Letterhead from:

Seventh Judicial Administrative District
115 West Cherokee Ave., P.O. Box 963
Cartersville, Georgia  30120
Phone:  770-387-5480
Robert J. James, Administrative Judge
Jody Overcash, Court Administrator

October 19, 2000

Ms. Marquitta Portman
261 Pioneer Trail
Marietta, GA  30069-3470

   RE:  Civil Action # 99-1-7941-24 Portman v Kreeger, et al

Dear Ms. Portman:

   With respect to cases pending in the various circuits within an administrative district, the Administrative Judge's authority is limited to appointment of a judge when requested by the judges of a circuit provided such request meets certain requirements set forth in the law. By appointing a judge to hear a particular case the Administrative Judge does not in any way assume control of the case and can take no action in the case unless another judicial assignment becomes necessary by law after appropriate proceedings and hearings in the county where the case is pending.

   Judges are not allowed to practice law or give legal advice so I am unable to answer any procedural questions for you.

Yours truly,

[signature of Robert J. James]

ROBERT J. JAMES
Administrative Judge
Seventh Judicial Administrative District

RJJ/lw