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Staff Spotlight: Kara Spurbeck
Taylor King was named one of 2020’s Men of Distinction by AY (About You) Magazine. He was honored to be one of only 26 men chosen from across the state of Arkansas for the inaugural list.
This exclusive listing highlights Arkansas men who have distinguished themselves from the crowd. “It is both a celebration and elevation of the original talents and traits that the men of Arkansas possess — no matter the vocation,” said AY.
Find the digital version of his interview with AY here: Taylor King, Men of Distinction.
As part of the feature, Mr. King was asked to reflect on his early life and career. Keep reading to learn a little more about the founder of Taylor King Law.
Q&A with Taylor King
- Name: Taylor King
- Education: Ouachita Baptist University – B.A. Political Science, History. University of Arkansas School of Law – Juris Doctorate.
- Hometown (and when you moved to Arkansas): Arkadelphia, 1966
- Favorite restaurant/bar: Cheers in the Heights
- Favorite quote to live by: “We must, indeed, all hang together or, most assuredly, we shall all hang separately.” (Benjamin Franklin)
- What, in your mind, does it mean to be a “good man?” A man who works hard to provide for his family, who serves his neighbor and community.
- What quality do you most admire in other men? Wisdom, discernment, and experience.
- What accomplishment are you most proud of? 35 years of happy marriage to my wife, Terri Smithson King.
- What’s something others would be surprised to know about you? I attended 3 high schools. I was a Bobcat, Razorback, and Go-Devil.
- What do you love most about what you do? Creating systems.
- What do you hope to be remembered for? Being a good husband, great father, and honest lawyer.
- What person, past or present, do you admire most? President Jimmy Carter.
- What is your advice to others who want to follow in your footsteps? Your reputation is your greatest asset.
- Favorite hobbies? Playing golf, reading, and (most recently) chicken farming.
In Taylor’s own words:
I was born in Texarkana and lived there until the age of six. By the time I graduated high school, I had lived in Camden, Fort Smith, Hope, Texarkana, and Gurdon. All that moving had advantages and disadvantages. I learned how to be flexible and make new friends, but I never felt that I had deep roots in any place. I found those roots in Arkadelphia, where my wife, Terri, and I moved after law school. It’s also where we started our family. We have two beautiful children, Austin (30) and Margaret “Maggie” (27), along with our wonderful daughter-in-law Jillian and son-in-law Kyle. We also have two grandchildren, Taylor Woods (2), and Benjamin Andrew (2 weeks).
I started my law firm in 1994 after practicing with another firm for eight years. My goal is always to push myself to be the best I can be. I recognize that God has given me certain talents, and I want to steward them well.
Growing my business to a statewide law firm has been one of my proudest accomplishments. It’s not a stress-free job; there are always challenges and pressures. But I focus on fighting the good fight, advocating for what is right and just. While I have made mistakes and miscalculations along the way, I am proud that my law firm does good work. My team helps people in real, tangible ways. We work hard to be worthy of the trust we receive.
