court judge and incoming conference president.
The statewide organization represents judges with general sessions jurisdiction throughout Tennessee.
Bowling, who presided over the group’s annual conference earlier this month in Gatlinburg, was elected during the conference’s annual meeting.
She succeeds Judge James Ross of Wayne County and passes the gavel to Judge Lonnie Thompson of Shelby County.
Judges from across the state gathered to discuss judicial education, court administration, best practices, and legislative updates affecting Tennessee’s trial courts.
“I am honored and deeply grateful for the confidence my colleagues have placed in me,” Bowling said.
“Tennessee General Sessions Courts touch more lives than any other courts in our state,” she said. “My goal is to continue strengthening the professionalism, education, and unity of our judiciary so that we can deliver fair, efficient, and compassionate justice, while at the same time holding defendants accountable for their actions.”
As president, Bowling presides over the conference’s Executive Committee and general membership meetings, oversees educational programming, and represents the group in statewide judicial initiatives.
The conference promotes professionalism in the courts, encourages respect for the law, and works to improve the administration of justice through collaboration and education.
Bowling has served as General Sessions judge (Division I) since 2022.
She has been active in the conference, serving on multiple committees and as vice president for the Eastern Division of Tennessee.
In addition to her judicial duties, Bowling serves on the Tennessee 4-H Foundation Board and is past president of the East Tennessee Law Women’s Association.
Bowling received an engraved gavel in appreciation for her service this past year as president-elect.
The conference includes every judge with General Sessions jurisdiction in the state.
The organization provides a forum for professional development, legislative advocacy, and the exchange of ideas that advance Tennessee’s justice system.
For more information, visit tncourts.gov.