11.9 Chief Justice Sharon L. Kennedy

Chief Justice Sharon L. Kennedy serves as the head of the Ohio Supreme Court and has made significant contributions to the state’s judicial system through her extensive legal career. She began her professional journey as a police officer in Hamilton, Ohio, which provided her with a unique perspective on the law enforcement side of the justice system. Later, she earned her law degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Law and transitioned into private practice, where she developed a strong foundation in legal principles and advocacy.

As a judge on the Butler County Court of Common Pleas, Chief Justice Kennedy gained recognition for her work in developing specialized docket programs, such as a felony non-support court to address parental support issues, and a drug court aimed at rehabilitation over incarceration. Elected to the Ohio Supreme Court in 2012, she has focused on improving the efficiency and accessibility of the judicial system. She has been a strong advocate for the modernization of court processes, including the implementation of electronic filing systems to streamline case management. Her leadership has been instrumental in promoting judicial education and professional development for judges across Ohio. Chief Justice Kennedy’s efforts have enhanced the administration of justice in Ohio, making the legal system more responsive and effective for its citizens.