Governor Parson Announces Three Judicial Appointments

SEPTEMBER 13, 2024

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson announced judicial appointments to the 16th, 19th, and 24th Judicial Circuits.

The Honorable Lauren D. Barrett, of Kansas City, was appointed as Circuit Judge for the 16th Judicial Circuit.

Judge Barrett serves as an associate circuit judge in the 16th Judicial Circuit. She holds a Bachelor of Journalism and a Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri–Columbia. She will fill the vacancy created by the retirement of the Honorable John M. Torrence.

Joseph L. Shetler, of Jefferson City, was appointed as Associate Circuit Judge for the 19th Judicial Circuit.

Mr. Shetler owns Shetler Law, LLC. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in liberal arts from Conception Seminary College and a Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri­–Columbia. He will fill the vacancy created by the appointment of the Honorable Christopher K. Limbaugh as Circuit Judge.

Joseph A. Murray III, of Farmington, will be appointed as Associate Circuit Judge for St. Francois County in the 24th Judicial Circuit.

Mr. Murray owns Murray Law LLC. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in history and a Bachelor of Science in finance and banking from the University of Missouri­–Columbia and a Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri­–Kansas City. He will fill the vacancy created by the appointment of the Honorable Brice R. Sechrest as Circuit Judge