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Legal Experience Needed to Run for Judge Does Not Need to be the Traditional Practice of Law

In the case State ex rel. Nasal v. Miami Cty. Bd. of Elections, Slip Opinion No. 2021-Ohio-2993, the Ohio Supreme Court held that a judicial candidate satisfied the six-year practice of law requirement to appear on the ballot for municipal court judge.

Here, a judge alleged that a judicial candidate’s legal experience did not involve the practice of law so the candidate was prohibited from running for a judicial office.

To the contrary, the candidate argued that their legal experience exceeded the six-year minimum requirement and as such, they were eligible to appear on the ballot. The Ohio Supreme Court agreed.

The Court reasoned that the candidate practiced law when serving as a guardian ad litem. As such, the Court held that the candidate was qualified to appear on the ballot for municipal court judge.

To read this case, click here.

Authors: Matthew John Markling and the McGown & Markling Team.

Note: This blog entry does not constitute – nor does it contain – legal advice. Legal jurisprudence is like the always-changing Midwestern weather. As a result, this single blog entry cannot substitute for consultation with a McGown & Markling attorney. If legal advice is needed with respect to a specific factual situation, please feel free to contact a McGown & Markling attorney.

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