WPSD Local 6, Beshear appoints James Mills as interim District Court Judge to replace Judge Hollowell, who died in October 2023

James is married to his wife, Tiffany, and together they raise 3 children. He is an associate professor of criminal justice at WKCTC and an active Rotarian. M

James has nearly 20 years of experience in the McCracken County court system, having worked as a civil attorney, prosecutor, and defense attorney. He also served as an assistant county attorney and a public defender.

James Mills is the seated district court judge in McCracken County. He was appointed in 2024.

As of August 20, 2024, James Mills’s website did not contain information on this issue.

Judicial Administration

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Believes the law mandates fair and dignified treatment for all individuals in court.

Believes a judge should be "a judge for everyone regardless of wealth, race, or background."

Believes as a District Judge, his job is to uphold the law, saying "I trust that the law keeps our community safe by holding offenders accountable and upholding the rights of victims."

Said "I trust that the law keeps our community safe by holding offenders accountable and upholding the rights of victims."

Believes in defending constitutional rights and community safety.

Believes in defending constitutional rights.

- Believes the law mandates fair and dignified treatment for all individuals in court.
- Believes a judge should be "a judge for everyone regardless of wealth, race, or background."
- Said "I trust that the law keeps our community safe by holding offenders accountable and upholding the rights of victims."
- Believes in defending constitutional rights.

Judicial Philosophy

Served on the drug court to help addicts maintain their sobriety.

Promises to ensure the community is safe and "your rights protected."

- Served on the drug court to help addicts maintain their sobriety.
- Promises to ensure the community is safe and "your rights protected."

Community Involvement

Ethics & Conduct

As a prosecutor, secured over 250 years of prison time for sex offenders and administered deferred prosecution to help people get clean and clear up their criminal records.

As an assistant county attorney, prosecuted DUI and domestic violence cases.

Assisted families in mental health crises and obtained guardianship for vulnerable individuals.

- As a prosecutor, secured over 250 years of prison time for sex offenders and administered deferred prosecution to help people get clean and clear up their criminal records.
- As an assistant county attorney, prosecuted DUI and domestic violence cases.
- Assisted families in mental health crises and obtained guardianship for vulnerable individuals.

Legal Experience

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James Mills

James Mills is a proud husband to his wife, Tiffany, and together they raise three children who attend McCracken County public schools. He is an associate professor of criminal justice at WKCTC and an active Rotarian. Mills is an avid boxing fan.

James Mills is currently a District Judge in McCracken County. He has nearly 20 years of experience in the McCracken County court system, having worked as a civil attorney, prosecutor, and defense attorney. He also served as an assistant county attorney and a public defender.

James Mills is the seated District Judge in McCracken County.

Believes in defending the accused's constitutional rights.

Believes district court is where "everyday people go to court."

Believes community support and contributions are essential for his campaign to bring experience, fairness, and work ethic to the District Court.

Believes that citizens with traffic tickets, small claims cases, and probate issues deserve a patient and understanding judge who will help resolve issues fairly and efficiently.

Believes selecting a district judge is crucial and wants someone who "understands the community, cares about every resident and has the experience and the integrity to make not only good decisions, but the right decisions."

Enjoys spending weekends at local ball fields and tennis courts watching his children play.

Supports community involvement through a proven record of public safety and constitutional defense.

Believes a judge should know the court system and prioritize public safety.

Believes in being "proven in the courtroom and trusted on the bench."

Has nearly 20 years of experience in the McCracken County court system as a civil attorney and both a prosecutor and a defense attorney.

Believes McCracken County deserves a judge with a proven record and real courtroom experience.

Has nearly 20 years of experience practicing in the McCracken County court system.

Believes in having the experience and work ethic to ensure the justice system is fair for all individuals in McCracken County.

- District court judges hear civil, criminal, and juvenile cases, as well as, small claims (involving $2,500 or less), landlord eviction cases, and cases related to domestic violence and abuse. 
- In Kentucky, there are 116 district court judges serving in 60 judicial districts.
- District court judges are elected for four-year terms in nonpartisan elections. Vacancies can be filled by the governor's appointment, with staggered elections ensuring that only some judges are elected each year.
- District court judges earn ​$141,761 annually. 