Training and Experience
Admitted to Bar: State of Ohio 1988; U.S. District Court, Northern District of Ohio 1989; Federal Sixth Circuit, 1997; U.S. Supreme Court, 2016. I have represented individuals, non-profit corporations, small and large businesses, as well as local and county governments. I have tried numerous jury trials and have had over 30 appellate cases and 40 Ohio Supreme Court cases. I am an Ohio Super Lawyer (lawyers in the top 5%) and have won a state award for advocacy.
Volunteer/Community Service
I have been a Fire Chief at the Western Reserve Fire District for the last 27 years. I have been in the fire service for more than 40 years, and am an EMT, firefighter, and inspector. I also have served on numerous local community boards.
I have not previously served as a judge.
I have tried jury cases for more than 38 years. I have been told by numerous trial judges that they believe this experience is critical to serving as an appellate judge. I have the most appellate experience (as an attorney) of any judicial candidate. Specifically, I have had 38 appellate court cases and 45 Ohio Supreme Court cases. I have also prosecuted attorneys for ethics misconduct which provides a unique perspective of the judiciary system. My representation of a wide range of clients with different needs also provides great insight into the expectations that the public holds for the court. My 40 plus year career as a First Responder also provides a unique insight in to the needs of our families-especially when they are facing critical legal and financial issues in the courtroom.
I have achieved much success in both my role an an attorney and a fire chief. However, my age makes it more difficult to respond to emergencies at all hours of the day, and I am aware that my time of public service in emergency services is coming to an end. However, I recognize that the opening on the Court of Appeals, created by the retirement of Judge Cheryl Waite (there is no incumbent), presents a unique opportunity for me to serve the public in a new way. I believe that given my experience in the courtroom and appellate court, I can assure the people that come before the court that I will judge fairly and impartially without letting politics dictate decisions. My role is to assure that the law is followed, that the facts are carefully considered, and that court acts with integrity.
Courts are now faced with with decreasing public opinion that judges are unable to set aside personal or political beliefs and issue opinions that are based on the law. Judges must actively work to restore the public trust in the independence and integrity of the Court as an equal, but separate, third branch of government. This occurs when judges, court staff, and local bar associations are actively involved in educating students and adults. The Court must work to improve the understanding of the law, assist in career counseling, and hold court sessions at local schools and government buildings throughout the District. Judges need to utilize technology to bring information into homes through pod and webcasts so that the general public understands the importance and work of the Court.
The greatest obstacle to soon face most counties in Ohio, including those in the 7th District, is the retirement of aging local attorneys and the lack of younger attorneys willing to work in rural counties. For example, in one local county, there are only 5 attorneys able to represent its 15,000 residents in criminal cases. The absence of attorneys causes a dilemma given a defendant's United State's and Ohio's Constitutional rights requiring legal representation. The lack of attorneys also impacts civil, probate, domestic, and juvenile cases as well. Judges must assist in recruiting people to the legal field-which comes through school education. Judges must also work in directly recruiting lawyers to our rural communities and can, with the local bar association, provide mentorships.
Training and Experience
Judge, 7th District Court of Appeals - 2023 - Present. Attorney, 2004- 2023
Volunteer/Community Service
Jr High Coach, Central Catholic Cardinals; Basketball Coach, YMCA; St Augustine Society, Housing and Vocational Training; Knights of Columbus, Fundraising
Judge, Ohio 7th District Court of Appeals, 2023 - Present
Deputy Director, Mahoning County Board of Elections, 1981-1996; Attorney, The Hanni Group, 2005-2023
I am running to continue the work I began on the Seventh District Court of Appeals in 2023. During my tenure, the court has reduced its backlog, significantly improved on-time decision rates, and established a consistent monthly oral argument schedule. I have focused on restoring efficient, reliable court operations and improving public access. With upcoming retirements, I will soon be the most senior member of the court. I am seeking election to continue providing that leadership and to build on the progress already achieved.
Courts face growing caseloads, resource constraints, and the need to maintain public confidence. Delays in resolving cases can undermine trust in the justice system. I address these challenges through disciplined case management, consistent court operations, and a commitment to timely decision-making. Ensuring staff accessibility, maintaining regular oral argument calendars, and focusing on efficient workflows are key to delivering fair and prompt justice. Justice Delayed is Justice Denied.
The greatest obstacle to justice is delay. When cases are not resolved in a timely manner, it creates uncertainty for litigants and weakens public confidence in the legal system. Justice requires both fairness and efficiency. By reducing backlog, prioritizing older cases, and maintaining consistent court operations, I believe courts can better fulfill their duty to provide timely and equitable resolutions.
