AR HB1971

Increases the number of state district judges in the Thirty-First Judicial District from 8 to 9 judges, effective January 1, 2021.

Establishes 12 district court departments across Pulaski and Perry counties, located in Jacksonville, Little Rock (4 departments), Maumelle, North Little Rock (2 departments), Sherwood, Wrightsville, Cammack Village, and Perryville.

Assigns judges to serve specific court locations with districtwide jurisdiction, with most locations served by one dedicated judge.

Creates a new dedicated judge position for Perryville District Court, with authority to preside over other district matters as time and caseload permit under the district's administrative plan.

All judges are elected districtwide and maintain districtwide jurisdiction across the Thirty-First Judicial District.