32 Waddell Street
Marietta, GA 30090
(770) 528-8900 (770) 528-8947 fax
Office Hours:
Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Staff
Judge Brendan F. Murphy, Chief Magistrate
Tahnicia Phillips, Court Administrator
Anne U. Gordon, Clerk of Court
Kenya Jackson, Pretrial Division Manager
Betsy Manston, Court Support Manager
Shawanna Richards, Court Support Manager
Our goal is to provide citizens with the most up-to-date and convenient information available regarding the processes and procedures utilized by Magistrate Court in handling issues involving abandoned motor vehicles, bad checks, garnishments, and small claims as well as providing information about mediation and weddings.
One of the primary responsibilities of the Cobb County Magistrate Court is to issue arrest warrants followed by the determination of probable cause in criminal cases. Only in ordinance violations does the Magistrate Court determine guilt or innocence. This court handles issues involving abandoned motor vehicles, bad checks, small claims.
Mission Statement
To provide the highest degree of judiciary and support services to those seeking judicial remedy from both civil and criminal issues and to diligently uphold state law to ensure that victims and defendants receive the entitlement prescribed by law.
History of Magistrate Court
The Magistrate Court was established in 1983 by the Georgia Legislature and replaced the former Justice of the Peace System. The Cobb County Magistrate Court is one of the largest Magistrate Courts in Georgia.
The Magistrate Court is often referred to as the “People’s Court” due to the ease of accessibility and varied nature of matters, both civil and criminal.