The situation surrounding Arkansas Supreme Court Chief Justice Karen Baker highlights ongoing tensions within the state’s judicial system. Baker, who became the first woman to be elected to the position in November 2024, is currently under investigation by the Judicial Discipline and Disability Commission following an incident in December.
The investigation, conducted by the court’s personnel department, focused on Baker’s conduct towards Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) employees during a visit to the newly expanded Justice Building.
According to reports, Baker visited AOC offices on December 4-5, 2024, leading to a complaint from court employees about her actions, including entering AOC Director Marty Sullivan’s office and allegedly leaving it in disarray.
Baker denied the accusation, stating she only stood in the doorway and did not cause any disorganization. Surveillance footage of the visit was cited as part of the investigation, though Baker also filed a Freedom of Information Act request for the video.
The investigation into Baker’s behavior prompted a directive from Sullivan for her to refrain from contacting AOC staff or entering AOC offices until the judicial commission provides further instructions.
The commission, which investigates complaints about judges’ conduct, can recommend disciplinary actions ranging from counseling to suspension or removal.
This investigation is part of a broader controversy surrounding Baker’s early days as chief justice. On her second day in office, she attempted to dismiss Sullivan, Police Chief Pete Hollingsworth, and eight other AOC employees, but this move was blocked by a majority of the justices.
The justices ruled that Baker did not have the authority to make such dismissals and reinstated the employees, calling the firings retaliatory.
Additionally, the court has rejected her unilateral appointments to the Judicial Discipline and Disability Commission, further escalating the tension between Baker and other justices.
Baker’s tenure has been marked by legal disputes with her fellow justices, which may indicate a challenging start to her leadership.
The outcome of the ongoing disciplinary review could have significant implications for her authority and the court’s functioning in the coming months.