Attorney General Opinions
Relating to County Government

2000 Courts

The method for calculation of a general sessions court judge’s salary in a Class 7 county (Jackson County) is explained in detail. The method for calculating additional supplements under a private act is also explained, as is the method for calculating the change in compensation when a county moves from one class to another class due to population increase shown in the 2000 federal census. This opinion answers several previously unanswered questions about the calculation of salaries for general sessions judges. Opinion No. 00-190 (December 20, 2000).

To determine the appropriate salary of the general sessions judge, the county must determine the total amount of salary and supplements the judge actually received as of August 31, 1998. If the county is unable to determine the total amount of salary and supplements the judge actually received as of August 31, 1998, then the county should use the salary and supplements payable to the judge under the applicable statutes. The base salary of the judge in Lake County will be the higher of the amount calculated under general law or under an applicable private act. Opinion No. 00-165 (October 23, 2000).