Municipal Court

TKoratskyhe Lakeland Municipal Court’s mission is to provide access to a fair and impartial judicial system that is dedicated to administering justice with the utmost respect, integrity, and professionalism, all in an effective and efficient manner, while ensuring that public trust and confidence in the judicial system is upheld.

We are here to serve and assist you. Should you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact the City Court Clerk, Debra Murrell, by calling 901-867-2717 or sending an email.

Lakeland Municipal Judge Receives Educational Achievement Certificate: story here.


In November 2019, Mr. Kim Koratsky was named Lakeland Municipal Judge


Judge Koratsky was previously Deputy County Attorney/Chief Litigation Attorney for Shelby County. He also served as interim deputy and senior assistant county attorney. He was a partner in labor and employment with Wyatt, Tarrant & Combs, LLP and an associate with Jackson, Shields, Yeiser & Cantrell.

His law degree is from the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law. His undergraduate degree is from the University of Illinois, Springfield.

COVID-19 Precautions

Based on the most recent Orders of the Tennessee Supreme Court, as well as guidance issued by the Shelby County Health Department, the Lakeland Municipal Court is implementing the following COVID-19 protocols for in-person proceedings: 

  • Face covering will be optional, but recommended.  Upon request, a mask will be provided to anyone who wishes to wear a mask but does not have one.
  • Any person who believes they are at risk due to the virus, are exhibiting any symptoms, or have been exposed to the virus within the previous 14 days should call the court clerk at (901) 867-2717 for a continuance to a future court date. 
  • Should any defendant feel uncomfortable being in the courtroom until his or her case is called, defendant(s) may provide their cell number to the Clerk and will be called in from the parking lot when their case is ready to be heard.
  • The Court may, at its discretion, hold virtual hearings as opposed to, or in addition to, in-person proceedings.

Please note that these protocols will be modified based upon any subsequent Orders of the Tennessee Supreme Court, or guidance by the Shelby County Health Department, so please follow any instructions you are given upon entry into City Hall on your court date.

Court Rules and Conduct

General court rules include:

  • No weapons are allowed.
  • Please dress appropriately and in a manner showing respect for the court.
  • All persons, bags, and packages are subject to search.
  • Do not stand or talk in the courtroom unless addressing the court or other court personnel.
  • Speak quietly in the lobby while court is in session.
  • All cell phones, pagers, radios or other electronic devices must be silenced.
  • No texting is allowed inside the courtroom.
  • No filming, video, or photographs unless authorized in advance by the judge.
  • Do not approach the judge’s bench without being summoned.


Archives...


Lakeland Municipal Court, halted due to COVID-19, can reopen, says TN Supreme Court – June 10, 2020

That’s a Wrap for Econo Lodge and City code compliance – February 19, 2020

Two familiar cases in Lakeland this morning – December 18, 2020

Final day for Judge Cates, as Lakeland’s Municipal Judge, 10/24/19

First court case heard in Lakeland, 10/17/18.