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Judge of the Canton Municipal Court, commencing 1-1-2026

Canton Municipal Court serves Canton, Louisville, North Canton, East Canton, East Sparta, Hartville, Magnolia, Meyers Lake, Waynesburg, Canton Twp, Lake Twp, Nimishillen Twp, Pike Twp, Plain Twp, Osnaburg Twp, Sandy Twp, and Uniontown Police District.

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    Katie Erchick Gilbert
    (Dem)

  • Candidate picture

    Mark T. Ostrowski
    (Rep)

  • Candidate picture

    Christy Pierson
    (Dem)

Biographical Information

What ethical practices are critical to keep the judiciary independent?

Age 44
Facebook Katie Erchick Gilbert for Judge
Education Thomas M. Cooley
Occupation Canton City Prosecutor
Qualifications for this office D. I’ve made tough decisions for the police and for victims, I’ve managed a staff of young attorneys and support staff. I’ve never hesitated to do what is right – even when it is hard. I’ve spent my entire legal career practicing in this court. I believe I am qualified to serve and make a positive impact on this community.
Judges must only make decisions based on fact and law and not based on party affiliation. Judges must strictly follow Ohio’s Code of Judicial Conduct, which assists with guiding judges and judicial candidates on the importance of remaining fair and impartial. Judges must create degrees of separation from organizations that raise and donate money. Further, Judges must always position themselves in a light that does not give the appearance of favoring one side or another.
Candidate is uncontested for this primary race so no questions were posed.
Age 51
Facebook Pierson for Judge
Education Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree, The Ohio State University; Juris Doctorate, University of Akron
Occupation Magistrate/Staff Attorney at the Canton Municipal Court
Qualifications for this office I have been an attorney since 2014. I have presided as a magistrate in the Canton Municipal Court since 2020. I have a diverse background, including work as both a municipal and felony prosecutor. I have strong community relationships with citizens of the court district and with providers and community partners that serve the Court. I am a team member of the Polaris specialized court docket focusing on individuals with mental health concerns.
I believe firmly in the rule of law. I believe that the judiciary must maintain impartiality and transparency at all times. The judiciary cannot maintain its credibility unless it holds everyone that comes before the court to the same accountability in respecting the laws of the State of Ohio. Additionally, without transparency, there is no trust that can be built between the court and all who come before it.