William Starks  is a native of Starkville, Mississippi.  Starks received his Political Science degree from Mississippi State University in 1996.  He then attended law school at the University of Mississippi School of Law, graduating cum laude in 2000.  

 

Upon graduation in 2000, Starks began his practice with the law firm of Edmondson, Biggs & Mozingo in Jackson, Mississippi.  In 2002, he practiced in Starkville and Columbus with various firms  until hanging out his own shingle in 2013, with the Starks Law Firm, in Columbus.   Starks has been recognized as Super Lawyers® in 2023 and Top 100 Lawyers  in America in Criminal Defense.  Prior to joining the District Attorney’s Office, he also served as the  Lowndes County Prosecuting Attorney from 2021-2024 and the Town attorney for the Town of Artesia.  

 

In January,  2024, Starks joined District Attorney Scott Colom’s staff.  Starks has been actively involved with the bar and community, serving as the Lowndes County Bar Treasurer, a member of the Board of Trustees and Church Council at First Methodist Church in Columbus.   He is also active with youth sports, being active in the Columbus Soccer Organization serving as the Treasurer and currently as a volunteer coach of a  travel soccer team.   Starks also served as a volunteer coach for the Heritage Academy Pee Wee Football team for two years.   

 

Starks is married to Danette West Starks, who is an investment advisor at Nickels Wealth Management in Columbus, Mississippi.  He has three children (Sadie, Sophie and Sam).  Starks’’ hobbies include attending sporting events, traveling, and spending time with his family.