Hamilton County General Sessions Court Judge Tori Smith's journey to the judiciary began with an unexpected source of inspiration—a popular children's television show. "It's probably something I should stop saying, but it genuinely was from an episode of Saved by the Bell," Judge Smith admitted. She recalls being inspired by a character who served as a judge in a dream sequence.
Judge Smith shared her early aspirations with her third-grade teacher, who humorously noted that judges are better listeners. Her interest in law solidified during the OJ Simpson trial when she watched the verdict with her classmates. This event left a lasting impression on her perception of justice and its complexities.
Her ambition to serve the community led her naturally toward law school and ultimately becoming a judge. However, financing her education posed challenges. "I'm a member of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians," she said, explaining how a scholarship from her tribe enabled her to graduate debt-free from law school.
Judge Smith is committed to repaying this support by serving others and hopes to inspire younger members of her tribe, particularly young girls. "I hope that when they see what I've done and the improbability of where I'm at, they realize that they can do it, too," she stated.
She was sworn in on September 4, witnessed by family and colleagues including Judge Boyd Patterson, Judge Kevin Wilson, and retired General B.B. Bell. Reflecting on this momentous occasion, Judge Smith expressed gratitude for those who supported her journey: "It was a really cool moment for me... Being able to do that in front of a bunch of judges in their black robes... it kind of hit me that I'm a judge, too."
Appointed by the Hamilton County Commission to fill the vacancy left by Judge Alex McVeagh's election to circuit court, Judge Smith continues to embrace her role with enthusiasm and humility.