Kelly Broniec served as an associate circuit judge in Montgomery County for some 14 years before being appointed by Gov. Mike Parson to the Missouri Court of Appeals-Eastern District three years ago.
She succeeded Judge Roy L. Richter who retired in July 2020.
“I went through the Appellate Judicial Commission and applied for my seat on the Eastern District,” Broniec told the St. Louis Record.
Broniec was recently elevated to the position of chief judge.
The Missouri Court of Appeals-Eastern District hears appeals from the circuit courts in 25 counties in eastern Missouri and the city of St. Louis.
“I was just elected by the members of our court,” Broniec said in an interview. “It made me feel great that I had the confidence of my colleagues because I respect them greatly.”
Her one-year tenure starts on July 1 but she’s already begun preparing for the prestigious role. She replaces former Chief Judge Michael Gardner.
In her new role, Broniec will be the chief administrative officer of the court, presiding at en banc court hearings and representing the court to the public.
“I've been meeting with our staff and familiarizing myself with the issues regarding the administration of the court in the weeks and months leading up to the date when I take over as the chief judge,” she said.
Broniec’s term on the appellate court ends on Dec. 31, 2034.
Her secret to success is being committed to the job and acting as a team player.
“I worked hard as a trial court judge hearing cases, not only in my division but in other divisions of our circuit court,” Broniec said. “I served on committees established by the Supreme Court and really just worked hard to get my cases decided and being collegial with my colleagues.”
The Montgomery County resident was raised in Warrenton and graduated from law school at the University of Missouri in Columbia. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from William Woods University
“I'm looking forward to fulfilling my responsibilities in the role on the circuit commissions as well,” she added.
The Missouri Court of Appeals-Eastern District, the largest court in the state appellate system, is located in the historic Old Post Office in downtown St. Louis but regularly holds sessions at various locations throughout the district.
Broniec is an active member of the Montgomery City Kiwanis Club and the Montgomery City Chamber of Commerce. She and her family are active members of their church and participate in numerous community activities.