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, 2024, it had 180 amendments. (Source: John Dinan, 2024)
Filters
A Rallying Cry Against Lockstepping
When state supreme courts peg their constitutions to federal interpretations, they erode the rule of law, undermine federalism, and limit rights protection.
What’s at Stake in the 2024 Ohio Supreme Court Elections
The outcome of the races for three seats on the high court could impact Ohio law on abortion, voting rights, gun regulations, and more.
Former Ohio Chief Justice on Democracy, Gerrymandering, and Ukraine
In an interview, retired Ohio Chief Justice Maureen O’Connor spoke about her push for citizen-led redistricting in Ohio and recent trips to Ukraine advising on fair courts.
How Years of Legislative Maneuvering Shaped this Year’s Judicial Elections
The outcomes in races in Ohio and North Carolina will be determined in part by legislatures that altered election rules to benefit their allies.
Threats to State Constitutional Abortion Protections
Even where voters pass abortion rights amendments, lawmakers and judges can undermine rights.
State Justices Speak Out Against Originalism
State supreme courts are increasingly a venue for debate over history’s role in constitutional interpretation.
To Prevent Chaos and Confusion, Judges Must Prepare for Election Emergencies
In advance of the election, judges should educate themselves on election administration and develop emergency response procedures that will enable creation of effective remedies.
When Does the U.S. Supreme Court Review State Court Decisions?
State courts have the final word on state law, but when federal law is involved, it can be complicated.