By: Jacob Kessler
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
jacob@thevillagereporter.com
For the first time in 40 years, the Fulton County Common Pleas Court has welcomed a new judge to its probate and juvenile bench.
Stacey S. Stiriz of Delta was appointed to the position by Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, filling the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Michael J. Bumb.
Bumb took office in 1985 and retired in 2025, ending what court records describe as the longest active judicial tenure in Ohio at the time he stepped down.
Stiriz said the transition has been both professional and deeply personal, noting she has known Bumb since she began practicing law in 2004 after graduating from the University of Toledo College of Law.
She described the moment she first entered the judge’s chambers as especially overwhelming, explaining that for two decades she had been accustomed to seeing her predecessor at his desk.
Stiriz also reflected on the way Bumb helped shape her early career, saying new lawyers often leave law school with strong legal knowledge but not always the practical skills needed to handle day to day courtroom work.
She credited Bumb with mentoring her as a young attorney, assigning her to cases, and pushing her to learn the many layers of juvenile law.
In describing Bumb’s influence, Stiriz said she admired his patience and kindness, and learned from his steady leadership style, adding that he never needed to be the loudest person in the room because his experience carried its own authority.
Stiriz said she hopes to honor that legacy in the role, explaining that she wants to make him proud and continue to ensure the court is treated with the respect it deserves.
She added that Bumb helped prepare her for the transition by flagging key pages in court books and leaving behind guidance, along with a staff she described as strong and supportive.
Before taking the bench, Stiriz served as an assistant prosecutor in Fulton County, a position she held since 2017.
She officially assumed her new duties on Jan. 12, 2026. Under the appointment process, Stiriz will be required to run for election in November, 2026 in order to retain the seat.