Judge Valerie L. Smith was confirmed to the Court of Appeals, Western Division, by the General Assembly today. She was appointed to the intermediate court by Governor Bill Lee on Feb. 28, 2025, at the recommendation of the Governor’s Council for Judicial Appointments. Judge Smith fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Arnold B. Goldin.
Judge Smith previously served as a Circuit Court Judge for the 30th Judicial District (Shelby County), from 2016 – 2025. Prior to that, she worked for the law firm Nahon, Saharovich, and Trotz, from 2006 – 2016. She also served as the Assistant District Attorney for the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office, from 2000 – 2006.
Judge Smith is a member of the Memphis Bar Association; Board Member, AWA, Judicial Liaison; Leo Bearman, Sr. American Inn of Court, President and the Tennessee Judicial Conference Executive Committee. Her community involvement includes Alpha Gamma Delta, Gamma Zeta Academic Excellence Advisor; Junior League of Memphis, Sustainer; Section 901 Youth Athletic Fund and the Midtown Rotary Club.
Judge Smith was honored with the Outstanding Barrister, 2014-15, Leo Bearman, Sr. American Inn of Court award.
She received her undergraduate and juris doctor degrees from the University of Memphis.
