CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — After serving over a decade on the bench, Judge Toni L. Eddy, the first female judge for Chillicothe and Ross County, has announced her retirement. Eddy, who began her judicial tenure on January 1, 2012, has decided to step down from her position at the Chillicothe Municipal Court.

Eddy, a native of Chillicothe, brought a wealth of legal experience to her role. Before her election as judge, she practiced law for more than 11 years, with nine of those years spent at Mann & Preston LLP. Her public service in the legal field extends to her time as Chillicothe Law Director from 2004 to 2011 and as Assistant Law Director from 2001 to 2003. Her professional affiliations include memberships in the Ross County Bar Association and the Ohio State Bar Association.

Beyond her legal career, Judge Eddy has been a prominent community figure, contributing her time to various local boards and organizations. She served as an advisor to Southern Ohio Crime Stoppers, was the secretary for the Chillicothe-Ross County Community Improvement Corporation, and sat on both the Ross County Law Library Resources Board and the Ross County Community Corrections Planning Board. She’s also been involved with Ohio Farm Bureau, the American Legion Auxiliary #62, and held the position of past president for the Ross County O.S.U. Alumni Club, actively supporting community events like the Ross County Junior Fair Livestock sale.

Eddy’s educational background includes graduating from Chillicothe High School, The Ohio State University, and earning a law degree magna cum laude from Capital University Law School, where she was also a member of the Law Review.

Upon her retirement, an interim judge has been appointed to fill the vacancy temporarily, though the name has not been publicly disclosed this week. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine will appoint a replacement to serve out the remainder of Eddy’s term. Historically, DeWine has followed the recommendations of local political parties when appointing judges to fill unexpired terms. However, David Glass, Chairman of the Ross County Republican Party, has declined to comment on the selection process or how interested lawyers should apply for the position.

This transition marks the end of an era for the Chillicothe Municipal Court, where Judge Eddy was known for her dedication to justice and community involvement. The appointment of her successor will be closely watched, reflecting the community’s interest in continuing the legacy of committed and local governance in judicial roles.

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