2012 Ohio 6308
Ohio2012Background
- Affidavits of disqualification filed by Scott Perlmuter and Robert G. Smith regarding Judge Amy Corrigall Jones in Summit County Common Pleas Case No. CV 2009-04-3107.
- Relator alleges bias in favor of the city of Akron and its mayor, based on witness exclusions and prior statements.
- Judge Corrigall Jones responds with a detailed account of her handling and denies any association with the city or mayor.
- City counsel Bell submits an affidavit to correct alleged misstatements.
- Court analyzes whether the affidavits show bias or prejudice, a pattern of favoritism, or a political conflict.
- Court ultimately denies the affidavits and allows the underlying case to proceed before Judge Corrigall Jones.
Issues
| Issue | Plaintiff's Argument | Defendant's Argument | Held |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whether the affidavits establish bias or prejudice | Perlmuter asserts bias from witness exclusion and prior remarks | Jones discretionary rulings show no bias; affidavits insufficient | Denied; no bias shown |
| Whether there is a pattern of unfavourable treatment | Perlmuter points to multiple instances suggesting favoritism to the city | No demonstrable pattern; timing and context insufficient | Denied; no pattern established |
| Whether the political nature of the case warrants disqualification or waiver | Case is extremely political; disqualification appropriate | Waiver due to late filing; even if not waived, record lacks bias | Waiver governs; affidavits denied; case may proceed before Judge Corrigall Jones |
Key Cases Cited
- In re Disqualification of Solovan, 100 Ohio St.3d 1214 (2003-Ohio-5484) (affidavit review limited to bias; not a vehicle to challenge law or procedure)
- In re Disqualification of Floyd, 101 Ohio St.3d 1217 (2003-Ohio-7351) (disqualification not for erroneous rulings; remedy on appeal)
- In re Disqualification of Russo, 110 Ohio St.3d 1208 (2005-Ohio-7146) (affidavits must show bias; discretion to manage docket balanced)
- In re Disqualification of Sutula, 105 Ohio St.3d 1237 (2004-Ohio-7351) (trial court docket management within discretion; no bias proven)
- In re Disqualification of O’Grady, 77 Ohio St.3d 1240 (1996-Ohio-196) (timeliness and waiver principles for political nature claims)
- In re Disqualification of Corrigan, 110 Ohio St.3d 1217 (2005-Ohio-7153) (personal connections can warrant disqualification; not present here)