Attorney Ben Burnett announces for circuit court judge

Ben Burnett is running for Circuit Court Judge to serve the people of Marion, Baxter, Boone, and Newton Counties, the very communities where he was raised, built his law practice, and is now raising a family of his own.
Judge John Putman of Harrison announced his retirement. “Judge Putman has been a great judge, and our community is truly grateful for his service,” says Burnett.
Burnett describes himself as deeply rooted in this community, and he understands this community’s values because he lives them every day.
“I believe in listening first—but then holding people accountable,” says Burnett. “That means parents who use their kids as pawns in a divorce, and those who break the law. Whether it’s family court or criminal court, everyone should be held to a fair and honest standard.”
Burnett continues, “Let’s be frank: we have a drug crisis. Families are being torn apart, and kids are paying the price. Law enforcement is doing its part—we need judges who do theirs by working hard, holding offenders accountable, and supporting real solutions to break the cycle of drugs and abuse.”

Burnett has notable endorsements in his campaign launch.
​“As a former judge, I know the best judges are calm, respectful, and good listeners. Ben Burnett has that steady, fair approach. He listens carefully, follows the law, and brings sound judgment to every case. He’ll be an excellent judge for the 14th Judicial District,” says former District Court and Circuit Judge Chris Carter.
“Ben has handled the full range of cases this court sees—criminal, probate, civil, and especially family law like divorce and child custody. He knows how these cases affect real families and the future of children. With his broad experience and strong commitment to putting kids first, Ben is ready to serve with fairness, compassion, and accountability,” says April Benefiel, Program Director of Grandmas House, a Children’s Advocacy Center, which is a place where children who are victims of abuse and their families can find help and support.
Burnett grew up in Baxter County, where he grew up on a working cattle ranch with his mother and father, Dr. Richard Burnett and Donna Burnett. He is a graduate of Kansas State University and the Appalachian School of Law in Virginia. Burnett and his wife, Lindsey, live in Marion County on the family ranch, where life still revolves around faith, family, self-reliance, and responsibility. Together, they’re raising three children. Burnett spent summers with his grandfather in Newton and Boone Counties, T.E. Burnett farming and hunting in the Ozarks. Those early experiences shaped Ben’s deep understanding of community, responsibility, and the importance of swift justice. His campaign website is www.voteburnett.com.
The nonpartisan election will be held March 3, 2026.