Category: Uncategorized

(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years)
I have been a judge on the Franklin County Common Pleas Court for 5 years.

(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?
I studied criminal law at The Ohio State University for 4 years prior to law school. Following my graduation from law school I practiced in the field of complex civil litigation for a small firm in San Diego. Given the size of the firm, I was almost immediately handling my own cases from start to finish. This helped me to learn the world of civil law very early on in my career. I was taking depositions, representing clients in mediations and trying cases in my first year of practice. Most of the lawyers from other firms that were involved in these cases were much more experienced than I was, so I had to learn quickly. I also was handling cases that involved areas of the law that I had not necessarily studied in law school.

Being a judge requires that you be familiar and competent to handle cases in many areas of the law that you may not have been exposed to during your time as a lawyer. This requires a great deal of hard work and you cannot be afraid to ask questions.

I had the same experience as a lawyer, so when I became a judge, I knew how to handle it.

As a judge in Franklin County, you have to be able to handle both civil and criminal cases. My experience and education positioned me to be knowledgeable in both areas. Finally, as a lawyer handling complex cases that generally involved dozens of lawyers, I had to navigate my way through a multitude of different personalities and skill levels. Judges have to do the same thing when it comes to the parties and the lawyers. I learned diplomacy as a lawyer and I use it every day as a judge.

(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat?
I am running to keep my seat on the Franklin County Common Pleas Court because this court provides me with the opportunity, almost every day, to have a positive impact on our community. On this court, we have the ability to change lives, to save lives and to make the world a better place. There is enormous responsibility with this position, because there is enormous power. It is vital to use that power to make positive change and to help people. I do this on a daily basis and it is incredibly rewarding.

I take the responsibility of this job very seriously because I know my decisions impact so many aspects of the lives of the people who appear in my courtroom. I strive to work with the lawyers and the litigants to think outside of the box to find solutions, when we can, to the issues in front of us. I will often bring in the parties and their lawyers to try to work through their disagreements in a civilized, peaceful manner.

In criminal cases, I work very hard to put myself in the shoes of both the defendant and the victim in aiding with plea negotiations and when sentencing. I have a very hands on approach because we are not dealing with “cases,” we are dealing with people. This court deals with felonies and civil cases where a great deal of money is in dispute, so the stakes are high.

I am running to keep my seat so that I can continue to ensure that the playing fields are level and that every person who walks into my courtroom knows that they will be heard and treated fairly.

(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years)
Full time Montgomery County Common Pleas Judge starting in January of 2015 to present.

(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?
My private practice focused on the very types of cases most often filed in the Common Pleas Court, to wit: Felonies and Tort Civil Litigation. I received the highest ethical rating by the top lawyer ranking entity in the United States, Martindale Hubbell. I have been a problem solver my entire career and have a reputation as a litigator that can see both sides of a dispute. When I ran for election in 2014, I received multiple endorsements from police agencies – not common for an attorney who practiced a significant amount of criminal defense.

(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat?
I have been hands on working with low level felony offenders. I have utilized efforts to help defendants and felons employment as I believe that is one of the most important stepping stones toward rehabilitation. I am dedicated to serving the community that I have lived in my entire life. I am proud of Montgomery County, Ohio and will work hard to make it a better place to live.

(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years)
For nearly 2 years, from 2017 to 2018, I served as a judge in the General Division of the Hamilton County Common Pleas Court, presiding over multi-million dollar civil cases and felony criminal matters, including murder cases, rapes, and significant drug related offenses. I am the only candidate in this race with such judicial experience in the General Division of the Hamilton County Common Pleas Court.

(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?
I am the only candidate in this race with the broad background and experience, both on and off the bench, to serve the people of Hamilton County in the fair and impartial administration of justice. As part of my 25 years of being an attorney, my private practice of law included serving as a law clerk for a federal court of appeals judge and working for two major law firms in Cincinnati, dealing predominately with complex civil cases. For nearly 16 years, I owned and operated my own law practice, representing and advising individuals and small family businesses.

Through my private law practice and during my time serving as a Common Pleas Court Judge, I was involved in a variety of criminal and civil matters, including trials and appeals — as both a judge and as an attorney. Through this broad experience of law, I better understand and appreciate the significant impact, both financially and emotionally, that being involved in any manner in the legal system has on both individuals and businesses. It is something I think about and appreciate in each case.

(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat?
I want to serve the people of Hamilton County in ensuring the predictability, stability and accountability provided by the law. During my prior tenure as a Common Pleas Court Judge, I demonstrated the ability to bring the experience and insight necessary to ensure the fair and impartial administration of justice, while also recognizing and appreciating that matters that come before the courts are not simply theoretical exercises. Instead, the cases, both criminal and civil, involve real individuals for whom the decisions that I make have a direct personal impact upon them, their families and others, as well as effecting society as a whole.

I proved myself as one who didn’t simply seek or desire the title of the office of judge but, instead, that I was dedicated and committed to doing the job of a judge and doing with fairness, respectfulness and a commitment to doing the right thing in each case. I have proven myself worthy of this high office and wish to return and further my commitment to the law and to the people of Hamilton County.

(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years)
I have no prior judicial experience.

(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?
I have been the Tuscarawas County Juvenile Prosecutor for the past ten years and was an Assistant Tuscarawas County Public Defender assigned to our Juvenile Court for three years prior to becoming a prosecutor. I have been practicing in all Tuscarawas County Courts for the past fifteen years defending and protecting our local families and children. I was certified as a forensic interviewer of child victims through the Beyond the Silence Program. I have prosecuted over five hundred adult felony cases including rape and murder and have thirteen years of jury trial experience. I have been a facility governing board member of Stark Regional Community Corrections Facility for twelve years, working with multiple counties and the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections. I have worked closely with all ten public school districts, including Buckeye Career Center for the past ten years in both a diversionary and prosecutorial capacity.

(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat?
During the past ten years serving as Tuscarawas County Juvenile Prosecutor, it has become abundantly clear that we need significant changes in our Juvenile and Probate Court. We need a full-time judge who will engage in evidence-based best practices and participate in community collaborations to maximize the amount of programming and services offered to our families and residents. Over the past five years the number of juveniles appearing before the Court with addictions, serious mental health issues and dual-diagnosis challenges has increased. These juveniles often do not respond to the traditional modes of basic supervision and incarceration historically utilized. We need a comprehensive assessment program in place to identify issues, trauma and risk factors that begins immediately upon contact with the Court in order to activate the appropriate response as quickly as possible. In conjunction with this, I look forward to the opportunity to bring a juvenile drug court specialized docket to our Court in which long-term treatment and recovery is the primary focus.

I also look forward to implementing a countywide juvenile work program which would provide meaningful services to all the villages, cities and townships in Tuscarawas County. It has been my experience that no child will successfully transition to independent adulthood without a sense of discipline and work ethic. So many of our juveniles are without a parent who models these vital character traits. I believe that when the law is violated, a debt is owed to the community regardless of your age. Community service is an excellent repercussion for bad behavior but also a great tool to build character, life skills and pride in juveniles lacking those examples in their homes. Preparing a juvenile to successfully transition into adulthood and independence is the best way to ensure they avoid further court involvement.

I would work diligently to expedite our probate and paternity/custody cases to provide stability to families in a timely fashion. I believe it is possible to utilize mediation programs to bring these cases to conclusion quickly and without incurring large financial obligations.

Finally, I want to ensure that those appointed by the Court responsible for children, the elderly and incompetent are not only qualified, but properly trained and reviewed frequently to prevent any abuse or neglect of their wards. I believe I am the best choice to move our Juvenile/Probate Court forward into the future.

(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years)
Judge / Hamilton County Court of Common Pleas / 2018 – present; Chief Hearing Examiner / City of Cincinnati / 2012 – 2018; Arbitrator, Better Business Bureau and Hamilton County Courts / 2002 – 2004

(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?
I graduated from the University of Cincinnati Law School in 1999 and joined the Hamilton County Public Defender’s juvenile division, where I gained immediate trial experience. I than practiced in the City of Cincinnati Prosecutor’s office. After 4 years of prosecuting criminal cases I was promoted to the City Solicitor’s office where I represented the City in civil matters in State and Federal court, and as a Neighborhood Prosecutor for Cincinnati Police District 4. Finally, I served as the Chief Hearing Officer in the Office of Administrative Hearings immediately prior to my election to the Court of Common Pleas. My experience in defense, prosecution, and civil litigation has prepared me to preside, efficiently and fairly, over the myriad of cases that I hear daily in Common Pleas Court.

(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat?
Throughout my legal career I have fought to ensure that everyone has equal access to justice. I protected our youth as a public defender, sought justice for victims as a prosecutor, and provided free legal counsel to those who could not afford it. As a Common Pleas Judge, I have ensured that justice is delivered properly and fairly on the merits of each case that comes before me.

(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years)
Although I have not been a judge, I have served as a Staff Attorney for Judges in both the Court of Appeals and the Court of Common Pleas. In both Courts, I reviewed and analyzed parties’ briefs, researched the issues, and drafted the opinions that the Judges issued. In both Courts, the Judges for whom I worked valued issuing full opinions that included clear legal reasoning, rather than the short judgment entries that some First District Court of Appeals Judges frequently issue.

(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?
My parents raised me to work hard, recognize injustice, and fight for fairness. From a young age, I have spent my life working to ensure that everyone is treated fairly and with respect. After graduating from Miami University in 1994, I spent ten years working at non-profit organizations. This work gave me the opportunity to meet and work closely with real people who are affected every day by decisions made by those in authority.

Following law school, I worked for two years at the First District Court of Appeals as a staff attorney. There, I got a first-hand view of how the Court worked. I observed Court practices that helped ensure fairness and some that I believe should be changed. Further, I had the opportunity to improve my legal writing to ensure that I could be an excellent appellate advocate.

After my clerkship, I focused on appellate advocacy. I have argued before the Supreme Court of Ohio, the federal Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals, and Ohio intermediate Courts of Appeals. I have had the opportunity to observe many great judges and some that I did not believe should be on the bench. I have seen first-hand how excellent judges ensure that the system is fair for all people, regardless of race, age, income level, sexual orientation, religion, etc.

(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat?
My legal career has focused on appellate advocacy. Through my work in various courts, I believe that some improvements will make the First District Court of Appeals an exemplary court.

TRANSPARENCY. Many decisions from the Court are short entries that do not adequately inform parties why they have won or lost. Not only is it good practice to issue a full decision with the legal reasoning behind decisions, but also it helps increase trust in the system when people understand why a court rules in a particular way.

ACCESS. Most people are aware that criminal defendants have the right to an attorney, even if they cannot afford one. But in the civil system, parties are not entitled to attorneys, other than for a narrow class of cases. As a result, when people without financial resources have legal issues, they either try to handle it themselves or ignore it. This leads to lower-income people having judgments levied against them without anyone hearing the cases on their merits, simply because the parties cannot afford to hire attorneys. In appellate practice, arguments must be crafted in specific ways for any chance of success, making it even more difficult for non-attorneys to navigate appeals. My hope is for our Court of Appeals to create a program in which lower-income people with appellate cases can be matched with attorneys seeking appellate experience, complete with a mentoring system. I will work with other judges and attorneys to make this hope a reality so that low-income people are able to participate in our Court of Appeals.

WORK ETHIC. Many attorneys have experienced the disappointment of appearing before a judge who is not prepared or who has not taken the time to understand the nuanced issues. Being a judge means being a public servant. As a judge, I would take that responsibility seriously. Whether it takes 40 hours per week or 80, I will be thoroughly prepared for every single case that appears before me. I love reading, writing, and researching. All parties who appear before me would know that I read their briefs, did my research, and could feel confident that win or lose, at least they had a judge who listened and understood their issues.

(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years)
My judicial experience includes one year as an acting judge for the Fremont Municipal Court as needed and two years as a magistrate for the Sandusky County Court Common Pleas.

(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?
Throughout my 17+ years as a private practice attorney, I have dealt with complex legal cases in municipal courts and common pleas courts throughout Northwest Ohio. I have represented clients before the Sixth District Court of Appeals. Also, I am the former Solicitor of Lindsey and the current Solicitor for the Village of Burgoon. My vast experience in all aspects of the law, coupled with my judicial experience, uniquely qualifies me for judge of the Sandusky County Common Pleas Court.

(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat?
During my 17+ years of practicing law in Sandusky County, I have always strived to make a difference in our communities. Thirteen years ago, I founded the Keep the Dreams Alive event, which goes to a new school within Sandusky County each year, educating students on the dangers of drunk driving.

In the last 3 to 4 years, Sandusky County has encountered several issues within our criminal justice system, causing our residents to lose confidence. During my time as a private practice attorney, I have lived up to the highest standards of professionalism and integrity that I know will help restore confidence in our criminal justice system here in Sandusky County. It is essential to run an efficient and effective court. Justice delayed is justice denied. I am committed to upholding the constitution of Ohio and the United States of America and will not legislate from the bench. For those reasons, I believe now is the right time to step forward and put my experience to work for the safety and betterment of Sandusky County and our residents.

(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years)
I have spent my career handling cases before Judges in all areas of law.

(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?
I have been honored to practice before many Judges in the areas of Criminal, Civil, Probate and Family Law. I have argued before the Supreme Court of Ohio, handled thousands of cases and had over one hundred trials. As an Assistant Stark County Prosecutor, I gained valuable insight into some of the greatest struggles in our community. I believe a Judge must follow the law and be compassionate. I spent my career working with families in crisis and have developed the temperament to be a Judge. I believe in having an efficient administration and maximizing taxpayer dollars.

Prior to becoming a Prosecutor I was a Public Defender and maintained a private practice which included Probate Law. Since the majority of my career was spent interacting with our community, I believe I have unique insight. I also understand that a court must be user friendly, efficient and consistent. Judges are first public servants and should model their behavior as such.

(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat?
Stark County Probate Court touches everyone in our community. I grew up in Stark County and we are raising our boys in Stark County. I believe our community deserves a Judge who is in touch with the issues facing typical citizens in this county.

I am running for Judge because I have a passion for helping families in crisis and I have the skills necessary to hit the ground running as Probate Court Judge. I understand the patience and dedication it takes to assist those suffering with mental illness. I have over 20 years experience working with mental health providers and families in need. The court should use evidence based approaches to providing care for those in need.

I believe we can do better at the court and it begins with strengthening the relationships with the agencies that serve Stark County residents. I want to make Stark County an adoption friendly county. I want families to choose Stark County for the efficient case management system and fairness during the adoption process. Our seniors deserve to be treated with dignity and protected from abuse and neglect. I have a record of protecting seniors from abuse and exploitation. I have profound respect for the rules of the court and the rules in the State of Ohio. I understand that Judicial power should be wielded carefully and with humility. As a Judge, I would be accessible to the community and the court staff. Support staff are an essential part of the Probate Court. The staff in my office will be well trained, efficient, and courteous. My management experience will serve me well as a Judge and I will make sure the staff are given the tools they need to make Probate Court a great place to work and more user friendly.

(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years)
Walbridge Mayor’s Court (2020)

(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?
As the chief prosecutor for many municipalities, I have extensive experience prosecuting criminals. But, my experience as a defense attorney also allows me to see issues from both sides. I believe in justice for victims and have served for many years on the Board of Alicia’s Voice, a non-profit organization whose mission is to help domestic violence victims. Additionally, as an experienced litigator, I have extensive practice in family law, complex civil litigation, mediation, and arbitration. As the chief legal officer for many municipalities, I also have experience in drafting legislation, personnel matters, and working with constituents.

Our court’s docket last year was comprised of less than 30% criminal cases, with the balance (about 70%) being family law (divorce/dissolution/custody) and other complicated civil matters. Our courts need judges who have broad experience in all of the matters which may come before the court. I have experience in 100% of the issues which the court of common pleas may hear.

Because Agriculture is one of our county’s largest industries, land use and real estate law affects many people. I have done a significant amount of work in these areas. As a former owner of a title company, I am experienced in the issues that affect real estate. When the pipelines came in, I represented clients who had their land taken from them, securing them some of the highest compensation in the state. Being a farmer myself, I understand the issues of drainage and easements; the impact of projects on farms, and the application of law to the situations which are brought to the court.

In addition to advocating for clients, I also help people resolve problems through mediation. I am the head of the mediation program at the Perrysburg Municipal Court and regularly mediate issues for litigants there, as well as privately mediate complex issues of other parties. Through mediation, I help people resolve problems amicably and without the enormous expense associated with litigation. In summary, I bring a well-rounded perspective and practical approach to everything I do.

(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat?
I was born and raised in Wood County. I love my community and strive each day to keep it a great place to live, work, and raise a family. I believe that a strong legal system is the very foundation for maintaining our great community. By protecting the rights of the citizens and ensuring that laws are fairly and evenly enforced, our communities stay safe. By fairly and efficiently resolving civil matters between residents, we see our businesses thrive and our property values remain high.

The law is important to me. I am passionate about the law- its ins and outs- and the process surrounding it. I strongly believe in the separation of the different branches of government and believe that judges should not “legislate from the bench.” I believe in the Constitution and the individual rights protected by it. I want to help do my part in protecting and preserving our great republic- not just locally, but also on a state and national level.

As an attorney and business owner in our county, I have been accountable to my clients. I have to work hard for them in order to keep them satisfied. As judge, I want to do the same thing on a broader scale– I want to help the residents of the county by making sure our legal system is functioning at the highest level possible– without compromise. I want to be one of the best judges the county has ever had and will work hard for the people of Wood County to ensure that crimes are punished, justice is done, and the law is followed, as written.

(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years) 
No experience as a judge.

(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?
I have a wealth of legal and leadership experience. I am an Army Combat Veteran, having served in Korea and Operation Iraqi Freedom. I attained the rank of Sergeant, was awarded the Army Achievement Medal twice.

Before I became an attorney, I worked with several law firms. I also have experience working as an intern-prosecutor with the Wayne County Prosecutor in Detroit Michigan and as a law clerk.

After law school, I served at the Ohio General Assembly as a Senior Legislative Aide. Then I moved to the private sector where I represented hundreds of Ohio’s municipalities as Legislative Advocate for the Ohio Municipal League. During this time, I began my private practice, representing clients in complex financial matters. I now work full time as an attorney, representing clients in a wide array of matters, including general litigation, bankruptcy, bankruptcy litigation, and estate planning.

(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat?
My experience makes me particularly well-suited for dealing with difficult parties in resolving disputes. In fact, I’ve built my reputation on this skill set. The parties before the courts, and our community, need someone who is both a great judge and a great leader. I have proven to excel in both areas. After a number of negative stories in the media, the community is looking for new leaders to rebuild faith in the justice system. I will take the lead on communicating with the community and being a leader they can trust and believe in