Jim O'Grady

Question 1

List your judicial experience (courts and years)

I have been a Judge on the Franklin County Municipal Court since 2011.

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Question 2

What non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?

I was a bailiff in the Municipal Court for fifteen years. In that position I became familiar with the operation of the Municipal Court in civil, criminal and traffic cases from case filing to final disposition. I worked to understand the roles of all the departments of the court and the Clerks office to understand all aspects of the courts operations. I worked tirelessly to improve the court by streamlining operations and assisting attorneys, victims, and witnesses in navigating the judicial system. I was also a Magistrate in the Municipal Court where I presided over many civil trials in the Small Claims division, and ensured fairness and just outcomes for the parties appearing before me. I served as a Franklin County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney on trial staff and in the Grand Jury Division. In that position, I presented criminal cases to the Grand Jury, consulted with local law enforcement regarding the charging of criminal offenses, and prosecuted cases in the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas. In my role as a Prosecutor I conducted trials in criminal cases to a Judge, Magistrate or to a Jury.

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Question 3

Why are you running for this particular court seat?

I have worked in the Franklin County Municipal Court for the past 29 years, the last nine years as a Judge. In my current role, I preside over criminal, traffic, and civil cases. I'm involved on various committees, including probation, technology, security, and personnel. I spend a large amount of my time ensuring various aspects of the criminal justice system are running effectively and efficiently. As a Judge I have helped create the CAP IT program which is a counseling program specifically directed to Domestic Violence defendants in the LGBTQ community and the medication assisted treatment program which provides counseling and Vivitrol to parties with addiction issues. I understand the Franklin County Municipal Court is the first exposure many residents have to the criminal justice system. I have devoted my entire career to ensure this exposure is civil, productive, fair and efficient as possible. As a judge, I ensure that all parties seeking justice are treated fairly and with respect. I interpret the law without bias for all litigants. Further, I use my extensive knowledge of the Franklin County Municipal Court system to run an efficient courtroom. I ensure that the criminal and civil dockets are moving in a reasonable manner, and render timely, accurate decisions. I will continue to approach this opportunity with the strong work ethic and temperament that allows me to be a successful Judge. Municipal court is home to me and I wish to continue to serve the residents of Franklin County.