Judge Glenda Hatchett Fights Attorney Fees After Dropping Lawsuit Against Georgia Sheriffs’ Association

ATLANTA, Ga. — TV personality and former judge Glenda Hatchett appeared in court Friday to contest an order requiring her to pay attorney fees to the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association (GSA), following her decision to drop a civil lawsuit against the organization.

The legal battle stems from a 2022 incident in which former Bleckley County Sheriff Kris Coody reportedly groped Hatchett during a GSA reception. Coody later pleaded guilty to sexual battery and resigned from his position.

Hatchett initially filed a civil lawsuit against the GSA alleging negligence but later withdrew the case to focus on her personal healing and recovery. In response, the GSA sought to recoup legal costs, arguing that her negligence claims were “frivolous.” A judge previously ruled that Hatchett’s claims “lacked merit.”

Standing in court Friday, Hatchett argued that forcing a survivor to pay the legal fees of an organization that hosted her assailant sends a “chilling message” to victims. “Penalizing survivors who seek justice discourages other victims from coming forward,” Hatchett said. She noted that women from around the world have reached out to thank her for speaking up and helping them find their own voices.

Her legal team maintains that the fee request is an attempt to silence victims and has no moral or legal standing. “This is not just about me,” Hatchett said. “It’s about ensuring that survivors feel empowered to seek justice without fear of retaliation or financial punishment.”

No decision has been made yet on whether Hatchett will be required to pay the attorney fees. Advocates say the case could have broader implications for how organizations and the courts treat claims of negligence tied to sexual misconduct.