Staff Reports
AUGUSTA, Ga. — Local attorney Alexia Davis-Payne has announced her candidacy for Superior Court Judge in the Augusta Judicial Circuit, serving Richmond and Burke counties. Payne, a 20-year legal veteran, recently outlined her qualifications and judicial philosophy during a live interview with media personalities Q and May on a local broadcast streamed on YouTube.
Payne, who spent 12 years as a public defender before entering private practice, said her experience representing individuals in criminal and family court cases gives her a perspective currently lacking on the bench.
“Our Superior Court bench has been dominated by prosecutors,” Payne said during the interview. “But I bring something new. I bring something different. I bring something fresh.”
She argued that her background defending clients — rather than prosecuting them — allows her to better understand the full human impact of judicial decisions. Payne emphasized that she has stood beside individuals and families during some of the most difficult moments of their lives and believes that insight is critical for fair sentencing.
“I’ve actually represented people. I’ve stood next to them during their most challenging times,” she said. “And I know what that feels like.”
Throughout the discussion, Payne stressed that sentencing should be fact-specific and not “one size fits all.” She advocated for greater use of accountability courts — including drug court, mental health court and veterans court — arguing that the circuit has opportunities to better utilize diversionary programs to address root causes of criminal behavior.
“Sentences are not one size fits all,” Payne said. “People do need to be responsible for their actions, but we also have an opportunity to identify the root cause and try to keep people from coming back in front of the court.”
Payne also highlighted the importance of courtroom dignity and fairness. She said young people and first-time defendants, in particular, should leave court feeling that they were heard and treated respectfully, regardless of the outcome.
“I want them to feel heard,” she said. “I want them to know that they are going to be respected when they walk in, and that their rights are being protected.”
A graduate of Baylor University and Tulane Law School, Payne has tried cases ranging from armed robbery and drug offenses to murder and family law disputes. In addition to her courtroom experience, she pointed to her community involvement, including work with youth literacy programs and high school mock trial initiatives.
Early voting for the May 19 election begins April 27.
Watch the full interview here:
https://www.youtube.com/ (Interview available on Mortar Master’s YouTube channel)
