Gov. Bill Haslam swears in Sharon Lee as Tennessee chief justice

photo Chief Justice Sharon Lee announces the appointment of Herbert Slatery as attorney general in the Tennessee Supreme Court chamber in Nashville on Monday, Sept. 15, 2014.

NASHVILLE - Republican Gov. Bill Haslam has sworn in newly elected Tennessee Supreme Court Chief Justice Sharon G. Lee.

After the formal investiture ceremony in Knoxville on Wednesday, Lee said her goals for the judiciary include a "top to bottom review" to find ways for the courts to deliver services more efficiently and effectively. In addition, she noted the need for better technology, including implementing electronic filing systems.

In her speech, Lee also acknowledged the failed campaign led by Republican Senate Speaker Ron Ramsey to oust her and two other Democratic justices, who make up a majority on the five-member court. She said it highlighted the need for a fair and impartial court system.

Lee will be the third woman to head the five-member high court, taking over from Justice Gary Wade.

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