Criminal Court Judge Don W. Poole announced on Friday he will retire after serving two eight-year terms.
Among those said to be interested in the post are former Criminal Court Judge Rebecca Stern, attorney Amanda Dunn and Boyd Patterson of the Public Defender's Office.
In a letter he said, "In my mind, a lawyer can receive no greater honor than to be elected to serve as a judge.
"For almost 16 years the people of Hamilton County have entrusted me with that position and I am eternally grateful for that.
"I have worked very hard and tried very hard to earn that trust.
"Now is the time, however, to announce that I will not seek re-election in 2022.
"I want to thank the wonderful staff who work with me for their dedication. I will miss them, all the lawyers and others that come into Criminal Court.
"The people of Hamilton County are fortunate to have the judges that we have and I have enjoyed working with them all.
"Lastly, I thank my family. I'm lucky to have the best and most supportive family a person could have.
"Thank you, Hamilton County.'