Sen. Wiles Named Chairman of Special Judiciary Committee

ATLANTA (January 07 2009) – State Senator John Wiles (R-Kennesaw) was named chairman of the Senate Special Judiciary Committee by Lieutenant Governor Casey Cagle for the 2009 Legislative session.

“I expect there to be debates on many important matters this session, and it is crucial that we consider each piece of legislation carefully to ensure it benefits our citizens,” said Sen. Wiles. “I am honored that Lieutenant Governor Cagle has entrusted me to lead this committee, and I look forward to chairing Special Judiciary and working through the many important issues that will come before the committee.”

The Special Judiciary Committee has jurisdiction over legislation concerning both criminal and civil law. Sen. Wiles has served as an influential member of the Judiciary Committee since his election to the Senate in 2004. He also served as chairman of the State and Local Governmental Operations Committee since 2004.

During his service in the Senate, Sen. Wiles has worked to reform Georgia’s public defender system to lower costs and reduce the burden on taxpayers. Sen. Wiles championed the HERO scholarship, helping educate members of the military Guard, Reserve and their children. To date, nearly $640,000 in scholarships have been awarded to deserving recipients.

He also increased penalties for unlicensed drivers and continues to be a champion for family and children’s issues. Prior to his election to the Senate, Sen. Wiles served in the House of Representatives for eight years. Professionally, he is a managing partner of the law firm Wiles & Wiles, which concentrates on commercial real estate litigation.

In addition to his other committee assignments, Sen. Wiles will serve as the Senate’s chief deputy whip, assuming responsibility in the absence of the majority whip.

For more information on the Georgia State Senate, please visit www.senate.ga.gov.

Sen. John Wiles serves as chairman of the Special Judiciary Committee. He represents the 37th Senate District, which includes a portion of Cobb County. He may be reached by phone at 404.657.0406 or by e-mail at john.wiles@senate.ga.gov.

PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release:
January 7, 2009
For Information Contact:
Raegan Weber, Director
Kallarin Richards, Senior Communications Specialist
kallarin.richards@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028