Kristi L. Buffington represents clients in criminal, family, and civil matters throughout southeastern Ohio. A trained trial attorney, Kristi spent several years as a public defender, handling complex cases from initial appearance through trial and securing multiple jury acquittals. She was inspired to work in criminal defense after completing a fellowship in law school with the Ohio Innocence Project, assisting in the investigation of wrongful conviction claims. Before law school, Kristi worked in news media for several years. Drawing on her background in both law and journalism, Kristi is a strong advocate and communicator who values keeping clients informed, prepared, and supported throughout the legal process.

Outside of work, Kristi enjoys spending time with her husband, Phillip, and their young family.

• Bar admissions:

  • State of Ohio

  • Commonwealth of Kentucky (pending readmission)

  • U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio

• Education:

  • University of Cincinnati College of Law

  • Ohio University

• Trial experience:

  • State v. K.W. | Hamilton County Municipal Court (2018): Not guilty of aggravated menacing (bench trial)

  • State v. C.W. | Hamilton County Municipal Court (2019): Not guilty of assault, guilty of persistent disorderly conduct (bench trial)

  • Commonwealth v. A.D. | Kenton County District Court (2020): Not guilty of domestic violence and child endangerment, guilty of possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana (jury trial)

  • State v. J.M. | Athens County Municipal Court (2021): Not guilty of domestic violence (jury trial)

  • State v. W.B. | Athens County Municipal Court (2023): Not guilty of aggravated menacing and lesser-included offense of menacing (jury trial)

  • State v. C.F. | Athens County Municipal Court (2023): Not guilty of prohibitions against animals (bench trial)

  • State v. D.J. | Athens County Municipal Court (2024): Not guilty of assault and lesser-included offense of disorderly conduct (jury trial)

  • State v. M.G. | Athens County Municipal Court (2024): Not guilty of menacing by stalking and witness intimidation, guilty of trespassing (bench trial)

  • State v. B.T. | Athens County Municipal Court (2025): Not guilty of assault (jury trial)

  • Disclaimer: Past performance does not guarantee future results. Every case is unique and depends on its own specific facts and legal merits.

• Memberships:

  • Ohio State Bar Association

  • Kentucky Bar Association