The Better Chancery Practice Blog

Justice James Graves of the Mississippi Supreme Court was confirmed yesterday as the first Mississippi African-American to serve on the US Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.  His nomination was approved by the US Senate late yesterday afternoon.

Graves’ nomination received bi-partisan support of the Mississippi US Senatorial and Congressional delegations. 

Justice Graves, of Clinton, will leave an opening on the Mississippi Supreme Court that will have to be filled by appointment of Governor Hailey Barbour, until an election can be held to replace his successor.  Philip Thomas, in his Mississippi Litigation Review and Commentary blog speculates about the appointment.