HOBE SOUND, Fla. – Governor Ron DeSantis has appointed attorney Brennan Keeler as a judge for the 19th Judicial Circuit in Hobe Sound. Keeler, who is based in Hobe Sound, has a background in criminal prosecution and legal counsel on the Treasure Coast. This appointment comes after the retirement of former Circuit Court Judge Robert Belanger, who had held the seat for nearly two decades.
Before his appointment, Keeler represented the Palm Beach County police officers’ union. His career history, as detailed in his application to the nominating commission of the 19th Judicial Circuit, shows that he served as an assistant state attorney from 2010 to 2013, working on misdemeanor, juvenile, and felony cases. He then worked as a police legal adviser for the Port St. Lucie attorney’s office from 2013 to 2016, followed by a position as an assistant county attorney for Martin County.
Since 2016, Keeler has served as legal counsel for the Palm Beach County chapter of the state’s largest law enforcement union, the Police Benevolent Association. In this role, he handled contract negotiations, internal affairs representation, arbitration proceedings, and criminal justice standards and training hearings. Keeler also provided legal representation for police officers involved in critical incidents such as officer-involved shootings and in-custody deaths.
In his application, Keeler emphasized his experience growing up on the Treasure Coast and his understanding of the unique qualities and expectations of Indian River, Okeechobee, St. Lucie, and Martin counties. He described his career as that of a dedicated public servant, having worked at various levels of state and local government law. Keeler expressed his readiness to hit the ground running in his new role as a judge.
The 19th Judicial Circuit covers Indian River, Okeechobee, Martin, and St. Lucie counties. With Keeler’s appointment, the search for Judge Robert Belanger’s replacement comes to a close. Keeler’s extensive legal background and experience in law enforcement matters make him a valuable addition to the judicial circuit.
In conclusion, Governor Ron DeSantis has appointed attorney Brennan Keeler as a judge for the 19th Judicial Circuit in Hobe Sound. Keeler brings a wealth of experience in criminal prosecution and legal counsel to the role. His appointment follows the retirement of former Circuit Court Judge Robert Belanger. With his dedication to public service and familiarity with the Treasure Coast, Keeler is well-positioned to serve the residents of Indian River, Okeechobee, Martin, and St. Lucie counties.