Defense Attorney Named Circuit Court Judge

Thursday, January 7, 2016 | 0

Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder announced Tuesday the appointment of an insurance defense attorney as a circuit court judge in the north of the state.

Michael Pope, of Ironwood in the Upper Peninsula, has been appointed to the 32nd Circuit Court covering Gogebic and Ontonagon counties, TV6 and FoxUP report.

Pope focused since 1993 on general insurance, including workers' compensation, liability and property claims, while in private practice with the Ironwood firm of Dean and Pope.

"Michael has a wide range of legal experience, a reputation of professional integrity and a love for his community," Gov. Snyder said.

Pope earned a bachelor's degree in biology and history from Alma College, Michigan, and a law degree from the University of Detroit-Mercy Law School.

He fills the vacancy created by the resignation of Judge Roy D. Gotham. Pope must seek election in Nov. 2016 for the remainder of the term, running to 2020.