The Fulton County Justice Center will be open for regular business hours (8:30 am - 5:00 pm) during the World Cup (June 11 - July 15), although some services may be available on a limited basis, especially on game days. Some services and court proceedings may have virtual/on-line options or requirements during these dates. Additional information can be found on the ATLANTA (July 10, 2026)—Fulton County Superior Court proudly hosted a group of eight sheriff's office interns as they prepare to embark on justice system careers. The interns hail from diverse backgrounds with professional goals ranging from future judges, detectives, and lawyers. They began a three-day stint at Superior Court with a stop in the Family Division where the Honorable Alice Benton was busy hearing a complex child custody dispute. Next, interns spent time watching preliminary hearings with Magistrate Court Judge Todd Ashley, who sits in Superior Court by designation. Following the hearings, Judge Ashley entertained a lengthy Q and A with the interns.
“Speaking with the Judges gave me a better understanding of the legal system and the importance of fairness, integrity, and professionalism in the courtroom," said Jayla Sanders, an intern from Clark Atlanta University. "I will apply what I learned by staying committed to my Criminal Justice studies, reading more about the law, strengthening my communication and critical-thinking skills, and preparing for law school as I work toward my goal of becoming a lawyer.”
The interns journeyed a short distance away to meet Judge Eric Dunaway for a wide-ranging conversation. Judge Dunaway covered his start in the legal profession, being a hometown judge, and handling the pressures of overseeing high-profile cases. He urged the group to remain focused on their goals.
To cap off their visit, the interns sat in on a murder trial with Judge Rachel Krause. This allowed them to observe the functions of justice at work in real time. Later, Judge Krause shared with the group how tech advancements are making court proceedings more efficient and the importance of work-life balance. Then, Judge Robert McBurney gave them a dose of reality as to what being a judge entails — the long hours, voluminous reading, and importance of hearing all sides. Judge McBurney wrapped up his talk with information about the critical role of Accountability Courts in Fulton County.
"Observing Fulton County Superior Court proceedings gave me valuable insight into how the justice system operates," said Ibraheem Belgore, a senior from Morehouse College. "I’m a psychology major and I want to work in law enforcement and eventually become a homicide detective. I’ll use this experience to better understand human behavior, decision making, trauma, and how people respond in serious situations."
