The Honorable Geoffrey P. Emery, Knox County General Sessions Division II Judge, announces his retirement effective December 31, 2021. Judge Emery has served Knox County with distinction for over thirty-five years. Born in Maine, Judge Emery spent his childhood years in North Carolina and Alabama. Emery attended the University of Tennessee and received his undergraduate degree in Political Science. He received his law degree from the University of Tennessee College of Law. After spending a few years in private practice, Emery joined the Knox County Law Department in 1981. He was Knox County's first full-time Assistant Director in the Law Department. Judge Emery was appointed to the bench in 1986 and was re-elected into office five consecutive terms. During his judicial tenure, Emery served on the Tennessee General Sessions Judicial Conference Executive Committee, where he further served with distinction as Conference President. When asked about his decision to retire a few months early, Emery replied, “It has been my honor to serve the people of Knox County, and I am grateful for their steadfast support over the decades. Now, however, it is time for me to step down and focus on spending quality time with my family."  Emery and  his wife, Suzann Turner Emery, have two grown sons and five grandchildren. Judge Emery and his wife plan to enjoy traveling upon his retirement.