Apr. 5, 2019

Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. announced today the appointment of James Witteman, Jr. to serve as interim Presiding Judge of County Municipal Court following the resignation Garry Helm, who has decided to focus on private practice.

“Judge Helm played a critical role in laying the foundation of our municipal court system and moving it forward,” said Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. “I commend Judge Helm for his years of service to Jackson County and look forward to building on that under the leadership of James Witteman.”

Before accepting this position, Witteman was the City Prosecutor for the City of Greenwood, Missouri. He steps into the judgeship with experience as a practicing attorney at his own law firm, and others, in the areas of criminal defense, criminal misdemeanor and traffic, family law, personal injury and DUI/DWI. Wittemen also served as an Assistant Jackson County Prosecuting Attorney in the Drug Unit, litigating numerous felony and misdemeanor drug and alcohol cases.

Witteman earned his Juris Doctorate from Washburn University and his Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. He has stepped down from his role as chair of the Jackson County Drug Commission (COMBAT) in acceptance of his appointment as interim County Municipal Court Presiding Judge. His term lasts through the end of the year.