KNOXVILLE, Tenn — Pledging to approach her job every day with "fairness, patience and respect for the law," Knox County's newest judge was sworn in and took the bench Monday for the very first time.

Emily Abbott becomes the second woman to serve as a Criminal Court judge in the 6th Judicial District. She formerly was an Anderson County prosecutor before Gov. Bill Lee formally appointed her Friday.

"This is a responsibility I do not take on lightly, and it is with deep humility and gratitude that I accept this opportunity to serve the people of Knox County," she said to a Division I courtroom packed with lawyers, current and retired judges, friends, family members and well-wishers.

Credit: WBIR The courtroom was all smiles Monday as Judge Sword swore in the new Judge Emily Abbott.

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