Oregon's judicial bench has welcomed a new member following a gubernatorial appointment that shuffles the legal lineup in Benton County. Governor Tina Kotek has placed Keri J. Smith Church into the seat left vacant by Judge Locke Williams who has stepped down into retirement. The transition to the bench for Smith is effective immediately, as announced in a recent statement from Governor Kotek's office.
“Keri Smith has demonstrated that she will lead as judge with fairness and integrity," Governor Kotek said. These words, mirroring the governor's confidence in Smith's abilities, were part of the official announcement regarding the appointment. Smith, a partner with Barnhisel, Barlow, Stephens & Smith P.C., brings a wealth of experience – particularly in the realms of family law, criminal law, and the handling of guardianships and conservatorships.
Her resume is a litany of legal community engagement. According to an official release on the Oregon government's newsroom, the highlights of her career so far include tenure as past president of the Linn-Benton Bar Association and membership on the Benton County Family Law Advisory Committee. She's even carried the responsibility of the position of Secretary of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, not to mention her role as Chair of the Oregon State Bar Family Law Section Executive Board.
