Superintendent Dr. Marie N. Feagins has made her first senior leader announcement, selecting celebrated attorney Justin Bailey to head the Office of General Counsel for Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS). Bailey is poised to lead the district’s legal team with distinction, ensuring continued legal and regulatory support for MSCS.

“Justin’s wealth of legal expertise and dedication to our community make him an ideal fit for our executive team,” said Superintendent Feagins. “I am confident that, under his guidance, the Office of General Counsel will continue to thrive." 

Bailey, a lifelong Memphian, brings a wealth of legal experience to his new role. He recently joined Bailey & Bailey Law Firm in 2023 after serving as Associate General Counsel for Compliance at Varsity Spirit. Previously, he was Senior Counsel – Litigation at FedEx Freight and Litigation Counsel at International Paper. His career also includes a tenure as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee.

Bailey began his legal career at The Hardison Law Firm, focusing on civil litigation. He holds a B.A. from Clark University and a Juris Doctorate from Washington University School of Law. Active in the community, Bailey serves on the boards of Meritan and the Memphis Housing Authority. His accolades include recognition by Ebony magazine as one of its “30 Leaders of the Future” and by the National Bar Association as one of the “Nation’s Best Advocates: 40 Lawyers Under 40.”

Bailey will commence his duties today, with outgoing General Counsel Odell Horton, Jr. remaining on board to ensure a smooth and efficient transition.