WLBT 3 - Jackson, MS: Harrison speaks out on judicial appointment

Harrison speaks out on judicial appointment

By Roslyn Anderson - bio | email

JACKSON, MS (WLBT) - Attorney Malcolm Harrison has reached a career goal he had dreamed would come true years in the future.

Days before taking the judicial oath Harrison sat down to talk about his appointment, which he said was humbling and a complete shock.

The Hinds county attorney unlocked the doors of the Raymond courthouse, currently under renovation, where he hopes to soon preside.

The 40 year old was chosen by Governor Haley Barbour to serve as Hinds county circuit court judge.

 The announcement came the same day former Circuit Court Judge Bobby DeLaughter learned his sentencing date for his role in a judicial bribery scheme.

"I interviewed with Governor Barbour and he called me Monday, and I was completely floored. It was unexpected. It was very humbling that by the grace of God that it came about," said Harrison.

"He brings extensive criminal and civil experience to the circuit court bench from his distinguished service as a prosecutor and as a lawyer in private practice," Barbour said. "I appreciate his continued dedication to public service as he takes on his new role."

The Jackson State University alumnus has served as county attorney, Bolton city prosecutor and is a partner in a Jackson law firm.

The Sanford University Law School graduate is past president of the predominately black Magnolia Bar Association, which previously criticized the governor for failing to appoint any African Americans to judicial posts.

"Race was not an issue. the Magnolia Bar has a position. Me personally with my interview with Governor Barbour race never came up, not once. I thought the process was fair and balanced," said Harrison.

As a prosecutor he handled nearly 600 cases a year which could have an effect on the back logged system should he have to recuse himself often.

Earning an annual salary of just over $104,000.00 he is also taking a pay cut, but he says it's in service to county.

 "The citizens of Hind county can expect a return to judicial fairness equality, judicial integrity," added Harrison.

 The husband and father of two takes the judicial oath Friday.

Harrison will begins work Monday and plans to run for re-election when the term expires in January of 2011.

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