Meet Sherry Burnett

“For over two decades, I have been honored to serve the people of this district—first as a practicing attorney, then as a former District Judge. My career has been built in courtrooms across this region, standing beside everyday people during some of the most difficult and meaningful moments of their lives. Justice isn’t just a word to me—it’s a principle that has shaped my life, my work, and my values.”

Burnett’s foundation in fairness and service is deeply rooted in her upbringing. Raised in a Christian home where faith was not just practiced but lived, she was instilled with the values of hard work, integrity, and compassion. That unwavering commitment carried into her legal career, where she has worked tirelessly to ensure equal justice under the law.

Burnett served as former District Judge from 2005 until her retirement in 2018. During that time, she gained invaluable experience handling criminal matters, civil cases, and issuing and enforcing domestic orders of protection. Since retiring, she has continued to serve the judiciary by appointment as a Special Judge by the Chief Justice of the Arkansas Supreme Court.

“My decision to step away from the bench in 2018 to care for my husband during his final illness was one of the most important of my life, and one I have never regretted—because justice begins at home, in how we love and support the people closest to us. After his passing in 2019, I returned to private practice with a deeper sense of empathy and an even greater commitment to public service. Now, I’m ready to return to the bench with renewed purpose.”

With more than 28 years of legal experience, Burnett has built a distinguished practice spanning complex divorce litigation, civil disputes, criminal defense, probate law, estate planning, and general legal practice. She has fiercely advocated for survivors of abuse, tackled high-stakes civil cases, and navigated intricate family law disputes with precision and care. As a certified mediator, she has successfully facilitated resolutions in even the most contentious cases. Additionally, she serves as an attorney ad litem, standing up for the best interests of minor children. These roles have given her a profound understanding of the legal system’s influence on families and individuals, reinforcing her commitment to fairness, justice, and unwavering integrity.

“As a judge, I listened with fairness. As an attorney, I advocated with integrity. I believe my path—both personal and professional—has prepared me uniquely to serve as Circuit Judge.”

Burnett’s unwavering work ethic has been the cornerstone of her career. She believes in diligent preparation, thoughtful decision-making, and a relentless commitment to fairness. Throughout her years in private practice, she often reflected on her time as a judge, deeply missing the ability to make rulings that not only upheld the law but provided clarity, resolution, and a path forward for those in conflict. The ability to interpret the law and make sound, balanced decisions for the people of her community was a responsibility she never took lightly—one she is eager to embrace once again.

Burnett graduated magna cum laude from Henderson State University before earning her law degree from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, William H. Bowen School of Law. As a non-traditional student, she understands the dedication required to balance family and career. She is the proud mother of two sons, Daniel and TJ, and a devoted member of the community.

“I firmly believe in equal treatment under the law and that our community deserves a judiciary that upholds the highest standards of professionalism and integrity. If elected, I will serve with fairness, accountability, and compassion, ensuring our courts reflect the values that make this district strong.”

Burnett is asking for the support of voters in Hot Spring and Grant Counties as she seeks to bring principled leadership to the Circuit Court. “It would be my honor to serve the people of the 7th Judicial District as Circuit Judge, Division 1, and I look forward to earning your trust.”

Candidate for Circuit Judge, Division 1

 

On March 3, 2026, vote for Sherry Burnett for Circuit Judge,

Division 1.