JUSTICE JAMES E. GRAVES, JR.
Mississippi Supreme Court

Known for his commitment to the principle of “equal justice for all,” James E. Graves, Jr. serves on the Mississippi Supreme Court. He was appointed to the Court in 2001 and won election to the Court in 2004. Before serving on the Supreme Court, Justice Graves served as a Circuit Court Judge for 10 years. As a Circuit Judge, Graves established the first website for a Mississippi trial court, and implemented electronic filing of court documents. He implemented the first state-of-the-art high-tech courtroom in Mississippi. For his pioneering efforts in technology, he received the Bar Association’s innovation award.

Justice Graves was born in Clinton, Mississippi, where he graduated valedictorian of his class. He received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology from Millsaps College; law degree from Syracuse University; and Master of Public Administration degree from the Maxwell School at Syracuse University.

Justice Graves’ legal career began as a staff attorney at Central Mississippi Legal Services. He also served as a Special Assistant Attorney General; director of the Division of Child Support Enforcement; and was in the private practice of law for more than three years. His teaching experience includes serving as a teaching team member of the Trial Advocacy Workshop at Harvard Law School.

Justice Graves has devoted countless hours to working with our youth. He has been recognized by numerous organizations for his commitment to teaching, motivating and inspiring others. He received Parent of the Year for Jackson Public Schools 2001; Commissioner’s Award 2001 (US Department of Health and Human Services); Humanized Education Award 2002 (Mississippi Association of Educators). A renowned orator, he frequently speaks at schools, churches and universities throughout the country. He spoke at the International Reading Association’s 50th Annual Convention, serving as a keynote speaker along with actress Julie Andrews, educator Erin Gruwell and columnist Dave Barry.

Justice Graves is married with three sons. 

Updated February 27, 2008