The Ohio Supreme Court and the Governor’s office have received Judge Michael Wehrkamp’s retirement letter stepping down as Probate/Juvenile Judge of Paulding County Ohio. Judge Wehrkamp has served Paulding County for nearly six years after being elected in 2016.
The Probate Court stated they would be continuing as scheduled and no disruptions will take place as the Supreme Court of Ohio has judges ready to stand in cases of absence.
The replacement process has begun with the Paulding County Republican Central Committee reviewing the governor’s notes by selecting attorneys from the county applications and nominations. A small committee will be assembled to accept and review application submissions, putting forth their recommendations to the committee. Up to three submissions will be approved and forwarded to the Governor’s Office to make the final decisions and appointment.
Michael Wehrkamp will continue to be on the ballot unopposed for this election cycle while the process is being handled. The timeline is not set, but could take several months or more for a replacement to be appointed.
According to Jerry Zielke, Republican Chairman, stated they have begun the process and are working with the state to make this as quick and transparent as possible while filling the vacancy with the most qualified person available. If you are qualified and would like to be nominated for this position, contact Zielke at 260-312-2081 for an appointment.
