(LANSING) - A familiar face has been appointed to a judicial seat in Branch County.
On Wednesday, Governor Gretchen Whitmer appointed Prosecutor Zachary Stempien to serve as the Branch County 15th Circuit Court Judge. He is filling a partial term due to the resignation of Judge William O'Grady.
Stempien was an associate attorney with Haas Caywood PC. He then joined the Branch County Prosecutor's Office and served as Chief Assistant Prosecutor before being elected in 2020 as Prosecuting Attorney.
Stempien released a statement, saying he is honored to be appointed to the 15th Circuit Court by Whitmer and grateful for her trust and confidence in him. He says he looks forward to serving the people of Branch County and is committed to ensuring that every case is handled with fairness, integrity, and respect for the law.
Stempien announced in December his candidacy for Circuit Court Judge in the November 2026 election, and would also seek appointment due to O'Grady's resignation.
Stempien will start his partial term on April 13. It is set to expire officially on January 1, 2027.
With his new duties as a Circuit Court Judge, Stempien is responsible for appointing the new Prosecuting Attorney. Until that person is appointed, the State Court Administrator will be responsible for managing any cases involving potential conflicts of interest to ensure a seamless judicial process.