Judge Sunny Mullins Makes Historic Bid for Rockdale State Court

Local judicial races often fly under the radar, but in Rockdale County, Georgia, Judge Sunny Mullins’ recent bid for a State Court seat drew considerable attention. She campaigned with the aspiration of becoming the first African American woman to serve on the Rockdale County State Court bench, marking a significant moment for the community.

The election for the Rockdale County State Court Associate position took place on May 19, 2026. Mullins ran against Justin Taylor Kenney in a nonpartisan general election. While the community awaited official results, her campaign underscored the critical role of local judiciary and the ongoing push for diverse representation across all levels of government. The Rockdale State Court, established in 1987, functions as a trial court with limited jurisdiction, and its judges are elected to four-year terms.

Currently, Mullins serves as an associate magistrate judge in Rockdale County, a role she was appointed to on November 13, 2024, by Chief Magistrate Judge Phinia Aten. In this capacity, she frequently acts as the initial point of contact for various civil disputes, including county ordinances and landlord-tenant cases, and is responsible for issuing warrants. A move to the State Court would expand her judicial responsibilities significantly, allowing her to preside over misdemeanors, traffic violations, and a broader range of civil cases.

Judge Mullins brings nearly two decades of extensive legal experience to her public service. She is licensed to practice law in both Georgia and Minnesota, reflecting a broad professional reach. Her career path has been notably diverse, encompassing criminal defense, sports and entertainment law, civil litigation, business law, and impactful community advocacy. This wide-ranging background has equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of the legal landscape and the varied needs of those navigating the justice system.