Judge Chéferre Young Becomes First Black Woman Chief Juvenile Judge in Macon

Judge Chéferre “Ché” Young has made history as the first woman and first Black Chief Juvenile Court Judge for the Macon Judicial Circuit. She was appointed to the position on February 1, 2025, after serving as a Juvenile Court Judge for four years.

“This is bigger than me,” said Judge Young. “It represents a lot of progress for our circuit, opportunity, and responsibility for me to ensure that I’ll continue to do what’s in the best interest of the child in child welfare and juvenile justice cases.”

Before her appointment in 2021, the Juvenile Court bench in the circuit had remained unchanged for nearly 25 years. Now, as Chief Judge, Young acknowledges the weight of her role and the precedent it sets.

“It’s a lot of pressure because I want other women, other Black people to be able to come behind me,” she said. “There’s always this fear that you’re going to let people down or not be the best, but I tell myself another story. Knowing that folks have trusted me, the superior court judges in general, have put a lot of faith and trust in me, and I’m going to continue to try to make them proud in everything that I do.”

Judge Young began her legal career as an Assistant District Attorney in the Crimes Against Children Unit, prosecuting cases of child abuse, child molestation, and rape. During her tenure, she secured convictions against over 50 sex offenders. Recognizing the link between childhood trauma and juvenile delinquency, she transitioned to the Juvenile Division, where she worked with at-risk youth before being appointed as a Juvenile Court Judge.

“I think it’s a big deal for the children and the families that look like me for when they come into the courtroom,” she said. “I see it on their faces sometimes, we can’t really speak, but I do think it means a lot to them. I can speak to them in a way they understand.”

A graduate of Agnes Scott College in Decatur, GA, Judge Young earned her law degree from Temple University’s Beasley School of Law in Philadelphia, PA. She previously served as an Assistant District Attorney in Milledgeville, GA, and also worked in criminal defense and civil litigation before returning to prosecution in 2012.

With a focus on rehabilitation, accountability, and community engagement, Judge Young is committed to protecting children, expanding access to resources, and ensuring justice for families in the Macon Judicial Circuit.