Yavapai County News – It is with deep sadness that the Superior Court in Yavapai County announces the passing of retired Judge Howard D. Hinson, Jr.
Judge Hinson moved to Prescott, Arizona with his family in 1949. He received his Juris Doctorate from the Arizona State University College of Law in 1976. Prior to that, he attended the University of Arizona, where he earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Public Recreation Administration in 1968. Judge Hinson was a proud Prescott High School alumni and served as a Captain in the United States Air Force.
Judge Hinson worked in the Prescott area as a local attorney and Deputy County Attorney. Presiding Judge Raymond Weaver appointed him as a Superior Court Judge Pro Tempore in 1996. In 2004, Governor Janet Napolitano appointed Judge Hinson to Division 4 of the Yavapai County Superior Court.
Judge Hinson resigned from office of Superior Court Judge on September 30, 2009.
Judge Hinson had a passion for sports, specifically baseball, and he loved officiating sports in the community and in his college years. His family owned the Highland Hotel and Courtyard on Whiskey Row. During his terms as Superior Court Judge, he presided over the drug court program and participated in mock trial events with local high schools.
Presiding Judge John Napper stated, “Judge Hinson was a well-respected member of his community, bench and bar. His love for Prescott and Yavapai County was unrivaled. He will be missed. This is a tremendous loss for us all.”
The Yavapai County Superior Court judges and staff extend our deepest condolences to Judge Hinson’s family and friends. He will truly be missed.