Valarie Gerlach graduated first in her class from Capital University Law School and Phi Beta Kappa and Summa Cum Laude from the University of Cincinnati. While in law school she was selected to be on Law Review and the National Moot Court Team. She also was a Legal Writing Advisor at Capital University Law School. Valarie Gerlach began her legal career as a law clerk for a United States District Court Judge. After this position, Valarie joined her parents, Franklin and Cynthia Gerlach, in their law practice in Portsmouth, Ohio. She has previously served as a member of Portsmouth City Council and as an Instructor at Shawnee State University. Valarie Gerlach is currently the President of the Scioto County Bar Association.