In re First Judicial Cir.

2014 Ark. 136

Opinion

Cite as 2014 Ark. 136

SUPREME COURT OF ARKANSAS

Opinion Delivered March 20, 2014 IN RE FIRST JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

PER CURIAM

We assigned Honorable Kim Smith, Circuit Judge-Retired, to review circuit court

operations in the First Judicial Circuit and to report his observations and recommendations

to the supreme court. In Re Phillips County, 2013 Ark. 55 (per curiam). Judge Smith has

issued a report. In reviewing it, we have determined that a number of critical issues noted

by Judge Smith can be addressed by revising the circuit’s administrative plan.

Judge Smith has agreed to return to the First Circuit to work with the circuit judges to

develop an effective administrative plan that not only complies with the requirements of

Administrative Order Number 14 but also addresses problems highlighted in his report.

This amended plan shall be submitted to us for approval. In addition, Judge Smith will

continue to assist court personnel with improving case management.

We thank Judge Smith for his willingness to continue to assist the supreme court and the

First Circuit. We appreciate the cooperation that Judge Smith has received from the judges

and court personnel and are confident that it will continue in this next phase. We look

forward to receipt of an amended administrative plan.

Judge Smith’s assignment to the First Circuit continues, and the directives in our earlier

order remain in effect.