Tennessee Governor Bill Lee announced three judicial appointments today.
Judge Kyle Hixson was appointed to the Tennessee Supreme Court to fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Justice Holly Kirby on June 30, 2026. Judge Hixson currently serves on the Court of Criminal Appeals. He earned his bachelor's degree at The University of Tennessee and juris doctor at The University of Tennessee College of Law.
Judge Steve Maroney was appointed to the Tennessee Court of Appeals, Western Section, to fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Kenny Armstrong on Feb. 9, 2026. Judge Maroney currently serves as Chancellor for the 26th Judicial District. He earned his bachelor's degree at Union University and juris doctor at The University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law.
Judge Rachel Hurt was appointed to the Tennessee Court of Appeals, Eastern Section, to fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Chief Judge D. Michael Swiney on Jan. 12, 2026. Judge Hunt currently serves as a partner at Arnett, Baker, Draper, and Hagood. She earned her bachelor's degree at Syracuse University and juris doctor at The University of Tennessee College of Law.