Jodi Thomas is a lifelong resident of Franklin County. She is a graduate of Gahanna Lincoln High School and went on to attend The Ohio State University where she earned her bachelor’s degree and license in social work.
Jodi and her husband Jamie live in Gahanna. They are the proud parents of two daughters, Abigail, 15, and Brooke, 11. Their girls are very involved in their schools and participate in several activities including sports, art, and religious education. Jamie is a proud local business owner of Thomas Tool and Mold Company, a manufacturer of plastic injection molds since 1989.
Experience
Jodi received her Juris Doctorate in May of 2001 from Capital University Law School. She went on to spend 14 years as an attorney for the Franklin County Public Defender, where she trained and supervised new attorneys.
During her last five years at the Public Defender’s Office, Jodi was assigned to the Franklin County Specialized Dockets as the lead attorney. Dockets include:
- Mental Health Court
- Military and Veterans Specialized Docket
- Changing Actions to Change Habits (CATCH) Human Trafficking Specialized Docket
- Alcohol and Drug Addiction Program (ADAP) Specialized Docket
- Opiate Extension Program
Jodi was appointed to the Franklin County Municipal Court Bench by Governor Kasich in April of 2016 and elected for the unexpired term in 2017. Judge Thomas is up for re-election November 5, 2019 for the full term commencing 1/1/2020.
Awards and Honors
ADAMH Attorney of the Year, Mental Health Court 2007
Excellent Service Award, Alcohol and Drug Addiction Program 2013
Rise to the Challenge Award, Military and Veterans Service Program 2015
ADAMH Attorney of the Year, Opiate Extension Program/Alcohol and Drug Addiction Program 2015
Model of Justice Award, Justice League of Ohio 2015
Jodi was given the Model of Justice Award for her work in CATCH Court, “Changing Actions to Change Habits,” which helps survivors of human trafficking transition to a life of dignity and productivity. As a defense attorney, Jodi played a unique role in guiding these victims through this intense program and helping them to achieve a better life.
Gahanna Lincoln High School Alumni Hall of Fame, Inducted May 2016
