Janika White

Janika White is a proud native and lifelong Memphian whose roots run deep in the city she loves fiercely. A graduate of Central High School, the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, and the University of Tennessee College of Law, Janika’s academic journey laid the foundation for her unwavering commitment to justice and service. Her career ignited when she clerked for the Honorable Kenny Armstrong at the Chancery Court for Shelby County and reached new heights under the mentorship of the Honorable Bernice B. Donald at the United States District Court for the Western District of Tennessee.

For nearly a decade, Janika honed her craft alongside the legendary Walter Bailey, where she tackled high-profile cases and mastered the intricacies of criminal defense and civil litigation. As a fearless and tenacious litigator, she has earned a reputation for passionately advocating for her clients, ensuring their constitutional rights are fiercely protected, and delivering personalized, detail-oriented representation every step of the way.

Janika’s dedication to justice is matched only by her devotion to her community. Raised in a family of educators, activists, and faith leaders, service is woven into the fabric of her being. Her parents, John and Anita White, dedicated nearly 40 years to shaping young minds as educators in Memphis City Schools. Her uncle, the late Reverend Ralph “Uncle Pokey” White, was a towering figure in the Memphis community, championing reform and justice through his work with Citizens for Community Values of Memphis, the Shelby County Domestic Violence Task Force, and more. Walking alongside him, Janika absorbed his tireless spirit of advocacy and commitment to creating a better Memphis.

Beyond the courtroom, Janika’s influence stretches far and wide. She is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, the National Bar Association Ben F. Jones Chapter, Leo Bearman Inn of Court, Tennessee Trial Lawyers, and the Memphis Bar Association. She chairs Bloomfield Urban Ministries and serves on the Board for Economic Opportunities of Memphis, exemplifying her commitment to uplifting others and driving meaningful change.

Today, Janika continues her journey of impact as a member of the Memphis City Council, representing Super District 8 Seat 2. A force for positive change, she fights tirelessly to ensure the welfare, progress, and prosperity of Memphis’ diverse and dynamic communities. Janika White is not just an attorney or a public servant—she is a relentless advocate for justice and a beacon of hope for the city she proudly calls home.