LEESBURG, Ga. (WALB) - Southwestern Judicial Circuit Superior Court Judge W. James Sizemore Jr. is not seeking another term after serving on the bench for more than 20 years. Three candidates are looking to take his place, and the next judge will be selected during the May Primary election.

The circuit is part of Georgia’s Third Judicial Administrative District and includes Lee, Macon, Schley, Stewart, Sumter and Webster counties.

During his tenure, Judge Sizemore helped launch the circuit’s Drug Accountability Court and advocated for fair pay for rural judges.

In an email sent to members of the Southwestern Circuit Bar earlier this year, Judge Sizemore said he will serve through the end of his term this year and work to help “smooth the transition to a new judge in 2027,” including continuing work related to Lee County’s courthouse project.

“Dear Fellow Members of Southwestern Circuit Bar:

I know that many of you are aware that I have been giving great consideration whether to seek another term as Superior Court Judge. This decision has been weighing heavily on me in recent months as the March deadline for qualification approaches. Of course, it has been a great honor to work in this position for more than twenty years, and I have not made this decision lightly.  

Barring some unforeseen change in my circumstances, I do not intend to seek another term as Superior Court Judge. I will serve through my term which expires at the end of this year. I plan to work hard this year on the calendars in each county to help smooth the transition to a new judge in 2027. Once a new judge is elected, I will stand ready to work with the new judge to make the transition as seamless as possible. I also plan to work with Lee County throughout the new year to advance the courthouse project which is nearing the end of its architectural stage. In sum, I plan to have another enjoyable and busy year in 2026 working with Judge Smith and Judge Brown. Thereafter, I hope to have an active role in our circuit and community for many years to come.

Wishing everyone a great new year."

Learn more about Judge Sizemore by watching this video produced by the Judicial Council of Georgia:

Those seeking to replace Judge Sizemore include Wesley Beamon, Patrick Eidson and Lisa Jones. Learn more about each candidate below.

Early voting for the May Primaries begins April 27. Election Day is May 19.

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