Missouri – Governor Mike Parson has made several key judicial appointments across the Missouri judiciary system, impacting the Missouri Court of Appeals, Southern District, and various judicial circuits throughout the state. These appointments are set to fill vacancies created recently.
New Faces in Missouri’s Judicial System
The Missouri Court of Appeals, Southern District, welcomes the Honorable Matthew P. Hamner of Osage Beach as its newest member. Judge Hamner, who has been serving as a circuit judge in the 26th Judicial Circuit, is stepping into the role left vacant by the Honorable Ginger K. Gooch’s appointment to the Missouri Supreme Court. Hamner’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts in communication and a Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri–Columbia.
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In the 17th Judicial Circuit, Alyssa M. Mayer of Raymore has been appointed as Associate Circuit Judge for Cass County. Mayer, currently an assistant prosecuting attorney in Cass County, brings a wealth of experience from her roles in law and her academic credentials, including a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Truman State University and a Juris Doctor from Washington University in St. Louis. She steps into the position following the passing of the Honorable Jeffrey L. Cox.
Philip M. Fuhrman of Springfield will join the 31st Judicial Circuit as its new Associate Circuit Judge. As an assistant prosecuting attorney in Greene County, Fuhrman’s appointment fills the vacancy left by the Honorable Nathan R. Taylor’s appointment as Circuit Judge. His educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in political science from William Jewell College and a Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri–Kansas City.
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The 33rd Judicial Circuit will see the Honorable Robert Z. (Zac) Horack of Benton step in as Circuit Judge. Horack previously served as an associate circuit judge in Scott County. He holds a Bachelor of Science in biological sciences and a Master of Public Health from the University of Missouri–Columbia, and a Juris Doctor from St. Louis University. His appointment addresses the vacancy resulting from the Honorable David A. Dolan’s retirement.
Lastly, Melissa L. Stewart of West Plains has been appointed as Associate Circuit Judge for Howell County in the 37th Judicial Circuit. Stewart, who currently runs her own law office, holds a Bachelor of Science in communication from Missouri State University and a Juris Doctor from the University of Tulsa. Her appointment comes as the Honorable Donna K. Anthony retires.
