Memphis's Ben F. Jones chapter of the National Bar Association released its recommendations for judicial offices on the ballot for the Aug. 5 elections, along with endorsements for clerk positions that deal with the courts. The chapter was founded in 1966 to "address the unique needs of African-American attorneys," according to a press release, and it conducted 30-minute interviews last weekend with those candidates who submitted applications.
For Circuit Court Clerk, its committee selected Gina Higgins (Division 4) and Venita Martin (Division 7); in General Sessions Criminal Court it chose Carolyn Watkins (Division 7) and Lee Wilson (Division 10); and, in Criminal Court, Glenn Wright got the nod in Division 3. In court clerk races, the chapter chose Democrats Minerva Johnican (Criminal), Sondra Becton (Probate) and Shep Wilbun (Juvenile).
The Memphis Bar Association is not making endorsements but did ask its members to participate in what it calls a "Judicial Qualification Poll," and will release those results before early voting begins on July 16.
For Circuit Court Clerk, its committee selected Gina Higgins (Division 4) and Venita Martin (Division 7); in General Sessions Criminal Court it chose Carolyn Watkins (Division 7) and Lee Wilson (Division 10); and, in Criminal Court, Glenn Wright got the nod in Division 3. In court clerk races, the chapter chose Democrats Minerva Johnican (Criminal), Sondra Becton (Probate) and Shep Wilbun (Juvenile).
The Memphis Bar Association is not making endorsements but did ask its members to participate in what it calls a "Judicial Qualification Poll," and will release those results before early voting begins on July 16.
And what are the "unique needs of African-American attorneys" that still exist, if they ever DID exist, that justify the perpetuation of this organization?