Candidate Details
- Residence
Cleveland - Email
mjryanesq@yahoo.com - Social Media
- Age
51 - Occupation
Judge - Education
LEGAL EDUCATION
CLEVELAND STATE UNIVERSITY-MARSHALL COLLEGE OF LAW
Cleveland, OhioReceived Juris Doctor in May of 1996
Admitted to the Ohio Bar in November of 1996
Admitted to the U.S. District Court-Northern District of Ohio in August of 2000
Honors: LOUIS STOKES SCHOLARSHIP
CLEVELAND-MARSHALL ALUMNI SCHOLARSHIP
Activities:
Adopt- A- School Program
Cleveland-Marshall Work a Day Program Participant
PRE-LEGAL EDUCATION
ALLEGHENY COLLEGEMeadville, Pennsylvania
Received Bachelor of Arts in English in May of 1993
Minor Political Science
Honors: NANCY SUTTON MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Athletic Honor Roll Scholar
Gold Citation Award Recipient for Outstanding Professional & Volunteer Service
Activities: President of the Advancement of Black Culture
Senator for the Allegheny Student Government
Four year Letterman in Indoor and Outdoor Track & Field
CLEVELAND HEIGHTS HIGH SCHOOL
Cleveland Heights, Ohio
Graduated with Honors in 1989 with emphasis on College Preparatory Courses
Honors: Jon Lewis Memorial Scholarship Recipient
2004 Cleveland Heights Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame Inductee
Activities: German Club
Two-year Letterman for Football
Letterman in Outdoor Track & Field
- Work Experience
CUYAHOGA COUNTY COURT OF
COMMON PLEAS- JUVENILE DIVISION JUDGE
Cleveland, OhioDecember 10, 2012-Present
Elected judge for the Cuyahoga County Court of |Common Pleas-Juvenile Division to complete the expired term of the late Judge Sikora. I was then elected to a full six-year term in 2016. I preside over all felony and misdemeanor delinquent charges filed against minors in Cuyahoga County. I am also required to adjudicate issues of abuse, neglect and dependency filed against a minor’s parents or guardians. Additionally, I am required to determine issues of paternity, custody and child support for unmarried parents. Moreover, I preside over Jane Doe cases that result from a pregnant young lady who seeks non-parental consent for an abortion. Lastly, I am required, after an objection has been filed to a Magistrate’s Decision or Motion is filed to Set Aside a Magistrate’s Order, to review a case and determine if the Magistrate’s findings and application of law was correct.
CLEVELAND MUNICIPAL COURT JUDGE
Cleveland, OhioJanuary 5, 2006- December 9, 2012
Elected judge for the Cleveland Municipal Court (two six-year terms) to preside over all cases, except those designated specifically for the presiding and administrative judge, for which the Ohio Revised Code authorized Municipal Courts to have original jurisdiction. I heard and disposed of misdemeanor offenses committed in the City of Cleveland or presided over jury trials that were held to dispose of misdemeanor offense that were classified as fourth degree or higher. I set bonds and presided over preliminary hearings for individuals charged with felony offenses. Moreover, I also had the authority to hear, dispose of and preside over jury trials for civil matters where the complaining party is seeking less than $15,000. Also, I possessed, via a vote among the 12 judges in the general division, the ability to hire, terminate and discipline employees. Lastly, I was required, after an objection had been filed to a Magistrate’s Decision or Motion was filed to Set Aside a Magistrate’s Order, to review a case and determine if the Magistrate’s findings and application of law was correct.
CLEVELAND MUNICIPAL COURT MAGISTRATE
Cleveland, OhioSeptember 2001- January 4, 2006
Presided over hearings that were referred by the twelve judges of the General Division of the Cleveland Municipal Court. I heard and issued written decisions on small claim cases, default judgments, garnishment issues, post judgment matters and administrative license suspension appeals. I also aided as a substitute Magistrate for traffic and criminal misdemeanor arraignment, which included setting bonds and conducting hearings on motions for temporary protection orders. Additionally, I presided at the request of several of the twelve Judges, over their personal criminal and civil dockets. I was permitted to hear and make decisions regarding guilt or acquittal for minor misdemeanors and fourth degree thru first-degree misdemeanors when both parties consent to my hearing the matter. I also, with the Judge’s approval, was permitted to make decisions on liability, including presiding over civil jury trials. I made recommendations to the Judge regarding potential penalties if any for criminal misdemeanor convictions. Additionally, I was responsible for conducting research assignments, making recommendations and drafting proposed entries for the Judges to review and confirm.
FORBES, FIELDS & ASSOCIATES CO., L.P.A. ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY
Cleveland, OhioAugust 2000-September 2001
Engaged in the practice of law in varied number of fields including but not limited to personal injury, corporate, municipal, criminal defense, domestic relations, employment and governmental bonds. Was active in motion practice, participated in depositions, arbitrations, prepared interrogatories, drafted legislation, drafted bonds and tried several cases.
CITY OF CLEVELAND LAW DEPARTMENT ASSISTANT CITY PROSECUTOR Cleveland, Ohio January 1997- February 1998
PROSECUTOR’S OFFICE/ CRIMINAL DIVISION May 1999-August 2000
Prosecuted all misdemeanors committed in the City of Cleveland. Responsible for daily docket of assigned Municipal Judge, which were as large as 90- 120 defendants each day. I possessed complete autonomy as trial attorney in both jury (over ten) and bench trials (over 300). Also, responsible for reviewing complaints by patrol officers and detectives to determine whether to issue charges for misdemeanors and or felonies.
CITY OF CLEVELAND DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATOR
Cleveland, Ohio February 1998-May 1999
OFFICE OF PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS
Responsible for managing the daily activities of the Office of Professional Standards. The Office of Professional Standards processed and caused the investigation of complaints made by citizens against employees of the Division of Police for the City of Cleveland. Responsible for supervising two civilian staff members and four investigating officers. Also, functioned as the advisor to the Civilian Police Review Board. Reviewed completed investigations and made recommendations to the Civilian Police Review Board members.
CITY OF CLEVELAND LAW DEPARTMENT LAW CLERK
Cleveland, Ohio February 1995- January 1997
CIVIL DIVISION
Participated in various legal areas with an emphasis on employment, tort, and litigation issues. Drafted memorandum of law, court motions, legislation and other legal opinions. Also, attended and participated in depositions and arbitrations.
CITY OF CLEVELAND LAW DEPARTMENT MEDIATOR
Cleveland, Ohio March 1994- February 1995
PROSECUTOR’S OFFICE/ CRIMINAL DIVISION
Responsible for the initial intake interview of citizens who made complaints about alleged criminal behavior. After performing intake interview, reviewed it with the Assistant Prosecutor to determine if criminal charges were issued. Also, served as a mediator between the complainant and the alleged perpetrator when the prosecutor determined that no criminal charges were warranted.
PRE-LEGAL EXPERIENCE
GEORGIA STATE EMPLOYEES UNION POLITICAL COORDINATORAtlanta, Georgia June 1992- August 1992
Responsible for managing the campaign activities of the union for its endorsed candidates. Supervised both the executive staff and 70 union members in distributing campaign literature, posting campaign signs, phone-a-thons, and shuttle service to the voting polls. Instrumental in obtaining 45% of the votes for two unknown candidates who sought office against two long time incumbents.
PROGRESSIVE INSURANCE EDITOR
Cleveland, Ohio June 1991- August 1991
Edited billing statements for the entire state of New Jersey. Responsible for ensuring that bills were mailed to the customers devoid of any mistakes. Also, verified and edited new policies that were issued to customers in New Jersey.
FENIX CIRCLE SUPERVISOR
Cleveland, Ohio June 1990- August 1990
Summer Training Educational Program
Supervised 9-10 teenagers in the maintenance and beautification of several Cultural Gardens located on East Blvd. After cleaning the Cultural Gardens, responsible for aiding the children in designing a flower display in their cultural garden.
Computer skills: I am computer literate with respect to Microsoft Word, Access and Excel, WordPerfect, LOTUS, and BASIC.
- Family
Married with two children, one daughter-in-law and one son-in-law. - Affiliations
NATIONAL JUDICIAL INSTITUTE ON DOMESTIC VIOLENCE FACILITATOR AND INSTRUCTOR
November 2007-November 2011
PENTECOSTAL CHURCH OF CHRIST TRUSTEE AND DEACON
January 2013- Present
SISTERS OF CHARITY FOUNDATION TRUSTEE
January 2012- December 2022
STEP FORWARD TRUSTEE
(Formerly CEOGC) December 2018-Present
ST. EDWARD HIGH SCHOOL TRUSTEE
January 2017-Present
LITERACY CO-OPERATIVE TRUSTEE
January 2008-January 2011
KYM SELLERS FOUNDATION TRUSTEE
January 2007-January 2010
CUYAHOGA COUNTY JUVENILE COURT VOLUNTEER MAGISTRATE
East Cleveland, Ohio January 2003- March 2005
Presided over cases on behalf of the Cuyahoga County Juvenile Court for matters referred to its Diversion Program. Discussed cases and problems with children who have been recommended to participate in program. I heard cases that originated from East Cleveland, Cleveland, Euclid, Cleveland Heights and Maple Heights. Imposed unique sanctions for the minor’s misconduct and implored them to change their behavior. Program allowed children to avoid a juvenile record and simultaneously provide service to the community while improving their future.
CLEVELAND MUNICIPAL COURT/CLEVELAND MOCK TRIAL JUDGE
CLEVELAND MUNICIPAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
Cleveland, Ohio
April 1999- Present
I have both presided over and scored Mock Trial Competition between Cleveland Municipal School District High School teams. Functioned as one of the instructors for the Mock Trial training workshop.
TEEN DOMESTIC VIOLENCE FACILITATOR
Cleveland, Ohio
April 1999- Present
Conducted discussions with young men from grades 9 thru 12 at several workshops throughout the year regarding issues surrounding domestic violence. Advised young men about healthy relationships and the consequences of engaging in appropriate and illegal behavior.
Member of the NAACP, National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges, Ohio Judicial Conference, Ohio Black Judges Association, Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc., (Gamma Alpha Sigma Chapter).
Go to www.judgemichaelryan4courtofappeals.com for more information on the campaign.
- Endorsements
Cuyahoga County Democratic Party; Cleveland Plain Dealer/Cleveland.com; AFSCME 8; Iron Workers Local 17; Plumbers Local 55; SEIU Local 1199; UAW; Cleveland Stonewall Democrats; Cuyahoga County Young Democrats; Ohio Young Black Democrats; The Collective PAC; The Ohio Environmental Council; Mayor Sellers; Mayor Blackwell; Mayor Ali; Mayor DeGeeter; Mayor Holbert; Mayor Gallo; Mayor Booker; Cleveland City Councilman Jones, Bishop, McCormack, Starr, Griffin, Polensek, Conwell, Hairston, Mooney, Harsh, Kazy, Slife and Councilwoman Gray, Howse and Santana; Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb; Ohio AFL-CIO; Ohio Patrolmen's Benevolent Association; the Teamsters D.R.I.V.E.; and more to come.
Go to www.judgemichaelryan4courtofappeals.com for more information on the campaign.
- Bar Association Ratings
Eighth District Court of Appeals UTE 02/09/2027
Candidate- Michael John Ryan
Excellent-AABAO
Good- CCDLA
Excellent- CMBA
Excellent- NSMBA
Excellent- OPAA
Excellent- OWBA
Candidate- Cornelius J. O'Sullivan
Good- AABAO
Good- CCDLA
Good- CMBA
Good- NSMBA
Good- OPAA
Good- OWBAGo to www.judgemichaelryan4courtofappeals.com for more information on the campaign.
Question 1
List your judicial experience (courts and years)
CUYAHOGA COUNTY COURT OF
COMMON PLEAS- JUVENILE DIVISION JUDGE
Cleveland, Ohio
December 10, 2012-Present
Elected judge for the Cuyahoga County Court of |Common Pleas-Juvenile Division to complete the expired term of the late Judge Sikora. I was then elected to a full six-year term in 2016. I preside over all felony and misdemeanor delinquent charges filed against minors in Cuyahoga County. I am also required to adjudicate issues of abuse, neglect and dependency filed against a minor’s parents or guardians. Additionally, I am required to determine issues of paternity, custody and child support for unmarried parents. Moreover, I preside over Jane Doe cases that result from a pregnant young lady who seeks non-parental consent for an abortion. Lastly, I am required, after an objection has been filed to a Magistrate’s Decision or Motion is filed to Set Aside a Magistrate’s Order, to review a case and determine if the Magistrate’s findings and application of law was correct.
CLEVELAND MUNICIPAL COURT JUDGE
Cleveland, Ohio
January 5, 2006- December 9, 2012
Elected judge for the Cleveland Municipal Court (two six-year terms) to preside over all cases, except those designated specifically for the presiding and administrative judge, for which the Ohio Revised Code authorized Municipal Courts to have original jurisdiction. I heard and disposed of misdemeanor offenses committed in the City of Cleveland or presided over jury trials that were held to dispose of misdemeanor offense that were classified as fourth degree or higher. I set bonds and presided over preliminary hearings for individuals charged with felony offenses. Moreover, I also had the authority to hear, dispose of and preside over jury trials for civil matters where the complaining party is seeking less than $15,000. Also, I possessed, via a vote among the 12 judges in the general division, the ability to hire, terminate and discipline employees. Lastly, I was required, after an objection had been filed to a Magistrate’s Decision or Motion was filed to Set Aside a Magistrate’s Order, to review a case and determine if the Magistrate’s findings and application of law was correct.
CLEVELAND MUNICIPAL COURT MAGISTRATE
Cleveland, Ohio
September 2001- January 4, 2006
Presided over hearings that were referred by the twelve judges of the General Division of the Cleveland Municipal Court. I heard and issued written decisions on small claim cases, default judgments, garnishment issues, post judgment matters and administrative license suspension appeals. I also aided as a substitute Magistrate for traffic and criminal misdemeanor arraignment, which included setting bonds and conducting hearings on motions for temporary protection orders. Additionally, I presided at the request of several of the twelve Judges, over their personal criminal and civil dockets. I was permitted to hear and make decisions regarding guilt or acquittal for minor misdemeanors and fourth degree thru first-degree misdemeanors when both parties consent to my hearing the matter. I also, with the Judge’s approval, was permitted to make decisions on liability, including presiding over civil jury trials. I made recommendations to the Judge regarding potential penalties if any for criminal misdemeanor convictions. Additionally, I was responsible for conducting research assignments, making recommendations and drafting proposed entries for the Judges to review and confirm.
Abbreviated Candidate AnswersI presided over matters as minor as traffic offenses to as major as Domestic Violence and Driving Under the Influence when I was an elected Judge for Cleveland Municipal Court. I also reviewed Magistrate Decisions to make sure they were making correct legal decisions. I had the honor of representing the people of Cleveland and Bratenahl for SEVEN years. Prior to ascending to the bench as an elected official I was a judicial apprentice wherein I functioned as a Magistrate for Cleveland Municipal Court for FOUR & HALF years. In my role as a Magistrate I was tasked with presiding over small claim cases, garnishments, civil actions, administrative license suspension issues, Judge's personal civil and criminal dockets, civil jury trials, criminal bench trials and research and writing on behalf of the elected judges. I have been honored to represent the citizens of Cuyahoga County as a Common Pleas Juvenile Court judge for the last TEN years. I have presided over matters as minor as traffic violations to as major as Aggravated Murder. I have also been tasked with resolving complex child protective services and private custody cases. Moreover, I hear and resolve cases of child support, paternity and whether a minor female has the maturity to decide to have an abortion when she cannot obtain consent from a parent.
Question 2
What non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?
FORBES, FIELDS & ASSOCIATES CO., L.P.A. ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY
Cleveland, Ohio
August 2000-September 2001
Engaged in the practice of law in varied number of fields including but not limited to personal injury, corporate, municipal, criminal defense, domestic relations, employment and governmental bonds. Active in motion practice, participated in depositions, arbitrations, prepared interrogatories, drafted legislation, drafted bonds and tried several cases.
CITY OF CLEVELAND LAW DEPARTMENT ASSISTANT CITY PROSECUTOR Cleveland, Ohio January 1997- February 1998
PROSECUTOR’S OFFICE/ CRIMINAL DIVISION May 1999-August 2000
Prosecuted all misdemeanors committed in the City of Cleveland. Responsible for daily docket of assigned Municipal Judge, which were as large as 90- 120 defendants each day. I possessed complete autonomy as trial attorney in both jury (over ten) and bench trials (over 300). Also, responsible for reviewing complaints by patrol officers and detectives to determine whether to issue charges for misdemeanors and or felonies.
CITY OF CLEVELAND DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATOR
Cleveland, Ohio February 1998-May 1999
OFFICE OF PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS
Responsible for managing the daily activities of the Office of Professional Standards. The Office of Professional Standards processed and caused the investigation of complaints made by citizens against employees of the Division of Police for the City of Cleveland. Responsible for supervising two civilian staff members and four investigating officers. Also, functioned as the advisor to the Civilian Police Review Board. Reviewed completed investigations and made recommendations to the Civilian Police Review Board members.
CITY OF CLEVELAND LAW DEPARTMENT LAW CLERK
Cleveland, Ohio February 1995- January 1997
CIVIL DIVISION
Participated in various legal areas with an emphasis on employment, tort, and litigation issues. Drafted memorandum of law, court motions, legislation and other legal opinions. Also, attended and participated in depositions and arbitrations.
CITY OF CLEVELAND LAW DEPARTMENT MEDIATOR
Cleveland, Ohio March 1994- February 1995
PROSECUTOR’S OFFICE/ CRIMINAL DIVISION
Responsible for the initial intake interview of citizens who made complaints about alleged criminal behavior. After performing intake interview, reviewed it with the Assistant Prosecutor to determine if criminal charges were issued. Also, served as a mediator between the complainant and the alleged perpetrator when the prosecutor determined that no criminal charges were warranted.
PRE-LEGAL EXPERIENCE
GEORGIA STATE EMPLOYEES UNION POLITICAL COORDINATOR
Atlanta, Georgia June 1992- August 1992
Responsible for managing the campaign activities of the union for its endorsed candidates. Supervised both the executive staff and 70 union members in distributing campaign literature, posting campaign signs, phone-a-thons, and shuttle service to the voting polls. Instrumental in obtaining 45% of the votes for two unknown candidates who sought office against two long time incumbents.
PROGRESSIVE INSURANCE EDITOR
Cleveland, Ohio June 1991- August 1991
Edited billing statements for the entire state of New Jersey. Responsible for ensuring that bills were mailed to the customers devoid of any mistakes. Also, verified and edited new policies that were issued to customers in New Jersey.
FENIX CIRCLE SUPERVISOR
Cleveland, Ohio June 1990- August 1990
Summer Training Educational Program
Supervised 9-10 teenagers in the maintenance and beautification of several Cultural Gardens located on East Blvd. After cleaning the Cultural Gardens, responsible for aiding the children in designing a flower display in their cultural garden.
Abbreviated Candidate AnswersI acquired the necessary skills to make balanced decisions on the bench via my legal practice before ascending to the bench. I began my legal career as a mediator/law clerk for Cleveland. I received invaluable experience on how the criminal complaint process is initiated. I also received valuable communication skills both interviewing victims and mediating disputes between parties. I then gained more legal experience and education when I researched legal issues and drafted memorandum of law and motions on behalf of the assistant chief civil attorneys for the City of Cleveland. After passing the bar I was fortunate to represent the citizens of Cleveland as a prosecuting attorney. I litigated more than four hundred cases a week for two and half years. I gained experience by trying cases before juries and judges. I then had a unqiue experience as an administrator for the office that investigagted complaints against police officers. I was able to obtain invaluable education about general police orders that has and will aid me when evaluating claims of excessive force. My role as an associate attorney for Forbes, Fields and Associates gave me the diversity of practice that I have used and will continue to use, if I fortunate to be elected, in making decisions on the bench. My criminal defense and civil litigation private practical experience were key to me making informed and balanced decisions on the bench.
Question 3
Why are you running for this particular court seat?
I view the Court of Appeals as a natural progression for me, considering my past and current professional and personal experiences. I began my legal career as a mediator/law clerk in the City of Cleveland’s criminal division which gave me a lot of foundational knowledge about reviewing facts and when warranted the initial process of initiating a complaint. I then had the opportunity to obtain more knowledge and expertise on how to defend and prosecute civil matters as a law clerk for Cleveland’s Civil Division. I spent most of my days at work in the Cleveland Law Library researching and writing memorandums of law. My next position was in the courtroom representing police officers and victims of crime where I had the responsibility of daily litigating legal matters on their behalf. I then gained some administrative experience as well as more legal knowledge when Mayor White hired me to oversee the Office of Professional Standards. I acquired an education about the General Police Orders that helped me better understand an officer’s obligation to the citizens and the rule of law. I witnessed situations where an officer was vindicated and times when they were found to be culpable for a violation of the GPO or the law. My next position gave me the balance I needed to be an effective arbitrator of the truth wherein I worked opposite of my prosecutorial background as an associate attorney for Forbes, Fields and Associates. I was able to represent a variety of clients from criminal defendants to individuals seeking compensation, via insurance companies, after being injured based on the insured’s negligence. My experiences as a municipal court and common pleas court judge have given me a unique perspective that aligns with the responsibilities of an appeals court judge, which is primarily to evaluate if a lower court (municipal or common pleas) made the correct decision. The repetition of being in the courtroom nearly every working day of my career has afforded me the ability to either have litigated or ruled on many of the issues that come before the appellate court. A second reason why I am seeking this seat is based upon my desire to impact more than just my own courtroom. As an appellate court judge, my decisions will guide and at times create policy for all the courts, aside from the federal courts, within Cuyahoga County and at times the entire State of Ohio. Lastly, another reason why I am seeking this appellate court seat is because of the numerous conversations my mentor, friend and former colleague, the late Court of Appeals Judge Larry Jones Sr., and I had about me following in his footsteps after he retired from the court in 2026. Judge Jones’ famous quote was “Do what’s right and let the law catch up!” My judicial philosophy is “Do what’s right even when you know it’s going to be unpopular!”
Abbreviated Candidate AnswersI'm uniquely qualified for the appellate court. I have been making the same judicial decisions for twenty years that I would review as a judge for the appellate court. I have engaged in the same process that an appellate court judge does, of reviewing whether a judicial officer's decision was correct, everytime I rule on an objection to a Magistrate's Decision. The appellate court is responsible for determining if the trial court got it right. I have either been a judge or attorney in all, but one of the trial courts the appellate court oversees (Municipal, Common Pleas General, Probate and Juvenile [Domestic Relations is the only one where I did not practice or adjudicate cases. Yet, many of the issues in Juvenile are synonymous with the issues in Domestic Relations]). Accordingly, I have consistently been exposed to most of the issues that will come before the appellate court. My litigation experience coupled with my lived experiences as a neglected and abused child whose parents were addicted to drugs and subjected me to an unstable, unsafe and unpredictable environment gave me the ability to persevere and see the law with different lens. I understand when to hold the most dangerous people in our community accountable but I also understand that the nonviolent individuals should not always be subjected to harsh consequences and instead I can use my discretion to impose alternative remedies that restore them and the victim back to the community.