News
James M. Biernat Jr., Chief Judge 16th Judicial Circuit Court,
Macomb County Probate Court,
42nd District Courts
For Immediate Release Date: November 16, 2023
Media Contact: Jean Cloud
SUPREME COURT REAPPOINTS HONORABLE JAMES M. BIERNAT, JR. AS CHIEF JUDGE
The Michigan Supreme Court has reappointed the Honorable James M. Biernat, Jr. for an additional two-year term as Chief Judge for the 16th Judicial Circuit, Macomb County Probate, and 42nd District Courts. Chief Judge Biernat was appointed to the Bench in 2011, and elected as a Judge in 2012. He began serving as Chief Judge in 2015 upon the retirement of former Chief Judge John C. Foster. Judge Biernat was appointed to a full two-year term as Chief Judge beginning January 2016, to a second two-year term as Chief beginning January 2018, and to a third two-year term as Chief beginning January 2020.
During his tenure as Chief Judge, he has overseen massive court renovation projects which resulted in a movement of all Circuit and Probate Court operations to one convenient downtown location in the Circuit Court building. There has been the addition of a much-needed Sobriety Treatment Court as well as the addition of new judges to serve the County. Chief Judge Biernat has also worked with the County Executive to improve the delivery of indigent defense.
Over the next two years, Chief Judge Biernat looks forward to the planning and implementation of a strategic plan for the 16th Judicial Circuit Court. Furthermore, Chief Judge Biernat is also focused on expanding and improving the Court’s Self-Help Center. This will provide the stability of the Court that the public deserves and will assist in the continued effort of this Court to provide equal access to justice to all litigants.
Chief Judge Biernat stated, “I am honored to be reappointed as Chief Judge by the Michigan Supreme Court. We have accomplished many important projects during my tenure as Chief Judge, but there is still much work to be done. I would like to thank my colleagues and the Court staff for their dedication and hard work. It is because of this commitment to the justice system that we are able to provide such a valuable service to the citizens of Macomb County.”
Jean Cloud
