Team
Hamilton County Juvenile Court Judge
Rob Philyaw is judge of the Hamilton County Juvenile Court where he has served since 2013. Judge Philyaw obtained his B.S. and M.B.A. degrees from Christian Brothers University where in 2022 he was named one of 150 Notable Alumni in celebration of the University’s 150th Anniversary, and his J.D. degree from the Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law at the University of Memphis where he served as the Editor-in-Chief of the Tennessee Journal of Practice & Procedure and where he received the Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence and the Dean’s Distinguished Service Award.
In 2015, Judge Philyaw was awarded the Chief Justice William M. Barker Equal Access to Justice Award by Legal Aid of East Tennessee. In 2019, he received the McCain-Abernathy Memorial Award from the Tennessee Council of Juvenile and Family Law Judges. In 2022, he received a a Humanitarian Award from the Alton Park Development Corporation, an inner-city youth services organization. Governor Lee appointed him to serve on the Tennessee Commission for Children and Youth in 2020 and appointed him to serve as Chair of the Commission in 2022. Judge Philyaw serves as the Immediate-Past President of the Chattanooga Bar Association and as President of the Tennessee Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges.
Robert D. Philyaw
SBC Coordinator
Lawrence Ward was born in Champaign, IL but has lived much of his life here in Chattanooga, TN. He loves sports, and you can often hear him engaging in anything Lakers basketball or Alabama football related. He completed his bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga with dreams of being a big time attorney. However, once he was fortunate enough to obtain employment at Hamilton County Juvenile Court, he knew he had found his calling. Putting the needs and attention of children and families seeking help first! Lawrence is known for his dedication, compassion, and ability to connect with everyone that comes to Juvenile Court no matter their needs. His work is not just a job, but a true calling that he feels privileged to fulfill every day.
Lawrence Ward
Safe Baby Court Magistrate
Jacquelyn Griffith is a seasoned attorney and Juvenile Court Magistrate, who has dedicated her career to ensuring that the voices of minors and their families are heard and understood in the courtroom. Magistrate Griffith graduated cum laude from Georgia Southern University, where she developed a strong foundation in the principles of law and justice. She went on to earn her Juris Doctor degree summa cum laude from Atlant’as John Marshall Law School, where her academic excellence was recognized with honors and where she honed her passion for juvenile and family law. After passing the bar, Magistrate Griffith gained substantial experience in both private practice and public service, representing clients in a range of juvenile court matters. As a Juvenile Court Magistrate, she brings experience and legal insight to the bench, handling a diverse caseload with a commitment to fairness, compassion and the protection of children’s rights.
Jacquelyn Griffith
Court Director
Denise Cook-Lowe has dedicated their career to the welfare and rehabilitation of youth within the justice system. With over 20 years of experience in the juvenile court setting, Denise oversees programs to reduce recidivism, support family reunification, and provide educational and vocational opportunities for at-risk youth.