New Sevier County General Sessions judge to be sworn in

SEVIERVILLE, Tenn. ( WATE ) — A Sevier County native and Lincoln Memorial University Duncan School of Law alum has been appointed to fill the vacant seat of General Sessions judge. Keith Cole will be sworn in on July 1 at the Sevier County Courthouse.

“We are confident that Keith Cole will serve our community with integrity and dedication,” Larry Waters, Sevier County mayor, stated in a news release. “Keith’s dedication to justice and fairness makes him an ideal fit for the General Sessions Judge position.”

The Sevier County Board of Commissioners in a special-called meeting on Monday voted to appoint Cole, who is also a 2008 Maryville College graduate. He also worked as an Assistant District Attorney in the 4th Judicial District.

“I am deeply honored by the trust the Sevier County Board of Commissioners has placed in me. I look forward to tackling the challenges that come with this position and promise to do my absolute best for the people of Sevier County,” Cole stated in a news release from Sevier County.

Cole will begin his duties in the General Sessions Court after he is sworn in on Monday. His appointment to the position will be effective until a special election is held in 2026. The previous judge, Jeff Rader resigned from the position earlier in June.

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