Holmes, Paul Kinloch III Born 1951 in Newport, AR Federal Judicial Service: Judge, U.S. District Court, Western District of Arkansas Nominated by Barack Obama on January 5, 2011, to a seat vacated by Robert T. Dawson. Confirmed by the Senate on February 7, 2011, and received commission on February 8, 2011. Served as chief judge, 2012-present. Education: Westminster College, B.A., 1973 University of Arkansas School of Law, J.D., 1978 Professional Career: Private practice, Fort Smith, Arkansas, 1978-1993 U.S. Attorney, Western District of Arkansas, 1993-2001 Private practice, Fort Smith, Arkansas, 2001-2011