Former KY GOP Lawmaker Seeks to Impeach Fayette Circuit Judge

Petition alleges Judge Goodman has 'undermined public confidence in the judicial process'

Jan. 28, 2026 at 3:07pm

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A former Kentucky state representative has filed a petition to impeach Fayette Circuit Judge Julie Goodman, alleging she has abused her judicial authority and undermined public confidence in the courts through her handling of several cases. The petition cites six cases where Goodman's rulings were later overturned, arguing her actions constitute 'misdemeanors in office' under the state constitution.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing tensions between the judicial and legislative branches in Kentucky, as well as concerns about public trust in the state's court system. Impeachment proceedings against judges are rare, underscoring the gravity of the allegations against Goodman.

The details

The petition was filed by former state Rep. Killian Timoney, who represented House District 45 before being defeated in a GOP primary in 2024 and is seeking the seat again this year. Timoney argues Goodman's rulings in six cases, including the dismissal of a wanton murder charge and the overturning of a jury conviction, demonstrate a pattern of 'judicial activism' and 'disregard of the separation of powers.' The Kentucky Court of Appeals has previously overturned several of Goodman's rulings, with one opinion suggesting she recuse herself from further proceedings.

  • The petition was filed on Wednesday, January 28, 2026.
  • In December 2023, the Kentucky Court of Appeals issued a scathing opinion overturning one of Goodman's rulings.

The players

Judge Julie Goodman

Fayette Circuit Judge who has been accused of abusing her judicial authority and undermining public confidence in the courts.

Killian Timoney

Former Kentucky state representative who filed the petition to impeach Judge Goodman and is seeking to regain his old House District 45 seat.

Russell Coleman

Kentucky Attorney General who intervened in three cases against Judge Goodman in the span of months.

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What they’re saying

“Judge Goodman has abused her office to such an extent, and in so many cases, that she has undermined public confidence in the judicial process.”

— Killian Timoney, Former Kentucky state representative

“I think it was only a matter of time, I guess.”

— Judge Julie Goodman

What’s next

The Kentucky House of Representatives will now consider the impeachment petition against Judge Goodman. If the House votes to impeach, the case would then go to the state Senate for a trial and potential removal from office.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between the judicial and legislative branches in Kentucky, as well as concerns about public trust in the state's court system. The rare impeachment proceedings against a judge underscore the gravity of the allegations against Goodman and the potential implications for the state's judicial independence.