James Mills is from eastern North Carolina. He has a bachelor 27s degree from the University of North Carolina and a law degree from Wake Forest University School of Law. He lives in Buncombe County.

James Mills is from eastern North Carolina. He has a bachelor 's degree from the University of North Carolina and a law degree from Wake Forest University School of Law. He lives in Buncombe County.

James is an attorney and a board-certified specialist in family law. He has received several accolades, including the "Super Lawyer" designation, the "Top Attorney" designation, and the "Most Honored Professionals" award. He also received the "Client Distinction Award" from Martindale-Hubbell.

James is an attorney and a family law specialist. 

James is currently a North Carolina District Court Judge, District 40, Seat 3.

Buncombe, Asheville full list of primary candidates 2026

Has 25 years of legal experience, resolving cases at every court level and handling misdemeanors, felonies, custody disputes, and business litigation.

- Has 25 years of legal experience, resolving cases at every court level and handling misdemeanors, felonies, custody disputes, and business litigation.

Legal Experience

As of January 2, 2026, James H. Mills’s website did not contain information on this issue.

Judicial Administration

Ballotepedia

Said, "As a Judge, I will be ready to show compassion and opportunity to each person, case, and situation that is in front of me, regardless of race, gender, identity, or socio-economic status. Every person deserves to be heard in a court of law, and in my courtroom, I will listen attentively."

Supports finding "better solutions" such as diversion programs, treatment court, and community resources.

- Said, "As a Judge, I will be ready to show compassion and opportunity to each person, case, and situation that is in front of me, regardless of race, gender, identity, or socio-economic status. Every person deserves to be heard in a court of law, and in my courtroom, I will listen attentively."
- Supports finding "better solutions" such as diversion programs, treatment court, and community resources.

Judicial Philosophy

Ethics & Conduct

Community Involvement

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James H. Mills

Said, "My priorities are to follow my oath and uphold the dignity of being a District Court Judge and the court system as a whole. I am a champion of honest and transparent leadership and will lead with integrity while staying true to the law."

Promises to be a "champion of honest and transparent leadership" who leads with integrity.

Seeks to join the "legacy and leadership of the Buncombe County bench."

James H. Mills's campaign for North Carolina District Court Judge, District 40, is his first time running for public office.

- District Court judges hear civil, criminal, and juvenile cases. Civil cases dealing with divorce, child custody, and child support are heard in District Court. 
- Under the District Court, the magistrate can try small claims cases ($10,000 or less), landlord eviction cases, and suits for recovery of personal property. A magistrate is an independent judicial officer, recognized by the North Carolina Constitution as an officer of the district court. 
- District Court Judges are elected for a four-year term. Elections are partisan. 