One of the judicial candidates, Jeannine Pratt, is the wife of firm member Andrew Pratt. Andrew Pratt signed the affidavit of disqualification that claims Gutmann has engaged in political activity on behalf of the second judicial candidate, Stacy Wall.
The affidavit further alleges the judge made derogatory comments regarding the law firm's character. The law firm is now represented by attorney Robert Huffman Jr., also of Troy.
Gutmann filed an entry last week denying allegations of bias, prejudice and impartiality, saying she can remain impartial in regard to all cases involving the firm.
The request for disqualification by law was sent to the presiding Common Pleas Court judge. Judge W. McGregor Dixon, juvenile court judge and presiding judge, Monday asked the Supreme Court to appoint a judge "due to the possible appearance of a conflict of interest."
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