Occupation: Montgomery County Juvenile Court Magistrate
Education: J. D. Ohio Northern University College of Law, B. A. Bowling Green State University, A. A. Sinclair Community College
Work Experience: Attorney (General practice – civil & criminal), Assistant Vandalia Municipal Court Prosecutor, Mathias H. Heck, Jr., Assistant Montgomery County Prosecutor, Montgomery County Juvenile Court Magistrate, Adjunct Faculty – – Sinclair Community College, Rets Tech, Kaplan College, Central State University
Family: Married with 2 children
Affiliations: Dayton Bar Association, Ohio Association of Magistrates, B. A. S. S. n
Endorsements: Montgomery County Ohio Republican Party
(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years): Montgomery County Juvenile Court Magistrate ( July 1995-present)
(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge? I have practiced in both civil and criminal courts and have experience of over a year and a half as a municipal court prosecutor
(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat? I am running for this seat because I have been a judicial officer of the Montgomery County Juvenile Court as a magistrate for over 24 years. I am fully qualified and dedicated to continuing my life in public service by providing fair, equal and respectful treatment to all parties, victims, witnesses and attorneys in my commitment to continued judicial service to the community.
Occupation: Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Columbiana County Prosecutor’s Office
Education: J.D. from University of Akron School of Law 1986
Work Experience: Former County Court Judge 1993-2001; Private Practice 1987-2018
Family: Single
Affiliations: Salem Area Visiting Nurses Association; Salem Rotary Club 1989-2015
Endorsements: UAW CAP Council; Hall of Fame Central Labor Council, AFL-CIO
Bar Rating: Martindale Hubbell BV rating
(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years): I served in the Columbiana County Court from 1993-2001; Was the Salem City Magistrate in 1992
(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge? The fact that I have been a practicing attorney for over 32 years handling criminal and civil cases qualifies me for the position. Further having a combine 9 years as an assistant prosecuting attorney has allowed me to see cases from both sides.
(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat? My experience as a judge, prosecutor, defense counsel and civil litigator allows me to be prepared to handle any type of case that would come before me as judge. I am the most qualified candidate for the position given my years of experience hearing and trying jury trials, along with trials to the bench.
Education: J.D. University of Dayton School of Law, B.S.Ed., Bowling Green State University
Work Experience: Judge since 1996, private practice of law for 10 years prior.
Family: Married, one grown son.
Affiliations: Catholic – Parishoner St. Rose Catholic Church, Perrysburg OH. Perrysburg Knight of Columbus, Exchange Club of Perrysburg
(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years): I have been the Judge of the Bowling Green Municipal Court since 1996, 23+ years.
(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge? In 1985 I graduated from law school and passed the Bar Examination. I became an associate in the law firm of Reddin & Reddin, a general practice law firm. As part of that practice I was a village prosecutor for the neighboring villages and the City of Bowling Green in the Bowling Green Municipal Court. I provided representation as village legal counsel as well. I represented clients, including in trials, in domestic relations matters, contracts, collections, business transactions, real estate, landlord-tenant matters, personal injury, wrongful death, wills, trusts, and estates. I provided traffic and criminal defense representation in area courts as well. I served as a board member of The Link, Family Services of Northwest Ohio, The Wood County Regional Airport Authority,and the Civil Service Commission of the City of Bowling Green. My areas of practice and experience proved valuable when adjudicating the variety of filings, motions, and cases heard in the Bowling Green Municipal Court.
(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat? When I was in private practice, I prosecuted cases in the Bowling Green Municipal Court over a period of 10 years. I used that familiarity with the court as well as the rest of my legal experience to focus on the work of the Bowling Green Municipal Court. After my election in 1995, the court and city of Bowling Green planned, designed and constructed a new municipal court facility. The facility opened in December 1999, approximately 80,000.00 under budget. The facility now 20 years old has proved to be an attractive and efficient working environment for the citizens, lawyers, participants and employees of the court. During my tenure, the court implemented a “no bond policy” in domestic violence cases so that an offender is not released until a judicial officer has reviewed his or her case and sets appropriate conditions on any bond granted. The court has scheduled crimes of violence and non support cases on a specific day of the week so that all stakeholders and treatment providers are available to help resolve these cases thoughtfully and expeditiously. The court is a founding collaborative participant in the Project Direct Link program. This program seeks to get offenders treatment starting in the jail with a Vivitrol injection to block pleasure centers in the offender’s brain prior to release. Offenders are then placed in a medically assisted treatment regimen with supervision by a medical doctor. The court’s Probation Department retains supervision over the offender to maintain offender compliance with treatment. The court believes that treatment works and people recover. I am running for this seat because i don’t believe I am finished meeting the challenges in our community. I believe that as judge, I can continue to make a positive contribution to the lives of the users of the court and the citizens of the Bowling Green Municipal Court District.
Education: J.D. – University of Toledo 1994, B.S. Michigan State University 1990
Work Experience: Stark County Public Defender 1995-1996, Wood County Public Defender 1996-2001, Asst. Law Director/Prosecutor, City of Fostoria 2001-2003, Private Practice 2001-2003, Asst. Wood County Prosecutor 2003-2018, Judge Perrysburg Municipal Court 2019-present
Family: Married, three children
Affiliations: Catholic – Parishoner St. Rose Catholic Church, Perrysburg OH. Perrysburg Knight of Columbus, Exchange Club of Perrysburg E
Bar Association Ratings: Highly Recommended – Lucas County Bar Association
(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years): Perrysburg Municipal Court 2019-present
(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge? I have dedicated my career to ensuring our children are allowed to grow up in a community that is safe and protected. Having served for 15 years as a Wood County Prosecutor and having previously served as a defense attorney, my experience is unparalleled. I began my legal career in the Perrysburg Municipal Court in 1992 as a legal intern while in law school and have served in the Perrysburg Municipal Court throughout my career. My extensive involvement in the community speaks to my dedication to serving the community.
(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat?
I look forward to continuing to serve my community through the position of Judge of the Perrysburg Municipal Court. My goal is to ensure that the Court is run efficiently, and serves our region well. As the challenges facing our communities change over time, it is important that we look to new ways to ensure that those that come into the court are treated with dignity and respect and their needs are met in a fair and expeditious manner.
Occupation: Franklin County Municipal Court Judge since 2005
Education: B.A. Youngstown State University, summa cum laude; J.D. Moritz College of Law, The Ohio State University
Work Experience: Judge in Franklin County Municipal Court since 2005; Private practice (solo practitioner) from 1982-1995 & 2002-2005; Of counsel Teaford, Rich, Wheeler & Coffman from 1997-2002; Ohio House of Representatives from 1995-2002; Partnership with Michelle Shuster 1995-1997; Administrative Law Judge for State Personnel Board of Review 1985-1989;
Affiliations: Trustee American Cancer Society; Certificate of Honor and Recognition from the Columbus City Council; Outstanding Organization Award from the Short North Business Association; Resolution of Expression from Columbus City Council for Outstanding contributions to the community; Certificate of Expression for Performing Exceptional Service to COTA; Partners in Prevention Award, Franklin County Prevention Institute; Leadership Award, Southwest Education Association; Program Volunteer of the Year Award, Central Ohio Chapter of the March of Dimes; Ohio March of Dimes Public Affairs Award; Victorian Village Commission, former member; Italian Village Commission, former Chair and member; St. Marks Community Health Center, former board member; Downtown Housing Task Force, former member; Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) Task Force, former member; Franklinton Board of Trade; Franklinton Historical Society; Hilltop Business Association; Grove City Chamber of Commerce; Central Ohio Folic Acid Council, honorary chair; Child Care Task Force, co-chair; March of Dimes Board Member; CASA Board Member; Shaken Baby Education Initiative Board Member; Member of the Short North Business Association; Member of St. Francis of Assisi Church.
Endorsements: Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Capitol City Lodge No. 9; Teamsters Local Union 413;Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 189; Coalition of Black Trade Unionists; Coalition of Labor Union Women; A. Philip Randolph Institute
Family: Married with two children
(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years):
It has been my great honor and privilege to serve the citizens of Franklin County as a Judge in the Franklin County Municipal Court since 2005. My docket is comprised of criminal misdemeanors, adult traffic violations and civil lawsuits, which include landlord/tenant matters, breach of contract, personal injury, debt collection and City of Columbus income tax matters). Additionally, I serve in special session approximately every four weeks. Special sessions include in-jail arraignments, out-of-jail arraignments and Duty Room matters. My primary function in the arraignment court is to set bonds on misdemeanor and preliminary felony cases. Typical Duty Room responsibilities include warrant set-asides, ruling on motions for default judgment, motions to dismiss filed by the prosecutor pursuant to Criminal Rule 48, cognovits notes, motions to excuse jurors, probable cause hearings, civil wedding ceremonies and the review of subpoenas and search warrants for law enforcement. Prior to serving as Municipal Court Judge, I served as a part-time Administrative Law Judge for the State Personnel Board of Review. In this position I conducted administrative hearings to resolve factual and legal disputes arising from appeals filed with the Board. Additionally, I presided over settlement and status conferences, pre-hearings and record hearings which proceed much like court trials with witnesses, exhibits and rules of evidence. As a Judge for fifteen years, I have presided over thousands of bench, jury and civil trials, motion hearings and post-conviction hearings. Serving one of the busiest municipal courts in the entire nation is both a challenging and rewarding experience and I am extremely proud to serve as a judge in the Franklin County Municipal Court.
(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?
While in private practice I represented hundreds of clients in litigation filed in the Municipal Court as well as the General, Domestic & Juvenile, and Probate Divisions of the Court of Common Pleas in Franklin County in addition to numerous other jurisdictions throughout the state of Ohio. After running a solo practice for many years, I decided to pursue a career in government. In 1994, I was elected to the Ohio House of Representatives and subsequently went on to serve for four very rewarding and productive terms in the legislature. As a representative, I was responsible for introducing and sponsoring a number of important bills in the legislature, including House Bill 162, which established the crime of homicide by child abuse that mandated the same statutory penalties as homicide. This bill became a model for like-minded legislation throughout the United States and as a result earned me an appearance on the Oprah Winfrey Show. In addition to my experience as a legislator, I have served as a member of numerous local organizations including the Shaken Baby Education Initiative, the Downtown Housing Task Force, the Franklinton Board of Trade, the Franklinton Historical Society, the Hilltop Business Association, the Central Ohio Folic Acid Council, the Child Care Task Force, and the Grove City Chamber of Commerce. I currently serve as a Board Member at the American Cancer Society. Service in these various organizations have allowed me to garner valuable experience and knowledge as well as foster relationships with business leaders, community leaders and constituents. I will continue to utilize my connections to serve Franklin County effectively and with distinction.
(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat?
I am running for Judge of the Franklin County Municipal Court because I want to continue to serve this wonderful community. As a student of the Moritz College of Law at The Ohio State University, I developed strong ties to the City of Columbus and Franklin County. I have spent nearly all of my adult life in Franklin County and my husband and I chose to live, work, and raise our two daughters here. I enjoy engaging with our citizens and community leaders. I genuinely appreciate connecting with members of our community because they provide invaluable information in reference to improvement of our local government, economy and legal system. People who know me know I am a fighter for those who do not have a voice. As a cancer survivor, I know what it feels like to never give up, to persevere through adversity. I would like for the people who appear in my courtroom to know that they will always have an opportunity to turn their lives around and to better themselves. I want victims to be confident that their voice is being heard and I will continue to listen to them. I recognize it is vitally important for judges to be “change agents†and give people the tools by which they can better themselves. I feel it is essential to facilitate productive outcomes in order to reduce recidivism rates. I am cognizant that judges can always do a better job in addressing the fundamental and underlying root causes of crime. Generational poverty, addiction, broken families and broken dreams are issues that are not going to be resolved overnight. The judicial system is often the first point of contact for people who need intervention and I take my responsibility as a judge in helping to transform lives very seriously. As a judge, I am sometimes required to make tough decisions which may not always be popular decisions. Being a judge is an extremely difficult job that I feel I am uniquely qualified for given my cumulative years of experience on the bench, in the legislature, and in the private sector. I am determined to continue to dispense justice with integrity and resolute fairness. I believe that my lengthy and varied legal background as well as my years in public service and on the bench make me highly qualified to continue as a Judge in the Franklin County Municipal Court.
Education: J.D. from Capital University Law School; B.A. The Ohio State University
Work Experience: Public Interest Attorney since 2005
Endorsements: Franklin County Democratic Party; Ohio Environmental Council Action Fund; Stonewall Democrats of Central Ohio
Family: Married with one daughter (age 12)
(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years):
This is my first campaign for a judicial seat.
(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?
For the past 14 years, I have led the legal charge for a cleaner, safer, and more just Ohio. With my law degree, I chose to dedicate my career to non-profit, public interest legal advocacy — putting my passion for a better tomorrow ahead of any pursuit of personal fortune. After passing the Bar, I helped create the legal department at the Ohio Environmental Council and the Ohio Environmental Law Center – advocating for the fair treatment of individuals and community groups around Ohio who are facing pollution hazards and degradation of their property. As General Counsel for the Ohio Environmental Council, I have been a fighter and problem solver for the public interest, taking on big-moneyed interests to protect our environment, our communities and our children. I have tried, managed, and/or overseen cases in a variety of courts at the state, local, and federal level. At the same time, I have worked with diametrically opposed parties and decision-makers in the executive branch and at the Statehouse to craft solutions that are fair, just, and forward-thinking. Most of all, by providing representation to people who are faced with issues impacting their lives and livelihoods, I gave a voice to those who may not otherwise have had the ways and means to seek justice.
(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat?
Municipal Court truly is the People’s Court. People find themselves before the court for varying reasons and with varying underlying factors contributing to what brought them to court. Yet, no matter their situation, our neighbors expect and deserve their rights respected, their interests heard, and ultimately, a fair decision. For my entire career as a lawyer, that is exactly what I have done for people in Central Ohio and people in all corners of the state. I have dedicated my career to serving the public interest by working for the dignity of individuals who had nowhere to turn. By utilizing the principle that true justice comes from compassion, I have seen that helping an individual seek fairness helps the entire community grow. In our Municipal Court, that same compassion for people and respect for the law can both change the trajectory of individuals’ lives and at the same time serve and protect the people of this community as a whole. I believe that my broad and unique experience, my dedication to fairness to individuals and communities, and my passion for serving the public will serve as an asset to the growth of the Franklin County community that I have called home my entire life.
Occupation: Magistrate/Judicial Attorney: Summit County Domestic Relations Court
Education: BA, Political Science, Kent State University 1994; JD, University of Akron School of Law, 1997
Work Experience: Assistant Prosecutor/Police Legal Advisor: City of Akron Prosecutor’s Office
Family: Married with two children
Affiliations: Akron/Canton Barristers Association, Akron Bar Association, Ohio Association of Magistrates E
Bar Association Ratings: Akron Bar Association: Excellent Rating: 8/22/19
(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years): Magistrate and Judicial Attorney for Judge Katarina Court – Summit County Domestic Relations Court – 2 years Assistant Prosecutor and Police Legal Advisor – City of Akron Prosecutor’s Office – prosecuted cases in Akron Municipal court -18 years.
(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge? I come from a middle class family with strong family values. My father was a carpenter and my mother was a seamstress. They instilled in me at a young age the importance of work and treating others with respect. I worked while in high school, college and law school. As a young law student, I worked for the Honorable Judge James R. Williams as his Judicial Assistant. My experience working for Judge Williams included both criminal and civil law. As an Assistant Prosecutor for the City of Akron, I handled over 15,000 misdemeanor criminal and traffic cases. I worked daily in Akron Municipal Court to ensure that the victims were treated fairly and the offenders were brought to justice. I treated all individuals that appeared in Akron Municipal Court with dignity and respect. I worked closely with local law enforcement officers and local defense attorneys throughout my years as a prosecutor. I served as the prosecutor in five of the specialty courts that were in existence during my tenure in Akron Municipal Court. In addition, I wrote the grant for the Domestic Violence Unit for almost fifteen years. I also supervised two detectives while I served as the Domestic Violence Prosecutor. My 18 years of working as a prosecutor in Akron Municipal Court have provided me with the background necessary to serve as your judge. I have interacted with law enforcement, attorneys, victims, defendants, court personnel, judges and my fellow co-workers in the prosecutor’s office. I have treated all of these individuals with respect. My temperament has always been even, calm and civil. I have been known to be extremely patient with parties unfamiliar with the courtroom. In addition, I am a strong supporter of an efficient courtroom that runs in a timely manner. A party to a case takes time out of their schedule to attend court. Therefore, court should start on time so that the attorney is able to attend their subsequent court appearance and the defendant, victim or witness may get back to work or school. I have worked in Akron Municipal Court for 18 years and those many years of experience qualify me to be your judge.
(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat? I am running for this particular court seat because I have 18 years of experience working as a Prosecutor in Akron Municipal Court. I have worked closely with our local law enforcement as the City of Akron Prosecutor’s Office Police Legal Advisor for the Akron Municipal Court jurisdiction. This jurisdiction includes Akron, Bath, Fairlawn, Springfield, Lakemore, Mogadore and Richfield. I have provided legal advice to all of the law enforcement in these jurisdictions and I have written many search warrants on felony cases, including homicides, rapes and aggravated robbery. I have observed many judges over the years and have aspired to follow in the footsteps of the highly respected judges of Akron Municipal Court. Judges Lynne Callahan and Carla Moore were two judges who served for many years in Akron Municipal Court and were well-respected by many. Their reputations for fairness, thoughtfulness, and courtesy were well-known in the Akron Municipal Court. It is judges like these two, and many others, that I strive to be like when I am your next Akron Municipal Court Judge. In addition, I have over two decades of legal experience and received a rating of “Excellent” from the Akron Bar Association. My current role as a Magistrate in Domestic Relations Court has provided me with invaluable experience in the courtroom. I have presided over Uncontested Divorce hearings and Dissolutions. I have learned to conduct myself in an efficient and polite manner. Many parties that appear in Domestic Relations Court are self-represented. My temperament with all parties is even and patient. I understand that court can be an overwhelming experience and I have a demeanor that puts the parties at ease. I will take the time to listen to every party that appears before me. As your judge, I will continue to treat all parties who appear before me with dignity and respect.
Education: B.A. Cleveland State University; J.D. Cleveland-Marshall College of Law
Work Experience: Judge-Elyria Municipal Court since 2018; Acting Judge-Elyria Municipal Court 2016-2018; Private practice Attorney-1991-2018; Carlisle Township Trustee- 2004-2012
Family: Married, 3 children, 2 grandchildren
Affiliations: Association of Municipal/County Judges of Ohio; Ohio State Bar Association; Lorain County Bar Association; Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association; University Hospitals Elyria Medical Center- Board of Directors (2013-2018); Firelands Association for the Visual Arts- Board of Directors (2013-2014); Comprehensive Health Care of Ohio- Board of Directors (2010-2013); Rural Lorain County Water Authority- Board of Trustees (2004-2011); EMH Regional Medical Center- Board of Directors (2000-2010); Alcohol and Drug Addiction Services Board of Lorain County- Board of Directors (1997-2001); Elyria Rotary Club- Board of Directors (1995-2003) (President 2002-2003); Lorain County Drug Free Youth- President, Board of Trustees (1993-1996); Leadership Lorain County- Class of 1994
(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years): I have been Judge in the Elyria Municipal Court since February 2018, having been selected by the Governor of Ohio to fill the position vacated by Judge Lisa Locke Graves, who retired. Since that time, I have held thousands of hearings and decided thousands of cases. In June 2019, I was approved by the Ohio Supreme Court to operate the first specialized docket municipal drug court in Lorain County. Having served as Acting Judge in the Court for two years prior to being appointed, I have accumulated over 100 hours of training through the Supreme Court of Ohio Judicial College. 19
(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge? My civil law practice was seasoned by over twenty-five years of experience in representing families, businesses and public entities in the litigation of complex issues in federal courts, state courts and administrative agencies. My representative clients included many of the area’s most prominent businesses, as well as public clients, such as: the Elyria City School, District, the Rural Lorain County Water Authority, the South Lorain County Ambulance District, the Central Lorain County Ambulance District and Rochester Village. I was elected to three terms as a Carlisle Township Trustee (2004-2015) and served two terms as President of the Lorain County Township Association. Throughout my career I served on a myriad of public and non-profit boards and professional associations across Lorain County, including: University Hospitals Elyria Medical Center- Board of Directors (2013-2018); Firelands Association for the Visual Arts- Board of Directors (2013-2014); Comprehensive Health Care of Ohio- Board of Directors (2010-2013); Rural Lorain County Water Authority- Board of Trustees (2004-2011); EMH Regional Medical Center- Board of Directors (2000-2010); Alcohol and Drug Addiction Services Board of Lorain County- Board of Directors (1997-2001); Elyria Rotary Club- Board of Directors (1995-2003) (President 2002-2003); and Lorain County Drug Free Youth- President, Board of Trustees (1993-1996). I am a 1994 graduate of Leadership Lorain County. My service on these boards allowed me to develop relationships with a large and diverse group of community leaders. I work hard and always have. I started working as a pre-teen in my father’s gas station, then attended college and law school at night, while supporting my family working on local factory assembly lines and as a carpet installer during the day. I have brought all of these experiences to my service as Judge of the Elyria Municipal Court.
(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat? I served as Acting Judge in the Court beginning in 2016 and fell in love with the work. After being selected by the Governor to fill the full time position in 2018, I was able to utilize my 25-plus years of experience as a litigator, as a business owner, as a community board member and as an elected official to establish new programs, as well as to modernize and streamline court operations. There is still much to be accomplished. I established the first municipal drug recovery court in Lorain County. I will continue to operate and expand that court to help people stop using drugs, turn their lives around and become more productive members of the community. Successful treatment can lessen costs to taxpayers by reducing the rate of recidivism and therefore the burden on law enforcement, courts and the prison system. I plan to cooperate with law enforcement and the faith community to establish a warrant safe surrender program that will allow people to address outstanding warrants in an environment that is safer for them, law enforcement and the public. I also will establish a driving under suspension program to help citizens who have been buried in fines, costs and BMV reinstatement fees to develop a workable plan to regain valid privileges.
Education: J.D. – Western Michigan University Cooley School of Law, Bachelor’s – University of Akron
Work Experience: Summit County Council Jan. 2017 – present; Akron Municipal Court, Judicial Attorney, Dec. 2017 – April 2019; Littlejohn Law Office, Attorney & Guardian ad Litem, May 2016 – Dec. 2017; City of Akron Law Dept., Asst. Director of Law/City Prosecutor, Jan. 2013 – Jan. 2016
Family: Single
Affiliations: Leadership Akron Class 34; Community Hero Award, Schumacher CLC 2018; Fitzgerald Student Leader Award; Community Genius Fellowship Awardee, BMe 2018; Chair, Summit County Jail Advisory Commission; Board Member and former Chair of Bylaws Committee, AxessPointe Community Health Center; Board Member, The First Tee of Greater Akron; Board Member, Summit County Land Reutilization Corporation; Former Student Mentor, School of Business and Entrepreneurship (SOBE): Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy; Court Appointed Special Advocate C.A.S.A.; Ally, Akron Summit Community Action Inc., Circles of Summit County; Volunteer, Sarah’s House; Former Board Member, Victim Assistance; Former Board Member, Kiwanis: Circle K Student Supervisor; Former Akron NAACP legal chair
Bar Association Ratings: Adequate by Akron Bar Association Commission on Judicial Candidates; https://youbethejudgesummitcounty.com/akron-municipal-court-unexpired-term/
(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years): Akron Municipal Court, Judicial Attorney – Dec. 17 – May 19
(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge? Outside of my time at law school at Western Michigan University, I have lived in the Akron Municipal Court District my entire life. I’ve had the responsibility of serving my community as an Assistant Prosecutor for the City of Akron, and currently as a Summit County Councilman representing Akron, Fairlawn Bath and Copley. My experiences living in the court district, and serving the community as an Assistant Prosecutor and County Councilman provide me with a unique and in-depth understanding of what justice looks like. More importantly, however, my experiences would help me in making the right decisions. My top priority when elected to the Akron Municipal Court will be to use my knowledge and experiences to keep our community safe, apply impartial justice, and keep myself and my staff connected to the community, while sitting on the bench.
(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat? I have the knowledge, experience, and commitment to get to work immediately as an Akron Municipal Court Judge. As a former Assistant prosecutor with the City of Akron, judicial attorney with the Akron Municipal Court, and the current District 5 County Council representative, I know the value of public service. I know firsthand the impact public service has on the daily lives of people and businesses. In my race, I am better suited to use that knowledge and experience to make decisions impacting the court district. If elected, I will combine my experience in those roles, with my education, to make careful and just decisions for those appearing before the Court. Representation and diversity matters. If elected to the Akron Municipal Court, I would bring more diversity in thought and life experiences. I strive every day to be an involved and model citizen. As Judge, I would be in the public eye even more, and provide the community with an example of how to carry yourself. I would strive to use my platform for good; making impartial decisions, being tough on those proven to have violated our laws, and encouraging those in my courtroom to reform, while also providing justice. Keeping our community safe, applying impartial justice, and staying connected to the community are critical in the daily roles of a Municipal Court Judge. I will strive to do all three and more if elected to the Akron Municipal Court.
Website: Keepjudgeobrien.com Twitter and FB @judgeannmarieobrien Instagram judgeannmarieobrien
Occupation: Judge Akron Municipal Court
Education: J.D. 1991 The University of Akron School of Law; B.A. 1987, Hiram College, Major Political Science, Minors Biology and French
Work Experience: Akron Municipal Court Judge and Experienced and Accomplished Attorney with 27 years of experience including Plaintiff and Defense representation in Municipal, Common Pleas, Appellate and Federal Courts. Prior position Of Counsel, Emershaw, Mushkat & Schneirer handling indigent felony criminal representation and extensive civil practive as well as juvenile representation and CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate). Judicial Attorney for the Summit County Court of Common Pleas in which worked in a fast paced and high volume environment. As Judicial Attorney performed research and writing for efficient and timely progression of case’s on the court’s docket. Conducted pretrials as necessary and foreclosure mediations, as well as conference with counsel and resolved discovery disputes. During my 18 years with Davis & Young, of which the latter I was a shareholder, I handled complex medical, wrongful death and catastrophic litigation as well as premises liability, bodily injury, construction and mold related claims and motorist insurance coverage issues. I also handled a niche practice of equine law. Prior, I worked with Scanlon & Henretta and performed exclusive plaintiff representation with focus on medical malpractice, nursing home abuse and neglect, pharmaceutical litigation, and catastrophic accidents involving products claims, airplane and heavy trucks. I attended law school at night, so that I worked during the day to support myself through school. During this time, I worked at Scanlon, served as common pleas bailiff, and held a store customer service position at Firestone.
Family: Divorced with one daughter, two adopted dogs, Toby and Millie, three rescue cats, Lily, Mitty, and Molly, and gold fish that won’t stop growing.
Affiliations: Admitted to practice in the State of Ohio, the U.S. Supreme Court, the U.S. 6th Cir. Court of Appeals, U.S District Courts, Northern and Southern Ohio. Co-Chair Summit County Collaborative Against Human Trafficking, Education/Outreach. Member of Ohio Association of Municipal Judges, National Association of Women Judges, International Association of Women Judges, Ohio State Bar Association and Certified Grievance Committee, Akron Bar Association, and Bencher Scanlon Inn of Court. Foundation Board Member of CHC Addiction Services. Member of Rotary and Usher at St. Sebastian Parish Church. Trained mediator with 12 Hours Basic Mediation and 40 Hours Specialized Divorce Mediation Training. Held “AV” Preeminent Peer Review Rating, Martindale-Hubbell and Ohio Super Lawyer, 2012 to 2019 during law practice and recognized within top 1% of America’s Most Honored Professionals 2016 to 2019 during practice. Volunteer Judge Mock Trial Practice and Trial Competitions as well as volunteer for various civic organizations.
Endorsements: Bill Roemer, State Representative (38th Dist.), Former Summit County Sheriff Drew Alexander, Fairlawn Mayor Bill Roth, Akron Municipal Clerk of Courts Jim Laria
Bar Association Ratings: Rated “Excellent” by Akron Bar Association Commission on Judicial Candidates
(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years): I presently serve as Akron Municipal Court Judge since January 2019. I have previous Judicial Experience from 2017, as well as 27 years of litigation experience in Ohio municipal, common pleas, appellate and federal courts. I have also served as a Summit County Common Pleas Judicial Attorney in 2016, and courtroom bailiff while attending law school at night.
(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge? A Judge’s qualifications should be based upon Integrity, Legal Knowledge and Ability, Professional Experience, Judicial Temperament, Diligence, Personal Responsibility and Public/Community Service. As a 27 year attorney, my career has been devoted to complex civil litigation, juvenile representation, indigent felony representation, as well as various pro-bono services. I have demonstrated expansive legal knowledge and file handling from simple premises liability cases to death and construction claims. My successful navigation thru the myriad of discovery matters associated with cases clearly demonstrates tenacity, diligence and personal responsibility. In addition, I have served as an arbiter as well as mediator for parties in an effort to resolve their disputes, saving them time and money. I understand the principle of hard work, having put myself through law school while working fulltime. I did and continue to conduct myself with honesty and integrity. I enjoy a strong reputation with colleagues and the community. I presently serve on the Ohio State Bar Association Certified Grievance Committee, as well previously serving on the same for the Akron Bar Association, committees which review judicial and/or attorney misconduct. By mentoring students as well as young attorneys, my goal remains that they continually develop to their potential. By enhancing the skills of our young people, we are not only able to ensure the integrity of the law profession, but we serve to protect the public. I have and continue to interact with persons of all diversity, socioeconomic and educational backgrounds and religious beliefs. I adhere to the principle that all persons are entitled to individual respect. As every person’s circumstances are unique and individual, whether they be a plaintiff or defendant or victim, each require consideration. Judicial temperament include an individual’s compassion, decisiveness, open-mindedness, courtesy, patience, freedom from bias and commitment to equal justice under the law. All of my life experiences, professional, personal and civic, have taught me skills worthy of a Judge. (I would imagine that many readers can also appreciate the tenacity of a high schooler as applied to my current “patience” skills.) I believe I demonstrate an even demeanor on the bench and remain open-minded to creative resolution. I remain committed to equal access to justice and actively worked with the bar association to promote diversity. In summary, I consider my entire life to have been devoted to public service and seek to continue to serve you.
(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat? As your Akron Municipal Judge, I am running to retain my seat. I bring the experience, knowledge and demeanor that is necessary and valued in a municipal court judge. Rated “Excellent” by the Akron Bar Association Commission on Judicial Candidates, and having served as its President, my over 27 years of legal experience is unmatched for this legal seat. My “Excellent” rating by my peers was based upon the seven evaluative categories I discussed above: Integrity, Legal Knowledge and Ability, Professional Experience, Judicial Temperament, Diligence, Personal Responsibility, and Public and Community Service. Access to justice, diversity concerns and rehabilitative sentencing remain priorities of mine. As Co-Chair of the Collaborative Against Human Trafficking, Education/Outreach, I educate the public on the realties of human trafficking. With these efforts, I am able to make a difference in people’s lives. I remain dedicated to ensuring that each person has equal access to justice. I have a solid reputation as an attorney and now a Judge and received a peer review rating of “AV Preeminent,” the highest rating available, prior to becoming a Judge. I effectively manage my docket, yet firmly dispense justice and protect our neighborhoods and communities. I work to protect vulnerable persons who are lured and trapped by economics, psychological, physical and/or sexual coercion or abuse, addiction and substance abuse, and threats against loved ones or actions taken against family pets. My over 27 years as a trial attorney has provided me with the distinct ability to experience first-hand the real world of court proceedings, having experienced those of many counties and court levels. I have represented civil plaintiffs and defendants, juvenile court parties, as well as indigent defendants in criminal felony matters. I volunteered my time to serve as a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) to young children, who were confusedly navigating the foster system, an incredibly rewarding and emotionally touching experience. I continue to devote myself to community causes. I collaboratively work with my fellow judges to increase services and programming to those individuals that our Akron Municipal Court serves. Serving as your Akron Municipal Court Judge allows me to serve the people, while providing firm but fair consequences. I listen to everyone and seek to see all persons remain healthy and successfully complete their programming. I respectfully ask that you vote to retain the experience, and integrity of Judge Ann Marie O’Brien.
