Ohio
Ohio’s highest court is the Supreme Court of Ohio. The court has six justices and one chief justice. The chief justice is chosen by election for a six-year term. (Source: Ohio Constitution)
Judicial Selection
Justices on the Supreme Court of Ohio are selected through a partisan election, where multiple candidates may vie for the seat. The elected justice serves a six-year term. Justices may seek additional terms through partisan elections. When a seat opens in the middle of a justice’s term, the governor appoints a candidate to fill the vacancy. The appointed justice holds office until Ohio’s next general election more than 40 days after the vacancy occurred, unless the remainder of the term concludes within a year of said election, in which case the appointed justice serves the remainder of the unexpired term. If there is an election, the elected justice serves the remainder of the unexpired term. There are no term limits, however, a justice may not be appointed or elected after age 70.
State Constitution
Ohio has had two constitutions adopted in 1802 and 1851. As of January 1, 2022, it had 177 amendments. (Source: Council of State Governments)
Filters
Ohio Supreme Court Hears Challenge to Pause of Abortion Ban
As Ohioans prepare to vote on an abortion ballot measure this fall, the state is asking to reinstate a six-week ban that was put on hold by a trial court.
Voters Amend State Constitutions Around the Country
Ohio enshrined a right to abortion in the state constitution.
Why State Constitutions Matter on Election Day
Two new explainers examine voting rights under state constitutions and how state courts oversee ballot initiatives.
How Courts Oversee Ballot Initiatives
State courts — and to some degree federal courts — play a significant role in every stage of the direct democracy process.
Voting Rights Under State Constitutions, Explained
All but one state constitution affirmatively establishes a right to vote.
The Federalization Dimension in Takings
The U.S. Supreme Court does not always lead and state courts do not always follow.
The Constitutionality of Stripping Elected Officials of Their Power
Ohio’s legislature passed a law that eliminates most of the state board of education’s powers, potentially violating the Ohio Constitution.
State Judges Must Guard Their Independence
The legislative assault on state supreme courts is one of the greatest threats to our system of checks and balances.