Mary Bruntrager Schroeder

Background
Judge Schroeder was appointed to the associate circuit court bench on May 11, 1999.  Previously she was a circuit attorney for the City of St. Louis from 1980 until 1982.  She engaged in private practice from 1983 until 1999.  Judge Schroeder graduated with a B.A. in history from St. Louis University and her juris doctorate from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, Texas.

Judge Schroeder is a member of The Missouri Bar, The Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis, St. Louis County Bar Association, Women Lawyers Association, and a member of the Association of Associate Circuit and Probate Judges.  Judge Schroeder, in addition to her duties as an associate circuit court judge, is involved with the St. Louis County Truancy Court Program in the Valley Park School District.

Judge Schroeder is married with two children, is very active in her parish, and is a member of the St. Gerard Adult Choir and UMSL Community Chorus.

Discussion
Judge Schroeder received average scores in most areas by attorneys who responded to survey questions.  Attorneys were asked to rank the judges on a scale of 1 to 5 (5 being the highest).  Her areas of strength were that she treats people equally regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, economic status, and other factors; and she maintains and requires proper order and decorum in the courtroom.  Of concern to the committee was Judge Schroeder’s ratings in: bases decisions on evidence and arguments (3.62) and weighs all evidence fairly and impartially before rendering a decision (3.62).

There were no juror surveys for Judge Schroeder because she has been serving in Family Court.

The committee also reviewed a written opinion of Judge Schroeder which was clear and concise, well-written and consistent with the applicable case law cited therein.

Recommendation
The 21st Judicial Circuit Performance Evaluation Committee recommends that Judge Mary Bruntrager Schroeder BE RETAINED.

Lawyer Survey Results