For the first time in 40 years, a new judge has taken the probate and juvenile bench of the Fulton County Common Pleas Court.

Stacey S. Stiriz, of Delta, was appointed to the role by Gov. Mike DeWine. She fills the vacancy left by Judge Michael J. Bumb, who took office in 1985 and retired in 2025. He was the longest-serving active judge in Ohio at the time of his retirement, according to court records.

“I have known my predecessor since I started practicing law in 2004,” said Judge Stiriz, who is a graduate of the University of Toledo College of Law. “On Monday, when I opened the judge’s chambers, I felt overwhelmed that he was not at his desk as he has been throughout my 20 years of practice.”

She explained that lawyers often come out of law school with much legal knowledge, but not necessarily with the practical skills needed for the job. She described how helpful Judge Bumb was to her as a young lawyer, providing mentorship, assigning her to cases, and encouraging her to learn the many aspects of juvenile law.

She admired Judge Bumb’s patience and kindness and learned that he never needed to be the loudest person in the room because his years of experience spoke for themselves.

“I want to make him proud. I want to repay him by continuing to provide this court with the respect it deserves,” said Judge Stiriz. “I have reviewed the pages he flagged in the books. And while he is not here in person to help me transition, he has provided me with answers and left me a great staff to help me through.”

Judge Stiriz left her role as assistant prosecutor in Fulton County, where she has worked since 2017, to assume the new position. She took the bench on Jan. 12, 2026. Judge Stiriz must run for election in November, 2026 to retain the seat.