Macon County General Sessions and Juvenile Court Judge Ken Witcher was presented the McCain-Abernathy Memorial Award during the 27th Annual Joint Conference on Juvenile Justice held August 1-4 in Chattanooga, Tenn.

This award is presented annually by the Tennessee Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges to a Tennessee judge with juvenile court jurisdiction who has demonstrated outstanding service dedicated to the improvement of juvenile justice in Tennessee for the benefit of the children and families served by the State’s juvenile courts.

Witcher was also presented the President’s Award for his service during the past two years as President of the Tennessee Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges.

The Tennessee Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges was created by the Tennessee General Assembly through legislation that became effective July 1, 1982, as the official organization of Tennessee judges having juvenile court jurisdiction. Throughout its history the Council has represented juvenile court judges and court staff, providing an independent voice with regard to issues affecting children, youth, families and communities.

“I consider myself very honored to be presented with this award by my fellow judges from across the State of Tennessee," Witcher said. "It has also been a great honor and privilege to serve during the past two years as President of this organization.”

Witcher will continue to serve as a member of the Executive Committee of the Tennessee Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges for another two year term in the position of Immediate Past President.