Judges

Judge Valerie J. Wilt

Term expires December 31, 2031
Judge Courtroom: #2

A Clark County native, Judge Wilt is a Clark Shawnee graduate.  She received her B.A. from Miami University, and graduated cum laude, with her Juris Doctor degree from the University of Dayton School of Law.  Judge Wilt brought to the bench her 33 years of experience as a trial attorney.  She has focused on judicial reform in the court by adopting a pretrial diversion program, updating the local rules of practice, promoting upgrades in internal processes and technology improvements for the court, establishing bail bond schedules for the jail on all misdemeanors, and ensuring compliance with victims’ and defendants’ rights.  She is involved with the community in a variety of organizations including Rotary and the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Courtroom Attire

Attorneys should be in business clothing with coat and tie, as appropriate.  Participants should dress with respect for the importance of the proceeding.  No shorts, pajama pants, tank tops, or slippers.  Pants should be worn on the waist.  No profanity on clothing, and hats should be removed before entering the courtroom.

Weddings

Judge Wilt’s weddings are performed on Fridays at 11:30 AM. Please ensure you have obtained your marriage license information from Probate Court and bring all paperwork with you to the wedding ceremony. There is no fee for the ceremony. Please contact Judge Wilt’s Executive Assistant to schedule the wedding ceremony in advance.

Driving Privileges

Judge Wilt requires the following:

  • Proof of insurance
  • A letter from your employer stating location, days, and hours
  • Treatment location, days, and hours

Please Note: Driving privileges are granted at the discretion of Judge Wilt.

Judge Team Members

Bailiff
Jennifer Martin
937-328-3774

Executive Assistant
Mary Leigh Koogler
937-328-3773

Probation Officer
Nate VanZant
937-328-3751

Can I talk to a judge?
The judge is not permitted to discuss a pending case with any party or witness without all attorneys or unrepresented parties being present. This includes any written letters to the judge. These are considered ex-parte communications and violate the rules of judicial ethics.
What if I cannot make it to court?
It is the obligation of every party and subpoenaed witness to be present at court at the designated time. Failure to do so may result in a warrant for your arrest. If there is an unavoidable emergency that prevents your attendance, you should notify your attorney immediately and provide your attorney with documentation verifying the unavoidable emergency. Failure to do so may result in a warrant for your arrest.
What if I cannot reach my attorney about an emergency that prevents me from being at court?
You may call the judge’s office in this event. You will still need to contact your attorney and provide your attorney with documentation verifying the unavoidable emergency. Failure to do so may result in a warrant for your arrest.
What if I miss my court date?
You should report to the bailiff’s desk at the entrance to the Municipal Court building as soon as possible. Doing so reduces that chance that you will be held in jail. If you do not report to the courthouse, and are picked up on a warrant, it is likely that you will be held in jail.
Can I request driving privileges if I have an OVI?
You may request driving privileges. There are mandatory waiting periods that must pass. Also, there may be requirements specific to your case that must be addressed. Driving privileges are for limited purposes only, and will apply only to a suspension in the specific case. If you have multiple suspensions, privileges in one case do not permit you to drive without privileges for all suspensions
What documents do I need to request driving privileges?
The request must be in writing, include the case number on the request and file it with the Clerk of Courts. You must include a letter from your employer on employer letterhead stating the location of your employment and your work hours; proof of automobile insurance in your name that is paid through the period you are requesting privileges. The judge may require different or additional information, depending on the facts of the case.
How do I get married in the courthouse?
Contact each individual judge. You must contact probate court to find out how to get a marriage license.