Judge John Sumner (ret.) – Partner

Honorable John Sumner (retired) grew up in South Georgia before receiving his Bachelor of Science from Georgia State’s College of Public and Urban Affairs. John then went on to receive his Juris Doctorate from Georgia State University College of Law – graduating Cum Laude, third in full time class and eighth overall.

After falling in love with the city, John began his legal career as a trial attorney in the Atlanta area. From 1987-2001, he worked on cases that ranged from domestic law, child representation, Juvenile Court, personal injury, appeals and criminal defense. John also has experience in Guardian Ad Litem work which has influenced his passion for family law.

In 2001, after 14 years of trial attorney work, John was appointed as a Superior Court Judge by Honorable Frank Mills, Honorable Jackson Harris, Honorable Ellen McElyea, Honorable David Cannon, Jr, and Honorable M. Anthony Baker in all areas of Superior Court jurisdiction, but with a heavy emphasis in family law matters. John held this position for 20 years, and has heard well over 15,000 cases. In addition to being appointed as a Superior Court Judge, John also worked as a Juvenile Court Judge in Cherokee County until 2021 further strengthening his love for family law. After 20 years serving as a Judge, John retired from the bench and came back to his first passion – being a trial attorney.

John is an active member of the Georgia legal community. His bar memberships include the State of Georgia, State of Florida (inactive status), United States Supreme Court and Northern District Federal Court of Georgia. John holds an exceptional amount of prestigious awards, he’s held many positions on various committees and has given several lectures/presentations.