Judge James L. Bethshares, a native of Rutherford County, Tenn. was born in October 1832 and is a son of William S. Bethshares and Martha L. Bethshares, nee, Johnston, both parents being Virginias by birth the mother still living and a resident of Paducah. The father died in Rutherford County, Tenn. in 1848, and a few years later the family removed to West Tennessee, where in the Cageville Academy, James L. was chiefly edcuated, and was admitted to the bar in 1875.  Since his admission to the bar, Judge Bethshares has devoted himself exclusively to his profession, for which he possesses a natural fitness. In 1882, he was the choice of the people of McCracken County for Judge of the county courts, and is now occupying that office with credit to himself and acceptance to the people. He is an honored member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South. He was married in February, 1870, to Miss Felicia A. Hand, daughter of Henry Hand, of Paducah, Ky. It is but justice to Judge Bethshares to say that he has risen to the position of professional honor as the result of his own native energy and perseverance. His gentlemanly and courteous treatment to all has surrounded him with a large circle of admiring friends.