Knox Defense Leadership in Knoxville Bar Association Transitions

The Knoxville Bar Association (KBA) recently held its Annual Meeting on December 12, 2025, marking a transition in leadership and continued involvement from Knox Defense attorneys in the governance of the region’s legal community.

Outgoing President Jonathan D. Cooper concluded his year of service leading one of Tennessee’s most respected local bar associations. During his tenure, Cooper promoted professionalism, ethical standards, and ongoing engagement across the Knoxville legal community. At the annual event, Cooper presented President’s Awards to members of the KBA Professionalism Committee and its Executive Director, acknowledging contributions that strengthened the association over the past year.

Taking the helm as KBA President for 2026 is attorney Rachel Park Hurt, of Arnett, Baker, Draper & Hagood, LLP. In her remarks, Hurt thanked Cooper for his leadership and highlighted her commitment to continuing the association’s tradition of service, camaraderie, and professional excellence. 

A highlight of the Annual Meeting was the election of new officers and board members. Among those elected to the KBA Board of Governors is Joshua D. Hedrick of Knox Defense, reflecting the firm’s ongoing involvement in bar governance and commitment to the broader legal community.

The Knoxville Bar Association is a voluntary professional organization comprised of attorneys, judges, and law students dedicated to fostering excellence, ethical conduct, and public responsibility within the legal profession. Through leadership roles like these, Knox Defense attorneys continue to contribute leadership and service that elevate the practice of law in East Tennessee.

Convieniently located in downtown Knoxville, the law firm of Whitt, Cooper, Hedrick & Wojcik is East Tennessee’s premier criminal defense firm.  Our respected and experienced criminal trial lawyers bring more than 75 years of cumulative experience to the defense of citizens in both state and federal court.  No matter what your criminal matter, we possess the capabilities to effectively and efficiently provide your matter the best outcome possible.  We are Knox Defense and we are in your corner.  Call us today at 865-269-9226, or visit our website at https://knoxdefense.com for more information.