Georgia Court of Appeals reverses dismissal in Crocker case against Effingham County school leaders

by WTOC Staff

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - The Georgia Court of Appeals has reversed Superior Court Judge Matthew Hube’s dismissal of the case brought on behalf of Mary Frances Crocker against the school district. Attorneys on the case tell us it has been remanded to Effingham Superior Court.

Attorneys for the Estate of Mary Frances Crocker said the ruling is great news for the estate. They said they will receive discovery this time.

What discovery allows

Attorneys told us Hube prevented the attorneys from having discovery last time. Discovery allows attorneys to take depositions and obtain documents from the defendants.

About the case

The case involves Effingham County schools and the handling of an abuse report. Amanda Oliveira, administrator of the estate of Mary Frances Crocker, appealed Hube’s dismissal of claims against Effingham County Board of Education leaders.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Georgia Court of Appeals hears case over school’s handling of Crocker children’s abuse report

The case centers on whether school officials properly followed reporting procedures after a student disclosed abuse in 2017. Mary Crocker and her brother, Elwyn Crocker Jr., were found dead the next year.

What happens next

The defendants can ask the Court of Appeals to reconsider and then appeal to the Georgia Supreme Court. They have a right to appeal the appellate court’s ruling, though it is unclear if they will.

>>>> FULL COVERAGE: CROCKER CASE <<<<

Attorneys for Mary’s estate can request that the case be reassigned to a Superior Court judge other than Hube. It is unclear at this point if they will.

This case is separate from the Estate of Elwyn Crocker Jr., Mary’s deceased brother, which was filed in October 2026.