Southeast Missourian

Circuit Judge William Syler has filed for re-election in the 32nd Judicial Circuit of Cape Girardeau, Perry and Bollinger counties.

Syler faces opposition in the August Republican primary from Bryan Keller of Cape Girardeau.

Syler said the circuit court has won awards for judicial efficiency in processing cases.

Syler was first elected in 1992 to complete the unexpired term of Stephen N. Limbaugh Jr. who was appointed to the Missouri Supreme Court. Voters re-elected Syler in 1996.

Syler said he has presided at 178 jury trials, including three death-penalty murder cases. Syler also helped coordinate the computerization of the court system.

Syler previously practiced law with the Limbaugh law firm in Cape Girardeau and served as assistant prosecuting attorney for Cape Girardeau County.

"It's been an honor to have been circuit judge," he said. "I am looking forward to the opportunity to fill out another term."