Missouri's judiciary system has witnessed a changing of the guard as Michael R. Dauphin, St. Louis' city assessor, ascends to the bench. Today, the Missouri Governor appointed Dauphin as the latest associate circuit judge of the 22nd Judicial Circuit Court. Before his tenure as the city assessor, Dauphin sharpened his legal acumen as a clerk for U.S. District Judge Henry Autrey and honed his skills across various legal fields including commercial litigation and employment law.
Dauphin, a graduate with a political science degree from Missouri State University and a juris doctor from St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas, will be stepping into the role formerly held by Heather J. Hays, who was appointed to the circuit bench. The St. Louis City Circuit Court's announcement confirmed the transition, though the details of his swearing-in and his assignment for the upcoming year of 2025 remain to be announced.
This appointment is a pivotal junction in Dauphin's career, reflecting his progression from overseeing property valuations for tax purposes to adjudicating matters within the judiciary. It is a testament to the oft-unseen evolution of public servants, whose journeys traipse through the many corridors of civil service, legal practice, and, eventually, judicial responsibility.
The local legal community has expressed their readiness to welcome Dauphin to his new judicial responsibilities. As noted by sources, the St. Louis legal scene is anticipating the impact of Judge Dauphin's expertise and experience. The details regarding his official swearing-in ceremony and his specific 2025 assignments will be disclosed in due time, as the courthouse prepares to embrace its new addition to the bench.
