Probate judge announces appointment for new probate position

Shelby County Probate Judge Jim Fuhrmeister recently appointed Allison Boyd as programs coordinator for mental health services and legal counsel to the probate judge.

This position was approved by the Shelby County Commission at its Nov. 23 meeting, and Boyd’s appointment was effective starting Monday, Jan. 4.

Fuhrmeister said Boyd’s work would help the county devote attention and resources to treating those in need in a time of prison reform, state mental hospital closures and critical levels of substance abuse.

Boyd has worked in the mental health, drug and veteran treatment courts during her time as Shelby County Assistant District Attorney and is a member of the Chilton-Shelby Mental Health Center Board of Directors.

“She has the knowledge and skill to work with community stakeholders, law enforcement and other government agencies to offer the support of the Probate Judge’s office in addressing these urgent issues,” Fuhrmeister said.

Boyd will also serve as legal counsel to the probate judge, advising him on changing areas of the law, including same-sex marriage, voting rights and elections.

“The legal landscape affecting the probate office is rapidly changing,” Fuhrmeister said. “Allison will bring her knowledge as an attorney and help me anticipate and prepare for new developments affecting my office.”