Ohio Republican Representative Max Miller faces a court request for a restraining order from his ex-wife’s attorney, as allegations of physical confrontations at courthouse hearings emerge during a contentious custody battle and reelection campaign.

Courtroom Confrontations Escalate Custody Battle

Emily Moreno, daughter of Republican Ohio Senator Bernie Moreno, filed court documents Thursday seeking to bar her ex-husband from contacting her lawyer, Andrew Zashin. The filing alleges Miller engaged in repeated physical and verbal altercations with Zashin following recent court hearings in their ongoing custody dispute over their young daughter. The couple married in 2022 and divorced in June 2025.

According to court filings, Miller allegedly insulted Zashin’s fiancee at an Ohio courthouse in May after a hearing. This week, Moreno claims Miller physically grabbed Zashin and another attorney following a separate court appearance. Miller and Moreno already have court-ordered restraining orders against each other.

Serious Allegations and Denials

Police reports detail February allegations that Miller physically assaulted Moreno during a custody exchange at his Bay Village residence, allegedly throwing her against a wall in front of their daughter. The report describes visible grab marks on her upper arm and bruising. A separate incident two weeks later resulted in the child being diagnosed with a mid-right clavicle fracture, with medical professionals noting bruising that appeared consistent with a handprint.

The police report also references a March 2025 domestic incident and an earlier allegation that Miller held a gun to Moreno’s head. In 2024, court filings allege Miller threw hot water from a cooking pan onto Moreno after she expressed plans to leave him. Miller has categorically denied all accusations against him and his daughter, maintaining joint custody rights. He filed a defamation lawsuit against Moreno, citing reputational and financial harm from her allegations.

Political Ramifications Continue

Miller, who represents a Republican-leaning district in the Cleveland area, is seeking a third term in Congress. During a Sunday livestream on X, Miller declared he will not withdraw from the race and predicted victory in November. He questioned the timing of allegations, suggesting they aim to influence the custody battle, and accused Moreno of making destructive claims without evidence while alleging she abused their child.

The congressman has accused Moreno of engaging in a pattern of baseless reporting and defaming his character. He points to maintaining joint custody as evidence against the allegations. The legal battles continue to unfold as Miller campaigns for reelection.