WASHINGTON COUNTY -- The engraved nameplate already was in place -- "G. Clair Baker Jr."
The only thing left was for Clair Baker to be sworn in as Washington County's next domestic relations master.
Just after 8:15 a.m. Monday, Baker became official, with about an hour to spare before his first case.
The domestic relations master hears cases about divorce, custody, visitation, child support and alimony.
The master makes recommendations to a judge, who can agree or disagree.
Baker, a longtime local attorney, takes over for Daniel Patrick Dwyer, who gave up the position after he was picked to be a circuit judge.
Dwyer, who had been domestic relations master since 1996, was sworn in a month ago as a circuit judge.
Monday, a small group watched Washington County Circuit Court Clerk Dennis J. Weaver administered an oath to Baker.
Baker's wife, Linda, was there, along with his mother, Joann Baker.
