The murmurings among Shreveport City Court personal, lawyers practicing in that court, and local politics centers on two the four judges at Shreveport City Court.
The first is Chief Judge Sheva Sims.
The Louisiana Supreme Court has ordered a nine-month suspension without pay for Sims. She can request a reconsideration of that edict; the deadline is today (Friday).
There is NO doubt that Sims will be sent home without pay; it’s just a matter of how long. Even her attorney agreed with these consequences, suggesting to the Supreme Court a 60-day suspension without pay.
The next question regarding Sheva is whether she can qualify to seek reelection if she is suspended during the qualifying dates for this fall’s election. That question has not been affirmatively answered.
Karmen Davis has announced she will seek this judicial seat regardless of Sims’ ability to run.
The second dangling shoe concerns Judge Brian Barber and reportedly his pending appointment as the U.S. Marshal for the Western District of Louisiana. No definite information confirms whether his name is first in line for the appointment or when the appointment will be made.
Royal Alexander and Amy Brainard have both stated they will seek Barber’s seat if he is appointed.
The Louisiana Supreme Court will appoint a judge ad hoc for Sims once her suspension begins and the same for Barber if he is appointed U.S. Marshal.
John came to Shreveport in January of 1977 when he was transferred to Barksdale AFB.
He’s been active in Shreveport politics since deciding to make Shreveport his home.
John practiced law for 40 years and he now monitors local politics. He regularly attends Shreveport City Council and Caddo Parish Commission meetings.
John is published weekly in The Inquisitor, bi-monthly in The Forum News, and frequently in the Shreveport Times.
He enjoys addressing civic groups on local government issues and elections.