Tennessee – Gov. Bill Lee announced the appointments of Steven W. Sword and Valerie L. Smith to Tennessee appellate courts.
“I am proud to announce the appointment of these highly qualified individuals and value the significant experience they will bring to their respective roles,” said Lee. “I appreciate their leadership and am confident they will serve Tennesseans with integrity.”
Sword, currently a Criminal Court Judge for the 6th Judicial District, has been appointed to the Court of Criminal Appeals, Eastern Division.
He earned his bachelor’s degree from King College and his juris doctor from the University of Tennessee School of Law. He will fill the vacancy left by the passing of Judge James C. Witt Jr.
Smith, a Circuit Court Judge for the 30th Judicial District, has been appointed to the Court of Appeals, Western Division.
She earned both her bachelor’s degree and juris doctor from the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law. She will fill the vacancy left by the retirement of Judge Arnold B. Goldin.
Both appointments require confirmation by the Tennessee General Assembly.