“Now is the time to stand up for Ohio. We need accountability, not party politics.”

I grew up in a tough neighborhood once known as ‘Crack City USA.’ My mother, who never finished eighth grade, migrated from Puerto Rico and taught us that hard work, education, and integrity were the path to the American Dream. I commuted four hours a day to finish college. My oldest brother had a distinguished career in law enforcement until he was injured in the line
of duty. My other two brothers went into education.

More than 30 years ago, when I first crossed into Ohio and saw the skyline, I knew this was home. I began my career as an IT manager at Procter & Gamble, and later used my savings to attend law school at the University of Cincinnati so I could serve people during their hardest moments.

As an attorney, I practiced in both the private and public sectors before building my own firm, representing clients from all walks of life. In 2016, as a true political outsider, I ran for the Court of Appeals committed to applying the law, facts, and Constitution—and nothing else. In 2022, the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association awarded me its highest judicial rating of ‘excellent.’ I have also led initiatives to reduce costs and expand access to the courts.

I pledge to bring common sense, leave politics at the door, ensure fair access, and rule based solely on the law and facts. At a time when confidence in our judiciary is eroding, independence is essential. I believe that Ohio Supreme Court should a beacon of integrity and accountability, free from outside influence. I enter this race as a judge whose record has earned trust across political lines.

Meet Judge Zayas on YouTube: View here.