The city of Warrenton has appointed attorney William “Bill” Biermann as the city’s new municipal judge, responsible for judging local traffic and ordinance violation cases.

Biermann’s appointment follows the exit of Judge Christopher McDonough, who was elected in November to serve as an associate judge in St. Charles Circuit Court.

“(Judge McDonough’s) ethics, judicial temperament and diligence were a great asset to the city and the community, and he will be greatly missed,” city officials said in an announcement of the change. Biermann was selected as the new judge after candidate interviews which indicated he could build on the judicial philosophy and decorum established by McDonough, the city said. 

In addition to his legal qualifications, Biermann brings experience in the real estate industry and an understanding of land use law. Because a lot of municipal cases involve property code violations, city officials said they wanted a judge who could clearly explain issues to defendants and bring them into compliance.

Mayor Eric Schleuter, who nominated Biermann for the judgeship, said the new judge is respectful in all his interactions and plain spoken in the way he explains the law.

“(Judge Biermann’s) demeanor, along with his ability to explain the law in terms understandable for everyone, and his philosophy of respect, make him a great choice for our municipal court,” Schleuter said. “We are very happy to have found the attributes we desired in our municipal court judge in someone of (Biermann’s) caliber.”

The city also commented that Biermann does not work as a criminal defense attorney, and said Biermann understands that he needs to be tough, but also fair and understanding with defendants.

The Record reached out to Judge Biermann for additional comment, but was not able to interview him prior to publication.