Articles - Sharon L. Kennedy

Ohio Supreme Court Justice Sharon L. Kennedy joined Justices Judith L. French and William O'Neill to speak with members of the Columbus Lawyers Chapter of the Federalist Society and Public Policy Studies on October 8, 2013.

The trio discussed judicial philosophies and service on the state's highest court. They talked about why they decided to become justices and how they hope to impact the court. Also included in the discussion was the recent turnover at the Ohio Supreme Court, with three new justices joining the court within several months of one another.

During Q&A time, Justice Kennedy responded to an inquiry regarding the standard factors determining whether the Court accepts a Jurisdictional Discretionary Appeal. In explaining her process, she referenced the qualifications set forth in the Ohio Constitution, Article IV, Section 2(B)(2)(e): That it is a case of public or great general interest.

"First, I read the propositions of law, followed by the appellate decision, the appellant's brief, the appellee's brief, and any amicus briefs that are filed," she said. In determining whether this is a matter of great public or general interest, I consider whether it is a case of first impression. Does it provide the court with an opportunity to clarify a statement of law or settle an issue in the law."

Justice Kennedy is serving her first term on the Supreme Court of Ohio. Prior to joining the Supreme Court, Justice Kennedy served on the Butler County Court of Common Pleas, Domestic Relations Division from 1999 to 2012. Justice Kennedy served as the administrative judge there from 2005 until December 2012. Justice Kennedy began her career in the justice system as a police officer in Hamilton, Ohio. She received her law degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Law.