By Rupert Howell

Batesville attorney Andy Yelton has been appointed Family Master and Youth Court Judge for Panola County according to an announcement from Senior Chancellor for the 3rd Chancery District Percy L. Lynchard Jr. this week.

Yelton’s term will begin January 4 and will last for six months according to the court order.

Yelton is a member of Bailey and Womble law firm in Batesville and has been active in Youth Court and Chancery proceedings over the last several years according to Lynchard’s announcement.

The senior Chancery Judge said, “I am confident in Andy’s ability to serve in this capacity and know he will do an excellent job. His willingness to work and his temperament uniquely qualify him for the position of Master and Youth Court Judge.”

Family Masters are assigned cases for hearing by the senior chancellor including all cases where the Department of Human Services is a party, all lunacy proceedings and all cases where the parties are representing themselves without the assistance of counsel.

As youth court judge, Yelton will hear all petitions filed in that court and will work closely with law enforcement to deal with all juvenile offenders.

The public is invited to an official swearing in ceremony scheduled for all 3rd District Chancery Masters at 10 a.m., Tuesday, January 4 at the Grenada County Courthouse.

Other Family Masters, Special Masters and/or Court Referees appointed in the same court order include: Leigh Ann Darby, Kevin Horan, Rusty Harlow and James Preston Vance. The order states that these individials shall act only when Yelton is unable or unavailable to serve.