Bernat becomes a judge

A magistrate for 10 years, Richard A. Bernat (pictured) becomes a Hamilton County Municipal Court Judge beginning Thursday.

Two weeks before he leaves office, Ohio Gov. Bob Taft appointed Bernat, 60, of Colerain Township, to the judgeship to replace Elizabeth Mattingly who resigned to become a Hamilton County Domestic Relations Court judge.

Bernat earned an undergraduate degree from the University of Texas and a law degree from Chase College of Law.

A magistrate hears cases referred to him by Common Pleas Court judges. The cases can be criminal, but most are civil and range from protection orders to jury trials.

Prior to becoming a magistrate, Bernat had a private practice.

Taft continues to make judicial appointments before he leaves office. Judicial appointments are made by the sitting governor. Taft, a Republican, is appointing Republicans including Bernat.

Bernat has served on the Northwest Board of Education, the Hamilton County Board of Zoning Appeals and was a member the Greenhills Forest Kiwanis Club.

As a Municipal Court judge, Bernat will be paid $107,500 per year.

The Hamilton County magistrate’s job that was posted today pays $76,198-$103,171.