Russell County Court -Judicial Circuit Court - Phenix City, Alabama

Melinda N.

UNFAIR... UNETHICAL... PARTIAL JUDGE!!!

I want it to be publicly known that Judge Z. Collins has demonstrated what I believe to be extreme bias, unfairness, and unreasonable judgment. He has failed to consider all the evidence presented and has seemingly ignored crucial facts, which has resulted in a devastating outcome for my husband. My husband, a diabetic who has dedicated his life to serving his community, is now facing what feels like a death sentence due to this judge’s decisions.

Despite clear evidence that my husband’s ex-wife acted deceitfully by failing to submit signed divorce papers from 2013 and ignored his attempts to resolve matters through communication, Judge Collins has unjustly penalized him. Rather than holding both parties accountable, as is common practice, Judge Collins ordered my husband to pay two years of back support and his ex-wife's attorney fees—despite her role in creating the situation.

This decision was made even though my husband provided evidence supporting his claims. Furthermore, the court’s repeated delays over the course of an entire year exacerbated the situation, yet no accountability was taken for these postponements.

How is this fair? How is this justice? These actions raise serious concerns about the ethical and legal standards being upheld by this court. Judge Collins' behavior suggests a lack of impartiality, leaving us to question the favoritism shown towards the single blonde plaintiff in this case.

A fair judge administers justice without bias, yet Judge Collins has shown none of that here. This situation demands accountability and raises the critical question of how we can trust the integrity of our judicial system when such unfair practices are allowed to stand. Judge Collins has ordered payments to be made that are unrealistic and impossible to make. What can someone do in this type of situation?

Definition of an unfair biased judge…
An unfair biased judge refers to a judge who demonstrates prejudice, favoritism, or partiality in their decision-making, instead of adhering to principles of fairness, impartiality, and objectivity. This bias may manifest in various ways, such as:
1. Personal Prejudice: Allowing personal beliefs, emotions, or stereotypes to influence decisions.
2. Favoritism: Showing undue preference for one party over another, regardless of the evidence or arguments presented.
3. Conflict of Interest: Having personal, financial, or relational ties to one of the parties involved in the case.
4. Preconceived Opinions: Forming conclusions about a case or party before hearing all the evidence or arguments.
5. Discriminatory Behavior: Making judgments influenced by factors such as race, gender, religion, socioeconomic status, or other protected characteristics.

Such conduct violates ethical and legal standards that require judges to be neutral arbiters, ensuring that all parties receive a fair hearing and justice is administered without bias.

Mo

Idk who the skinny brown haired lady is behind the circuit clerk window is - but let me tell you this woman gives me the impression that she's miserable in her position and in life.

The rudest most micromanaging person I've had the pleasure of interacting with. LITERALLY complained to the juvenile court judge that I was tapping my nails on the ledge where her CLOSED window was and causing disturbance. had me pulled INTO the court and threatened with disorderly conduct. Really For tapping my nails on a ledge in front of a CLOSED window while waiting

The most chaotic, poorly planned process I've ever seen in my life. And I wasn't even there for myself!!!!

I feel bad for anyone who has to be involved in this judicial system of Phenix City.

Melissa P.

One-star is too kind for this place.

Rudest, pettiest group of government staff I've ever seen. From entrance monitors who can't be bothered to speak, smile, or even say hello as you enter - to the circuit clerk's office who surely has to have multiple Karen's on payroll and think they can order you around like you're already an inmate.

They will attempt to intimidate youbased on their title alone. I was literally threatened by the court with disorderly conduct for drumming my fingers from a nervous tic/anxiety OUTSIDE OF THE COURTROOM but they can turn right around and bang on a hole punch with a sledge hammer for 30 mins trying to hole punch a pack of papers the size of a novel at one time.

I mean.. if you needed money for lunch, just say that.. ILL BUY YOUR LUNCH FFS.

Don't threaten legal action / fines for DRUMMING YOUR FINGERS IN THE HALLWAY OF A PUBLIC BUILDING.

Caution when dealing with these people. The system is not designed for the common public. It is designed to fund the lifestyles of those creating and running the system. It would behoove them to remember that it's the public that funds this place.

They should remember that. But in my own personal opinion, this long-standing and consistent behavior simply implies that they don't care one bit about anything but micromanaging and lining those pockets.

Jessica G.

Worst customer service I've ever experienced. I went to circuit clerk office looking for guidance about divorce filing and the younger lady with long blonde hair flat out said she can't help me. She didn't even bother to look at my case or give me any guidance. She got so aggravated with me, she threw her hands up, rolled her eyes and walked away shaking her head. I'm glad another lady stepped in and pointed me into somewhat of a direction. Don't hire staff that can't handle customer service, it's literally their job. That lady was so cold hearted and I was so taken back by her rudeness. Seriously get better customer service and train your employees better because you never know what that customer through personally. Apparently I am not the first person that has had this problem with this office as you can read in the reviews.

Sylvia B.

Excellent customer service and professional staff members at the Russell County Circuit Court office. I had a very friendly and courteous CSM answer my phone call. Living in another state, she helped clarify many questions I had regarding case documents and certification fees. I made the trip to AL and the same CSM I spoke with on the phone actually helped me certify electronic court records, quick and easy process. Thank you!

Brandi/shiann S.

I've had a great experience from the time that I got pulled over. The sheriff was so nice I was doing 65 in a 45 I explained to him that I was late for work he was going to let me go until he and I discovered at the same time that my license was suspended but that was Lee county's fault. I've missed court dates and constantly have to call to make sure my dates are correct and each time they are pleasant. The only thing I don't like is the dress code 😆

Tia H.

This place needs to be shut down! The judges are corrupt with the exception of judge Collins. The DA is a joke. Doesn’t even know the case until 5 minutes of you arriving. The secretaries are not knowledgeable of proper procedures. They don’t care about the people. They don’t care about the victim. They don’t care about perjury. The judges are prejudice and insensitive. They are just as much as criminals as the people they try in court! Avoid at all costs

Lisa H.

Why is it when you walk in the door at the circuit clerks office you feel as if you yourself are a criminal? I've never been arrested, I work, I pay taxes, I go to church and I live a Christian life. I don't have a criminal background, nor do I have a guilty conscious. As you enter the clerks office your treated as if you are guilty just by entering the building. They want respect but lack respect themselves. Prayers to all of our law enforcement and those who have to deal with real crime or real criminals but I am neither.