Mon Sep 16 15:35:00 UTC 2024: ## St. Louis County to Pay $495/Hour to Defend Councilman Against Nepotism Lawsuit

**Clayton, MO** – St. Louis County will be footing a hefty legal bill to defend Councilman Dennis Hancock against a petition to remove him from office due to an alleged violation of the Missouri Constitution’s nepotism clause.

Hancock attempted to hire his stepdaughter as a legislative assistant, a move that sparked a legal challenge from County Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell. Bell argues that the constitution explicitly prohibits elected officials from hiring relatives, and Hancock’s actions resulted in him forfeiting his office.

The county will be paying attorney Kimberley Mathis $495 per hour to represent Hancock in court. Hancock’s initial response deadline was pushed back by Judge John N. Borbonus until the county secured legal representation for him. A status hearing is scheduled for October 17th.

If Bell’s argument prevails, the St. Louis County Republican Party will hold a special election to replace Hancock.

Hancock maintains that he was unaware of the nepotism rule and that his stepdaughter, Hollie Galati, resigned after he discovered the hiring was illegal. Galati was never paid for the position.

This situation has sparked debate regarding nepotism in public office and the responsibilities of elected officials. The outcome of the legal challenge will have implications for both Hancock and the future of nepotism laws in Missouri.

Read More