Clayton County State Court handles arraignments; judge accepts multiple negotiated pleas and sets fines, probation

Judge Tammy Long Hayward opened the Clayton County State Court arraignment calendar on Nov. 17, 2025, telling defendants that arraignment is the first time their case appears before the trial court and reviewing plea options and rights, including the Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination and the right to counsel. “Everyone is entitled to have an attorney if you wish to have one,” the judge told the virtual and in‑court participants (Judge Tammy Long Hayward).

The morning and early‑afternoon calendars moved steadily. Court staff and defense counsel used Zoom breakout rooms to confer with clients and the state before many pleas, and the court clerk directed defendants to provide email addresses to receive sentencing sheets and payment instructions. The judge repeatedly reminded drivers under 21 about the point rules and potential hard suspensions for license points. (Judge Tammy Long Hayward; Court Clerk Catherine Maganda/Deputy Clerk Izzy).

Selected dispositions and orders taken by the court included: - Art Lee Duncan Tell (case 2022CR01356): entered a guilty plea to no license. The state recommended a $500 suspended fine; the judge accepted the plea and noted the total fines/fees would have been…