In a special called City Council meeting on Tuesday night, the City of Pell City made St. Clair County history by appointing Brandi Williams as the first female municipal court judge in St. Clair County.

She will replace Judge William Van Davis, who is retiring from the position effective Sept. 30. Van Davis has served on the bench since 2012.

“(Van Davis) has done an outstanding job serving the City,” said Pell City City Council President James McGowan.

Williams’ two-year appointment as municipal court judge will begin on October 1, at a rate of $500 per session.

“We had to make a tough decision about who we think will represent the city in the way we think best,” said Pell City Councilman Jay Jenkins. “This is one of the toughest votes I’ve ever had to make. We’re fortunate to have two quality candidates to choose from.”

Williams was chosen in an unanimous decision by the Pell City City Council. The municipal court deals with traffic cases and misdemeanor crimes at Pell City City Hall.

“Judge Davis did a wonderful job and I am incredibly humbled that I was chosen to take his place,” said Williams. “I appreciate the vote of confidence and am grateful for the appointment.”

Brandi Williams is an attorney with Hill, Hill, & Gossett Law Group. She was born and raised in St. Clair County. After graduating Pell City High School, she attended Samford University and later, Cumberland School of Law.

Williams practices in the areas of Juvenile, Probate, Adoption, Real Estate, and General Litigation. Her clients include the Pell City Board of Education and City Prosecutor for the City of Pell City. She has taught at Birmingham School of Law and currently teaches at Samford University.

“I am pretty proud of our court for not only being fair but efficient,” said Williams, “from co-prosecutor Lance Bell, the staff, and Judge Davis and I hope to continue that.”

The City Prosecutor position will be filled by the law firm of Trussell, Funderburg, Rea & Bell, who are currently the attorneys for the City of Pell City.