Governor DeSantis makes judicial appointments

Press release from the Office of Governor Ron DeSantis

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced two local judicial appointments. 

Lorelie Brannan, of Macclenny, to serve as Judge on the Eighth Judicial Circuit Court 

Brannan has served as an Assistant State Attorney for the Third Judicial Circuit since 2025. Previously, she was appointed by Governor DeSantis to serve as a County Court Judge for Baker County. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida and her juris doctor from Loyola University. Brannan fills the judicial vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Groeb. 

Lua Joy Lepianka, of Gainesville, to serve as Judge on the Alachua County Court 

Lepianka has served as an Assistant State Attorney for the Eighth Judicial Circuit since 2003. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Appalachian State University and her juris doctor from the University of Florida. Lepianka fills the judicial vacancy created by the elevation of Judge Ramsey.