Sultaana v. Integrity Funding Ohio, L.L.C.
Docket: No. 16-AP-032
Court: Ohio Supreme Court; May 25, 2016; Ohio; State Supreme Court
Amirah Sultaana has filed an affidavit seeking to disqualify Judge Daniel Gaul from her civil case, claiming the judge has exhibited hostility and ill will towards her, including threats of contempt and restricting her speech during hearings. She argues that Judge Gaul’s rulings have caused a miscarriage of justice. In response, Judge Gaul asserts that he has conducted the proceedings professionally and that Sultaana has made numerous frivolous filings. The court finds no basis for disqualification, citing that affidavits for disqualification should not be used after lengthy proceedings unless extraordinary circumstances exist. This case has been ongoing since 2013, during which Sultaana has filed 126 documents. The judge states that all relevant motions were resolved prior to Sultaana's affidavit, indicating that extraordinary circumstances for disqualification are lacking. Sultaana’s allegations, particularly regarding threats of contempt, lack the necessary context and specificity required by law, rendering them insufficient. Additionally, the court reiterates that a judge's adverse rulings do not constitute evidence of bias or prejudice. Consequently, Sultaana’s dissatisfaction with Judge Gaul’s legal decisions does not warrant disqualification. The affidavit is denied, and the case will continue under Judge Gaul’s oversight.