Judge H.L. Kirkpatrick announces candidacy for WV Supreme Court of Appeals.

BECKLEY, W.Va. — Longtime Raleigh County Judge H.L. Kirkpatrick has announced his candidacy for the Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia. He is seeking the seat left vacant by the passing of Justice Tim Armstead, who served on the state’s highest court for six years.
Kirkpatrick, a well‑known figure in Raleigh County’s judicial system, spent decades presiding over civil and criminal cases in the county’s circuit court. He retired from the bench in 2024 but has remained active in the local court system.
“I have presided over hundreds of civil and criminal cases. I’ve dealt with dozens of murder trials,” Kirkpatrick said, noting that his long career and courtroom experience make him a strong candidate for the Supreme Court.
The election for the seat will take place next year.