New Arkansas Supreme Court chief justice takes oath of office in Clinton

CLINTON, Ark. - Incoming Arkansas Supreme Court Chief Justice Karen Baker took her oath of office in Clinton on Wednesday.

Oaths for state office are typically made in Little Rock, but Baker wanted to take her oath back where it all began for her.

Clinton is Baker’s hometown and where she began her legal career in an office just a few steps away from the courtroom where she took the oath.

She was sworn in by Circuit Judge H.G. Foster who reminded those in attendance that this was “a big deal” due to Baker being the first female chief justice of the Arkansas courts.

Foster added that this was not the first time Baker set a precedent, as she was also the first female circuit judge when she was beginning her state judicial career. This was followed by service on the court of appeals and the supreme court.

The swearing-in was attended by Baker’s friends and family, of course, but also by the city and county officials and officers who, like the chief justice, take their oath of office each Jan. 1.

Baker, who had served under three chief justices during her tenure, said she was “just so grateful” to be able to serve in her new role.

The chief justice, in an interview after the swearing in, said she intended to make the supreme court more open, including open to the press, under her watch. She also said there was consolidation of the professional service offices in her plans.

from KARK https://ift.tt/3yuwpB1