Browser Compatibility Notice:

Seventh Judicial Circuit Judge Margaret W. Hudson has formally announced her retirement effective January 4, 2023. In a letter addressed to Governor Ron DeSantis, Judge Hudson stated: “It has been an honor and privilege to serve the people of the State of Florida and the people of Volusia, Flagler, Putnam, and St. Johns counties within the Seventh Judicial Circuit during my tenure on the bench.”

Judge Hudson joined the Court in May 2006 after being appointed by Governor Jeb Bush. She subsequently ran unopposed in 2008, 2014, and 2020. Judge Hudson served in the Juvenile, Criminal, and Civil divisions before moving to the Probate/Guardianship division in 2015. Prior to joining the Court, Judge Hudson worked for the U.S. Department of Justice and was also in private practice.

Chief Judge James Clayton stated: “Judge Hudson has been a valued colleague and a mentor to many of us. We will miss her depth of knowledge and hope she will return as a senior judge to help out from time to time. She has been a dedicated public servant, and we wish her the best in retirement.”

Governor DeSantis will appoint someone to fill the vacancy created by Judge Hudson’s retirement.