Local attorney named New Madrid County's new associate judge

Brandon Sanchez signs his commission as the new New Madrid County associate judge as Circuit Judge Josh Underwood looks on. Sanchez was sworn in to office on Nov. 3 following his appointment to the position by Gov. Mike Parson. (Jill Bock/Standard Democrat)

NEW MADRID, Mo. - Before a courtroom crowded with family, friends and fellow lawyers, Brandon Sanchez took the oath of office on Nov. 3 as New Madrid County’s new associate circuit judge.

Sanchez fills the vacancy left after former Associate Judge Joshua Underwood was appointed as the 34th Judicial Circuit judge to replace the late Ed Reeves. Sanchez’s appointment by Missouri Gov. Mike Parson was officially announced Oct. 27

Prior to the swearing-in ceremony, Underwood noted he has worked with Sanchez for more than 10 years. He described Sanchez as an excellent father, exceptional attorney and a community servant.

The 34th Judicial Circuit Judges line up for a photo following the swearing-in ceremoney conducted for Brandon Sanchez. Pictured from left are: Associate Judge Bill Carter, Circuit Judge Josh Underwood, Associate Judge Brandon Sanchez and Associate Judge W. Keith Currie. (Jill Bock/Standard Democrat)

“One trait of Brandon’s that I believe will allow him to be a successful associate circuit judge is his temperament,” Underwood continued. “I have presided over many cases of Brandon’s. He has always been cool and calm with a fair demeanor toward every litigant in the courtroom. I have never seen him get flustered. I have never seen him get hot under the collar. With all the various people you are going to come across, Brandon, I think that is going to serve you well.”

Sanchez recalled how 20 years ago as an attorney working in Cape Girardeau he first heard stories about the courts in New Madrid County. When he tried his first case in the county he said he found it to be a wonderful experience.

After spending the first decade of his career working with the Missouri Public Defender’s Office, Sanchez opened a private practice in New Madrid. His practice included family, injury and criminal law.

“For me this is about service,” Sanchez added. “I believe in treating people kindly and working hard.The late great judge Reeves was the epitome of treating people with kindness. That is a tradition here not only in our county but in our entire circuit. I am proud to be here and serve.”

A graduate of the University of Texas – San Antonio with Bachelor of Arts degrees in criminal justice and psychology, Sanchez earned his law degree from Southern Illinois University – Carbondale. He is the father of five children and is married to the former Ashley McSpadden.