The opinion
Cite as 2025 Ark. 4
SUPREME COURT OF ARKANSAS
Opinion Delivered: January 8, 2025
ORDER OF CHIEF JUSTICE
KAREN R. BAKER
KAREN R. BAKER, Chief Justice
Pursuant to Amendment 80 of the Arkansas Constitution, the Chief Justice is selected
in the same manner as the other justices on the court—the people of Arkansas get to decide.
See Ark. Const. amend. 80, § 2(A)-(B). The associate justices, separately or altogether,
cannot overrule the Chief Justice in administering the functions of the court. Stated
differently, the associate justices cannot overtake the constitutional duties of the Chief
Justice, an elected position, simply because there are more of them. Notwithstanding the
will of the people in selecting me to serve in this position, two of my opponents in the
Chief Justice race that remain on the court are now attempting to take what the people
would not give them by force. However, “Regnat Populus—The People Rule—is the
motto of Arkansas. It should ever remain inviolate.” Republican Party of Ark. v. State ex rel.
Hall, 240 Ark. 545, 549, 400 S.W.2d 660, 662 (1966). Thus, I intend to do the job that the
people elected me to do.
I. Constitutional Authority
When Arkansas became a state in 1836, the supreme court was composed of three
judges, one of whom would serve as the Chief Justice. See Ark. Const. of 1836, art. 6, § 2.
Over time, the number of justices on the court was increased from three to five, and then
from five to seven. Despite the changes to the composition of the court throughout the
years, the constant has been that the Chief Justice has remained at the helm.
Amendment 80 provides that, “[t]he Supreme Court shall exercise general
superintending control over all courts of the state and may temporarily assign judges, with
their consent, to courts or divisions other than that for which they were elected or
appointed. These functions shall be administered by the Chief Justice.” Ark. Const. amend. 80, §
4. (Emphasis added). We have long held that language of a constitutional provision that is
plain and unambiguous must be given its obvious and common meaning. See, e.g., Zook v.
Martin, 2018 Ark. 293, 4, 557 S.W.3d 880, 883. As the plain meaning of Amendment 80,
section 4 makes clear through the use of the plural word “functions”, the Chief Justice is
called to administer more than one function of the court. More specifically, through the use
of the conjunctive word “and”, this language demonstrates that the Constitution requires
the Chief Justice to administer two functions—(1) the superintending control over all courts
of the state, and (2) the temporary assignment of judges. In accordance with the common
meaning of the word, to “administer” means “to control the operation or arrangement of
something.” Administer, Cambridge Dictionary,
https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/administer (last visited Jan. 7,
2025). Further, we have interpreted the word “shall” to mean mandatory and require
2
mandatory compliance. Smith v. Wright, 2015 Ark. 189, 13, 461 S.W.3d 687, 695.
Accordingly, along with my predecessors, I reject any suggestion that the Chief Justice’s
authority is limited to the assignment of special judges and justices. Amendment 80 does not
limit the Chief Justice’s authority in such a way, nor was it intended to. Rather, it is my
constitutional duty to the people of Arkansas to administer the functions of the court and I
will not yield any power that was bestowed upon any Chief Justice before me.
Despite the fact that the Chief Justice retains the sole authority to administer the
functions of the court pursuant to the Constitution, at times, I may delegate certain authority
to the associate justices individually or as a whole or seek input on administrative matters. I
understand that each of the associate justices is a valuable public servant that is vital in
maintaining the integrity of the judiciary, and therefore, I appreciate and welcome such
input on those discretionary matters. However, a majority vote cannot be used in an attempt
to usurp the sole authority of the Chief Justice on administrative matters. This truth, as it
has long been understood, was articulated in an order entered by former Chief Justice Kemp
upon taking office in 2017 when he was faced with challenges much like those that have
manifested in response to me assuming the position of Chief Justice. Kemp explained that
his order was in response to “a motion made by Associate Justice Courtney Goodson, who
[sought] to establish a new rule whereby the Supreme Court of Arkansas would exercise
control over administrative matters by a 4-person majority vote.” (Emphasis added). In
recognizing that this motion, if successful, would improperly strip the Chief Justice of his
constitutional authority over administrative matters for the first time since the inception of
our court, Kemp held as follows:
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This motion can only be understood as an effort to impair the constitutional
authority of the Chief Justice. This proposed rule, if implemented, would
result in unnecessary delays that impede the administration of justice. Further,
this scheme sends a message of conflict and uncertainty to the Arkansas
Judiciary.
Under my constitutional authority and duty as Chief Justice as set forth in
Amendment 80 of the Arkansas Constitution, and as chairperson of all
conferences and meetings of the court, I will not recognize a motion that
attempts to (a) override, change, or otherwise impair the administrative
authority of the Chief Justice, (b) direct the Chief Justice in his exercise of
administrative authority, or (c) establish or exercise any alleged authority of
associate justices over administrative matters. Such a motion usurps the
constitutional authority of the Chief Justice granted by the Arkansas
Constitution. I will not recognize a second to the motion. I object to any
vote on any motion made by an associate justice on these administrative
matters. I conclude that the efficient administration of the judiciary requires
the Chief Justice to exercise authority unencumbered by controversy that
comes with seven court members seeking to administer the court by a
majority vote.
I hereby rule that a vote on such motion by the associate justices on
administrative matters or administrative authority is invalid, null, and void. If,
over my objection, the associate justices vote on such matters, then, as Chief
Justice, I will enter an order contravening that vote and will declare it invalid,
null, and void.
See Appendix 1.
In response to this order, the members of the court, most of whom remain on the
court today, recognized Kemp’s order as an order of the Chief Justice and accepted his
authority over administrative matters accordingly. In recognition of the proper function of
the court, there were no attempts to overthrow the Chief Justice, and the members of that
court conducted themselves in a professional manner. The circumstances underlying Kemp’s
order were similar to those that necessitate the present order. However, here, not only have
five associate justices made and seconded numerous motions regarding administrative
matters over my objection, they have purported to enter per curiam opinions creating new
4
rules and making appointments to a commission over my objection. Additionally, five
justices attempted to enter into an employment agreement for the AOC Director position
to diminish my authority under Amendment 80. Thus, I will respond to improper attempts
to commandeer the Chief Justice’s constitutional authority over administrative matters
precisely how my predecessor vowed to.
II. Administrative Order 24
On January 3, 2025, five associate justices attempted to issue a per curiam opinion in
the form of an administrative order to establish procedures to clarify the employment status
of persons working for the Administrative Office of the Courts (“AOC”) and the Supreme
Court of Arkansas. However, the per curiam is null and void and the purported
Administrative Order 24 is stricken pursuant to Amendment 80 of the Arkansas Constitution
and relevant statutory law.
In the void January 3 per curiam, the majority states that I lack the authority to
terminate the Director of the AOC because the Director serves at the pleasure of the court.
First, pursuant to Amendment 80 as discussed above, I am charged with administering the
functions of the court which necessarily includes personnel matters within the AOC.
Second, the majority failed to reference relevant statutory language. Specifically, section 16-
10-102(a)(2) provides that:
There shall be a Director of the Administrative Office of the Courts who shall
be nominated by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, subject to the approval of
the Supreme Court and the Arkansas Judicial Council, Inc. Subsequent to the
appointment, the director shall hold office at the pleasure of the Supreme
Court.
Ark. Code Ann. § 16-10-102(a)(2). (Emphasis added).
5
The plain meaning of the language above makes clear that the chief justice is
entrusted with the sole authority to nominate a Director of the AOC. There is no qualifying
language in the preceding statute that restricts the Chief Justice’s authority to nominate a
Director of the AOC. To be clear, the statute does not contemplate a nomination only
upon a vacancy or other triggering event or circumstance, and we have stated that the rules
of statutory construction do not permit us to read into a statute words that are not there.
See, e.g., Arkansas Dep’t of Fin. & Admin. v. Trotter Ford, Inc., 2024 Ark. 31, 9, 685 S.W.3d
889, 896. Thus, as the duly sworn Chief Justice, Arkansas law authorizes me to nominate a
Director of the AOC. My predecessor nominated his choice for Director; and I will now
nominate mine.
This plain language interpretation of the law makes sense, as I am “directly
responsible for the efficient operation of the judicial branch and of its constituent courts and
for the expeditious dispatch of litigation therein and the proper conduct of the business of
the courts.” See Ark. Code Ann. § 16-10-101(a). However, even in the absence of the Chief
Justice, his or her administrative duties “may be performed by the several associate justices
of the Supreme Court in the order of their seniority[.]” Ark. Code Ann. § 16-10-101(d).
Therefore, in the event of my absence, the most senior associate justice would be charged
with the administration of the court. It is important to note that the court’s administrative
authority has always been held, and was always meant to be held, by only one person. See
Appendix 1 (“I conclude that the efficient administration of the judiciary requires the Chief
Justice to exercise authority unencumbered by controversy that comes with seven court members
seeking to administer the court by a majority vote.”) (Emphasis added).
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Accordingly, in order to properly carry out the constitutional responsibilities that
come with being the Chief Justice, it is imperative that I, the chief administrator of the
court, can exercise my authority to nominate a Director of the AOC that I can trust to assist
me in effectively performing my crucial role.
III. Employment Agreement with Marty Sullivan
On December 10, 2024, five members of the court voted to enter into an
employment agreement with Marty Sullivan, Director of the AOC. The agreement
between Sullivan and Associate Justices Rhonda Wood, Shawn Womack, Barbara Webb,
and Cody Hiland, along with former Chief Justice Kemp, purports to provide Sullivan with
employment for eight years ending on December 31, 2032, totaling approximately 1.6
million dollars. See Appendix 2.
I consider Sullivan’s signature on the purported agreement for the provision of his
professional services to be his resignation as a state employee. Pursuant to Arkansas law, it is
a breach of an employee’s ethical standards “to participate directly or indirectly in any
proceeding or application, in any request for ruling or other determination, in any claim or
controversy, or in any other particular matter pertaining to any contract or subcontract, and any
solicitation or proposal therefor, in which to the employee’s knowledge . . . [t]he employee
or any member of the employee’s immediate family has a financial interest[.]” Ark. Code
Ann. § 19-11-705(a)(1)(A). The purported agreement provides for a substantial salary and
benefits package for Sullivan, and also provides that, “[t]his Agreement is deemed to have
been drafted jointly by the Parties” which includes Sullivan. Therefore, Sullivan would have
had to resign in order to enter into the purported employment agreement.
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Additionally, this contract is illegal, as it was entered in contravention of Amendment
80. When former Chief Justice Kemp was elected, he nominated Sullivan to serve as the
Director of the AOC. I was elected to serve as the Chief Justice beginning January 1, 2025.
Therefore, Amendment 80 requires me to administer the functions of the court, which
necessarily includes personnel matters within the AOC, such as those involving the Director.
However, shortly before I was slated to become the Chief Justice, five members of that
court attempted to commandeer my authority by executing the agreement which provides
that Sullivan will remain the Director of the AOC for the duration of my term. If this were
allowed to stand, I would not be permitted to perform my duties as constitutionally required
of the Chief Justice for the eight years I have been sworn to serve.
IV. Appointments to the Arkansas Judicial Discipline and Disability Commission
As noted by former Chief Justice Kemp, the Chief Justice is the chairperson of all
conferences and meetings of the court. See Appendix 1. As the duly sworn Chief Justice of
the Arkansas Supreme Court, I informed the court that the first business meeting of 2025
would be held on January 23 to take up various administrative matters. Further, I set January
16 as the deadline for adding items to the agenda for this meeting. In spite of this, on January
6, five associate justices convened an unauthorized business meeting while the court was in
recess. During the meeting, the participating members discussed appointments to the
Arkansas Judicial Discipline and Disability Commission (“JDDC”) and voted to issue a per
curiam reappointing Circuit Judge Earnest Brown and appointing Circuit Judges Thomas
Smith and Troy Braswell to the JDDC. The full court would have had ample opportunity
to resolve any issues regarding the appointments to the JDDC at the business meeting
8
scheduled on January 23, as there was no emergency necessitating an unsanctioned business
meeting during the court’s recess. However, rather than waiting for the meeting of the full
court, the five participating justices decided to proceed with a meeting outside the court’s
normal course of business and vote to approve three appointments in the absence of the two
most senior justices on the court, including myself, the Chief Justice.
In an attempt to come to a reasonable resolution to this issue, I advised the writing
justice that I did not object to the reappointment of Judge Brown or the appointment of
Judge Smith to the JDDC. However, I reminded the writing justice that I have a standing
objection to the appointment of Judge Braswell to the JDDC as I understand that he harbors
actual bias toward me. The court’s longstanding custom and practice dictates that an
appointment is invalid if any member of the court raises an objection to the proposed
appointee for any reason. In the past, my objection to Judge Braswell for cause would have
been more than sufficient to warrant the selection of a replacement appointee. My objection
to the appointment of Judge Braswell has been known to the full court since October 2024,
and the JDDC appointments therefore remained pending under my predecessor’s leadership.
However, the writing justice rejected my genuine attempt to reach a peaceable resolution,
refused to adhere to the court’s custom and practice, and indicated instead that Judge
Braswell’s appointment to the JDDC was the official decision of the court, notwithstanding
the bias I had raised, given that a majority voted in favor of his appointment. I have no
agenda that compels me to support any person in particular for potential appointments aside
from choosing individuals that will serve as dedicated stewards to the court’s various boards
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and committees. Under the present circumstances, I do not believe such is the case for one
of the three appointees supported by five members of the court.
Accordingly, this is yet another instance wherein the majority has attempted to
improperly wield the constitutional authority of the Chief Justice over administrative
matters. As a result, the per curiam making appointments to the JDDC is null and void and
the purported appointments are stricken pursuant to Amendment 80 of the Arkansas
Constitution.
V. Conclusion
The constitutional office of the Chief Justice is an elected position for a reason. I am
the people’s choice for Chief Justice—not any of the associate justices, whether together or
separate. The State of Arkansas would greatly benefit from an efficient judiciary. To
accomplish this, the associate justices must divert their fixation from the constitutional duties
and responsibilities of the Chief Justice, and instead, dedicate their full attention to the duties
in which they were elected or appointed to carry out.
Pursuant to Amendment 80, the ultra vires per curiam opinions issued on January 3
and January 6 are null and void, and the purported Administrative Order 24 is stricken.
It is so ordered.
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APPENDIX 1
RECEIVED APPENDIX 2
DEC 17 2024
CLERK'S OFFICE EMPITOYMENIT AGREEMENT
Employment Agreement ("Agreement"), dated as of Peqemberlr4: zo44q is
between Marty Sullivan (Employee) and the Arkansas Supreme Cburt, which iirchide"s the
Administrative Office of the Courts (Employer) (collectively, the Parties).
Preamble
o Arkansas Code Annotated S 16-ro-roz provides for the administration of the
nonjudicial business of the judicial branch in the Administrative Office of the Courts
(AOC). It states that the Director shall be nominated by the Chief Justice of the Supreme
Court, subject to the approval of the Supreme Court and the Arkansas Judicial Council,
Inc., and that subsequent to the appointment, the Director shall hold office at the
pleasure of the Supreme Court.
. In March 2017, Chief Justice John Dan Kemp nominated Employee to serve
as Director of the AOC and the Supreme Court and the Arkansas Judicial Council, Inc.
approved it.
. Since March 16, 2017, Employee has served as Director of the Arkansas
Supreme Court's Administrative Office of the Courts.
. On December 10, 2024, the Arkansas Supreme Court, upon proper motion,
voted that it desired that Employee continue serving in the role of Director, but also that
it provide Employee with a contract. A contract resolves any disputes over the language
"at the pleasure ofthe Supreme Court."
. Employee possesses considerable experience in court administration, and
the AOC has made substantial investments in Employee's development and training
throughout the course of his employment.
. To provide Employee with assurances of continued employment for at least
a term of eight (8) years, and to protect the AOC's investment in Employee, the parties
have_negotiated a mutually satisfactory arrangement for the employment of Employee by
Employer.
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants set forth in this
AF.."gT"-"t, a3d fo1 other good and valuable consideration the receipt and sufficiency of
which is hereby acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows:
Terms
L EErrlorment. Employer hereby employs Employee in accordance with the terms
and conditions set forth in this Agreement, to lerve as Director of the Aoc and to
perform the duties of such office as defined from time to time by Employer consistent
with the job description attached as Exhibit A and incorporated in this Agreement,
and Employee hereby accepts such employment upon the terms and conditions set
forth in this Agreement, and agrees to use Employee's best efforts at all times to
operate the AOC. Employee further agrees that he will maintain the level of duties and
responsibilities now in effect, and such additional level of duties and responsibilities
as Employee may reasonably be assigned by Bmployer during the Term of this
Agreement.
e. Standard of Services of Emoloyee. During the Term of this Agreement,
Employee agrees to devote substantially all of Employee's business-related time,
attention, and effort to performing the duties of Director of AOC, and Employee shall
not engage in any other outside business activity, whether or not such business activity
is pursued for gain, profit, or other pecuniary advantage, without Employer's
approval. Employee further covenants and agrees that Employee shall devote
Employee's full and best efforts to the fulfillment of Employee's obligations under this
Agreement and that Employee will exercise the highest degree of loyalty and the
highest standards of conduct in the performance of Employee's duties.
3. Effective Date. This Agreement shall bemme effective upon execution, pursuant to
a majority vote of the Justices of the Arkansas Supreme Court approving this
Agreement on December tor 20.24.
4L Term. The Term of this Agreement is for eight (8) years beginning on the Effective
Date and continuing until December 31, 2032 at u:59 p.m. At the expiration of the
term of service under this contract, Employee will continue to serve as an at will
employee subject to the pleasure of a majority of the members of the Arkansas
Supreme Court, unless or until the contract is renewed, extended, or modified.
g Comnensation. As compensation for the services rendered by Employee, Employer
agrees to pay Employee a base salary and other compensation as follows:
6. Base Salary. Base Salary shall begin at 9199,65o. During each year of the Term,
Employer shall pay Employee not less than 9199,650 pursuant to this Agreement, with
payments made in accordance with Employer's existing or then-current pay.roll
schedule. Employee shall receive an annual performance evaluation from each ofthe
Justices of the Arkansas Supreme Court. Employee shall receive, at a minimum, the
same percentage of cost-ofJiving adjustments (C.O.L.A.s) or raises provided to other
members of the leadership team of the AOC or the other entities under the control of
the Arkansas Supreme Court. Unless otherwise noted or required, any C.O.L.A. or
raise- given to Employee
_shall become part of his newly calculated Base Salary.
Fmployer may otherwise increase Employee's Base Salary at Employer,s discretion;
however, Employer shall never decrease Employee's Base Salary during the Term oi
this Agreement.
2 Miscellaneous Benefits. During the term of this Agreement, Employee shall be
eligible to participate in all employee benefit programs offered to similarly-situated
employees of the State of Arkansas, including all insurance, retirement, and leave-
related programs. Employee shall continue to accrue paid leave and related benefits
in accordance with Employer's Employment Handbook and related benefit programs.
8. Taxes. To the extent required by applicable law, Employer shall deduct and withhold
all necessary Social Security taxes and all necessary federal and state tax withholding
and any other similar sums required by laws to be withheld from any payments made
pursuant to the terms of this Agreement. Employer may withhold all federal, state,
city, or other taxes as may be required pursuant to any law or governmental regulation
or ruling from any benefits payable under this Agreement.
S Exlrenses. During the term of this Agreement, Employer shall pay or reimburse
Employee for all ordinary and necessary expenses that are reasonably incurred by
Employee in performing Employee's duties under this Agreement in accordance with
established policy, which may be amended from time to time, by new Agreements
between Employer and Employee, an addendum to this Agreement, or as incorporated
within an approved budget for Employer.
10. Termination By Emoloyer: For-Cause OnIy. During the Term, Employee
will serve at the 'pleasure of the court" which means this Agreement may only be
terminated by Employer "For Cause," rvhich means the occurrence of one of the
following For-Cause Events, as determined by a majority vote of the Justices of the
Arkansas Supreme Court:
A- Employee Engaging in Suhstantial Misconduct Amounting
to Cause for Termination. Substantial misconduct amounting to cause
for termination means: (a) embezzlement, theft, larceny, material fraud, or
other acts of material dishonesty by Employee; (b) intentional disregard of
Employee's duties under this Agreement or any other material violation by
Employee of this Agreement; (c) arrest for, conviction of, or entrance of a
plea of guilty or nolo contendere to a felony or other crime by Employee
which has or may have a material adverse effect on Employee's ability to
carry out his duties under this Agreement or upon the reputation of
Employer; (d) conduct of Employee involving moral turpitude; (e) any
incidence of violence in the workplace by Employee; (fl material and
continuing failure by Employee to perform the duties described in Exhibit
A for at least thirty $o) days after written warning and an opportunity to
cure is presented to Employee by Employer's authorized representative.
Upon termination for cause, Employer's sole and exclusive obligation will
be to pay Employee his base compensation and benefits eirned and
expenses incurred through the date of termination, and Employee shall not
-
be entitled to any compensation after the date of termination.
B. Termination by Emoloyee for Good Reason. Employee may
terminate this Agreement for "good reason," which means (a) the material
diminution of Employee's duties, managerial responsibilities, and
compensation; (b) Employer's creation of a hostile work environment for
Employee; and (c) Employer's breach of this Agreement (Good Reason
Events). If a Good Reason Event occurc, Employee shall provide written
notice to Employer and provide Employer with a period of thirty (Bo) days
within which to cure. If Employer fails to cure a Good Reason Event after
notice of a Good Reason Event has been delivered to Employer by
Employee, then Employer shall be deemed to have terminated this
Agreement without cause in breach of Section ro of this Agreement.
C. Breach by Emoloyer or Termination by Employee for Good
Reason. [n the event Employer breaches this Agreement by terminating
this Agreement in violation of Section ro, or if Employee terminates this
Agreement for "good reason" as set forth in Section ro, Employer shall
compensate Employee as follows. Employer shall continue to pay Employee
a compensation package (Payout) for up to three years. The Payout shall
be paid out in monthly installments such that Employee shall receive the
total monthly compensation Employee was receiving for salary and all
benefits at the time of termination of the Agreement for a period of three
years. Employee has a duty to mitigate, but Employer shall continue to pay
the difference between any new salary and Employee's compensation
package at time of termination of this Agreement for a period of three years.
If there are less than three years remaining under the term of this
Agreement, then Employee's Payout will be reduced to the years remaining
under the contract.
r.r.. Dispute Resolution. As described below, the Parties agree that any dispute arising
between them regarding the continued employment of Employee shall be subject to
binding arbitration governed by the Federal Arbitration Act. Any remaining disputes
arising from this relationship that, for any reason are not subject to arbitration, are
beyond the scope of arbitration, or are unable to be resolved by arbitration shall be
resolved by the Arkansas Claims Commission or other government entity with
jurisdiction over the matter. Employer agrees to take all lawfrrl action necessary,
appropriate, and helpful to ensure that the Arkansas Claims Commission and any
other applicable government actor approves and funds the payment of all of
Employee's claims that have been determined to be valid and enfbrceable under the
terms of this contract. Employer's duties pursuant to this Section include but are not
limited to advocating for, approving budgets, and seeking any necessary legislative
appropriations to ensure that Employee's claims are fully paid.
re.Assignment by ,E4pto,yer. This Agreement may and shall be assigned or
transferred to, and shall be binding upon and shall inure to the benefiiof, any
successor of Employer, and any such successor shall be deemed substituted for ail
purposes of Employer under the terms of this Agreement as used in this Agreement,
the term "successor" shall mean a successor by reason ofa change in the membership
of the Arkansas Supreme Court. Notwithstanding such assignment, or failing such
assignment, Employer shall remain, with such successor, jointly and severally liable
for all its obligations hereunder only in its official capacity and nothing herein shall
create any individual personal liability for any member of the Arkansas Supreme
Court.
!3"Death or Disability.
A. Employee's Death. In the event Employee dies during the Term of this
Agreement, Employer shall pay to the beneficiary designated by Employee during
Employee's lifetime, or to Employee's estate as appropriate, all benefits to which
Employee had a vested right pursuant to this Agreement. Upon Employee's death,
further compensation payments shall cease, and this Agreement shall terminate.
B. Employee's Disability. Employee will be deemed to be under a "disability" if,
for physical or mental reasons, Employee is unable to perform his essential duties
under this Agreement for one-hundred twenty (rzo) consecutive days, or one
hundred twenty (rzo) days during any twelve (re) month period, provided that
Employer has attempted to accommodate the disability as required by law.
14.Notice. All notices, requests, and other communications to any Party under this
Agreement shall be in writing and shall be given to such Party at its address set forth
below or such other address as a Party may hereafter specify for the purpose by notice
to the other Party or, if to Employee, the last address Employee has filed with the
Employer:
If to Employer: Arkansas Supreme Court
625 Marshall Street, Suite lroo
Little Rock, AR Tzzor
If to Employer: Marty Sullivan
P.O. Box 592
Little Rock, AR 7ezo3
Each such notice, request or other communication shall be effective (i) if given by mail,
seventy-two (72) hours after such communication is deposited in the United states Mail
with first class postage prepaid, addressed as aforesaid or (ii) if given by any other means,
when delivered at the address specified in this Section rr.
lgModification of.Agreement. No waiver or modification of this Agreement or of
any covenant, condition, or limitation herein contained shall be valid unless in writing
and-dgly execute! by th9 Party to be charged therewith. No evidence of any waiver oT
modification shall be offered or received in evidence at any proceeding, arbitration, or
litigation between the Parties hereto arising out ofor affecting this,tlieement, or the
rights or obligations of the Parties hereunder, unless such waiver or modification is in
writing, duly exeeuted as aforesaid. The waiver by Employer or Employee of a breach
of any of the provisions of this Agreement by Employee or Employer shall not be
construed as a waiver of any subsequent breach by Employer or Employee.
r6.Entire Agreement. This Agreement supersdes any prior agreements or
understanding, oral or written, between the Parties hereto or between Employee and
Employer, with respect to the subject matter hereof and constitutes the entire
Agreement of the Parties with respect thereto, except as referred to herein.
4. Severability. In the event that any provision or portion of this Agreement shall be
determined to be invalid or unenforceable for any reason, the remaining provisions of
this Agreement shall be unaffected thereby and shall remain in full force and effect.
tE.Mutual Drafting. This fureement is deemed to have been drafted jointly by the
Parties and, in the event of a dispute, shall not be mnstrued in favor of or against any
Party by reason of such Party's contribution to the drafting of this Agreement. The
Parties acknowledge and agree that they have reviewed this Agreement, have had this
Agreement reviewed by competent counsel, and they are now entering into this
Agreement voluntarily. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts,
each of which will be deemed an original but all of which together will constitute one
and the same agreement. Signatures delivered by facsimile or PDF or similar
technolory shall have the same force and effect as original signatures.
rq. Recitals. The Recitals to this Agreement are incorporated herein and shall constitute
an integral part of this Agreement.
2<l. Governing Lawi Arbitration. The Parties intend that this Agreement and the
performance hereunder and all suits and special proceedings hereunder shall be
construed in accordance with and under and pursuant to the laws of the State of
Arkansas, and that in any action, special proceeding or other proceeding that may be
brought arising out of, in connection with, or by reason ofthe Agreement, the laws of
the State of Arkansas, shall be applicable and shall govern to the exclusion of the law
of any other forum, without regard to the jurisdiction in which any action or special
proceeding may be instituted. Further, the Parties agree that any dispute arising out
ofor relating to this Agreement shall be rrsolved through binding arbitration governed
by the Federal Arbitration Act pursuant to the American Arbitration Ass&iation's
Employment Arbitration Rules. Arbitration shall take place in pulaski County,
Arkansas, unless otherwise agreed to by the Parties. Arbitration confirmation
proceedings shall be commenced in an appropriate court or other entity with
enforcement powers and jurisdiction in Pulaski county, Arkansas, or other venue as
agreed to by the Parties.
21. Section 4oqA.
A. Anything in this Agreement to the contrary notwithstanding, if at the time of
Employee's separation from service within the meaning of Section 4o9A of the
United States Internal Revenue Code (the Code), Employer determines that
Employee is a "specified employee" within the meaning of Section
+ogA(aXzXB)(i) of the Code, then to the extent any payment or benefit that
Employee becomes entitled to under this Agreement on account of Employee's
separation from service would be considered deferred compensation subject to
the zo percent additional tax imposed pursuant to Section 4o9A(a) ofthe Code
as a result of the application of Section +oqA(aXzXB)(i) of the Code, such
palment shall not be payable and such benefit shall not be provided until the
date that is the earlier of (A) six months and one day after Employee's separation
from service, or (B) Employee's death. If any such delayed cash payment is
otherwise payable on an installment basis, the first pa)'rnent shall include a
catch-up payment covering amounts that would otherwise have been paid
during the six-month period but for the application of this provision, and the
balance of the instdllments shall be payable in accordance with its original
schedule. Solely for purposes of Code Section 4o9A, Employee's right to receive
any installment pa],ments purcuant to this Agreement shall be treated as a right
to receive a series of separate and distinct palrnents.
B. All in-kind benefits provided and expenses eligible for reimbursement under
this Agreement shall be provided by Employer or incurred by Employee during
the time periods set forth in this Agreement. All reimbursements shall be paid
as soon as administratively practicable, but in no event shall any reimbursement
be paid after the last day of the taxable year following the taxable year in which
the expense was incurred. The amount of in-kind benefits provided or
reimbursable expenses incurred in one taxable year shall not affect the in-kind
benefits to be provided or the expenses eligible for reimbursement in any other
taxable year. Such right to reimbursement or in-kind benefits is not subject to
liquidation or exchange for another benefit.
C. To the extent that any payment or benefit described in this Agreement
constitutes 'non-qualified deferred compensation" under Section 4o9A of the
Code, and to the extent that such payment or benefit is payable upon Employee's
termination of employment, then such pa),rnents or benefits shall be payable
only upon Employee's "separation from service." The determination of whether
and when a separation from service has occurred shall be made in accordance
with the presumptions set forth in Treasury Regulation Section t.4ogAt(h).
D. This Agreement is intended to comply with Section 4o9A of the Code or an
exemption thereunder and shall be construed and administered in accordance
with Section 4o9A of the Code. To the extent that any provision of this Agreement
is ambiguous as to its compliance with Section 4o9A of the Code, the provision
shall be read in such a manner so that all payments hereunder comply with
Section 4o9A of the Code. The Parties agree that this Agreement may be
amended, as reasonably requested by either Party, and as may be necessary to
firlly comply with Section 4o9A of the Code and all related rules and regulations
in order to preserve the payments and benefits provided hereunder without
additional cost to either Party so long as such changes are consistent with the
original economic intent ofthe Parties.
22. Further Assurances. The Parties agree to execute and deliver such other
documents, and to do such other acts and things for the purpose of carrying out the
intent of this Agreement. For instance, if Employer believes that a per curium opinion
ofthe Court is necessary and advisable to ensure the validity and enforcement of this
Agreement, Employer may perform such official acts as necessary to consummate this
Agreement.
23. Authoritv to Execute and Enter into Agreement. Each Party represents and
warrants that: (a) it has the frrll power and authority to enter into and perform its
obligations under this Agreement; O) the execution, delivery, and performance of this
Agreement has been duly authorized by all necessary constitutional, administrative,
and organizational action by a majority ofthe Justices ofthe Arkansas Supreme Court;
and (c) the individual(s) signing this Agreement on behalf of each Party has or have
been duly authorized to execute this Agreement and bind the Party to its terms.
IN WTINESS WHER.EOF, Employee and Employer have executed this
Agreement on the dates set forth below.
EMPLOYEE
Date: lL'11.2\
Marty Sullivan, individually
ARKANSAS SUPREME COURT
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Date:
EXHIBITA
tA(rc DIR-ECTOR JOB DESCRIPTIONI
Administrative Office of the Courts
Job Description
Job Title: Agency Director Grade: SE04
Division: Administrative Office of the Courts Revision Date: 12/20/2024
POSITION SUMMARY:
The agency director is responsible for both long-term strategic planning and day-to-day operations of the
Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC). Primary responsibilities include maintaining interbranch
relationships, advising the Supreme Court on administrative methods of the judiciary, supervising and
directing the AOC, and acting as secretary of the Arkansas Judicial Council. The agency director is
supervised by the Supreme Court.
JOB DUTIES:
• Collect, analyze, and report to the Supreme Court statistical and other data concerning the business
of the courts;
• Develop and maintain relationships with stakeholders, including judges, court staff, legislators,
Executive Branch officials, and the Arkansas Bar Association.
• Educate legislators and other policymakers regarding the function of Arkansas courts and on
projects supported by the Supreme Court, Judicial Council, or the AOC.
• Make recommendations to the Supreme Court regarding court technology systems designed to
improve the quality and efficiency of justice;
• Develop and maintain a system of judicial education for judges and court staff;
• Develop and maintain a program of public education regarding state courts;
• Present agency appropriation recommendations to the Supreme Court;
• Develop and maintain organizational structure for the AOC;
• Make, or designate to AOC leadership staff, AOC personnel decisions, including hiring,
termination, and compensation.
• Other duties as assigned by the Supreme Court.
QUALIFICATIONS:
• A bachelor’s degree is required, with an advanced degree preferred.
• A minimum of eight years of administrative experience in court management, including at least
five years of extensive and substantial management responsibility.
• Experience working with the Legislature is preferred.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
• Knowledge of the Arkansas court system, case management operations and processes, and relevant
state government procedures.
• Demonstrated excellent written and oral communication abilities.
• Strong interpersonal and analytical skills.
• Ability to travel regularly.