Mike Bankston has announced his intention to run for Superior Court Judge in the South Georgia Judicial Circuit.

Bankston has served as Chief Assistant District Attorney for the Circuit since July 2008. In that position, he was in charge of prosecuting serious cases including murders, rapes, armed robberies and child molestations.

“I have worked diligently to develop good relationships with all of our law enforcement officers,” Bankston said. “These experiences and relationships only better prepare me for the Judiciary.”

While serving as Chief Prosecutor, Bankston was actively involved in the development of the new Drug Court Program.

“This court will give non-violent offenders, especially the younger ones, a chance to learn from their mistakes,” Bankston said. “I look forward to assisting with the expansion of these programs throughout the South Georgia Circuit.”

Bankston worked in private practice for 23 years before joining the D.A.’s office. In 1987, he began practicing with Frank C. Twitty, Jr. ultimately becoming partner in the Offices of Twitty and Bankston. In private practice, Bankston represented people in criminal and civil cases.

“My experience gives me a perspective on the court system that very few people have, and I understand that there are two sides to every case,” Bankston said.

He has also represented GFA Peanut Association, The Bank of Camilla, Planters and Citizens Bank, the Development Authorities of the City of Camilla and Mitchell County and multiple city governments.

Bankston served eight years as the State Court Judge in Mitchell County.

A graduate of Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College and Georgia Southwestern College, Bankston earned his law degree from Mercer University School of Law. He has been an active member of the State Bar of Georgia since 1985.

He is married to Taylor Dunn Bankston and they have four children.

“All of our children were raised here, and this circuit is where I live and work every day,” Bankston said. “It is with a great sense of respect for the huge responsibility of the office of Judge of Superior Court that I offer the citizens my candidacy.”

Bankston can be reached by telephone at (229)-205-8319 for more information.