There’s been a leadership change at the Cleveland Municipal Court. As of January 1, 2026, Judge Ann Clare Oakar has officially assumed the role of Administrative and Presiding Judge, succeeding Judge Michelle D. Earley, who led the Court since 2017.“It has been an honor to lead this Court,” said Judge Earley. “I am proud of the work we’ve done, and I am confident that Judge Oakar’s experience and dedication make her the right leader to carry our mission forward.”

About Judge Oakar Since joining the Cleveland bench in 2017, Judge Oakar has brought a "boots-on-the-ground" perspective to the law. Her experience covers all the bases:

• Advocacy: Started her career at the Legal Aid Society of Cleveland.

• Versatility: Served as a municipal prosecutor, law director, and defense attorney.

• Leadership: Served as a magistrate in Parma before her election to the Cleveland bench.

The Vision: Judge Oakar believes the Municipal Court is the "People’s Court", the place where the justice system meets the community.

“I want to thank Judge Earley for her many years of leadership. I’m honored to take on this role. The Municipal Court is where we can really make a difference. I am excited to work together with the judges and staff to continue to serve the city of Cleveland in a fair and efficient manner," said Judge Oakar.

Judge Oakar is a graduate of Magnificat High School, the University of Dayton, and Case Western Reserve University School of Law.