Category: Uncategorized

Office:
Franklin County Municipal Court Environmental Division

Age: 45

Residence: New Albany, OH

Email: stephaniemingoforjudge@gmail.com

Website: https://www.mingoforjudge.com
https://www.facebook.com/MingoForJudge/
https://www.instagram.com/judgestephaniemingo/

Occupation: Judge

Education: J.D. from Capital University Law School

Work Experience: Judge Environmental Court Division Appointed January 2019

Affiliations: Columbus Bar Association, Ohio Bar Association, Christian Non-Denominational

Family: Married with 2 children

(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years):

Judge, Franklin County Municipal Court Environmental Division- Appointed January 2019.

(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?

As an attorney my first years of practice were devoted to serving the most vulnerable citizens of Franklin County in Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court. In my capacity as a Guardian Ad Litem, I represented the best interest of children who were the subject of custody cases due to divorce or abuse and neglect. This experience exposed me to the trauma that families in crisis experience every day in Franklin County. Many of the cases involved some issue of mental health, drug abuse, poverty, unemployment and/or lack of adequate housing. Similar to the defendants that come before me each day in Environmental Court, these individuals represented the most vulnerable among us. The experience was nothing less than a master class education on the importance of compassion and appreciation for the many diverse citizens that come through the legal system with a wide range of issues. As an officer of the court it is paramount that we approach each and every day with compassion and understanding for those most in need. In my position as Assistant Chief Legal Counsel for the Ohio Auditor of State, I developed a compliance skill set that has allowed me to seamlessly transition from public practice to presiding on a bench focused on compliance. In this role I was responsible for providing legal counsel to over 200 field auditors performing audits of public entities throughout the state of Ohio. This position allowed me to develop as a highly qualified, experienced compliance attorney. The position also created within me, a profound appreciation of the importance of compliance in the success of any entity, organization or agency. The primary goal for the outcome in all Environmental Court cases is compliance. My skill set in this regard is sharper than most and lends to my successes on the bench. As an Assistant Franklin County Prosecuting Attorney, my case load required m to practice in Environmental Court on behalf of the County. This experience most certainly enhanced my qualification for presiding on the bench.

(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat?

Honesty, integrity, and consideration for our fellow citizens and respect for the rule of law are woefully missing in the current environment of which we live. Elected officials and most especially members of the judiciary must be standard barriers of these virtues as we move into the future. While imperfection is a part of my life, the pursuit of these standards is a high priority and is reflected in the way that I have lived publicly and in the private relationships and experiences that I have enjoyed. Of all of my professional experiences that have led me to retain my position as Judge, none is more important than the last nine months that I have spent as the Environmental Court Judge. As the first woman to preside over the Division since its creation in 1991, I have presided over more than 3,000 cases. As the current Environmental Court Judge, I manage a docket larger than any courtroom in Franklin County Municipal Court. My experience over the last nine months, successfully streamlining and adjudicating over Franklin County’s housing, building and zoning code violation cases, qualifies me as the most prepared and best choice for this position. As the current Environmental Court Judge, I have sought to meet with interested civic associations and community groups throughout Franklin County to ensure that they are acquainted with the work of the court on behalf of residents and view the court as a partner in creating and maintaining safer and cleaner communities. To that end, I am committed to reaching out to all of the court’s community partners to provided education and feedback from on the . state of environmental issues as they relate to housing and building code compliance.

Office:
Franklin County Environmental Court

Age: 39

Residence: Columbus, OH

Email: Sperlazza4judge@gmail.com

Website: Website: www.sperlazza4judge.com
Facebook: William A. Sperlazza for Judge
Instagram: @Sperlazza4judge

Occupation: Senior Attorney, Columbus City Attorney’s Office

Education: JD from The Ohio State University Michael E. Moritz College of Law, 2006. BA from Youngstown State University, 2003.

Work Experience: Environmental Court Attorney, 2012-present. Prosecutor, 2007-2012. Over 14 years working in the Franklin County Municipal Courthouse. Head Girls Basketball Coach, Thomas Worthington High School. Worthington, Ohio.

Affiliations: Columbus/Central Ohio Building and Construction Trades Council, Central Ohio Labor Council AFL-CIO, Columbus Fire Fighters Union Local 67, Fraternal Order of Police Capital City Lodge #9, Coalition of Black Trade Unionists, Columbus Chapter of the Coalition of Labor Union Women, A. Phillip Randolph Institute, AFSCME Ohio Council 8, AFSCME Retiree Chapter 1184, Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 189, Franklin County Democratic Party, Stonewall Democrats of Central Ohio, Ohio Young Democrats.

Family: Two sons, ages 14 and 12.

Bar Association Ratings: HIGHLY RECOMMENDED by the Columbus Bar Association. http://www.judgethecandidates.org/candidate/sperlazza.php?fbclid=IwAR2XpH9gZOT01MsQKQVMmK1rB8V6ahXjAkh3kcrk8iXSQW4UUXKQUAYJAGM

(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years):

No judicial experience.

(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?

My substantial experience in Environmental Court and my command of the law practiced there makes me an exceptionally qualified candidate for this distinctive judgeship. I would bring a uniquely high level of qualification and experience to the bench. I’ve spent over 14 years practicing law in the Municipal Courthouse, conducting countless jury trials, court trials, and evidentiary hearings. Most importantly I’ve spent the past seven years practicing exclusively in the Environmental Court. I have reviewed, filed, and litigated hundreds of cases in Environmental Court. In addition to advising dozens of municipalities around Ohio on the laws and techniques I’ve used in Environmental Court over the years, I have also been a guest presenter all around Central Ohio, and beyond, lecturing various groups, municipal attorneys, and law enforcement entities, about how we use the Environmental Court to keep our neighborhoods safe. For my work in the Environmental Court I have received several awards over the years, including the Ohio Crime Prevention Association Special Projects Award, the City of Columbus Mayor’s Award of Excellence, the Northland Community Council President’s Award, and the Columbus Division of Police Meritorious Public Service Award.

(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat?

I have experienced firsthand what this courtroom means to our communities and business districts. The cases I’ve filed in Environmental Court over the past seven years have helped shut down the worst hotels, drug houses, bars, and massage parlors in Central Ohio. I know from hard work and experience that this courtroom is vital to the safety and viability of our neighborhoods and businesses in Franklin County. My passion for the Environmental Court has been fostered by the countless cases I have filed and litigated in it; the types of cases that make our neighborhoods safer. Protecting our neighborhoods is my passion, and I hope to continue that mission as Judge of Environmental Court. For these reasons, I ask for your vote on November 5th.

Office:
Licking County Municipal Court

Age: 46

Residence: Newark, OH

Email: max@maxsuttonforjudge.com

Website: www.maxsuttonforjudge.com
https://www.facebook.com/MaxSuttonForJudge

Occupation: Attorney

Education: B.A. in Psychology from the University of Notre Dame 1995, J.D. from The Ohio State University 1998

Work Experience: Franklin County Public Defender’s Office 1998 – 2006 (Municipal division from 1998-2005); The Sutton Law Firm 2006 – present

Family: Two sons, ages 14 and 12.

(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years):

I currently serve as an Acting Judge by appointment in the Licking County Municipal Court and have done so since 2011. This is the very seat for which I am seeking. As an Acting Judge, I have heard cases involving domestic violence, violent crimes, drunk driving, and cases involving drug and alcohol addiction, among others. I have sentenced people to probation and jail, presided over trials, probation violation hearings, arraignments, bond hearings, and many others, while working alongside the prosecutors, defense attorneys, probations officers, and the court staff in the Licking County Municipal Court. I have also presided over both OVI Court and Drug Court, our specialized dockets in the Licking County Municipal Court. I have also presided over the eviction cases in Licking County Municipal Court as an Acting Judge and I have handled other civil cases involving debt collection, breach of contract, and personal injury.

(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?

Over 20 years ago, I started my legal career practicing exclusively in Municipal Court I have practiced law in front of over 50 different Judges, learning their best practices. I have handled thousands of cases in various Municipal Courts throughout Ohio as an attorney. I have practiced in every Court in Licking County and have travelled to courts throughout central Ohio. I have established a good professional relationship with many attorneys, Judges, and court personnel I also serve as a member of the Licking County Municipal Court’s OVI Court Treatment Team that meets weekly. This is a specialized docket that focuses on providing an intensive structured regiment of treatment to multiple offense OVI offenders. The goal is to give them the tools and resources that will help them maintain long-term sobriety, living healthy, productive lives. My dedication to understanding the nature of addiction and mental health, and how it impacts all of those in the criminal justice system, will help me to be the best Judge I can be. In my daily practice as an attorney, I am in regular contact with families and individuals struggling with alcohol/drug abuse and addiction. I have a passion assisting these individuals to develop the tools that they can use to treat their disease, address their underlying issues, and live healthy, successful lives. I have established a good professional relationship with many Judges, attorneys, and court personnel by being respectful and approachable. I understand that I do not have all the answers; there are many smart, good people doing difficult work on a daily basis, and through a commitment to collaboration, we can help change lives. As important as what I have done, is what I will do. I will treat everyone who walks through the Court with respect and dignity. I work well with others, I welcome constructive criticism, and I genuinely want to be the best Judge I can be, performing a service for the public.

(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat?

I am running because I want to help change lives. I have been sober from alcohol for over 15 years. Through the help of 12 step meetings, treatment, and the support of family, friends, and colleagues, I was able to change my life. It wasn’t easy but it has been extremely worthwhile and life changing in the most positive of ways. Further, I know the success stories I see as a member of our Court’s OVI Treatment Team people who, sometimes have a lifetime of abusing alcohol or using drugs, can, through intensive court supervision and treatment and a multiple pronged approach, learn to live the same wonderfully imperfect life I have. Therefore, this is not a job for me, nor a desire for power, or positioning for the next campaign. For me this is a personal passion, a calling. I want to be, and have wanted to be for some time, our next Licking County Municipal Court Judge. I have a unique personal experience that is perfectly suited for the position of Licking County Municipal Court Judge. Yes, I have the education, the experience, and commitment; however, most importantly, I have the personal experience of what it feels like to struggle with and overcome the very thing that I as Judge may be asking those that come before me, to overcome and change in their lives. Licking County is also my hometown; I was born and raised right here and I want to be a leader effecting lasting, positive change in the community. I feel our community is moving in the right direction with all of the positive changes we can see. But I know that people still struggle. Every day. I am tired of seeing the destruction that alcohol and drugs has on our individuals and families and I am dedicated to doing my part to help more people overcome this struggle.

 

 

Office:  Hamilton County Municipal Court

Age: 53

Residence: Cincinnati, OH

Email: judgegwenbender@gmail.com

Website:
JudgeGwenBender.com
twitter: @JudgeGwenBender
instagram judge_gwen_bender

Occupation:Judge, Hamilton County Municipal Court

Education: J.D. University of Cincinnati College of Law; B.A., Saint Mary’s College (Notre Dame, Indiana)

Work Experience: Municipal Court judge (2 years); 23 years as Assistant /Chief Assistant Prosecutor

Family: Married with 2 sons

Affiliations: Hamilton County Republican Party; Fraternal Order of Police, Queen City Lodge 69; Cincinnati Right to Life PAC

(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years):
I was appointed to the Municipal Court bench in February, 2017 and subsequently elected to serve the remainder of that unexpired term. I am running for the full term of this same seat in this election.

(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?
Prior to becoming a judge, I served my community as an assistant prosecutor for over 23 years. I prosecuted at all levels of that office, including appellate, felony, juvenile and municipal. These cases included murder, sexual assault, drug trafficking and crimes against the most vulnerable in our society. In my capacity as Chief Assistant Prosecutor of the Municipal Division, I worked closely with all of the law enforcement agencies that serve Hamilton County, the public defender’s office and with the members of the Hamilton County judiciary. I also served as a substitute magistrate for over 15 years for local mayors’ courts, handling criminal and traffic matters. Over the course of my career I have always shown a respect for the Constitution and for the dignity of the parties appearing before me. From all of these experiences, I have developed the patience, dedication and recognition that municipal court cases vary in degrees of seriousness, requiring a judge to make informed decisions as to punishment, rehabilitation and recognition and protection of the rights of victims.  

(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat?
I am a lifelong member of this community. I grew up here, married here, and raised my children in this community. I am dedicated and committed to working as a public servant to have this community remain a safe environment for all. Municipal court requires judges that are dedicated to preserving the rights of all before the bench, as well as preserving the safety of the community. I have the ability and desire to work steadfastly and in a timely manner to provide justice to those that appear before me, on either civil or criminal matters.

Office:  Montgomery County Municipal Court

Age: 49

Residence: Huber Heights, OH

Email: twomack2020@gmail.com 

Website:
www.tamelawomackforjudge.com 
www.facebook.com/tamelawomackforjudge

Occupation: Magistrate  

Education: JD from The University of Toledo, College of Law, BA from Bowling Green State University 

Work Experience: Full-time Magistrate since January 2008 

Family: Married with three children 

Affiliations: Ohio Association of Magistrates, Ohio State Bar Association, Dayton Bar Association and Greene County Bar Association 

(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years):
On January 2, 2008, I was appointed as Magistrate at Fairborn Municipal Court, where I preside over various criminal, traffic, civil, eviction, and small claims matters. In addition to my full-time profession, I have served in many volunteer roles collaborating to improve our system of justice. In 2012, I was elected to the board of the Ohio Association of Magistrates where I have served as second vice-president, editor of the newsletter, and chairperson of the municipal practice area. In 2016, I was one of two Magistrates serving on the Ohio Supreme Court Judicial Conference’s Criminal Law and Procedure Committee. I continue to work with the Ohio Supreme Court Judicial College mentoring, teaching and planning education programs for Magistrates throughout Ohio. 

(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?
Prior to serving as Magistrate, I had extensive experience in courtrooms having worked as an assistant prosecuting attorney and also as an assistant public defender. The opportunity of working from both sides, prosecution and defense, has allowed me to provide a well-balanced approach to administering justice as Magistrate. These positions were also high volume caseloads and prepared me for the demands of a busy municipal court.

I strive to keep the docket running on time and write timely decisions. During these earlier years, I had appeared before many different Magistrates and Judges. I observed and learned from them how to conduct trials, protect the record, and communicate effectively. In 2015, I was honored by my colleagues when they elected me to serve as President of the Greene County Bar Association. I am a devoted public servant with over twenty years of legal experience. I plan to continue to serve in leadership roles on various committees and associations to improve our justice system.  

(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat?
My family and I reside in Montgomery County and a Judge serves in the jurisdiction where she lives. This is my first time running for an elected office and I am so thrilled to be on the ballot. I decided to run for Judge for the opportunity to make a difference. I have the desire, experience and leadership skills to administer justice and resolve disputes while applying the highest standards of ethics. It is important for a Judge to be free from political influence and make independent decisions based upon a fair and impartial assessment of the facts and understanding of the law.

To strengthen public trust in the judiciary, I plan to transition the Court to an electronic case management system. This will increase efficiency and public access especially because the Court consists of two separate buildings. I will apply for a grant from the Ohio Supreme Court to help cover the cost of the technology. I plan to implement a traffic intervention program that assists defendants with obtaining a valid driver’s license with insurance. This makes for a stronger community. I strongly believe that the Court should create a specialized docket to address the growing issues with drug abuse.

Magistrates and Judges make decisions in the courtroom, but Judges also have the opportunity to bring the community together to design solutions to improve the administration of justice. There have been many changes that effect municipal courts such as victim’s rights were recently added to the constitution, the Supreme Court has recommended changes to improve the bail/bond system, there has been success with specialized drug treatment dockets, and new initiatives for the use of technology to improve the operation of the Court. It would be an honor to serve as Judge of the Montgomery County Municipal Court.    

Office: Akron Municipal Court

Age: 45

Residence: Akron, OH

Email:cableforjudge@gmail.com

Website:
http://cableforjudge.com
https://www.facebook.com/cableforjudge

Occupation: Judge

Education: J.D. University of Akron; B.A. University of Akron

Work Experience: Judge of the Akron Municipal Court (Elected 2017-present); Summit County Juvenile Court, Magistrate (2017); Summit County Domestic Relations Court, Chief Magistrate and Magistrate (2001-2016); Western Reserve Legal Services, Law Clerk (1999-2000); Oriana House Inc., Corrections Residential Supervisor (1997); Alvis House Federal Corrections Program, Case Manager (1996)

Family: Married with 3 children

Affiliations: 1) RISE (Restore Individual Self-Empowerment), board chair of this court program that helps victims of human trafficking 2) Akron Summit Community Action, current board member, membership committee, finance committee and human resources committee 3) Autism Society of Greater Akron: board member emeritus and past vice president, walk committee 4) Fatherhood Initiative of Summit County: previous board member, steering committee and advocacy and public policy committee 5) Summit County Opiate Task Force, previous board member 6) University of Akron Friends of the Library and Learning Commons Task Force, previous board member 7) Cleveland Clinic Center for Autism Adult Services Committee, previous member 8) Akron Bar Foundation, Fellow 9) Akron Bar Association, previous Family Law Chair 

Endorsements: The Honorable Tom Sawyer, Former U.S. Congressman, State Senator and Akron Mayor; Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge; Congressman Tim Ryan; State Senator Vernon Sykes; State Minority Leader of the Ohio House of Representatives Emilia Sykes; State Representative Tavia Galonski; County Executive Ilene Shapiro; Prosecutor Sherri Bevan Walsh; Sheriff Steve Barry; Akron Mayor Daniel Horrigan; Akron City Council President Margo Sommerville

Bar Association Ratings:  Excellent

(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years):
Judge of the Akron Municipal Court (December 2017-present) Magistrate of the Summit County Court of Common Pleas, Juvenile Court (January 2017-December 2017) Chief Magistrate of the Summit County Court of Common Pleas, Domestic Relations Court (June 2016-January 2017) Magistrate of the Summit County Court of Common Pleas, Domestic Relations Court (June 1, 2001-June 1, 2016)

(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?
It is important that judges understand all areas of the justice system. I understand this system and will work hard to make our community safe. I have worked as a lawyer, as an attorney for judges and as a corrections worker. I worked for legal aid, helping some of the most vulnerable people in our community. I also worked in private practice on both civil and criminal cases. This experience has given me a broad understanding of the justice system, and how judges need to think out of the box to accomplish community safety and rehabilitation. It is important as a judge to be innovative, and work to permanently solve problems. I have helped developed several court programs that prevent continuous litigation and work to comfort victims. Certainly, the main goal of every Court should be to reduce recidivism. It is my experience that light jail sentences or unachievable court orders do not solve problems. They often make problems worse, by not attacking the problem. I strive to do what makes sense in each and every court case that I handle. As a corrections worker, I worked with both adult and child inmates, as their supervisor. I taught life skills to those that were being released back in society from the penal system. It is important that a judge really understand incarceration, and its impact. I am even-handed in my decisions and impose sentences for those who need to be held accountable, but will also use alternative sentencing that promotes community safety to save tax dollars.  

(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat?
I seek re-election as Judge of the Akron Municipal Court to continue improving safety in our community. My life and work have taught me the skills judges need. I have wide experience as a judge, magistrate, attorney and corrections worker. I volunteer with agencies and causes that make the Akron area a better place to live. I know how to help keep our community safe. I have decided 18,000+ cases as a judge and former magistrate. Those decisions required a wide understanding of the law, including criminal law, domestic violence, child abuse, mental health, substance abuse, property disputes and complex financial issues. I have a proven record of timely, sensible decisions and understand how important it is to apply the law properly. Our community can count on my experience with the law and with people. In court, I treat everyone with dignity and respect, and I require accountability. People need to be heard, but also to recognize their mistakes and learn from them. I work hard to make sure that court orders are respected. If re-elected, I’ll continue timely justice in court, and provide safety for our community In my first term in office, I became the presiding judge of the Family Intervention Court (FIC). This is a specialized court docket that closely monitors domestic violence offenders and requires them to be accountable for their actions. As the overseer of FIC, I am beginning to require services for the family’s children, who often suffer after witnessing the violence. I will increase these services for the kids. I also started the RISE program at the Court in October 2018. This program helps victims of human trafficking. Ohio ranks fourth in the country for human trafficking victims. These victims often suffer from psychological trauma, addiction and mental illness. They have nowhere to turn and are in danger of being hurt by their trafficker. RISE is a 24-month program that provides safe housing, trauma therapy, mentoring, drug rehabilitation and employment through over 20 community partnerships. Certainly, these victims deserve help from the justice system, and it is encouraging, as a judge, to see RISE participants reclaim their lives. I am rated “Excellent” by the Akron Bar Association for this race. I also earned the endorsement of many of our leaders. I kindly ask for your vote for re-election as your Judge of the Akron Municipal Court.  

Office: Judge of the Barberton Municipal Court

Age: 39

Residence: Green, OH

Email: Jilllanzingerforjudge@gmail.com

Website: Http://www.facebook.com/Jill4Judge

Occupation: Attorney

Education: Juris Doctorate, cum laude, University of Akron School of Law and B.A., cum laude Heidelberg University in Psychology and Political Science, Trial Lawyers College

Work Experience: Judge of the Summit County Common Pleas Court (April 2017 to May 2019), Judge of the Barberton Municipal Court (Feb. 2015 to March 2017), Akron Municipal Court Magistrate

Family: Married with three children ages 15, 12, 5

Affiliations: Portage Lakes Advisory Council (Board Member and Vice President), Polar Bear Club (Board Member), City of Green Opiate Task Force, Rotary and Kiwanis

Endorsements:  Lynn Slaby, Former County Prosecutor and Judge, Congressman Anthony Gonzalez, Former Ohio State football player. State Senator Anthony DeVitis and more.

Bar Association Ratings:  Good

(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years):
Judge of the Barberton Municipal Court (Feb. 2015 to March 2017) Judge of the Summit County Common Pleas Court (April 2017 to May 2019) Magistrate of the Akron Municipal Court (2006 to 2010) Judicial Law Clerk for Judge Alison McCarty (2002 to 2003) Founded and Presided over the Barberton Municipal Drug Court

(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?
Prior to becoming a judge in 2015, I worked (and am working now) as a trial attorney. I’ve advocated for the rights of abused children and children with disabilities. I’m a published writer on the subject of childhood sexual abuse litigation. As an advocate, I won an appeal at the Ohio Supreme Court that enhanced the rights of childhood sexual abuse victims in civil cases. I’ve gained notoriety for my advocacy of abused children in several high profile cases. Protecting those with disabilities is personal to me because I have a son with high functioning autism. I’m licensed to practice law in Ohio, Illinois, and the Federal Courts of the Northern District of Ohio, the Southern District of Ohio, and the Northern District of Illinois. In 2010, I graduated from the Trial Lawyers College. My family and I are devoted to our community. I’m on the Board of two charitable organizations, the Portage Lakes Advisory Council and the Polar Bear Club. My memberships include the Akron Rotary, the Magic City and Portage Lakes Kiwanis. I’m a member of the Green Opiate Task Force and an Akron Bar Foundation Fellow.

(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat?
While I was judge, I promoted justice for victims of crime. I care about the safety and future of our community. I’m committed to justice and progress in the Barberton Municipal Court. If elected judge of the Barberton Municipal Court, I may continue the work I started there to address the continuing drug epidemic. I founded and presided over the Barberton Municipal Drug Court. As Judge of the Summit County Common Pleas Court, I presided over cases including Murder, Aggravated Robbery, Child Endangering, Wrongful Death, and Medical Malpractice. In both the Barberton Municipal Court and the Summit County Court, I promoted the use of technology in the Court. The use of technology saves both the taxpayers and the parties money and time. I will continue to use my experience and knowledge to move the Barberton Municipal Court forward.

Office: Circleville Municipal Court

Age: 53

Residence: Ashville, OH

Email: elisapeters906@gmail.com

Occupation: Court Magistrate

Education: J.D. The Ohio State University College of Law (now The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law)

Work Experience: Pickaway County Common Pleas Court Magistrate since 1998

Family: Married with 4 children and 3 step-children

Affiliations: Member and Deacon at Broad Street Presbyterian Church, Member of Pickaway County Bar Association, Ohio State Bar Association, Ohio Association of Magistrates, Circleville Sunrise Rotary (Immediate Past President), Child Conservation League, Pickaway Addiction Action Coalition, Friends of the Circleville Parks

(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years):
In 1998, I was appointed to serve as Court Magistrate in the Pickaway County Common Pleas Court, Pickaway County Juvenile Court and Circleville Municipal Court. I have served primarily in the Pickaway County Common Pleas Court since 2004, presiding over the domestic relations docket and domestic violence protection orders/civil stalking orders. In addition, I have served as the Court Magistrate in the South Bloomfield Mayor’s Court since 2007 and in the Ashville Mayor’s Court beginning in January 2019.

(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?
While my last twenty-one years have been on the bench, prior to that I served as an Assistant Pickaway County Prosecutor and Assistant Circleville Law Director where I gained valuable trial experience, performed legal research and learned to dissect and apply the Ohio Revised Code and Ohio Rules of Criminal Procedure. I began as an attorney in private practice in 1993.

(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat?
I grew up in Pickaway County and returned after college and law school to work and raise my family. When a vacancy was created by Judge Gary Dumm’s retirement, I decided to run for the seat because it provides a way to continue to serve the community. I have an established record of commitment to public service on behalf of the citizens of Pickaway County and have developed a reputation as a fair and impartial jurist with excellent judicial temperament. The Municipal Court is on the front line of the opioid crisis and has many opportunities to make a difference in the lives of those persons with who enter the system with a substance use disorder. I welcome the challenge of striking a balance between rehabilitation, in exploring and applying creative treatment options, and punishment by incarceration. My ultimate goal is to continue to be approachable, respectful of all litigants, and firm but fair in continuing to build success for the Court and our community.

Office: Franklin County Municipal Court

Age: 44

Residence: New Albany, OH

Email: judgejodithomas@gmail.com

Website:

https://www.judgejodithomas.com

https://www.facebook.com/judgejodithomas/

twitter: @judgejodithomas

Occupation: Municipal Court Judge

Education: J.D. from Capital University; Bachelor of Science in Social Work from The Ohio State University; License in Social Work

Work Experience: April 2016-Present Judge of the Franklin County Municipal Court; 2002-2016 Staff Attorney for the Franklin County Public Defender’s Office; 2013-2016 Lead Attorney from the Public Defender’s for the Franklin County Specialized Dockets (Opiate Extension Program, Alcohol and Drug Addiction Program, Mental Health Court, and the Military and Veterans Service Program)

Family: Married with two daughters (Ages 11 and 15)

Affiliations: Life-long Member of Temple Israel; 2011-2016 Secretary and Vice President of Harrison Pond Homeowners Association; 2016-Present Ohio Judicial Conference committee member on Specialized Dockets

Endorsements: The Fraternal Order of Police Capital City Lodge #9; Local 67 Columbus International Association of FireFighters; Central Ohio Labor Council AFL-CIO; Columbus/Central Ohio Building and Construction Trades; Teamsters Local 413; A. Philip Randolph Institute (APRI); Coalition of Black Trade Unionist (CBTU); The Coalition of Labor Union Women (CLUW); Teamsters Local 284; Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 189; AFSCME Ohio Council 8; AFSCME Retiree Chapter 1184; Franklin County Council of Education Associations; Columbus Education Association; National Association of Social Workers

Bar Association Ratings: 
Highly Recommended, by the Columbus Bar Association Judicial Screening Committee; Highly Recommended by the Central Ohio Association of Justice

(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years):
I am currently serving as a Judge of the Franklin County Municipal Court since April 2016. I am hearing an average of 50-75 criminal cases a day involving charges such as domestic violence, drunk driving, theft, soliciting, drug possession, and various traffic violations. In addition, I carry a civil docket with cases that involve landlord and tenant disputes, debt collection, personal injury and breach of contract. I rotate with the other Judges in the arraignment courts setting bonds on misdemeanor and felony cases, and I review search warrants and subpoenas for law enforcement. Additionally, I serve on our courts judicial personnel committee, the probation committee, specialty docket committee, and security committee. I am also the presiding Judge over the h.a.r.t. Program (Helping Achieve Recovery Together). This is the opiate specific drug court specialized docket where I oversee the status review hearings and group discussions. Further, I am the back-up Judge to the CATCH program (Changing Actions to Change Habits), which is the human trafficking specialized docket.

(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?
My legal career began 17 years ago as a staff attorney for the Franklin County Public Defender’s Office. I was there until taking the bench in April of 2016. As a defense attorney, my role was to zealously advocate for my client. I have represented thousands of people using a practice style that not only protected their rights, but also tried to put them on a better path in life. I worked with individuals that were charged with crimes such as domestic violence, drunk driving, drug possession, soliciting, theft and various traffic violations. It was my job to advocate for these people to the best of my abilities, and to do so in an ethical way no matter the crime or my own beliefs. I would take this responsibility a step further by not only resolving the case in a legal sense, but also providing resources to my clients that help them become productive citizens of our community. I spent the last several years of my practice as the lead attorney in the Franklin County Specialized Dockets. I monitored my clients daily as they would work to complete a two year program that held them accountable for their actions, but also provided them with appropriate treatment services. My effort and commitment to understanding the nature of addiction and mental health, and how it impacts criminal behavior, helped me better advocate for my clients and led to recognition in the community. I was chosen twice by the Alcohol, Drug and Mental Health Board of Franklin County as Attorney of the year for my work in Mental Health Court and the Opiate Extension Program. I received the Excellent Service Award by the Military and Veterans Service Program. I received the Model of Justice Award from the Justice League of Ohio for my work with victims of human trafficking. I was also selected for induction into the Gahanna Lincoln High School Hall of Fame. I was nominated for this honor because of the time I spent giving back to the community and my ongoing support for those in need.

(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat?
I have spent the last 17 years practicing in the Franklin County Municipal Court which is the same court where I am currently serving as a Judge. My background and experiences working with victims of human trafficking, those suffering from drug addiction and/or mental health disorders, and veterans, prepared me for exactly where I am today. I want to continue to use these tools that I have obtained and apply them to this position. Working in the specialized dockets, I frequently witnessed the powerful role that a judge can play in improving the lives of individuals, while simultaneously improving the safety of our community. I feel I am doing just that in the way I handle the cases that come before me. I understand that a one size fits all approach is not the best way to reduce recidivism. I am constantly researching and visiting facilities and treatment options, I take advantage of the resources through our probation department like SCRAM (alcohol monitoring device), GPS tracking, and work release, and I also hold individuals accountable for their actions. Over 400 attorneys participated in a judicial performance poll with the Columbus Bar Association this year. I was honored to learn that I was ranked #1 receiving high ratings in all the areas including judicial temperament, objectivity, legal knowledge, sentencing, quality of opinions, and timeliness (www.cbalaw.org). I work hard each day to examine each case and apply a sentence that is appropriate both for the needs of that individual and the overall safety of the community. I maintain an efficient courtroom and I am accessible and available to attorneys and court personnel. The civil docket is definitely a new area for me, but I jumped right in to learning the cases and presiding over court trials. I am constantly learning and working to be the best judge that I can be. One of my goals will always be for litigants to leave the courtroom believing as though they were treated with dignity and respect, even if they do not agree with the outcome. I am honored to serve the citizens of Franklin County and I would like to be re-elected to the full term this November.

Office: Franklin County Municipal Court

Age: 39

Residence: Columbus, OH

Email: dvargaforjudge@gmail.com

Website:
http://www.dvargaforjudge.com

https://www.facebook.com/DVargaforJudge/

Occupation: Attorney

Education: B.A. from the University of Dayton, 2002; J.D. from The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law

Work Experience: Legal Compliance, 2005-2007; Civil Litigation 2007-2010; Criminal Defense 2010-present

Family: Married with twin boys.

Affiliations: Ohio State Bar Association, Columbus Bar Association, Ohio Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Endorsements: Central Ohio AFL-CIO; Columbus Firefighters Union Local 67; Columbus Building Trades; Stonewall Democrats of Central Ohio; Franklin County Democratic Party; Teamsters Local 284; AFSCME Power in Action; Ohio Young Democrats; Franklin County Council of Education Associations; National Association of Social Workers; Ohio Environmental Council; Teachers for Better Schools, Columbus Education Association. Supported by the Baptist Ministerial Alliance of Columbus and Vicinity

Bar Association Ratings:
“Highly Recommended” by the Columbus Bar Association Judicial Screening Committee; Rated “Highly Recommended” by the Central Ohio Association for Justice

(1) List your judicial experience (courts and years):
This is my first campaign for a judicial seat. I have been practicing law in Ohio for the past 14 years.

(2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?
I have handled misdemeanor and felony cases all over the State of Ohio. I have practiced in front of fair judges and biased judges, judges that are tough on crime, and judges who have compassion for a given individual’s situation, as if those concepts are mutually exclusive. My clients have been treated both fairly and incredibly unfairly. Regardless of what my client has done or where I am practicing, I have loved being on the front lines of the justice system and working to make that system better. I know that I can do more good behind the bench than standing in front of it. As a trial attorney, I know the law and am committed to upholding the Constitution. The Franklin County Municipal Court is where I have spent the majority of my career. I know the people, the processes, and the areas of the court that need attention. I love the fast paced atmosphere and dealing with the public, working with the attorneys, and seeing the successes of both the regular and specialty dockets. I am committed to improving our court system and ensuring that everyone is treated fairly and with the respect that everyone having business with the court deserves.

(3) Why are you running for this particular court seat?
I want to instill faith in our justice system and ensure that, when someone walks into our Municipal Court, they know that they will be treated fairly and with respect. I want to make a difference in people’s lives by taking into account their individual situation and offering treatment options, therapy, or whatever balanced punishment may be necessary to ensure that they don’t find themselves in front of the Court again. I’m dedicated to the people in this county and to our Court, and I know that I can help both as a Judge. Being a part of our judicial process is an honor. All judges, as public servants, should work hard for the good of the public, uphold the law, and ensure that our justice system is working in the most efficient, fair, and balanced manner possible.