Whitney S. Payne brings a powerful blend of legal skill, clinical expertise, and deep compassion to her role as a Trial Attorney at Payne Law Firm. A Licensed Certified Social Worker and Advanced Alcohol & Drug Counselor, Whitney has devoted her career to helping individuals and families navigate the challenges of addiction and recovery. Today, she applies that experience to criminal defense—advocating for clients with insight, empathy, and unwavering determination.

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Before becoming an attorney, Whitney served as a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Arkansas School of Social Work, teaching courses on addiction, drug policy, and family dynamics. She supervised graduate student field placements, designed impactful curricula, and presented at national conferences on harm reduction and substance use treatment. Her background as an educator helps her translate complex legal issues into language her clients can understand—empowering them to make informed decisions about their futures.

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Whitney’s prior work as Treatment Coordinator at the Northwest Arkansas Community Correction Center further shaped her approach to advocacy. There, she supervised substance-abuse program leaders, facilitated psycho-educational groups, and developed individualized treatment plans for individuals struggling with addiction. This rare, hands-on experience gives Whitney a unique perspective in criminal defense: she understands both the legal and human sides of every case.

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Her commitment to community impact extends beyond her clients. Whitney has served on key statewide committees—including the Arkansas Maternal Mortality Review Committee and the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program Committee—helping shape policy at the intersection of health and justice.

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Outside the office, Whitney is an avid reader who loves exploring new ideas, spending time with her family, and engaging in meaningful service within the Northwest Arkansas community.

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Empathetic yet formidable, Whitney meets every case with thorough preparation, clear communication, and a deep belief that people are more than their worst moment. Whether advocating in the courtroom or advising across the table, she is a steady guide and a fierce protector of her clients’ futures.