Gov. Tate Reeves has announced the appointment of Wayne Douglas Hollowell III to the office of circuit judge for the 21st district.
Holowell, of Olive Branch, currently serves as a justice court judge in DeSoto County, a judge pro tempore in Horn Lake and Walls, and a public defender in Byhalia. With the promotion, he will oversee circuit cases in a new judicial office created by the state legislature to cover DeSoto County.
“Doug’s deep legal expertise, proven leadership, and unwavering commitment to justice makes him an outstanding choice for circuit judge,” Reeves said. “His appointment reflects my ongoing mission to ensure that Mississippi’s judiciary is led by honorable and trusted stewards of the law.”
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Hollowell’s legal career has showcased a wide range of courtroom experience, including serving as both a prosector and public defender. As a business litigation and personal injury defense attorney, he’s also litigated in more than 30 counties in Mississippi and successfully argued before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit.
Hollowell, who earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Mississippi and law degree from the University of Miami, was named a Top 40 Attorney by the National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys.
His term will begin on Sept. 1 and end on Jan. 4, 2027.
