“Both my wife and I have demanding professional careers,” Nastoff said in a news release. “My position as a Butler County Judge has been a priority, but she has a very successful career as well. And in all of that, we balance the most important thing — raising a family. So, when my wife was offered a very attractive and deserved promotion out of state, it became a family decision. After weighing all of the options, the decision was obvious. It is a good career move for her and the best overall option for the family.”
The judge told the JournalNews the decision is bittersweet and was made with his wife, Kristen, and his three daughters.
“This is the best job I have ever had,” said Nastoff, who added he thanks the people who supported him and elected him to the office.
Nastoff has spent more than eight years as a common pleas judge and is currently the administrative judge. Before election to the judgeship, Nastoff was an assistant prosecutor and a defense attorney.
The county GOP will seek nominees to the judgeship, then meet to vote on three names to submit to the governor for appointment to the office, said Dave Kern, county GOP chairman. A timeline for the process has not yet been determined.
Fellow common pleas judges said Thursday they are sorry to see Nastoff leave.
“Judge Nastoff’s leadership in the role of Administrative Judge and his leadership by way of practical example will be sorely missed in the courthouse,” said Judge Keith Spaeth. “He is extremely bright, precise and approaches his duties in a workmanlike fashion. He is always prepared. Both the bench and the bar hold him in the highest regard, will miss his contributions, and we wish him all the best in the future.”
Judge Noah Powers said, “Judge Nastoff will be sorely missed. He has a friendly face and countenance. But more importantly, he has a keen intellect and is a strong analytical problem solver.”
Nastoff said he will keep strong memories of his time in Butler County.
“I am thankful to my friends, colleagues, peers, supporters, and all of those who I have worked with through the years. It has been a great experience, and I appreciate all those who helped make it possible. Now, I am moving on with my family and looking forward to new challenges,” Nastoff said.
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