APPLICATION OF _ROBIN RANSOM______(name)
TO THE APPELLATE JUDICIAL COMMISSION FOR THE JUDGE STITH VACANCY SUPREME COURT OF MISSOURI
RESPONSES TO THESE QUESTIONS, INCLUDING ANY ATTACHMENTS THERETO, WILL BE MADE PUBLIC IF THE APPLICANT IS NOMINATED FOR THIS VACANCY
1. State your principal occupation, place of work, and job title: Judge, Missouri Court of Appeals – Eastern District, Appellate Judge
2. Provide the following information concerning your eligibility for this position:
(a) Have you been a citizen of the United States for at least 15 years? Yes
(b) Have you been a qualified voter of Missouri for at least nine consecutive years immediately preceding your application? Yes
(c) Are you at least 30 years of age? Yes
3. List each state, court, or agency in which you are licensed as an attorney, and, for each, the date you were admitted, your bar number, and whether your license is in good standing. If any license is not in good standing, explain.
State of Missouri April 17, 1992 Bar No. 38911
My license is in good standing.
4. (a) State the name and address of all colleges and universities attended, other than law school, together with the dates and degrees received.
St. Louis Community College – Forest Park Campus • 5600 Oakland Avenue • St. Louis, MO 63110 • Spring Semester, 1984; Summer Semester, 1985 • Attended evenings during junior year of high school and the summer after high school graduation
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• Received 13 credit hours; no degree received
Saint Louis University • 1 North Grand Boulevard • St. Louis, MO 63103 • Fall Semester, 1984 • Advanced Placement/Honors History during my junior year of high school • Received 6 credit hours; no degree received
University of Missouri – St. Louis • 1 University Boulevard • St. Louis, MO 63121 • Summer Semester, 1986 • Attended during the summer after freshman year in college • Received 3 credit hours; no degree received
Douglass Residential College Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey • 100 George Street • New Brunswick, NJ 08901-1414 • August 1985 – May 1988 • Bachelor of Arts – Double Major (Political Science, Sociolgy)
(b) List/describe any college or university activities, scholastic achievements, and other awards or honors you think are relevant to the commission’s decision.
None
(c) If, as a student, you were suspended, placed on probation, or expelled by school authorities for any reason, describe the circumstances.
I was never suspended, placed on probation or expelled.
5. (a) State the name and address of all law schools attended, together with the dates and degrees received.
University of Missouri –Columbia School of Law • 820 Conley Avenue • Columbia, MO 65211 • August 1988 – May 1991 • Juris Doctor
(b) List/describe any law school activities, scholastic achievements, and other awards or honors you think are relevant to the commission’s decision.
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None
(c) If, as a student, you were suspended, placed on probation, or expelled by school authorities for any reason, describe the circumstances.
I was never suspended, placed on probation or expelled.
6. State, in chronological order (starting with the earliest employment), your significant non-law-related employment. To the extent reasonably available to you, include the name and address of each employer along with the dates of employment; the position held; whether the employment was full-time, part-time, or seasonal; and the reason the employment ceased.
St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department • 1915 Olive Street • St. Louis, MO 63103 • June – August 1986 • Data Processor • Summer/Part-time employment • Returned to college for sophomore year
St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department • 1915 Olive Street • St. Louis, MO 63103 • June – August 1988 • Intern, editing job descriptions in work manuals • Summer/Part-time employment • Left to attend law school
Board of Education – City of St. Louis • 811 North 11th Street • St. Louis, MO 63101 • September – December 1991 • Substitute Teacher • Part-time/as needed • Semester ended
7. State, in chronological order (starting with the earliest employment), all law-related employment. To the extent reasonably available to you, include the name and address of each employer along with the dates of employment; the position held (e.g., associate, partner, law clerk, general counsel); and the reason the employment ceased.
Evans & Dixon LLC • 211 North Broadway, Ste. #2500
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• St. Louis, MO 63102 • May – August 1989 • Summer Law Clerk • Summer/Part-time employment • Returned to 2nd year of law school
St. Louis County Public Defender’s Office – District 21 • 100 South Central Avenue, 2nd Floor • Clayton, MO 63105 • August 1992 – August 1995 • Assistant Public Defender • Left due to accepting position in the St. Louis Prosecuting Attorney’s Office
University of Missouri – St. Louis • 1 University Boulevard • St. Louis, MO 63121 • January – May 1993 • Adjunct Professor • Position was a one semester assignment • Semester ended
St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office • 100 South Central Avenue, 2nd Floor • Clayton, MO 63105 • September 1995 – September 1996 • Assistant Prosecuting Attorney • Left due to accepting position in the Family Court – Juvenile Division, 21st Circuit
St. Louis County Family Court – Juvenile Division • 105 South Central (Courts Building) • Clayton, MO 63105 • October 1996 – December 2002 • Staff Attorney - Legal Department • Left due to appointment as Family Court Commissioner – 22nd Judicial Circuit
Circuit Court – 22nd Judicial Circuit Family Court – Juvenile Division • 920 N. Vandeventer Boulevard • St. Louis, MO 63108 • December 27, 2002 – September 11, 2008 • Family Court Commissioner • Left due to appointment to the position of Circuit Judge for the 22nd Judicial Circuit
Circuit Court - 22nd Judicial Circuit • Civil Courts Building • 10 N. Tucker Boulevard
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• St. Louis, MO 63101 • Circuit Judge • Appointed by Governor Matt Blunt • September 11, 2008 to January 9, 2019 • Served as Assistant Presiding Judge, Administrative Judge of the Family Court and Juvenile Court Judge • Unanimously elected by peers at September 24, 2018 Court En banc meeting to serve as Presiding Judge, effective January 1, 2019 Left due to appointment to the position of Appellate Judge for the Missouri Court Appeals – Eastern District
Missouri Court of Appeals – Eastern District • One Post Office Square • 815 Olive Street • St. Louis, MO 63101 • Appellate Judge • Appointed by Governor Michael Parson • January 9, 2019 to present • Currently serving as Assistant Chief Judge; also serving on the Executive, Budget and Public Information Committees of the Court
8. Describe the nature of your experience in trial and appellate courts and explain how such experience demonstrates the quality of your legal work. (You may take as much space as you need here. It is your responsibility to redact any confidential information.) Include in your response:
a) Appellate Experience: Include a representative list of cases you have briefed and/or argued (if you are a judge, include representative cases from your practice prior to your judicial appointment) including, to the extent reasonably available to you, the style, date, and court and, if published, the citation; identify the client(s) you represented and opposing counsel; and give a one-paragraph description of the case and your role.
Special Judge Assignment to Missouri Supreme Court:
On September 9, 2019, I was appointed to serve as a special judge on the Supreme Court case of Gary Gentry v. Orkin LLC and Danny Biron, SC97696. I reviewed the briefs, depositions, trial transcripts, trial court judgments and other accompanying documents in preparation for the oral arguments. On October 23, 2019, I sat with the Court En Banc for the argument and had the opportunity to ask questions of the litigants.
Special Judge Assignment to the Court of Appeals – Eastern District:
On September 21, 2017, in the Eastern District Court of Appeals, I was appointed to serve as special judge on an appellate panel on two cases before the Court: State of Missouri v.
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Carlos Kimbrough, 529 S.W.3d 930 (Mo.App. E.D. 2017), and Robin Barnes v. Treasurer of Missouri as Custodian of Second Injury Fund and Park Express, LLC Respondent, 532 S.W.3d 751 (Mo.App. E.D. 2017). I reviewed the briefs, depositions and accompanying documents in preparation for the arguments which were held at the St. Louis University High School. I served alongside Chief Judge James M. Dowd and Judge Lawrence Mooney. I participated in oral arguments and had the opportunity to question counsel and to confer with the other two judicial members of the panel before decisions were rendered.
BRIEFS:
1. State of Missouri v. Oscar L. Young, 869 S.W.2d (Mo.App. E.D. 1993) • Attorney for Appellant • Opposing Counsel – Asst. Attorney General Jennifer A. Glancy
I represented Appellant Oscar Young in his appeal after he was convicted by a jury of the Class C Felony of Assault 2nd Degree and the unclassified felony of Armed Criminal Action. The Court ruled on the basis of the record and briefs submitted.
2. Long v. Seely, 975 S.W.2d 208 (Mo.App. E.D. 1998) • Attorney for Respondent • Wrote Arguments V & VI of Respondent’s Brief • Opposing Counsel – Sarah Pleban
Carol Long, grandparent to two juveniles in foster care and under the Court’s jurisdiction, sought to intervene in the care and protection case. Her motion was denied and she appealed. I wrote two arguments of the brief. I also had the opportunity to argue the case in Division III of the Missouri Court of Appeals – Eastern District, on June 10, 1998. The Court held that grandmother had standing to appeal and that no evidence was presented to rebut the presumption that grandmother had the right to intervene. The case was reversed and remanded.
3. In the Interest of M.M.H., 16 S.W.3d 721 (Mo.App. E.D. 2000) • Attorney for Respondent • Opposing Counsel – John Bird • Guardian ad Litem – Rene Lusser
I represented the Respondent/Juvenile Officer of the St. Louis County Family Court in an appeal of natural mother. Appellant, biological mother of four juveniles, appealed the judgment of Commissioner Chester B. Hayes, adopted by Judge Melvyn Wiesman, terminating her parental rights to the said minor children. The Court of Appeals affirmed.
4. In the Interest of A. M., 39 S.W.3d 556 (Mo.App. E.D. 2001) • Attorney for Respondent • Opposing Counsel – Catherine W. Keefe
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I represented the Respondent/Juvenile Officer of the St. Louis County Family Court. Appellant, biological mother of the minor child, appealed the termination of her parental rights. The mother’s rights were terminated primarily due the Court’s finding that the natural mother placed the minor child at risk of physical harm on more than one occasion due to mother’s excessive drinking. The termination was affirmed.
5. In the Interest of M.J.P., 50 S.W.3d 323 (Mo.App. E.D. 2001) • Attorney for Respondent • Opposing Counsel – David Porta • Guardian ad Litem – Margaret Donnelly
I represented the Respondent/Juvenile Officer of the St. Louis County Family Court in an appeal of natural mother. The mother’s parental rights were terminated due to her psychological and psychiatric issues which prevented her from providing the juvenile with a stable living environment. The termination was affirmed.
6. In the Interest of C.L.W., 46 S.W.3d 612 (Mo.App. E.D. 2001) • Attorney for Respondent • Opposing Counsel – John Bird • Opposing Counsel – David Porta
I represented the Respondent/Juvenile Officer of the St. Louis County Family Court in an appeal of both parents. The parents’ rights were terminated on the grounds of abuse & neglect and failure to rectify. The termination was affirmed.
7. In the Interest of T.N.H., 70 S.W.3d (Mo.App. E.D. 2002) • Attorney for Respondent • Opposing Counsel – Kayla Vaughn • Guardian ad Litem – William Grant
I represented the Respondent/Juvenile Officer of the St. Louis County Family Court in an appeal by natural mother. Mother argued that the Court lacked jurisdiction to proceed due to a lack of service. I argued the case on September 26, 2001 in Division 5 of the Missouri Court of Appeals – Eastern District. The judgment was affirmed.
8. In the Interest of C.W. and M.W., 71 S.W.3d 244 (Mo.App. E.D. 2002) • Attorney for Respondent • Opposing Counsel – David Porta
I represented the Respondent/Juvenile Officer of the St. Louis County Family Court in an appeal of natural mother. The Court terminated mother’s parental rights to her two minor children on the grounds of abuse & neglect, failure to rectify and 15 of 22. The termination was affirmed.
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9. In the Interest of D.F.G., III., 87 S.W.3d 890 (Mo.App. E.D. 2002) • Attorney for Respondent • Opposing Counsel – Brian Seltzer
I represented the Respondent/Juvenile Officer of the St. Louis County Family Court in an appeal of the natural parents. The Court terminated the parents’ parental rights to the minor child on the grounds of abuse & neglect and abandonment. The termination was affirmed.
10. In the Interest of S.R.W., 92 S.W.3d 323 (Mo.App. E.D. 2002) • Attorney for Respondent • Opposing Counsel – John Bird
I represented the Respondent/Juvenile Officer of the St. Louis County Family Court in an appeal of natural father. The Court terminated father’s parental rights to the minor child on the grounds of abuse & neglect, failure to rectify and 15 of 22. The termination was affirmed.
11. In the Interest of C.R.H., 99 S.W.3d 32 (Mo.App. E.D. 2003) • Attorney for Respondent • Opposing Counsel – David Shaller (deceased) • Guardian ad Litem – Celeste Endicott
I represented the Respondent/Juvenile Officer of the St. Louis County Family Court in an appeal of the natural father. The Father did not appeal the grounds for termination. Father appealed the finding by the Court that termination of his parental rights was in the child’s best interest. The termination was affirmed.
12. In the Interest of Z.Z., 108 S.W.3d 722 (Mo.App. E.D. 2003) • Attorney for Respondent • Opposing Counsel – Laura Sidel
I represented Respondent/Juvenile Officer of the St. Louis County Family Court in an appeal of natural mother. The Court terminated the parental rights of mother on the grounds of abandonment, abuse & neglect, failure to rectify and 15 of 22. The termination was affirmed. b) Trial-Level Experience: Include a representative list of cases and/or administrative hearings you have handled (if you are a judge, include representative cases from your practice prior to your judicial appointment) including, to the extent reasonably available to you, the style, date, and court; identify who you represented and opposing counsel; state whether the case was disposed of following a jury trial, bench trial or at what other stage; and give a one-paragraph description of the case and your role.
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JURY TRIAL EXPERIENCE:
1. STATE OF MISSOURI V. CHRISTOPHER WILLIAMS • 2192R-06144-01 • January 11, 1994 • Division 14 of the 21st Judicial Circuit • Represented Defendant • Asst. Prosecuting Attorney – Steve MacDonnell • Jury Trial • Defendant charged with felony stealing. Found Guilty.
2. STATE OF MISSOURI V. SAMUEL GILL • 22921-03025-01 • September 7 – 8, 1994 • Division 20 of the 22nd Judicial Circuit • Represented Defendant • Asst. Circuit Attorney – John Tucci • Jury Trial • Defendant charged with felony possession. Found Not Guilty.
3. STATE OF MISSOURI V. PERRY F. BAKER • 2192R-01365-01 • September 27 – 28, 1994 • Division 10 of the 21st Judicial Circuit • Asst. Prosecuting Attorney – Bret Rich • Jury Trial • Defendant charged with Stealing a Motor Vehicle and Leaving the Scene felonies. Hung jury and mistrial declared.
4. STATE OF MISSOURI V. RAYMOND HARRELL • 2195R-00659-01 • June 28 – 29, 1995 • Division 12 of the 21st Judicial Circuit • Asst. Prosecuting Attorney Steve MacDonnell • Jury Trial • Defendant charged with Burglary 1st and Stealing misdemeanor. Defendant convicted of lesser included Trespass 1st and the Stealing misdemeanor.
BENCH TRIAL EXPERIENCE:
1. IN RE E. T. • Cause No. 0103520 • January 2, 1998 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair
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• Juvenile’s Attorney – Steven Dyer • Bench Trial • Juvenile was charged with a misdemeanor. Allegations found true.
2. IN RE W. H. • Cause No. 0103528 • January 7, 1998 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Juvenile’s Attorney – Asst. Public Defender Rosemary McGuire • Bench Trial • Juvenile was charged with a misdemeanor. Allegations found true.
3. IN RE P. E. • Cause No. 0103639 • January 9, 1998 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Guardian ad Litem – Deborah Henry • Mother’s Attorney – Mark Kruger • Bench Trial • Case involved allegations of neglect against mother for lack of supervision and improper care. Allegations found true.
4. IN RE J. P. • Cause No. 0102612 • January 13, 1998 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Juvenile’s Attorney – Asst. Public Defender Jacqueline Kutnik-Bauder • Bench Trial • Juvenile was charged with a misdemeanor assault. Allegations found true.
5. IN RE J.S., N.S., D.D. & D.M. • Cause No. 0103182, 0103183, 0103184 and 0103185 • January 27, 1998 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Guardian ad Litem – Glenn Hunt • Father’s Attorney – Jody Wolff (deceased) • Father’s Attorney – Jack Cavanaugh • Mother’s Attorney Dennis Curland
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• Mother’s Attorney – Patrick Howe • Bench Trial • Mother was charged with neglect by driving while intoxicated, having an accident and the children suffered severe injuries. Allegations found true.
6. IN RE C.R. • Cause No. 0103449 • January 29, 1998 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Juvenile’s Attorney – William Grant • Bench Trial • Juvenile was charged with Statutory Sodomy. Allegations found not true.
7. IN RE S.B. • Cause No. 0103899 • February 10, 1998 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Juvenile’s Attorney – Earlyne Thomas • Bench Trial • Juvenile was charged with the Class C felony of Assault. Allegations found true.
8. IN RE H.P. • Cause No. 0103670 • March 20, 1998 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Guardian ad Litem – Deborah Henry • Mother’s Attorney – Ellen Siwak • Father’s Attorney – John Gumersell • Bench Trial • Father was charged with sexual abuse of juvenile. Allegations found true.
9. IN RE A.D. • Cause No. 0103968 • April 9, 1998 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Guardian ad Litem – Margaret Donnelly • Bench Trial • Mother was charged with physical abuse of the juvenile. Allegations found true.
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10. IN RE D. P. • Cause No. 0105296 • April 16, 1998 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile officer • 1st Chair • Juvenile’s Attorney – Carolyn Whitehorn • Bench Trial • Juvenile was charged with violation of his court order. Disposition unknown.
11. IN RE Z. S. • Cause No. 0104331 • April 21, 1998 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Guardian ad Litem – David Shaller (deceased) • Father’s Attorney – James Whitney • Bench Trial • Father was charged with physical abuse of the juvenile. Allegations found true.
12. IN RE J. J., M. P., & S.K. • Cause No. 0104341, 0104342 and 0104343 • April 30, 1998 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Juvenile’s Attorney – David Shaller (deceased) • Juvenile’s Attorney – Michael Burton • Juvenile’s Attorney – Asst. Public Defender Katherine Di’Traglia • Bench Trial • Juveniles were charged as co-defendants in a burglary second degree case. The allegations were amended to misdemeanor trespass and misdemeanor stealing. The allegations were found true.
13. IN RE S. B. • Cause No. 0103811 • May 12, 1998 • Division 61 of the St. Louis Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Guardian ad Litem – Dorothy Schuchat • Father’s Attorney – John Bird • Mother’s Attorney – Brian Seltzer • Bench Trial
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• Parents were charged with neglect. Allegations found true.
14. IN RE J. R. • Cause No. 0104568 • June 9, 1998 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Juvenile’s Attorney – William Grant • Bench Trial • Juvenile was charged with statutory sodomy. Allegations found true.
15. IN RE J. J. • Cause No. 0104635 • June 16, 1998 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Juvenile’s Attorney – Asst. Public Defender Mary Flanagan Dean • Bench Trial • Juvenile charged with the felony of Statutory Sodomy. The Court found the lesser included misdemeanor of sexual misconduct.
16. IN RE E. H. & A. D. • Cause No. 0104767 & 0104768 • July 9, 1998 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Juvenile’s Attorney – Asst. Public Defender Annette Llewellyn • Juvenile’s Attorney – Asst. Public Defender Jeff Goldfarb • Bench Trial • Juveniles were co-defendants charged with the Class C Felony of Tampering 1st Degree. Allegations found true.
17. IN RE A. M. • Cause No. 0104809 • July 31, 1998 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Juvenile’s Attorney – Asst. Public Defender Annette Llewellyn • Bench Trial • Juvenile was charged with misdemeanor assault. Allegations found true.
18. IN RE M. S.
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• Cause No. 0101795 • August 7, 1998 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Guardian ad Litem – Dennis Curland • Father’s Attorney – Margaret Donnelly • Mother’s Attorney – Timothy Walk • Bench Trial • Mother was charged with violating a prior custody and visitation order of the family court. The allegations were found true.
19. IN RE K. S. • Cause No. 0104729 • August 25, 1998 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Juvenile’s Attorney – Lawrence Wittels • Bench Trial • Juvenile was charged with Statutory Sodomy. Allegations found true.
20. IN RE M. K. • Cause No. 0103422 • October 5, 1998 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Guardian ad litem – Margaret Donnelly • Bench Trial • Mother was charged with contempt for violating an order of the family court. • Mother held in contempt of court.
21. IN RE D. W., D. W. & K. W. • Cause No. 0104481, 0104482 & 0104763 • October 15, 1998 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Guardian ad Litem – Timothy Walk • Mother’s Attorney – John Bird • Father’s Attorney – Rene Lusser • Bench Trial • Mother was charged with neglect/leaving the juvenile without proper care and supervision. The allegations were found true.
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22. IN RE T. S. • Cause No. 99824 • December 10, 1998 • Division 19 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Juvenile’s Attorney – Asst. Public Defender Jacqueline Kutnik-Bauder • Bench Trial • Presented case before the court for the certification of the juvenile to stand trial as an adult. Juvenile certified for the Class C Felony offense of Burglary 2nd degree.
23. IN RE M. W. • Cause No. 0105409 • December 10, 1998 • Division 19 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Juvenile’s Attorney – Asst. Public Defender Jacqueline Kutnik-Bauder • Bench Trial • Presented case before the court for the certification of the juvenile to stand trial as an adult. Juvenile certified for the Class C Felony offense of Burglary 2nd degree.
24. IN RE R. M. • Cause No. 0105462 • December 14, 1998 • Division 19 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Juvenile’s Attorney – Asst. Public Defender Jacqueline Kutnik-Bauder • Bench Trial • Presented case before the court for the certification of the juvenile to stand trial as an adult. Juvenile certified for the Class A Felony of Forcible Sodomy.
25. IN RE I. W. • Cause No. 0103660 • December 17, 1998 • Division 19 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Juvenile’s Attorney – Earlyne Thomas • Bench Trial • Presented case before the court for the certification of the juvenile to stand trial as an adult. Juvenile certified for the Class A Felony of Assault 1st Degree.
26. IN RE W. W.
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• Cause No. 0105912 • January 7, 1999 • Division 19 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Juvenile’s Attorney – John Bird • Bench Trial • Presented case before the court for the certification of the juvenile to stand trial as an adult. Certification denied.
27. IN RE M. W. • Cause No. 0105912 • January 7, 1999 • Division 19 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Juvenile’s Attorney – William Grant • Bench Trial • Presented case before the court for the certification of the juvenile to stand trial as an adult. Juvenile certified for the Class B Felony of Burglary 1st Degree and the Class C Felony of Assault 1st Degree.
28. IN RE M. L. • Cause No. 0106032 • February 11, 1999 • Division 19 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Juvenile’s Attorney – Asst. Public Defender Tracey Coyle • Bench Trial • Juvenile was charged with misdemeanor assault and the status offense of being a runaway. Allegations were found true.
29. IN RE G. H. • Cause No. 0106246 • February 18, 1999 • Division 19 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Juvenile’s Attorney – Harvey Feldman • Bench Trial • Presented case before the court for the certification of the juvenile to stand trial as an adult. Juvenile certified for the felony of Statutory Sodomy.
30. IN RE K. J. • Cause No. 85805
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• March 2, 1999 • Division 19 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Guardian ad Litem – Timothy Walk • Bench Trial • Custodian of the juvenile refused custody due to the juvenile’s failure to abide by rules. Allegations found true and juvenile placed in a residential facility.
31. IN RE C. H. • Cause No. 0106352 • April 1, 1999 • Division 19 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Juvenile’s Attorney – Earlyne Thomas • Bench Trial • Presented case before the court for the certification of the juvenile to stand trial as an adult. Juvenile certified for the Class C Felony of Stealing.
32. IN RE L. O. • Cause No. 0102987 • April 8, 1999 • Division 19 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Guardian ad Litem – Margaret Donnelly • Bench Trial • Mother petitioned the court to regain custody of the juvenile who had been placed with a residential facility due to lack of supervision by the mother. Mother’s motion denied.
33. IN RE E. D. • Cause No. 0106576 • May 6, 1999 • Division 19 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Juvenile’s Attorney – Patrick Conroy • Bench Trial • Presented case before the court for the certification of the juvenile to stand trial as an adult. Juvenile certified for the Class B Felony of Distribution of a Controlled Substance and the Class C Felony of Possession of a Controlled Substance.
34. IN RE C. B. • Cause No. 0106268
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• May 21, 1999 • Division 19 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Guardian ad litem – Dennis Curland • Bench Trial • Mother was charged with abandoning her son. Allegations found true.
35. IN RE A. S. • Cause No. 0106839 • June 3, 1999 • Division 19 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Juvenile’s Attorney – Michael Mullen • Bench Trial • Presented case before the court for the certification of the juvenile to stand trial as an adult. Certification denied.
36. IN RE S. S. • Cause No. 0106857 • June 3, 1999 • Division 19 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Juvenile’s Attorney – Barry Forman • Bench Trial • Presented case before the court for the certification of the juvenile to stand trial as an adult. Juvenile certified for the Class B Felony of Distribution of a Controlled Substance.
37. IN RE A. C. • Cause No. 0103673 • December 1, 2, 8, 9 and 14, 1999 • Division 19 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Guardian ad Litem – Marjorie Carter • Attorney for Mother – Timothy Walk • Attorney for Foster Parents – John Bird • Attorney for Division of Family Services – Bruce Antrum • Bench Trial • Termination of parental rights hearing. The foster parents sought the termination of parental rights of the natural mother to the juvenile in order that they might pursue adoption. The Deputy Juvenile Officer and mother’s attorney fought against
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termination. The Court held that there were sufficient grounds upon which to terminate the mother’s parental rights and said rights were terminated.
38. IN RE A. W. • Cause No. 0107923 • January 5, 2000 • Division 62 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Juvenile’s Attorney – Asst. Public Defender Jacqueline Kutnik-Bauder • Bench Trial • Juvenile was charged with 2 counts of misdemeanor assault. • Allegations found true.
39. IN RE D. T. • Cause No. 0107586 • January 27, 2000 • Division 62 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Juvenile’s Attorney – Asst. Public Defender Jacqueline Kutnik-Bauder • Bench Trial • Juvenile was charged with misdemeanor property damage • Allegations found true.
40. IN RE A. M., G. J. & K. S. • Cause No. 0108228, 0108229 and 0108230 • March 22, 2000 • Division 62 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Guardian ad Litem – Celeste Endicott • Mother’s Attorney – Christopher Braeske • Bench Trial • Mother was accused of physical abuse. Allegations found true.
41. IN RE M. D. • Cause No. 0107951 • March 23, 2000 • Division 62 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Juvenile’s Attorney – Asst. Public Defender Jacqueline Kutnik • Bench Trial • Juvenile was charged with the Felony of Tampering 1st Degree • Allegations found true.
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42. IN RE M. J., R. J. & R. H. • Cause No. 0106731, 0106732 and 0106733 • April 12, 2000 • Division 62 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Guardian ad Litem – Dennis Curland • Bench Trial • Parents accused of physical abuse. Allegations found true.
43. IN RE T. S. • Cause No. 0108339 • May 12, 2000 • Division 62 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Guardian ad Litem – Timothy Walk • Bench Trial • Parents accused of educational neglect. Allegations found true.
44. IN RE J. H. • Cause No. 108457 • May 16, 2000 • Division 62 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Juvenile’s Attorney – John Bird • Bench Trial • Juvenile was charged with Assault 2nd Degree. The allegations were found true.
45. IN RE J. P. • Cause No. 0100411 • June 3, 2000 • Division 62 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Juvenile’s Attorney – Asst. Public Defender Jacqueline Kutnik-Bauder • Bench Trial • Juvenile was charged with Statutory Rape of his sister. The allegations were not proven beyond a reasonable doubt and were dismissed.
46. IN RE S. H., K. H. & J. H. • Cause No. 0108405, 0108409 and 0108410 • June 13, 2000 • Division 62 of the St. Louis County Family Court
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• Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Guardian ad Litem – Christopher Braeske • Mother’s Attorney – David Porta • Bench Trial • Natural father of one juvenile was accused of physically abusing a sibling. All three children were members of the same household and thus removed from father’s custody. The allegations were found true.
47. IN RE L. G. AND C. G. • Cause No. 0108577, 0108578 • June 14, 2000 • Division 62 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Guardian ad Litem – Janice Palozola • Bench Trial • Parents were accused of the educational neglect of their children. The allegations were found true.
48. IN RE C. W., C. W. & C. W. • Cause No. 96688, 96687 and 0103651 • December 6, 2000 • Division 62 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – William Grant • Mother’s Attorney – Margaret Donnelly • The Court terminated the parental rights of both parents on the grounds of abuse & neglect and failure to rectify pursuant to 211.447 RSMo.
49. IN RE R. C. • Cause No. 0107026 • December 20, 2000 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – Linda Bates • The Court terminated the parents’ parental rights on the ground of abandonment pursuant to RSMo 211.447.
50. IN RE O. D. • Cause No. 0103818 • January 17, 2001
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• Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – Marjorie Carter • Father’s Attorney – Celeste Endicott • The Court terminated the parental rights of the parents on the grounds of abuse & neglect, failure to rectify and foster care for 15 of 22 months.
51. IN RE B. W. • Cause No. 0100391 • January 25, 2001 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – Margaret Donnelly • The Court terminated the mother’s parental rights on the grounds of abuse & neglect, abandonment and failure to rectify.
52. IN RE C. L. & A. M. • Cause No. 0106935 & 0106936 • February 8, 2001 • Division 65 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – Dorothy Schuchat • The Court terminated the parental rights of both parents on the grounds of abuse & neglect and abandonment.
53. IN RE M. H. • Cause No. 0108176 • February 22, 2001 • Division 62 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – Laura Sidel • The Court adjudicated the juvenile as an abandoned infant and terminated the parental rights of both parents pursuant to RSMo. 211.447.
54. IN RE A. A. • Cause No. 0107706 • February 22, 2001 • Division 62 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile
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Officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – Stanley Schechter • The Court terminated the parents’ parental rights on the grounds of abandonment and abuse & neglect pursuant to 211.447 RSMo.
55. IN RE V. J. • Cause No. 0108157 • March 8, 2001 • Division 65 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – Dennis Curland • The Court terminated the parental rights of both parents on the grounds of abandonment and abuse & neglect pursuant to RSMo. 211.447.
56. IN RE K. L. & T. B. • Cause No. 0106445 & 0105478 • March 20, 2001 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – David Shaller (deceased) • The Court terminated the parental rights of both parents on the grounds of abandonment, abuse & neglect, failure to rectify and foster care for 15 of 22 months pursuant to 211.447 RSMo.
57. IN RE K. C. • Cause No. 108218 • March 27, 2001 • Division 62 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – Laura Sidel • The Court terminated the parental rights of both parents on the grounds of abandonment and abuse & neglect pursuant to 211.447 RSMo.
58. IN RE F. T. • Cause No. 106354 • March 27, 2001 • Division 62 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer
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• 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – Dennis Curland • The Court terminated the mother’s parental rights on the grounds of abandonment, abuse & neglect, failure to rectify and 15 of 22 months pursuant to 211.447 RSMo.
59. IN RE A. B. • Cause no. 0108474 • March 27, 2001 • Division 62 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – Kimasa Sindel • The Court terminated the parental rights of both parents on the grounds of abandonment and abuse & neglect pursuant to 211.447 RSMo.
60. IN RE A. G. & M. D. • Cause No. 0100936 and 0100935 • April 10, 2001 • Division 62 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – Celeste Endicott • Mother’s Attorney – Laura Sidel • The Court terminated the parental rights of both parents on the grounds of abandonment, abuse & neglect, failure to rectify and 15 of 22 months in foster care pursuant to 211.447 RSMo.
61. IN RE C. W. & M. W. • Cause No. 0107113 & 0107112 • April 11, 2001 • Division 62 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – Derek Rudman • Parents’ Attorney – David Porta • The Court terminated the parental rights of both parents on the grounds of abuse & neglect, 15 of 22 months in foster care and failure to rectify pursuant to 211.447 RSMo.
62. IN RE K. C. • Cause No. 0108093 • April 12, 2001
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• Division 65 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – William Grant • The Court terminated the father’s parental rights of both parents on the ground of abandonment pursuant to 211.447 RSMo.
63. IN RE R. D. • Cause No. 0109081 • April 16, 2001 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – Janice Palozola • The Court adjudicated the juvenile as an abandoned infant and terminated the parental rights of both parents pursuant to 211.447 RSMo.
64. IN RE Z. B. • Cause No. 90539 • April 17, 2001 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – Laura Sidel • The Court terminated the parental rights of both parents on the grounds of abandonment, abuse & neglect, failure to rectify and foster care for 15 of 22 months pursuant to 211.447 RSMo.
65. IN RE K. B. • Cause No. 0107394 • April 17, 2001 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – John Bird • The Court terminated the parental rights of both parents on the grounds of abandonment, abuse & neglect and foster care for 15 of 22 months pursuant to 211.447 RSMo.
66. IN RE B. E. AND B. E. • Cause No. 0107722 and 0107771 • May 21, 2001
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• Division 62 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – Celeste Endicott • The Court terminated the parental rights of both parents on the grounds of abandonment, abuse & neglect, failure to rectify and 15 of 22 months in foster care pursuant to 211.447 RSMo.
67. IN RE Z. S. • Cause No. 108260 • May 22, 2001 • Division 62 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – Maria Perron • The Court terminated the parental rights of both parents on the grounds of abuse & neglect, foster care for 15 of 22 months and failure to rectify pursuant to 211.447 RSMo.
68. IN RE L. W. & W. J. • Cause No. 0105967 & 0105968 • June 14, 2001 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – Linda Colburn • Mother’s Attorney – William Grant • The Court terminated the parental rights of both parents on the grounds of abuse & neglect, failure to rectify and foster care for 15 of 22 months pursuant to 211.447 RSMo.
69. IN RE T. H. & C. H. • Cause No. 0107114 & 0107112 • June 15, 2001 • Division 65 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – Dennis Curland • Mother’s Attorney – Celeste Endicott • Father’s Attorney – Christopher Braeskse • The Court terminated the parental rights of both parents on the grounds of abuse & neglect, failure to rectify and foster care for 15 of 22 months, pursuant to RSMo.
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211.447 RSMo.
70. IN RE L. C. & M. C. • Cause No. 87849 & 0109424 • June 19, 2001 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem, Kimasa Sindel • The Court terminated the parental rights of both parents as to the juvenile on the grounds of abuse & neglect and failure to rectify pursuant to Section 211.447 RSMo. The Court adjudicated M.C. as an abandoned infant and terminated the parent rights of both parents.
71. IN RE C. T. • Cause No. 0108103 • June 19, 2001 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – Maria Perron • The Court terminated the parents’ parental rights on the grounds of abandonment, abuse & neglect and failure to rectify pursuant to 211.447 RSMo.
72. IN RE M. G. • Cause No. 0109583 • June 27, 2001 • Division 62 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – John Bird • The Court adjudicated the juvenile as an abandoned infant and terminated the parental rights of both parents pursuant to 211.447 RSMo.
73. IN RE A. S. • Cause No. 0109776 • July 6, 2001 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – Dorothy Schuchat • The Court terminated the father’s parental rights pursuant to 211.447 RSMo. in that
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father was convicted and incarcerated for the murder of the juvenile’s mother and sibling.
74. IN RE I. W., F. W., A. W. & F. I. • Cause No. 0103570, 0103569, 0103572 & 0103571 • July 11, 2001 • Division 62 of the St. Louis County Family Court • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad litem – Margaret Donnelly • Termination of parental rights matter. Disposition unknown.
75. IN RE K. D. & R. B. • Cause No. 0104149 & 0104150 • August 9, 2001 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – William P. Grant • The Court terminated the parental rights of both parents on the grounds of abandonment and failure to rectify pursuant to 211.447 RSMo.
76. IN RE J. J. • Cause No. 0109228 • August 9, 2001 • Division 65 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – Christopher Braeske • The Court adjudicated the child as an abandoned infant and terminated the parental rights of both parents pursuant to 211.447 RSMo.
77. IN E. S. • Cause No. 85384 • August 21, 2001 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – David Shaller (deceased) • The Court terminated the parental rights of both parents on the grounds of abandonment, abuse & neglect and 15 of 22 months in foster care pursuant to 211.447 RSMo.
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78. IN E. H. • Cause No. 0108638 • August 21, 2001 • Division 61 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad litem – Janice Palozola • The Court terminated the parental rights of the father on the grounds of abandonment and abuse & neglect pursuant to 211.447 RSMo.
79. IN RE J. M. • Cause No. 0108764 • October 5, 2001 • Division 65 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – William P. Grant • Mother’s Attorney – Dennis Curland • Father’s Attorney – Christopher Braeske • The Court terminated the parental rights of both parents on the grounds of abandonment, abuse & neglect and foster care for 15 of 22 months, pursuant to 211.447 RSMo.
80. IN RE D. M. • Cause No. 0109086 • October 25, 2001 • Division 8 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad litem – Doug Pribble • The Court terminated the father’s parental rights pursuant to 211.447 RSMo in that the father was convicted and incarcerated for the murder of the juvenile’s twin brother.
81. IN RE S. P. • Cause No. 0107739 • November 2, 2001 • Division 65 of the St. Louis County Family Court • Represented the Deputy Juvenile Officer • 1st Chair • Bench Trial • Guardian ad Litem – Christopher Braeske • Mother’s Attorney – Dorothy Schuchat
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• Father’s Attorney – David Porta • The Court terminated the father’s parental rights on the grounds of abuse & neglect, failure to rectify and abandonment, pursuant to 211.447 RSMo. c) Judicial Experience: If you are a judge, commissioner, or are serving or have served in other judicial capacity, describe the nature and extent of your judicial responsibilities, including the dates you have served as a judge at each level, the types of dockets you have handled and any special expertise you believe is relevant to your qualifications for the position for which you are applying.
I was born and raised in the Fairground Park neighborhood, located on the Northside of the City of St. Louis. My dad had always been a volunteer with children in the community, so when he retired from the fire department, he went to work at the Juvenile Court as a social worker. We used to drive by the Juvenile Court building and he encouraged me to get a job there if the opportunity ever presented itself. Little did I know at the time that I would work there in the capacity of a judicial officer.
When I applied for the Family Court Commissioner vacancy in 2002, though I knew that I had the necessary legal qualifications, I had to get to the know the judges of the 22nd Judicial Circuit as they would be making the appointment. I introduced myself to as many of them as I could during the process and was selected as one of their top three candidates to present to the Court En banc. After the presentation, I was unanimously selected to serve as a Family Court Commissioner for the 22nd Judicial Circuit. I felt a special honor and pride, knowing that the judges of that circuit put their trust and faith in me. They took a chance, based only on my reputation, references and the words on my résumé.
I was sworn in on December 27, 2002 as Family Court Commissioner and immediately assigned to the Juvenile Division. In that role, I presided over hundreds of misdemeanor and felony bench trials, care and protection trials, guardianships, adoptions, termination of parental rights trials and certifications. I also prepared the Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law in every contested trial that I had. I was appointed also as Interim Drug Court Commissioner for the Family and Juvenile dockets in May of 2003 after the resignation of Commissioner Jane Geiler. I presided over both my normal Juvenile dockets as well as both treatment court dockets until the appointment of Commissioner James Sullivan in August 2003. I left the Juvenile Court in 2008 after being appointed on September 11th of that year to the position of Circuit Judge by Governor Matt Blunt.
I served in a general trial division for the last three months of the 2008 calendar year. Beginning in January of 2009, I was assigned to the Family Court Division. While I had experience in the Juvenile section of Family Court, I had no experience whatsoever in the divorce arena. I accepted this assignment and was assigned all contested divorces and newly filed motions to modify. This assignment was particularly challenging as I had to quickly familiarize myself with the law, the litigants and the family law attorneys, all while moving the cases through the system as swiftly and efficiently as possible. Additionally, I
31 was the only Circuit Judge assigned which greatly increased the workload. My work day usually began at 7:00a.m. and ended anywhere from 10:00p.m. to midnight, including weekends. I prepared all of my judgments. While I ran up against and sometimes beyond the allotted timelines to complete my written judgments, I would stay in constant contact with the lawyers, letting them know their place in the “que”, and that I was working as quickly as possible to give each case before me the time and consideration it deserved to achieve a fair and equitable outcome for the litigants. This assignment was originally a one year term but I volunteered to remain for an additional year. While this was a grueling assignment, I loved the different legal issues presented and writing the judgments. It was also best for the circuit that I remain in the position an additional year to give continuity to the Family Court Division.
In January of 2011, I was again assigned to a general trial division, presiding over criminal and civil matters. I handled bench and jury trials and prepared all Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law in same. I remained in that general trial assignment until January of 2016 when I returned to the Family Court – Juvenile Division as Circuit Judge. I was also appointed on December 13, 2016 to be the Administrative Judge of the Family Court. While my duties at Juvenile Court were similar to what they were years prior when serving as a Commissioner, I was now tasked with the administrative and day to day operational duties and decisions of the Juvenile and Domestic Divisions of the Family Court as well as the supervision of the Commissioners assigned to same. I heard most if not all of the certification trials and the majority of adoptions. I managed both the Domestic and Juvenile Divisions of our Family Court, and conferred with judges on issues that impacted the court as a whole.
While serving at the Juvenile Court, I handled a few special assignments. On November 6, 2015, I was assigned a death penalty case, State of Missouri v. Dominic Arrington, Cause number 1422-CR000627-01. I held status conferences and presided over motions and pre-trial hearings. That matter was resolved by a plea of guilty on January 12, 2018. Also, on May 22, 2017, I was appointed by the Supreme Court of Missouri as “transfer personnel” to the 11th Circuit in St. Charles County. This was due to the disqualification of that circuit in a divorce case, B. C. v. B. C., Cause No. 1611- FC01736. That matter was resolved by settlement and a consent judgment was entered February 23, 2018. I also continued to manage a civil case that had been assigned to me on January 13, 2015, B. H. v. Halloween Productions Inc., Cause No. 1022-CC01606. I handled the apportionment hearing as well as status and discovery hearings. The matter settled and a judgment was entered on March 5, 2018. Lastly, during my tenure at Juvenile court, I covered my docket in addition to the docket of Commissioner Robert Ward upon his retirement. I handled both dockets for April and May 2018 until the appointment of Commissioner Michael Walton.
In 2016, I was given the opportunity to assume a more prominent leadership role in the circuit. My peers approached me and asked me to run for the position of Assistant Presiding Judge for the Circuit. I was elected at the Court En Banc meeting on September 19, 2016 and served in that role for two years, alongside then Presiding Judge Michael Mullen. On September 24, 2018, I was elected unanimously by my peers to be the
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Presiding Judge of the Circuit. That election was a truly humbling experience and I had the additional honor of being the first African American woman elected to serve in that role. Our bench had faced difficult challenges in recent times, particularly in 2017 with civil unrest and protests in response to the Jason Stockley verdict. As a bench, we were a united front, able to persevere and withstand the criticism. Though we were a group of judges with different ideas, attitudes, backgrounds and cultures, we worked tirelessly, together, to achieve the best outcomes for the citizens that we served and to dispense justice that was fair for all.
In my 19 years of being a member of the Missouri bench, I have proven my dedication to the citizens and to the judiciary as a whole. I have been rewarded with being retained in the 2010, 2016 and 2020 elections. I have accepted assignments and cases without question and I have demonstrated my strong work ethic and judicial abilities. Being elected by my peers to serve in leadership roles is a testament to my character as a person and the respect I have garnered from my colleagues. I have never taken the judicial appointments for granted and I am truly grateful for every opportunity that I have been given.
On December 19, 2018, I was named to an appellate panel as one of three candidates, along with Judge Michael Gardner and Attorney John Torbitzky, to fill the vacancy at the Court of Appeals-Eastern District, created by the retirement of Judge Lisa Van Amburg. On January 9, 2019, I was selected by Governor Parson and appointed to the Court of Appeals. My work as an appellate judge and experience of sitting on a case in the Supreme Court, gives me a clear understanding of what it means to be an appellate jurist. I enjoy the variety in the subject matter presented in appellate cases as well as the camaraderie with my colleagues in determining jurisdictional issues and deciding whether reversible err exists in a case. I have performed successfully at the trial level as both a Family Court Commissioner and Circuit Judge and at the appellate level at the Court of Appeals. Being appointed to the Missouri Supreme Court would be a natural progression for me at this point in life, both personally and professionally.
I am confident that I will succeed if appointed to this position, based upon my legal experience, temperament and professional reputation. I am not a cocky or arrogant individual, but I am one that is self-assured and confident in my abilities. Being appointed to the Supreme Court however is not just about one’s judicial experience and legal prowess. A judge should be a great person outside of the job environment because who we are as people impacts how we conduct ourselves on the bench and how we are perceived by the people we serve. I have never been defined by a job or a title. I just strive everyday to be the best person that I know how to be and by accomplishing that, everything else will fall into place. The job is what I do. It is not who I am. I have gained a wealth of knowledge in my career as both an attorney and a judge, and I have had the chance to work with great attorneys, support staff, litigants and judges over the years. Having the opportunity to interview to be a member of Missouri’s highest court is a tremendous honor and I am appreciative of the consideration given to me and my application.
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9. Describe any additional legal experience you believe may be relevant to the decision of the commission (e.g., work as a law professor, in government, as corporate or other legal counsel, etc.). NONE
10. List all bar associations and other professional societies of which you are or have been a member, with any offices held and dates.
Missouri Bar
Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis (BAMSL)
Theodore McMillian Inn of Court – In the Fall of 2015, I was chosen for membership in the Theodore McMillian Inn of Court, the local chapter of the American Inns of Court. The McMillian Inn of Court seeks to enhance the knowledge, professional skills and ethics of its participants. I served as a Master member of the organization until 2019.
11. Describe your efforts (e.g., work on bar committees, pro bono efforts, CLEs presented, etc.) to contribute to the improvement of the law, the legal system and the administration of justice.
Member of the Joint Commission on Women in the Profession 2021 - Present
National Courts and Sciences Institute (NCSI) 2021 - Present (Member of Missouri’s judicial team tasked with studying COVID-related legal issues, then training colleagues in how to handle COVID litigation)
“Smashing the Patriarchy with a Gavel” September 2020 Presentation for BAMSL [Bar Association for Metropolitan St. Louis]
Member of the Commission on Racial & Ethnic Fairness 2019 - Present
The Simon Law Firm – Legal Services of Eastern June 2019 Missouri Seminar , Judicial Panelist
Missouri State Foster Care and Adoption Board 2017 – May 2020 Appointed to serve on this board, subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. I appeared before the Missouri Senate Gubernatorial Appointments Committee on January 31, 2018 for confirmation. The purpose of this board is to develop and review the foster care and adoption policies and procedures of the Missouri Children’s Division.
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Missouri Court Management Institute I applied and was accepted into the MCMI program. This program was sponsored by the National Center for State Courts (NCSC). The purpose of this program is to explore six court related topics with judges, clerks, juvenile officers and administrators in an attempt to improve upon the efficiency of our judicial system. I completed the following courses:
Purposes and Responsibilities: January 2017 Managing Technology: May 2017 Managing Financial Resources: Nov/Dec. 2017 Caseflow Management: March 2018 Workforce Management: May 2018 Court Tools March 2019
I graduated from the MCMI program on May 18, 2018. Due to budgetary constraints and scheduling issues, one course, Court Tools had to be completed after graduation.
Missouri Bar Family Law Conference August 4, 2017 Presenter on a judicial panel at the Family Law Conference sponsored by the Missouri Bar. The topic covered Discovery Disputes and Sanctions.
Juvenile Officer Performance Standards Work Group February 2017 Appointed by State Courts Administrator Kathy Lloyd to serve on this work group. The purpose was to oversee implementation of and compliance with the standards that were adopted in 2017.
Selection Committee for Lon O. Hocker Award 2016 I served on the selection committee for the Missouri Bar Foundation’s Lon O. Hocker Award.
“Navigating the Judicial Selection Process” August 28, 2013 Presenter at this seminar held on August 28, 2013 sponsored by the Mound City Bar Association.
Mini Law School for the Public November 9, 2011 Presenter at this public forum sponsored by the Missouri Bar.
St. Louis University School of Law October 21, 2011 Presenter re Juvenile & Family Law.
“The Judicial Selection Process Under the Non-Partisan Court November 6, 2009
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Plan” I participated in this CLE sponsored by the Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater St. Louis.
St. Louis University School of Law October 9, 2009
Presenter re Juvenile & Family Law.
St. Louis University School of Law February 18, 2009 Presenter re Juvenile & Family Law.
Juvenile Court Improvement Project Steering Committee 2008 - 2011 Appointed by the Supreme Court of Missouri En banc to serve.
Family Court Committee 2008 - 2011 Appointed by the Supreme Court of Missouri En banc to serve.
“Contemporary Issues in Juvenile Law” Seminar March 9, 2007 Presenter at seminar (sponsored by the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis)
Missouri Business Education Roundtable March of 2002 Appointed by former Governor Bob Holden to serve. Business and educational leaders across the State of Missouri were invited to participate in discussions as to how to improve the educational system in our state. It was the goal of this workgroup to produce a workforce capable of attracting businesses to the State of Missouri.
Permanency Planning Project Subcommittee 1999 - 2000 Appointed by the Honorable William Ray Price, Jr., then Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Missouri, to serve on this Subcommittee of the Family Court Committee. The purpose was to develop a statewide approach to make sure that children in out-of-home placements were placed in permanent homes as quickly as possible. As part of this subcommittee, I assisted in identifying barriers to a child’s placement in a stable home and also in making recommendations to eliminate said barriers. A written report of the subcommittee’s findings was prepared for the Supreme Court.
12. List your community activities, including any organizations not listed elsewhere with which you are affiliated.
Memorial Baptist Church Lifetime member Former Church Treasurer and Sunday School Teacher
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The Literacy Project 2017 - Present In speaking at a neighborhood group in Lafayette Square in 2017, I was introduced to this wonderful project. Members of The Gathering Church created this educational program. I visit weekly with a kindergarten or 1st grade student to assist them in improving literacy skills. I served as a mentor for the 2017- 18 and the 2018-19 school years at the Peabody School, located in the Clinton Peabody Housing Complex. Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, I am assigned to the Washington Elementary School in the Normandy School District for virtual tutoring.
WIBC (Women’s International BowlingCongress)/USBC 1991 - Present (United States Bowling Congress) My dad enrolled me in a bowling league at Red Bird Lanes when I was eleven years old. Little did I know that I would still be bowling years later! I have been an adult league bowler for over 30 years. I am currently a member of the Woodie Williams Memorial League, the Movers & Shakers League, and the Sunday Morning Doubles League. I frequently travel to both in and out of state tournaments as well. I had career achievements recently with an 812 series (total pin count in 3 games) on April 11, 2019 and a perfect game of 300 on March 28, 2021.
13. Describe your activities (e.g., speeches, presentations, educational activities, etc.) undertaken to further public understanding of and respect for courts and the judicial system and to promote access to justice for all.
Cor Jesu Academy November 2019 Presenter for Law Immersion Day
“All Things Considered” radio segment December 2018 Interviewed alongside Judge Gloria Reno by Rachel Lippmann, a reporter at St. Louis Public Radio. Ms. Lippmann questioned us about being the 1st African American Women to be appointed as Presiding Judges for both the 21st (St. Louis County) and 22nd (City of St. Louis) judicial circuits.
“All Access” radio program October 31, 2018 I was interviewed on KTRS 550 radio by the program’s host, Jay Kanzler, about juvenile delinquency and the juvenile court system.
“Stepping Up for Kids” luncheon October 12, 2018 Guest speaker at event sponsored by the Vision for Children organization.
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Gravois Park Neighborhood Association October 9, 2018 Guest speaker.
Clifton Heights Neighborhood Association August 27, 2018 Guest speaker along with Associate Judge Thomas McCarthy.
St. Mary’s High School May 1 – 2, 2018 Arranged a tour of the adult court and an opportunity for the high school students to observe a trial.
St. Mary’s High School April 16, 2018 Guest speaker for law class.
St. Mary’s High School Career Day March 12-13, 2018 I hosted two students at the Juvenile Court and took them to the Clinton Peabody Housing Complex to participate in a tutoring session.
Cardinal Senior Services February 2, 2018 Guest speaker at the St. Louis Foster Grandparents Program. The “senior” volunteers were interested in hearing about the Juvenile Justice System and ways in which their volunteering efforts could assist a child.
Cor Jesu Academy November 6, 2017 Participated in a career day program with students.
St. Mary’s High School April 11, 2017 Guest speaker re Juvenile Justice.
St. Mary’s High School April 4, 2017 Guest speaker re Juvenile Justice.
Meeting with Japanese Researchers: February 16, 2017 Met with visiting Japanese researchers from Washington University, Judge Yota Seki, Judge Hiroshi Okabe and Family Court Investigating Officer Yasushi Kamibaba. They had an opportunity to observe a docket and then met with me in chambers to discuss family court procedures.
St. Mary’s High School December 5, 2016 Guest speaker re Juvenile Justice.
Cor Jesu Academy November 7, 2016 Participated in a career day program with students.
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Boulevard Heights Neighborhood Association September 7, 2016 Guest speaker.
Tower Grove Heights Neighborhood Association January 20, 2016 Guest speaker.
Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri 2011-2017 Parent volunteer with Troop #2775 and cookie manager for 2015-17.
Shaw Neighborhood Association November 2, 2015 Guest speaker.
Gateway West Neighborhood Association June 3, 2015 Guest speaker.
St. Alphonsus Liguori Rock Catholic Church May 17, 2015 Encourage individuals to foster or adopt children.
Compton Hills/Reservoir Square Neighborhood Association April 14, 2015 Guest speaker.
Chain of Rocks Community Association (CORCA) January 12, 2015 Guest speaker.
National Business Institute April 26, 2016 Participated on a Panel.
Girl Scouts Troop #2775 April 6, 2013 Hosted Girl Scout Troop at the Juvenile Court for production of a “trial” and lunch.
Northwest Academy of Law Career Day November 15, 2012 Participant in the Northwest Academy of Law Career Day.
Boy Scouts April 25, 2012 Guest speaker to a group of Boy Scouts at Our Lady of Sorrows Church.
Tower Grove East Neighborhood Association February 29, 2012 Guest speaker.
Marian Middle School Luncheon February 23, 2012 Guest speaker.
22nd Judicial Circuit 2008 - 2019
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Frequent speaker in the community on the justice system and civic duties.
Juvenile Court Tea Party May 10, 2008 As recognition of May being National Foster Care month, I planned and hosted a tea party at the Juvenile Court of the 22nd Judicial Circuit for girls that were in foster care. KMOX’s anchor Carol Daniel was the guest speaker.
Turner Middle School November 20, 2007 Addressed students about civic duties and responsibilities.
Truancy Judge Served as a Truancy Judge at the Vashon High School. The goal December 2006 - of the Juvenile Court’s truancy program was to improve the May 2007 attendance of children habitually absent from school without excuse or justification.
Tiffany Community Neighborhood Association September 30, 2005 Guest speaker.
Mullanphy LLC Elementary School September 19, 2005 Talked to students about the US Constitution.
“St. Louis On the Air” December 13, 2004 I was a guest on this radio program airing on the NPR affiliate KWMU. I discussed restorative justice programs at the Juvenile Court.
United Way 2001 - 2002 I served as an allocations member for the Services to Persons with Disabilities Panel. We reviewed the fiscal management for organizations whose main goal was to provide quality care and supportive living services to special needs individuals. This was a rewarding experience because I had to visit the sites and facilities, thereby getting a firsthand look at the positive work being done by the United Way to assist individuals with disabilities.
St. Louis Big Brothers/Big Sisters 2000 – 2005 I was a mentor, assigned to the same “little sister” for five years. I left this program after the birth of my second child.
14. List any published professional articles or books you have authored.
“Making the Transition from Attorney to Commissioner in the 2004 Family Court”
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I was asked to write an article for a Mound City Bar publication about my experiences as a relatively new Family Court Commissioner.
SEE ATTACHED.
15. List any special recognition or award of a professional nature you have received.
Gallery of Legal Pioneers Wall of Fame February 26, 2019 Honored by the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis (BAMSL) as a legal pioneer.
Theodore McMillian Service Award April 2019 Presented by the Black Law Students Association of the Saint Louis University School of Law School.
Women’s Justice Award for Public Service Spring 2019 Presented by Missouri Lawyer’s Media.
Clarence Darrow Award April 2008 Presented by the Public Interest Group of the Saint Louis University School of Law.
16. Do you now hold or have you ever held an elective or appointive public office or position? If yes, provide details.
Missouri State Foster Care and Adoption Board - as mentioned above in Question 11, on November 15, 2017, I was appointed to this board by former Governor Eric Greitens. I was confirmed by Senate on January 31, 2018.
Successfully retained in citywide elections - I was retained in St. Louis citywide elections held in 2010 and 2016, and retained in my current position by the Eastern District electorate in 2020.
St. Louis City School Board - I was a candidate for the City of St. Louis School Board in April of 2001, hoping to better the lives and opportunities for children in the City of St. Louis. Though I was not successful in my campaign, it was a rewarding experience.
17. Provide the branches and dates of any (a) military service and (b) other public service not otherwise disclosed in this application. If discharged from the military, state whether the discharge was other than honorable.
I have never served in the military or in any other type of public service that has not been
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disclosed elsewhere on this application.
18. State whether you are able, with or without a reasonable accommodation, to perform the essential functions of being a judge of the Supreme Court, including participating in oral argument; performing legal research; communicating clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing; supervising the lower courts; serving on court committees and performing other administrative functions; and expeditiously deciding issues coming before the court. I am able to serve in full capacity without any accommodations.
I am able to perform the essential functions of being a Judge of the Supreme Court.
19. Were you ever refused admission to a bar of any state or federal court? If yes, provide details.
I have never been refused admission to a bar of any state or federal court.
20. Have you ever been disciplined, admonished or cited for a breach of ethics or professional conduct by any court or bar association or committee thereof? If yes, provide details.
I have never been disciplined, admonished or cited for a breach of ethics or professional conduct.
21. If you are or were a member of the judiciary of the State of Missouri, state:
(a) Whether an order of discipline ever has been entered against you by the Supreme Court of Missouri for breach of the Code of Judicial Conduct or the Canons of Judicial Conduct. If yes, provide details.
An order of discipline has never been entered against me.
(b) Whether a reprimand or admonition ever has been entered against you by the Commission on Retirement, Removal and Discipline for any of the causes specified in Supreme Court Rule 12.07. If yes, provide details.
I have never had a reprimand or admonition entered against me.
22. Have you have ever been held in contempt of court? If yes, provide details.
I have never been held in contempt of court.
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23. Have you ever been sued by a client or been a party to any other litigation, other than as guardian ad litem, plaintiff ad litem, or defendant ad litem?
If yes, state the style of the case, where it was filed, and explain in detail. If you are a judge and you have been sued in your judicial capacity, list only those cases where you are or were other than a nominal party.
a) I was the Plaintiff in a divorce action, RRV v. RVIII, filed in St. Louis County. The matter was resolved by a consent judgment entered on January 12, 2018.
b) Leggett v. Robin Ransom Vannox (sic), Cause No. 22982-04439, filed in the City of St. Louis. This was a suit involving personal property taxes. The matter was dismissed with prejudice on August 24, 1998.
24. Have you ever pleaded guilty to, been convicted of or received a suspended imposition of sentence for a felony or misdemeanor in any state, federal or military court? (Note this question does not require minor traffic offenses or other infractions to be listed.)
If yes, state the style of the case, where it was filed, and explain in detail.
I have never pleaded guilty to, been convicted of or received a suspended imposition of sentence for a felony or misdemeanor in any state, federal or military court.
25. Have you ever been delinquent in the payment of any federal, state, county or city taxes? If yes, provide details.
I have not been delinquent in the payment of any federal, state, county or city taxes. I did however dispute a federal debt of $12,000.00 for tax year 2010. My then-spouse earned substantial monies that I was not aware of and he did not pay taxes on same. I filed an appeal through the Innocent Spouse Relief procedures of the Internal Revenue Service. My challenge was unsuccessful and a payment plan was arranged. I have paid that debt in full and the matter has been resolved.
26. You must attach to this application at least one, but not more than three, writing samples that comply with the requirements set out in the instructions for applicants.
SEE ATTACHED.
27. List/describe any additional honors or awards you have received, activities you have performed, or any other information not set out above demonstrating the quality of your work as an attorney or otherwise relevant to the commission’s decision.
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a. September 19, 2016, unanimously elected by peers to serve in the capacity of Assistant Presiding Judge of the 22nd Judicial Circuit for the calendar years of 2017 and 2018.
b. September 24, 2018, unanimously elected by peers to serve in the capacity of Presiding Judge of the 22nd Judicial Circuit for the calendar years of 2019-2020 and received community recognition as the 1st African American woman elected to position for that circuit.
I am very grateful for the legal career that I have had thus far. I have served the State of Missouri and its citizens to the best of my ability as a judicial officer for 19 years as a defense attorney, prosecutor, trial and appellate judge. In all of those positions I have demonstrated my legal abilities and my efficiency in case management. I have worked hard to make good decisions by following the law, even at times when my decision was not a popular one. I have earned the respect of colleagues and the community, not by being the most visible or outspoken, but by being diligent in my work ethic and by being the consummate professional. I am truly honored for the opportunity to be considered for the Supreme Court vacancy.
Please list the names of five persons whom you will ask to provide letters of reference for you with respect to your judicial qualifications. Do not list as a reference a judge of the court involved. As to each of the five references, please provide name, title, mailing address, telephone and e-mail address.
1) Patricia Harrison Attorney at Law 465 Kassie View Court St. Louis, MO 63122 (314) 488-4102 [email protected]
2) Christine Krug Assistant Attorney General P.O. Box 861 St. Louis, MO 63188 (314) 753-1556 [email protected]
3) Christopher Braeske Attorney at Law 7751 Carondelet Avenue, Ste. 700 St. Louis, MO 63105 (314) 726-2421 [email protected]
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4) Latashuia Browning 327 Sturbridge Dr. Saint Charles, MO 63303 (314) 420-5645 [email protected]
5) John Bird Attorney at Law 906 Olive Street, Ste. 1115 St. Louis, MO 63101-1433 (314) 241-6144 [email protected]
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Making the Transition from Attorney Qits,tt>n. \ 4, to Commissioner in the Family Court Typically. the· nexr By COMM ISS IOIHR :scage in a juvenjle court ROBIH RAMSON VANNOY criminal case is i rcial. Even though my education and ~ i~y C_q_u!_t.!...§!:_louis City ·1n che juvenile court, there ;i.re only bench tri- prior work experiences gave me J was adtniliisrercd rhe Osth of 3{s. The crial consiscs of the legal insight and background Office as a fumilv court commissioner two phases. The firsr needed to do the job, nothing for chc 22nd Ju'dicial Ci;cuit in che phase is che adjudica cicv of' St. Loois oo Dec-. 27, 2002. I tion. During the adjudi could have prepared me for the cook che bench on Jon. 2, 2003. My cidoi\, facts and evi emotional and personal toll that legal experience iodudes service as a dence rm: prese-nced, .lnd public defender and prosecllcing victims and witnes:ses accompanies the job of juvenile nuor-ney i !"I che adult and ju"enile are allowed tO cescif./. court commissioner. courcs or St. Louis County. Even Usualli,· the .,.iccims rhough my e case of negl.:,;ct. The hc:.lrin,g offin:r i~ criminal ao .' '