360 Degrees of Fighting for Justice in the Valley.
INTEGRITY. COMPASSION. COMMITMENT TO JUSTICE.
Join Team Ross:
PROTECTING OUR COMMUNITY
As a Prosecuting Attorney, I served in a critical role in the justice system by upholding the rule of law, fiercely protecting victims, and ensuring the community’s voice was represented in the courtroom.
DEFENDING RIGHTS
As a Defense Attorney, I stood beside individuals in their darkest hours, ensuring the Constitution is a shield for everyone. I understand that true justice requires due process, not prejudgment.
ONE BALANCED PERSPECTIVE
You shouldn’t have to guess where a judge stands. You need a judge who has stood on both sides of the aisle. I will bring fairness, impartiality, and deep respect for the law to the Common Pleas bench.
“Ross is a good man, a good friend and a good lawyer,” Krichbaum said. “His integrity, knowledge and experience makes him the perfect choice.”
YOUNGSTOWN — Ross Smith, who is running for Mahoning County Common Pleas Court judge, was sworn in as a magistrate by the person he’s looking to succeed.
R. Scott Krichbaum, who cannot run for reelection this year because of the state’s age-limit law on judges, administered Smith’s oath of office Monday.
Smith started Monday as Krichbaum’s magistrate. Smith will initially work with Timothy Welsh, Krichbaum’s magistrate for the past 20 years, and then take over for him when Welsh retires at the end of February.
DEEP ROOTS.
REAL COMMITMENT.
Raised in Florida, educated in Spain, but made in Mahoning County. For over 20 years, Ross Smith has been a fixture in our legal community—raising his family here, building his practice here, and serving the Valley.
Ross understands that the Court of Common Pleas is where the most serious issues in our community are resolved. His background isn’t just academic; it’s practical. Having stood on both sides of the aisle—prosecuting those who harm our community and defending the constitutional rights of the accused—he possesses the balanced temperament required for the bench. This dual perspective ensures that every person entering his courtroom will be heard, respected, and treated with impartial justice.
Licensed in both Ohio and Pennsylvania, Ross brings a breadth of experience that few can match. He isn’t running to be a politician; he is running to be a Judge who applies the law fairly, efficiently, and with the dignity our citizens deserve.
This campaign isn't about me.
This campaign is about us. It’s about ensuring our courts remain fair and effective for the next generation. We need your help to reach every corner of Mahoning County.
Mahoning County judge swears in new magistrate
Judge R. Scott Krichbaum swore in attorney Ross Smith (pictured above) at noon on Monday, January 12, following the retirement of magistrate Tim Welch... Read More
Ross Smith Announces his candidacy for the Mahoning County Court of Common Pleas
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
I hope this letter finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to provide an update on my campaign for Judge. You may recall that I am running for Judge R. Scott Krichbaum’s seat in the Mahoning County Court of Common Pleas in... Read More
About Ross Smith
Attorney Smith was born and raised in Florida. He grew up in Winter Haven, which is immediately between Orlando and Tampa. He grew up playing baseball, basketball, soccer, tennis, and golf. However, he excelled in tennis and golf. Read More