Arkansas Supreme Court
The Arkansas Supreme Court is the highest in the state of Arkansas. It has ultimate and large discretionary appellate jurisdiction over all the lower courts in the state of the cases that involve points of law. The Supreme Court of Arkansas holds the power of judicial review.
If an individual is not satisfied with the decision given by lower courts he can file an appeal Supreme Court if he thinks that there is some law violation. The Supreme Court can dismiss the decisions of lower courts if there are some law violations.
The Supreme Court of Arkansas was established in 1819. It consisted of three judges and after four in 1828. It was the highest court in the state and was considered Supreme Court. Justices of the Supreme Court are elected in non-partisan elections for an 8-year term.
History of the Arkansas Supreme Court
In the vast American legal history, Arkansas have a significant place as the 25th state which was admitted to the union in 1836. With its inception, came the establishment of the Arkansas Supreme Court, an important institution in the state’s judicial framework.
Important Information
The Supreme Court of Arkansas is the highest court in the state judiciary of Arkansas
Establishment of the Supreme Court (1836)
In 1836, Arkansas took its initial steps as a state, its first constitution laid the groundwork for the Supreme Court. It consisted of three judges, one of whom held the title of Chief Justice, this court was tasked with interpreting and applying the law. Notable figures like Daniel Ringo, Townsend Dickinson, and Thomas J. Lacy were among the first appointed to this esteemed bench.
Expansion and Adaptation (1874-1927)
As the state evolved with time, so it did its judicial system. The constitution ratified in 1874 allowed for the possibility of increasing the number of Supreme Court judges to five, later expanded to seven by 1927. This expansion mirrored the growth and complexity of legal matters within the state.
Amendment 80 (2001)
In a significant overhaul in 2001, Amendment 80 redefined the judicial landscape of Arkansas.
Rule Establishment (1938)
In 1938, an important amendment was added to the Arkansas Supreme Court with the authority to establish rules governing legal practice and attorney conduct. This move aimed to maintain standards of professionalism and uphold the integrity of the legal profession within the state.
Opinions and Publications
The opinions handed down by the Arkansas Supreme Court hold significant weight in legal proceedings. Before 2009, these opinions were found in bound volumes of Arkansas Reports, but the advent of electronic publication marked a significant shift. Post-2009 opinions are designated for publication and can be cited in legal briefs, whereas earlier opinions are of lesser precedential value.
Access and Inquiries
Inquiries regarding the Supreme Court’s docket, schedule, or appellate court records are directed to the Clerk of the Courts. Additionally, the official electronic versions of Supreme Court opinions are readily accessible online, ensuring transparency and accessibility in the legal process.
In essence, the Arkansas Supreme Court stands as a beacon of justice in the state, evolving over time to meet the changing needs of its citizens while upholding the principles of fairness and equality before the law.
Justices Of Arkansas Supreme Court
The current acting justices of the Arkansas Supreme Court details are given below;
Dan Kemp
Dan Kamp is the current chief justice of the Arkansas Supreme Court. He became chief justice on January 1, 2017, and his term will end on December 31, 2024. The Camp was elected in March 2016 for this post which began in 2017.
Cody Hiland
Cody Hiland is the second-position judge in the Arkansas Supreme Court. He held his office on July 7, 2023. His term will end on December 31, 2024.
Courtney Hudson Goodson
Courtney Hudson Goodson is the judge for position 3. She held her office on January 1, 2011 her term ends on December 31, 2026.
Barbara Webb
Barbara Webb is the judge for position 4. She held her office on January 1, 2021, and her term ends on December 31, 2028.
Shawn Womack
Shawn Womack is the judge for the position 5. He assumed office on January 1, 2017, and his term ends on December 31, 2024.
Karen R. Baker
Karen R. Baker is the 6th position judge in the Arkansas Supreme Court. She assumed her office on January 10, 2011, and her term ends on December 31, 2030.
Rhonda Wood
Rhonda Wood is the 7th position judge. She held her office on January 1, 2015, and her term ends on December 31, 2030.
Process For Selection Of Judges
All seven judges of the Arkansas Supreme Court are selected through nonpartisan elections. They participate in non-partisan elections and the candidate getting more than 50% votes wins the seat and is elected.
The winners are elected for an 8-year term. The sitting judges must compete in the elections at the expiration of their term.
Selection Of Cheif Justice
The chief justice is selected to get large numbers of votes and he serves with the capacity for a full 8-year term. He has all the power and capacity to run the court according to the Constitution.
Qualifications For Judges
Functions and Responsibilities
Let’s talk about the functions and responsibilities of the Arkansas Supreme Court
Appellate Reviews
The primary function of the Arkansas Supreme Court is to review the decisions given by lower courts in the state. If an individual appeals to the decision of the lower court’s decision then the Arkansas Supreme Court reviews the the decision in arguments and can reverse the decision if there are some law technicalities.
Constitutional Interpretation
The main responsibility of the Arkansas Supreme Court is the interpretation and implementation of law. They ensure the implementation of their decisions by the government authorities.
Rule Making Authority
The Arkansas Supreme Court has the authority to make rules and procedures for lower courts. All the lower courts work on these rules. These include rules governing matters like civil and criminal procedure.
Disciplinary Actions
The Arkansas Supreme Court has power to suspend or notify the attorney for the law or ethical violations. This action is taken against all attorneys who violate rules and conduct.
So it concluded that the Arkansas Supreme Court is the higher court in the state of Arkansas. Seven judges are currently working in this court including Chief Justice. we have discussed their position and their term and also the work and responsibilities of this court and how it works.
