New Oconee probate judge named

Oconee County has a new probate judge.  It’s Ashley M. Rice.  Rice’s appointment by Chief Justice Donald Beatty brings with it the authority for her to perform all acts, duties, responsibilities, and obligations of the county probate judge’s office.  The appointment, effective this week, expires January 3, 2023. Rice is a seven-year employee of the office, and she told 101.7/WGOG NEWS that, in that time, she has worked in all positions in the office.  County Clerk of Court Lisa Burton had served as interim probate judge after the suspension in October of Kenny Johns.  Probate Judge is an elective office, scheduled to be voted on by the Oconee electorate next year in 2022.