“I am pleased to announce that I have formally qualified to seek re-election as the Probate Judge of Long County. I am a lifelong resident of Long County and a 1987 graduate of Long County High School. I am the widow of the late Murray Odum. I have three children and seven grandchildren.
“I am qualified with both experience and education. Prior to being elected Probate Judge, I worked with attorneys in private practice and the District Attorney’s office. I have over 30 years of experience in the legal field. I worked for over ten years with Judge Richard Phillips, the former Long County State Court Judge.
“I have an Associate’s degree in paralegal studies, a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice leadership, and will complete my master’s degree in legal studies this year. In addition, I have completed hundreds of hours of training both in Probate and Magistrate Courses since taking office. I serve as a mentor judge for new judges, and I serve on the Probate Court Training Council.
“I love Long County and the citizens who make up our county. I am proud to be from Long County. I was honored to be selected by the Chamber of Commerce as the Long County Citizen of the Year for 2023. I have spent years being active and involved in community activities and with local churches and will continue to do so. I am a proud supporter of Long County Athletics and our Recreation Department.
“I have worked hard to ensure that I am cautious with the budget (the taxpayers’ money). I have remained under budget and eliminated unnecessary expenses.
“As promised, I have been present in the office daily working to perform the job I was elected to do. I strive to always render judgments impartially with respect and compassion. I am legally bound to uphold the law, but I will always render the judgment with compassion. I have comments from many individuals such as this:
‘While it was an unfortunate incident that took place, you delivered
“fairness, compassion, and neutrality” with my particular case and in your decision. I chose to reside in Long County when I retired from the military . . .
‘Your handling of the situation restored my faith in the system and re-enforced once again why our responsibility to vote and be part of not only the national level of government but also why local involvement is so
important.’ R.B.G. 5/3/2022
“I have served as your Probate Judge since January 1, 2021. I pledge that I will continue to be present and working to ensure that the matters filed in Probate and Magistrate Court are handled timely, efficiently, and in accordance with the law. I humbly ask for your prayers, your support, and your vote in the May 21, 2024, election.”
Teresa L. Odum, Judge
Long County Probate & Magistrate Court
