By Chief Magistrate Thomas Beridon, Court Administrator
The Hamilton County Court of Common Pleas was recently invited by the Hamilton County Association of Chiefs of Police to participate in a roundtable discussion with justice-related agencies from across the city and county. The purpose of the meeting, as outlined in the invitation, is to facilitate dialogue on matters impacting public safety and public confidence in the criminal justice system, as well as strategies for addressing these concerns. Additional invitees include representatives from the prosecutor’s office, the county probation office, the sheriff’s office, and the Cincinnati Police Department. The invitation further indicated that the meeting may lead to an ongoing collaborative process between these agencies.
Upon advisement from the Ohio Board of Professional Conduct, the Court has determined that judges or any representatives of the Court will not be participating in this private meeting.
The Board stated: “While the efforts to improve the delivery of criminal justice services in Hamilton County in light of recent events are laudable, the invitation to the judiciary on behalf of law enforcement to this particular meeting will likely implicate a judge’s ethical obligations under the Code of Judicial Conduct.”
A judge’s decision to participate in this roundtable is governed by the Code of Judicial Conduct, which requires judges to maintain judicial independence, integrity, and impartiality. While the Court supports open dialogue and collaboration among justice system partners, its participation in this forum could risk creating the appearance of partiality in future matters before the Court. We also support the ongoing public dialogue and critique of our courts, recognizing that healthy and informed debate is essential to maintaining transparency, accountability, and public trust.
The Hamilton County Court of Common Pleas remains steadfast in its commitment to openness, adherence to the law, and the fair administration of justice for every member of our community.