I’m thrilled to welcome Judge Kee, Sumner County General Sessions Judge, to today’s episode of A Good Pour. I’ve known Judge Kee for a while through Leadership Sumner, but our journey together goes even deeper. When I was starting my own business a few years ago, Judge Kee was one of the first people I reached out to for advice. And what I love most about this is that while I was stepping out in faith with my business, God was already stirring something in her too. Shortly after our conversation, Judge Kee made the brave decision to pursue the calling of becoming a judge—a path that would change her life and the lives of many in Sumner County.
A Lifelong Calling Answered
Judge Kee’s journey into law started as early as childhood. She vividly remembers a traumatic event at five years old that introduced her to the legal system. From that moment on, she knew she was destined to help others through law. Though her path was not without obstacles, her faith, determination, and God’s guidance led her to her current role. She shares how, for years, she questioned whether becoming a judge was truly attainable, but when God called her to it, she listened.
Her journey as a judge has been both rewarding and challenging, especially during the stressful years of the pandemic. In fact, Judge Kee shared that losing 55 pounds after her swearing-in ceremony wasn’t about stress, but about realizing how truly happy and fulfilled she was in her new role. She’s not just serving as a judge; she’s serving with purpose and joy.
Doing Good Work on the Bench
For Judge Kee, good work means upholding justice with compassion and respect. She’s not just about handing down rulings—she’s about making sure everyone, whether a defendant or a victim, feels heard and treated fairly. She describes how a man who had been guilty in her court came to her months later, expressing how much her fair approach had helped him accept his consequences and turn his life around.
It’s these moments of transformation that remind her why she does the work she does. Judge Kee believes that while someone will always be disappointed when her gavel falls, she can control how they experience the process. The goal is not just to pass judgment, but to ensure that people leave her court understanding why things happened the way they did.
Mental Health Court: A Transformative Approach
One of Judge Kee’s proudest accomplishments is her role in overseeing the county’s Mental Health Court. This court, established by Judge Mike Carter in 2018, addresses the intersection of mental health issues and the criminal justice system. Participants in Mental Health Court often have a history of self-medication, but through the program, many have found recovery, hope, and the tools to rebuild their lives. Judge Kee proudly shares that it’s her favorite part of the job, where she gets to witness firsthand the transformation of individuals who have struggled with mental health and addiction.
She recounts the inspiring story of a woman who, after graduating from the program, was able to buy her first car, open a savings account, and find stability for the first time in her life. These moments are what fuel Judge Kee’s passion for her work and reinforce her belief that mental health plays a vital role in justice.
Facing Hard Cases with Empathy
Judge Kee knows that many of the cases before her are difficult. On the criminal side, especially, the situation is often grim, with both defendants and victims at their lowest. She shares how she handles these cases with self-care, prayer, and empathy. “I can’t internalize everything,” she says, emphasizing the importance of finding balance.
Her approach to self-care is rooted in service. Giving back to the community, through involvement in various nonprofits and through her own church, helps Judge Kee recharge. It’s a reminder of the blessings in her life, even when she’s facing tough days. She’s reminded that no matter how hard things may get, someone else is often in a worse situation, and that’s what fuels her desire to keep serving.
Collaboration and Building a Legacy
As an elected judge in Tennessee, Judge Kee has a unique role in Sumner County’s judicial system. She was appointed to her position in 2022, stepping into the seat vacated by her friend and mentor, Judge Mike Carter, after his passing. She shares how she continues to honor his legacy by ensuring fairness, compassion, and respect in every case she handles.
One of Judge Carter’s lasting contributions was the creation of the Mental Health Court, and Judge Kee is committed to seeing it grow and thrive. She has not only expanded the court’s impact but also continued his work by creating the Mike Carter Resilience and Persistence Award, given to participants who show remarkable progress in their journey. Judge Kee’s work in the Mental Health Court is a testament to her dedication to building on the legacy of a visionary leader.
What’s Next for Judge Key?
It’s been a joy to watch Judge Kee’s journey unfold. Her passion for service, her unwavering faith, and her commitment to her community make her a leader who truly embodies the idea of good work. She’s not just sitting on the bench—she’s actively shaping the future of Sumner County through her work and dedication.
As Judge Kee continues to lead with integrity and compassion, there’s no doubt she’ll leave a lasting impact on this community for years to come. It’s been a privilege to watch her grow into this role, and I look forward to seeing all the good work that’s yet to come.