Sworn in

Columbia County Probate Judge Alice Padgett is sworn into office by Augusta Judicial Circuit Chief Superior Court Judge Carlisle Overstreet while her husband, Superior Court Judge Wade Padgett, holds the Bible. Padgett, who was unopposed in her election to the office, previously filled the unexpired term of the late Probate Judge Pat Hardway, who died in 2011. Padgett will conduct the swearing-in ceremonies at 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 28, at the Justice Center for all Columbia County officials whose new terms begin next year.