Chapter 11 – The Judicial Branch
11.8 The Supreme Court of Ohio
Standing from left: Justice Jennifer Brunner, Justice Michael P. Donnelly, Justice Melody J. Stewart, and Justice Joseph T. Deters.
The Supreme Court of Ohio is the highest court in the state’s judicial system and serves as the court of last resort. This means that it is the final authority on interpreting Ohio law and the state constitution. Established by the Ohio Constitution, the Supreme Court is composed of a Chief Justice and six Associate Justices. These justices are elected to six-year terms by the voters of Ohio and must have practiced law for at least six years before they can serve on the court. The Supreme Court hears cases that involve significant legal questions, especially those related to the Ohio Constitution, as well as appeals in death penalty cases and cases where there have been conflicting decisions in the lower courts.
The Supreme Court’s primary function is to review decisions made by the lower courts, such as the Courts of Appeals, to ensure that the law has been correctly interpreted and applied. When a case is brought before the Supreme Court, the justices review the records from the lower courts and consider written and oral arguments from both sides. The court has the discretion to choose which cases it will hear, except in certain situations where it is required to take the case, such as death penalty appeals or cases involving constitutional questions.
Case Example
In the Supreme Court of Ohio, a case might involve a significant question about the constitutionality of a state law. For example, if a new law affecting voting rights is challenged, the Supreme Court would review the case to determine whether the law complies with the Ohio Constitution, making a final and binding decision.
Administrative Roles
In addition to its appellate responsibilities, the Supreme Court of Ohio has several important administrative roles. It oversees the practice of law in the state, including the admission of new attorneys and the discipline of lawyers who violate professional rules. The court also has the authority to make rules governing the procedures and operations of all other courts in Ohio, ensuring a uniform and efficient judicial system. By fulfilling these duties, the Supreme Court plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and consistency of Ohio’s legal system.
Foundational Facts
The Ohio Supreme Court, established under Article IV of the Ohio Constitution, serves as the highest court in the state. It has final authority on interpreting Ohio law and the state constitution. The court also oversees lower courts and regulates the practice of law in Ohio, playing a key role in maintaining judicial standards statewide.
References
Ohio Legislative Service Commission. 2023. Chapter 11 – The Judicial Branch in A Guidebook for Ohio Legislators. Columbus OH p. 123.
Sracic, Paul A., and William C. Binning. 2015. Chapter 5 – Courts in Ohio in Ohio Government and Politics. Washington DC: CQ Press p. 85-86.
