The Honorable James R. Williams, newly retired Judge of Summit County Common Pleas Court has been a great example of character and respect in the Akron community for many years.

Judge Williams received his bachelor’s degree from The University of Akron in 1960 and his Juris Doctorate in 1965 and also has attended the National Judicial College.

Judge Williams began his law career as a partner in the firm of Parms, Purnell, Stubbs and Williams. He served as 4^th Ward Councilman from 1969 to 1978 when he was voted to Council-at-Large. That same year President Jimmy Carter appointed him U.S. District Attorney for Northeast Ohio. He returned to private practice in 1982 and the following year was appointed Judge of Akron Municipal Court. He was elected to full terms in 1985 and 1987.

In February of 1989, Judge Williams was appointed to Summit County Court of Common Pleas and elected in 1990, 1992 and 1998. During his tenure he served as Administrative Judge and as Presiding Judge.

It is well documented that Judge Williams has been and continues to be deeply involved in the community. His work through Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity has afforded many low to medium income families, affordable housing. He is a member of the Akron Bar and National Bar Associations. He is past President of the Common Pleas Judges Association of Ohio and is also a past member of the Ohio Supreme Courts Board of Commissioner on Grievances and Discipline.

THE HONORABLE JAMES R. WILLIAMS, RETIRED JUDGE
SUMMIT COUNTY COMMONS PLEAS COURT