Forsyth County's next Clerk of Superior Court will be Greg Allen.

With 64 percent, or 3,670, of the votes, Allen defeated Charles Adams, who received about 36 percent, or 2,043, of the votes in Tuesday's runoff election.

Allen, who will take office in January, shook hands with friends and family at the Foster House in Cumming as the results rolled in.

"I am extremely pleased," Allen said. "We did better than we predicted."

Allen, a 42-year-old sales executive, said he will meet with Doug Sorrells, who is stepping down after 12 years in the post, to get his opinions and advice on the job.

"Then we'll formulate a plan," Allen said.

For his part, Sorrells said either candidate "could have adjusted well to this office."
"I hope Mr. Allen will come in a month or two ahead of time so he can get familiar with our procedures," Sorrells said.

"After I leave, if Mr. Allen needs any assistance, I'll be glad to help him then as well. I know he's never worked in the clerk's office before, but we have some good employees here to help him learn."

Adams, an investigator with the Forsyth County Sheriff's Office's white collar crimes division, remained in good spirits despite the outcome.

"I'm a little disappointed," he said. "I ran a straight and honest campaign. It's been a long haul and I'm glad it's over with.

"I wish the guy luck. He's going to need it."

Allen led Adams in the July 15 primary, which included a third candidate, with 45 percent of the vote.

As described on the county's Web site, the clerk's office manages court proceedings for Superior and State courts including civil, criminal, misdemeanor and traffic cases.

The clerk also is in charge of jury management. Real estate records, finance statements, notary public commissions, trade names, military discharge records and practicing attorney certificates are also filed with the office.

Pat Carson, Forsyth County personnel services director, said the 2009 salary for the clerk of court position is set by the state at $92,450. She said there also is a 5 percent pay increase upon completion of a four-year term.

Staff Writer Frank Reddy contributed to this report.