Throughout the day Tuesday, the Newton County Historic Courthouse was dotted with protestors concerning Newton County’s Attorney Tommy Craig.

Around noon about a half dozen protestors held signs asking for the Board of Commissioners to replace Craig. Later that afternoon protestors arrived supporting Craig as the attorney.

Craig has been Newton County’s attorney for almost 40 years, and has come under scrutiny for the county's high attorney bills.

Throughout the first quarter of fiscal year 2016, the county spent $317,000 on legal fees, which were budgeted for $577,800 for the entire year. The county has also spent more than $1 million on legal fees in the past two fiscal years.

The county’s legal fees have also gained more publicity lately with 11Alive investigative reporter Catie Beck airing three segments on the matter.

The cameras of 11Alive were at the courthouse again Tuesday evening.

Discussion of the legal fees is not on Tuesday evening’s agenda, but the topic is expected to at least come up in public comments. On Facebook, the Newton Conservative Liberty Alliance political group is asking for a protest at 5 p.m.