About John

John Shirley practices family law in Brandon, Mississippi — He has been a member of the Mississippi State Bar since 1984. The firm focuses on various aspects of family law, including divorce, probate, and elder law. His experience in the legal field allows him to navigate complex family-related issues effectively — He earned his J.D. from Mississippi College School of Law in 1984. Prior to that, he obtained a B.S. in Computer Science from the University of Alabama - Birmingham in 1980.

His educational background also includes judicial courses from the National Judicial College in 2001 and a degree in Computer Science from Mississippi State University in 1989. This diverse education gave him a unique perspective on the intersection of law and technology. Throughout his career, he has held various roles in the legal system. John served as a judge multiple times, with his first appointment occurring in 2000. He was also a county prosecutor and public defender, roles that provided him with a knowledge of the judicial process. His experience includes serving as an instructor, where he shared his knowledge with future legal professionals.

John's practice primarily involves family law cases, where he assists clients with divorce proceedings, child custody disputes, and probate matters. He is also a certified Guardian Ad Litem, which shows his commitment to advocating for the best interests of children in legal disputes. Cases typically involve negotiations, court appearances, and mediation sessions aimed at resolving conflicts amicably. In addition to his legal practice, John is actively involved in the legal community. He has spoken at various seminars, including those at Mississippi College School of Law and Ole Miss Law School. His contributions to the Mississippi Council of Youth Court Judges and the Mississippi Justice Court Judges Association highlight his dedication to improving the legal system.

He is a member of several associations, including the Rankin County Bar Association and the Mississippi Commission on Judicial Performance. John's extensive background in family law and his commitment to serving the community make him a respected figure in Brandon. His ability to handle complex legal matters and his dedication to education ensure that he remains a valuable resource for clients navigating family law issues.

Education

National Judicial College

Judicial Courses

2001

Mississippi State University

Computer Science

1989

Mississippi College School of Law

J.D.

1984

University of Alabama - Birmingham

B.S. | Computer Science

1980

Experience

County Prosecutor

Rankin County Prosecutor
2020

Judge

Pearl Youth Court
2004

Judge

Pearl Municipal Court
2004

Commission has membership

Mississippi Commission on Judicial Performance
2004

Judge

Rankin County Justice Court
2000

Instructor

Mississippi Law Enforcement Officers Training Academy
2000

Public Defender

Pearl Youth Court & Pearl Municipal Court
1994

County Prosecutor

Rankin County Court
1991

Accepted Jurisdictions

Mississippi
Southern US District Court of MS
5th Circuit
Northern US District Court of MS

Court Admissions

Mississippi Supreme Court State Supreme Court
U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi U.S. District Court
U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi U.S. District Court
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit U.S. Circuit Court

Types of Cases Handled

Family Law Divorce Probate Elder Law

Legal Services Scope

Negotiations Court appearances Mediation

Certifications & Awards

Guardian Ad Litem

AOC

Professional Associations

Ole Miss Law School

Youth Court Law Seminar Speaker 2013 - Current

Mississippi College School of Law

Juvenile Public Defender Seminar Speaker 2009 - Current

Mississippi Council of Youth Court Judges

has membership 2004 - Current

Mississippi College School of Law

Guardian Ad Litem Seminar Speaker 2003 - Current

Mississippi Law Enforcement Officers Training Academy

Youth Court Law Instructor 2003 - Current

MC Law School & Ole Miss Law School & MS Judicial College

Seminar Speaker 2003 - Current

Mississippi Justice Court Judges Association

has membership 2000 - Current

Mississippi State Bar

has membership 1988 - Current

Rankin County Bar Association

has membership 1988 - Current

Mississippi Commission on Judicial Performance

has membership 2004 - 2012