Circuit Court

 St. Louis Circuit Court has been collecting donations to help our fellow court employees affected by the devastating tornado in Jasper County.  

Ten judges and 77 employees work in that circuit, at least five of whom we know have lost their homes. "Like all of America we are stunned to see the extent of damage in Joplin," said Presiding Judge Steven Ohmer. "We hope and pray that our donations will help in a small way to alleviate the pain and difficulties of our Jasper County friends and family."  

Employees who made a $5 minimum donation were allowed to 'dress down' on a recent Friday, with all money collected going directly to a special relief fund created by state officials to help court workers in the Joplin area.  

St. Louis' legal community has also rallied to assist those affected, raising money and sending volunteer attorneys to Joplin for those who may need legal help with insurance claims and replacing important documents, such as wills, that were lost in the storm.  

The Jasper County circuit has two court buildings - one in Joplin and one in Carthage. Neither sustained serious damage.