Opinion
Opinion Delivered February 28, 2003
Judge John Walton Cole served with distinction as judge for the Seventh Judicial District from January 1, 1979, to December 31, 2002. During that period, he witnessed and participated in the transformation of the Arkansas judicial system, serving for many years as circuit judge and latterly as circuit-chancery judge.
Prior to assuming his circuit court duties, Judge Cole distinguished himself as Sheridan municipal judge and prosecuting attorney for the Seventh Judicial District. On the circuit court bench, Judge Cole's principal interest remained the criminal law, and he worked constantly to see justice done in that realm.
Recognizing his accomplishments and applauding his efforts, the Supreme Court extends its most sincere best wishes to Judge John W. Cole on the occasion of his retirement.