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Rutherford County Circuit Court Clerk

The Rutherford County Circuit Court Clerk is an elected four-year official responsible for managing all filings, records, and final dispositions for Civil, Criminal, General Sessions, and Juvenile courts. Key duties include attending court sessions, managing dockets, collecting fines/fees, issuing, and maintaining court records.

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  • Candidate picture

    Melissa Harrell
    (R)

  • Candidate picture

    Jeff Mckinney
    (R)

Biographical Information

Why are you running for Circuit Court Clerk?

How does your background prepare you to serve as Circuit Court Clerk?

If elected, what will be your top priority?

Default melissaharrell752@gmail.com
I am running for re-election because I believe government should be limited, efficient, and accountable to the taxpayers it serves. As the current Circuit Court Clerk, I have worked to modernize operations, improve customer service, and maintain strong fiscal discipline. I want to continue building on that progress, ensuring the office remains transparent, operates under budget, and responsibly manages taxpayer dollars while supporting the fair and orderly administration of justice.
I bring both private sector and public service experience to this role. Before being elected in 2014, I owned and operated a business for over 24 years, where I developed hands-on expertise in budgeting, management, and customer service. As Circuit Court Clerk, I have successfully led the office with integrity and efficiency, earning clean annual independent financial audits, the only Clerk in more than 30 years to do so. I have also guided the office through multiple complex system conversions and serve on the Court Clerks Legislative Board, working with state leaders to ensure compliance and practical policy solutions.
My top priority is to maintain a well-run, fiscally responsible office that delivers reliable service to the public. That includes continuing to operate within budget, maintaining clean audits, and carefully managing taxpayer funds. I will also focus on successfully implementing the state’s upcoming court system transition to ensure continuity, data security, and minimal disruption. Above all, I will continue running the Clerk’s Office like a disciplined, accountable business that serves the people of Rutherford County with professionalism and transparency.
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