Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit Superior Court Judge Ralph VanPelt, a native of Chattooga County, is retiring from the bench.  With over two-decades on the bench in the Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit, VanPelt’s lengthy career as a judge will come to an end.  Prior to serving as a judge, VanPelt was the Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit District Attorney.  In 2018 VanPelt ran for reelection and received 52% of the vote in Walker, Dade, Catoosa and Chattooga Counties.  Earlier this year, Judge VanPelt announced plans to retire from the bench before the end of his term which allowed Governor Brian Kempt to appoint a replacement.  VanPelt has announced plans to continue to practice law in a private legal practice.