KC Reporter

Governor Mike Parson has announced several judicial appointments across Missouri's 11th, 25th, and 29th Judicial Circuits.

William M. Byrnes from Wentzville is set to become an Associate Circuit Judge for the 11th Judicial Circuit. Byrnes owns Byrnes Law Firm and holds degrees from Southeast Missouri State University and Thomas M. Cooley Law School. He will replace the Honorable Matt Thornhill, who was elected as Circuit Judge.

Denise L. Childress of St. Charles will also join the 11th Judicial Circuit as an Associate Circuit Judge. Childress runs Childress Legal, LLC and graduated from Truman State University and St. Louis University with degrees in justice systems and law respectively. She fills the vacancy left by the election of Honorable Dwayne Johnson as Circuit Judge.

Peter A. Lassiter from New Melle is appointed to serve as an Associate Circuit Judge for the same circuit. Owner of St. Thomas Legal, LLC, Lassiter studied at St. Louis University and the University of Missouri–Columbia in philosophy and law respectively. His appointment follows Erin S. Burlison's elevation to Circuit Judge.

Brendon Fox of Rolla has been named a Circuit Judge for the 25th Judicial Circuit after serving as Phelps County Prosecuting Attorney. Fox completed his studies at Stanford University and the University of Missouri­–Columbia in sociology, art history, and law respectively, succeeding Honorable John D. Beger who retired.

Nicole M. Carlton from Carthage will take on the role of Associate Circuit Judge for the 29th Judicial Circuit. Carlton leads Carlton Law Firm, LLC with academic credentials from the University of Arkansas­–Fayetteville in business administration and law fields, filling Joseph L. Hensley's position following his unopposed election as a Circuit Judge.