With Barry County Circuit Judge Amy McDowell's retirement from the bench, Barry County  Chief Judge William Doherty moved quickly in replacing McDowell until the Governor appoints a replacement.

On Tuesday in a written announcement, Judge Doherty said retired Judge Donald Johnson will sit as a visiting Judge for the time being. Doherty said Johnson's assignment is effective immediately and will continue through December 31st.

Judge Johnson seved 10 years as District Judge and 30 years as Circuit Judge in Kent County.