---
title: "Michelle Cocayne | KnowJudges"
canonical: "https://knowjudges.com/kyj/judge/michelle-cocayne-mo"
page_type: "judge_profile"
updated: "2026-10-07"
---

# Michelle Cocayne

Missouri 16th Judicial Circuit Court · Circuit Judge

## Profile

- Court: Missouri 16th Judicial Circuit Court
- State: Missouri
- Role: Circuit Judge
- Service status: expected
- Appointment: Appointed on February 13, 2026. [Missouri 16th Judicial Circuit Court](https://knowjudges.com/kyj/court/mo/missouri-16th-judicial-circuit-court)

## Summary

Michelle Cocayne — Missouri 16th Judicial Circuit Court

## Biography

### Professional career

- Appointed on 2026-02-13 as Circuit Judge for Missouri 16th Judicial Circuit Court
- Judge Michelle L. Cocayne joined Division 6 of the 16th Judicial Circuit of Missouri on February 13, 2026, by Governor Mike Kehoe, filling the vacancy left by the retirement of Judge J. Dale Youngs
- Attorney at Law Office of Joe Ramboldt, LLC
- Previously assistant prosecutor for Clay County
- Judge Cocayne’s appointment ensures the 16th Judicial Circuit maintains a full bench to administer justice effectively

### Education

- Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Religious Studies from Bradley University.
- University of Missouri–Kansas City School of Law — J.D.

### Additional information

- Previously practiced at Turney LG, LLC
- Following law school, she clerked for the Honorable Jalilah Otto in the 16th Judicial Circuit
- Governor Kehoe highlighted her extensive experience in both prosecution and private practice when announcing her appointment.
- Part of a broader judicial transition that included appointments in the 22nd Judicial Circuit as well.
- Her diverse legal background provided a strong foundation for her role on the bench
- She later transitioned to private practice, working in both civil litigation and criminal defense, including positions at the Law Office of Joe Ramboldt, LLC and Turney LG, LLC.
- Before her judicial appointment, Judge Cocayne held the role of an Assistant Prosecutor in Clay County, Missouri, gaining experience in criminal law.
- Judge Cocayne’s career reflects a combination of academic excellence, prosecutorial experience, and private practice, positioning her as a knowledgeable and capable member of Missouri’s judiciary

## Sources

- [Governor Kehoe Announces Three Judicial Appointments](https://governor.mo.gov/press-releases/archive/governor-kehoe-announces-three-judicial-appointments)

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