Governor Ron DeSantis Makes Three Judicial Appointments

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announces three judicial appointments to the Sixth District Court of Appeal.  These appointments are to fill the three vacancies, created by the enactment of HB 7027, that take effect on January 1, 2023.

Jared Smith, of Lakeland, to serve as Judge on the Sixth District Court of Appeal

Smith has served as a Judge on the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit Court since September 2019 after his appointment by Governor DeSantis.  Previously, he served as a Judge on the Hillsborough County Court, a partner in private practice, and a Judge Advocate for the United States Air Force.  He received his bachelor’s degree from the Fort Hays State University and his law degree from Washburn University.

Joshua Mize, of Winter Park, to serve as Judge on the Sixth District Court of Appeal

Mize has served as a Judge on the Ninth Judicial Circuit Court since February 2021 after his appointment by Governor DeSantis.  Previously, he was the owner of Mize Law, PLLC and worked as an associate attorney at Bush Ross, P.A., Akerman LLP, and Morris, Manning & Martin, LLP.  He received his bachelor’s and law degrees from the University of Florida.

Keith White, of Maitland, to serve as Judge on the Sixth District Court of Appeal

White has served as a Judge on the Ninth Judicial Circuit Court since February 2011.  Previously, he was the president and shareholder of Keith F. White, P.A.  He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Florida and his law degree from Florida State University.