Robert Patton

Robert Patton was born in Euclid, Ohio. He earned a bachelor's degree from Cleveland State University in 1990 and a graduate degree from Cleveland State University in 1993. He earned a law degree from Cleveland State University in 1996. His career experience includes working as a lawyer.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

My background as a criminal trial lawyer serves as a constant reminder that behind every appellate case are real individuals. Their pending case is probably one of the most important issues in their lives that deserves my full attention and best efforts. As a former member of Willowick City Council, I am keenly aware that that public service requires listening and action. These foundational experiences help me serve more effectively as a judge

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Since Governor DeWine appointed me in June 2023, my staff has endeavored to expedite the adjudication of appellate matters with the goal to timely administer justice. Specifically, my Judicial Assistant created an original, internal tracking system that is set forth in a chart. The chart shows the status of all cases that I am assigned to write or vote on a panel. We have also instituted an internal employee evaluation process for my court staff to ensure a professional and efficient work environment.Serving as a judge has been a career goal for me since I clerked for Judge Mitrovich after graduating from law school in 1996. As the first person in my family to attend law school, attaining the position of a judge represents the highest form of public service.My legal career has been devoted to public service. Sitting as an appellate judge represents the pinnacle of my legal career in public service.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

The greatest challenge is to timely resolve the cases presented to the court.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Ashtabula Republican Party, Lake County Republican Party & Trumbull County Republican Party. The remaining Republican parties in the district, Geauga & Portage counties, do not endorse in primary campaigns.

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Judge Robert J. Patton was appointed to serve on the Eleventh District Court of Appeals on May 19, 2023, to begin a term commencing on June 5, 2023. Prior to his appointment, Judge Patton served as an Assistant United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio in Cleveland from 2006 until 2023. Judge Patton served as Chief of the Violent Crimes Unit from 2017 until 2022 where he was responsible for supervising the prosecution of federal violent crimes and firearms cases. In 2022, Judge Patton was named Senior Litigation Counsel focused on the prosecution of federal criminal tax matters investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division.

Prior to his tenure with the United States Department of Justice, Judge Patton was an Assistant Prosecutor for the Lake County Prosecutor’s Office where he was lead counsel on over 45 jury trials. He focused on white-collar crimes, racketeering influenced corrupt organization (RICO), money laundering, sex crimes, vehicular homicides, and attempted murders.

Until his resignation on May 31, 2023, Judge Patton was President of Council for the City of Willowick for over 10 years. Previously, he was a Member of Council for Ward 3 from 2005 until 2013. Judge Patton was elected to five consecutive full terms to the City of Willowick’s City Council.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

I believe in judicial restraint and adhering to conservative principles.I believe in one standard of Justice that equally applies to all litigants.I believe in the timely review and adjudication of cases.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Law

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

N/A

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Trial experience, writing ability, research skills and judgment.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

See prior responses.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

The first historical event I recall was the impeachment of President Nixon.

Are there any little-known powers or responsibilities held by this office that you believe more people should be aware of?

N/A

How would you describe your legal philosophy?

See my prior responses.

Is there a particular judge, past or present, whom you admire?

Associate Justice Antonin Scalie

Do you believe that empathy is an important quality for a judge?

Yes

Have you ever been rated by a Bar Association? If so, what was the rating?

No, I'm not a member.

Why are you running for this particular court seat?

My entire legal career has been devoted to public service. This position represents one of the highest levels of service.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for a judge to have previous experience in government or politics?

Yes

What is your primary concern about today's legal system in your state?

N/A

What do you consider the greatest opportunity for the legal system in your state?

N/A

Would you be interested in serving on a higher court in the future? If so, which court appeals to you?

N/A

Do you believe that Bar Association ratings are an accurate reflection of a judge’s ability?

Yes

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Ashtabula County Republican Party, Lake County Republican Party, Buckeye Firearms Association - AQ Rating, Mahoning-Trumbull Central Labor Council - AFL-CIO & AFSCME Power in Action - AFSCME Ohio Council 8 & AFSCME Retiree Chapter 1184.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

N/A