The Judicial Nominating Commission for the Third Judicial Circuit announced on Mar. 16 that it has selected six nominees to fill a circuit court vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Leandra G. Johnson.
The announcement is significant as it marks the next step in appointing a new judge to serve in the Third Judicial Circuit, ensuring continuity in the local judiciary.
According to the commission, the following individuals have been nominated, listed alphabetically by last name and without any preference: E. Bailey Browning, III; Charita Hope Demps; Jennifer Kuyrkendall Griffin; Cary A. “Bo” Hardee, III; Garrett Hill; and Michael Will Washington. The names have been submitted to Governor Ron DeSantis for consideration.
The commission expressed gratitude to those who participated in the process. “The Commission sincerely thanks the members of the bench, bar, and public who took time to provide feedback about the applicants,” according to its statement.
This nomination process follows standard procedures after a judicial retirement and allows for input from various stakeholders before final selection by the governor.
