On September 29, 2025, Judge Maria A. Lanahan was sworn in as United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Missouri. Chief Judge Stephen R. Clark presided over the ceremony attended by court staff, family members, and other guests. This confirmation fills the vacancy created upon the retirement of Judge Ronnie L. White in July of 2024.

Judge Lanahan is the former Principal Deputy Solicitor General for the Missouri Attorney General’s Office where she handled high-stakes litigation and appeals. She is a graduate of the University of Chicago Law School. Her experience includes Judicial Clerkships with Judge Raymond Gruender on the United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit and Justice Brian Zahra on the Michigan Supreme Court.

Judge Lanahan expressed her deep gratitude and that she is honored by this opportunity. She thanked the appointing authorities and acknowledged her commitment to the law and to promoting public confidence in the judiciary. Chief Judge Stephen R. Clark stated, “We are delighted to have Judge Lanahan as a colleague, and we look forward to her many contributions to upholding the rule of law with integrity and impartiality.”

For further information contact the Clerk of Court at 314-244-7900.