Gagnon, a Democrat, has operated his own law practice in Lathrop for the last five years. He was previously an associate with the Shook, Hardy & Bacon lawfirm in Kansas City.
He currently represents the cities of Lathrop and Trimble as their city attorney.
Gagnon is a graduate of Polo R-VII High School. He obtained his undergraduate degree from the University of Missouri and his law degree from Duke University School of Law.
He serves as an officer with the Lathrop Rotary Club and as a trustee of his church.
“Joe Gagnon grew up in this part of Missouri and, since returning, has been an active member of the community in addition to his work as an attorney,”Gov. Nixon said in a news release.
“I am confident he will ably serve the citizens of Clinton County as their new Prosecuting Attorney.”