Mission Statement: “Union County Circuit Court Clerk’s Office strives to promote a high standard in the Judicial System as we provide courteous and efficient service to the citizens of Union County, judges, attorneys, law enforcement agencies and all the people having business with the Courts.”

What a lot of hats to wear! Barbara J. Williams, Circuit, Criminal, General Sessions, and Juvenile Court Clerk is responsible for crucial clerical support of all Union County, Tennessee courts! In larger counties, there are separate clerks and respective staff for each court, but considering Union County’s population, the position is streamlined for efficiency. Williams is a proven leader who excels in attending to the functions of the courts such as custodian of court records, verifying documentation accuracy and dates, issuing subpoenas, collecting fees and applying them correctly, distributing restitution, working with civil cases—like lawsuits, jury selection, and any other instructions of the courts of Judges Darryl Edmondson, Shayne Sexton, and John McAfee. Williams’s office, like all county offices, is held accountable by a state auditor’s annual review. For a more detailed description of the mission and job functions within each court, visit: unioncountytncourts.com

Upon graduating from high school, Williams got a job through the summer youth program. Her first position was working for Circuit Court Clerk Horace Dale. The courthouse had burned in 1969 and the county offices and court were held in the old jail while the new courthouse was being built. Williams found the work very interesting and how the judicial system worked. Next, she became editor of the Union News Leader, spent time as an entrepreneur, and then raised her family while working for the Union County Public Schools for 20 years, first as an In-School Suspension teacher, then serving as office administrator/bookkeeper. In 2001, Williams was encouraged to run for Circuit Court Clerk in the upcoming election. With the support of her family and friends, and considering how much Williams enjoys interacting with the people of our community, and how interesting she found court record keeping and procedures, she ran and was elected to the position in 2002, where she has now served for 18 years. Initially, Williams hoped to serve three terms; now that those are complete, she just takes it one term at a time and is willing to serve as long as her health allows. She enjoys the work, likes to be on a schedule, and—perhaps most importantly—enjoys working with the people of the community.

“In the court system,” states Williams, “you see all kinds.” She elaborated that you have individuals who break the law, their families as well as victims and their families. You must discern when and how to be sympathetic, yet stern, and never forget that sometimes people just make bad choices. Williams also relayed that she knows she is no more important than anyone else and doesn’t let her position go to her head. She was elected by the people of Union County and she works for them. Williams wisely states that people are people and we’re all in this together. Like so many other public servants, however, she believes that the drug epidemic has adversely impacted our community.

Williams’s advice to others seeking elected offices: “When opportunities arise, you won’t know unless you try, but work hard, get to know the fine folks in Union County and always remember who put you where you are.” People will be relying upon you for help. Sometimes you won’t be able to help directly, but you can still be a resource.” If interested in public office, be sure that you pursue positions for which you have an interest and the appropriate experience, that people know you and trust you to carry out the duties of the office. For example, if interested in working in the courts, one should become familiar with the court system. Don’t say “I can’t.” Learn how and then do it! Her idea of success is the reward you enjoy for knowing that you have done the best that you can do, helping people, and being a hard worker. “It takes everyone working together to make it a success.”

When not taking care of our community at the Union County Courthouse, Williams enjoys working in her flower garden, reading, and quilting. She is blessed with the opportunity to serve on several committees such as Board Member of New South Credit Union, Treasurer of the Union County Cemetery Association, and a Member of the Business and Professional Association.

Her office is located at 901 Main Street,
Suite 201 Maynardville, TN 37807
Phone (865) 992-5493
Fax (865) 992-8099
Office Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00am-4:00pm