Scott Willhite Announces Candidacy For Craighead County District Judge

Scott Willhite of Jonesboro announced Sunday that he will be running for District Judge, Division 2 in Craighead County. Willhite is a partner at Orr Willhite, PLC., where he has been practicing since 1999.

“As a judge, I will abide by our Constitution and applicable laws to ensure a fair legal process to each party involved,” Willhite said.

He cited his faith as his primary guide to decision making and said “voters can count on me to always consider both justice and mercy in each case, regardless of the severity of the dispute.”

Willhite is seeking the seat currently held by Judge Curt Huckaby, who is retiring.

Willhite is a graduate of Jonesboro High School and ASU. He attended law school at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, and holds a law license in Arkansas and Tennessee.

In August, Willhite was appointed by Gov. Asa Hutchinson as a special Associate Justice to hear two cases pending before the state Supreme Court. He received the appointment after Justice Paul Danielson recused himself. Willhite said the cases are ongoing and should be completed sometime next year.

“I believe our community has a relatively low crime rate due to the strong leadership provided by our law enforcement and judicial leaders,” Willhite said. “I will continue this trend by firmly addressing illegal activities and providing the accused with an opportunity to choose a path of productivity.”

Willhite said he will have an efficient court process that resolves cases in a timely manner and keeps taxpayer costs at a minimum.

Willhite and his wife, Amy, reside in Jonesboro with their two daughters. He is an active member of Central Baptist Church/Journey Campus where he participates in the music ministry.