BRADLEY D. JESSON

OF COUNSEL

P.O. Box 10127
Fort Smith, AR 72917-0127
P: 479-452-2200
F: 479-452-9097
jesson@hardinlaw.com
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Mr. Jesson’s practice centers on civil litigation with an emphasis in complex business and commercial litigation, including oil and gas matters. He, also, maintains an active appellate and probate practice. As a former Chief Justice of the Arkansas Supreme Court, Mr. Jesson’s legal acumen is well respected throughout the State. Known for his depth of experience and steadfast integrity, Mr. Jesson’s counsel and advice is sought by clients, fellow attorneys and members of the community. For more than 50 years, he has dedicated his practice to serving the public.

Representative Experience

  • Maintaining an active trial and appellate practice, focused on oil and gas matters, railroad defense and complex commercial litigation;
  • Serving as Chief Justice of the Arkansas Supreme Court; and
  • Serving as Special Master for the Arkansas Supreme Court in Lakeview School District v. Huckabee, the premier case involving the financing of public education in Arkansas.

Education

  • B.A., with Honors, University of Tulsa, 1954
  • J.D., University of Arkansas, 1959

Public Service

  • Chief Justice, Arkansas Supreme Court, 1995-1996
  • Special Master, Arkansas Supreme Court, 2003-2007
  • Trustee, University of Arkansas, 1974-1985; Chairman, 2002-2004
  • Legislative Secretary to Governor Dale Bumpers, 1971-1972
  • City Attorney of Fort Smith, 1964-1965
  • Law Clerk for U.S. District Judge John E. Miller, 1959-1961

Honors

  • Fellow, American College of Trial Lawyers
  • Outstanding Lawyer Award, Arkansas Bar Association, 2001-2002
  • Distinguished Lawyer Award, Natural Resources Section of the Arkansas Bar Association, 2002
  • Top Lawyer in Arkansas, AY Magazine, 2010 (Bet the Company Litigation and Commercial Litigation)

Admitted to Practice

  • Arkansas
  • Supreme Court of the United States
  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit
  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia
  • U.S. District Court, Eastern and Western Districts of Arkansas
  • U.S. Court of Claims

Memberships

  • Arkansas Bar Association
  • Arkansas Bar Foundation (President 1999-2000)
  • American Law Institute
  • American Bar Foundation
  • American Bar Association
  • Sebastian County Bar Association (President 1967-1968)

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