Shiner Law Group marks Michael A. Barnett’s investiture as Palm Beach County judge

By AI, Created 4:29 PM UTC, May 18, 2026, /AGP/ – Shiner Law Group congratulated former attorney Michael A. Barnett on his official investiture as a Palm Beach County Court judge this week after Gov. Ron DeSantis appointed him in December 2025. The ceremony highlighted Barnett’s legal, public-service and community ties as he begins his judicial tenure.

Why it matters: - Barnett’s move from private practice and county government to the bench adds a judge with local experience to Palm Beach County Court. - The investiture underscored the community and institutional support around Barnett’s new role.

What happened: - Shiner Law Group congratulated Michael A. Barnett on his appointment and official investiture as a County Court Judge in Palm Beach County. - Gov. Ron DeSantis appointed Barnett to the bench in December 2025. - The formal investiture ceremony was held this week and was presided over by Chief Judge Glenn Kelley. - Family members, colleagues and community leaders attended the ceremony. - Justice Renatha Francis of the Florida Supreme Court and Judge Ed Artau of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida were among the judges present.

The details: - Palm Beach County Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller Mike Caruso presented the official Judicial Commission. - Honorable Stephanie Tew presented a commemorative deskplate on behalf of the Florida Conference of County Judges. - Judge Artau administered the oath of office. - Barnett’s nephew Gabriel recited the Pledge of Allegiance. - Barnett’s sister Monique and partner Katherine took part in the administration of the oath and enrobing. - Palm Beach County Commissioner Maria Sachs presented a proclamation naming April 17 as “Judge Michael A. Barnett Appreciation Day.” - Before joining the bench, Barnett worked as a personal injury attorney at Shiner Law Group. - Barnett also served as a Palm Beach County Commissioner. - Shiner Law Group founder David Shiner said Barnett approached law with purpose and integrity and was well-suited for the bench.

Between the lines: - Barnett’s ceremony framed his judgeship as a continuation of public service rather than a career change. - The presence of senior judges and county officials signaled broad institutional recognition of Barnett’s appointment. - The proclamation and family roles gave the event a civic and personal tone that reinforced Barnett’s local ties.

What’s next: - Barnett will begin serving on the Palm Beach County Court after his investiture. - Shiner Law Group said it expects Barnett to have a positive impact in his next chapter. - The firm continues to represent clients in car accidents, truck accidents, slip and falls and wrongful death cases.

The bottom line: - Barnett’s investiture formalizes a high-profile local transition from advocate and commissioner to judge in Palm Beach County.