Jackson County Court of Common Pleas, General & Domestic Relations Divisions Document Filing Requirements

CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition for dissolution

The filing checklist requires the original Petition for Dissolution of Marriage (Form 17) and two copies.

1. Petition for Dissolution of Marriage – Form 17 (Original and 2 copies)

CRITICAL

Applies to

Separation agreement

The filing checklist requires the original Separation Agreement (Form 19) and five copies.

2. Separation Agreement – Form 19 (Original and 5 copies)

CRITICAL

Applies to

Parenting plan

File the original and two copies of Form 20 if shared parenting is requested, or Form 21 if it is not.

3. Shared Parenting Plan* – Form 20, if shared parenting is requested OR Parenting Plan* – Form 21, if shared parenting is not requested (Original and 2 copies)

CRITICAL

Applies to

Child support worksheet

File the original and two copies of a Child Support Worksheet created using the Child Support Calculator website.

4. Child Support Worksheet – use Child Support Calculator website to create, available at https://ohiochildsupportcalculator.ohio.gov/home.html (Original and 2 copies)

CRITICAL

Applies to

Affidavit of basic information income and expenses

The filing checklist requires the original Affidavit of Basic Information, Income, and Expenses (Form 1) and two copies.

5. Affidavit of Basic Information, Income, and Expenses – Form 1 (Original and 2 copies)

CRITICAL

Applies to

Affidavit of property and debt

The filing checklist requires the original Affidavit of Property and Debt (Form 2) and two copies.

6. Affidavit of Property and Debt – Form 2 (Original and 2 copies)

CRITICAL

Applies to

Parenting proceeding affidavit

The filing checklist requires the original Parenting Proceeding Affidavit (Form 3) and two copies.

7. Parenting Proceeding Affidavit – Form 3 (Original and 2 copies)

CRITICAL

Applies to

Health insurance affidavit

The filing checklist requires the original Health Insurance Affidavit (Form 4) and two copies.

8. Health Insurance Affidavit – Form 4 (Original and 2 copies)

CRITICAL

Applies to

Separation agreement

Both parties must appear at the Final Hearing and should bring three copies of the Separation Agreement.

Both parties are required to appear at the Final Hearing. Three (3) copies of the Separation Agreement should be brought with you to the Final Hearing.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition for dissolution

A Separation Agreement (Uniform Domestic Relations Form 19) must accompany the Petition.

A Separation Agreement (Uniform Domestic Relations Form 19) must be filed with this Petition.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition for dissolution

When there are children, file a Parenting Proceeding Affidavit and either a Shared Parenting Plan or a Parenting Plan with the Petition.

If there is/are child(ren), a Parenting Proceeding Affidavit (Uniform Domestic Relations Form 3) and either a Shared Parenting Plan (Uniform Domestic Relations Form 20) or a Parenting Plan (Uniform Domestic Relations Form 21) must be filed with this Petition.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition

The petition states that the Separation Agreement is attached and incorporated into the petition.

7. Petitioners entered into a Separation Agreement which is attached and incorporated herein as if fully written.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition

If the petitioners have minor children, the petition selects an attached and incorporated Shared Parenting Plan or Parenting Plan.

8. If Petitioners have (a) minor child(ren): (select one) ☐ Petitioners agreed to a Shared Parenting Plan which is attached and incorporated herein as if fully written. ☐ Petitioners agreed to a Parenting Plan which is attached and incorporated herein as if fully written.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Separation agreement

If the parties have minor children or children with disabilities, a Shared Parenting Plan or Parenting Plan must be attached.

If the parties have any minor child(ren) or child(ren) with disabilities, a Shared Parenting Plan (Uniform Domestic Relations Form 20) or Parenting Plan (Uniform Domestic Relations Form 21) must be attached.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Separation agreement

If dissolution, divorce, or separation proceedings are instituted, the separation agreement must be presented to the Court for adjudication and incorporation into the Judgment Entry.

If one or both of the parties institute or have instituted proceedings for dissolution, divorce, or separation, this Agreement shall be presented to the Court with the request that it be adjudicated to be fair, just, and proper, and incorporated into a Judgment Entry.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Shared parenting plan

The Parenting Time Schedule must be attached to the Shared Parenting Plan.

Instructions: The Parenting Time Schedule must be attached to this Plan.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Shared parenting plan

A parenting time schedule must be attached to the Shared Parenting Plan.

A parenting time schedule must be attached to this Plan.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Affidavit

Do not sign the affidavit until a notary public is present.

(Do not sign until Notary Public is present)

CRITICAL

Applies to

Affidavit of property and debt

The affidavit must list the filer’s, spouse’s, and jointly held property and debts.

List ALL OF YOUR PROPERTY AND DEBTS, THE PROPERTY AND DEBTS OF YOUR SPOUSE, AND ANY JOINT PROPERTY OR DEBTS.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Affidavit of property and debt

The affidavit must provide the most recent value for each asset and the balance owed for each debt.

You must provide the most recent value for each asset and balance owed for each debt.

CRITICAL

No category in the affidavit may be left blank.

Do not leave any category blank.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Affidavit of property and debt

The affidavit must list the filer’s debts, the spouse’s debts, and any joint debts.

List ALL OF YOUR DEBTS, your spouse's debts, and any joint debts.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Affidavit of property and debt

Do not leave any category blank. For each item, if none, put "NONE."

Do not leave any category blank. For each item, if none, put "NONE."

CRITICAL

Applies to

Parenting proceeding affidavit

The affidavit must provide the requested information for all minor or dependent children and list every place they lived during the last five years.

Insert the information requested below for all minor or dependent children of the parties. You must list the residences for all places where the children have lived for the last FIVE years.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Court reporter appointment request

A party seeking stenographic recording must file a written request for appointment of a court reporter and present a proposed entry.

If a party desires to have the proceedings recorded by stenograph in addition to the digital recording, the party shall file a written request for appointment of a court reporter for that case and present a proposed entry.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion to withdraw as counsel

A motion to withdraw as counsel must be filed in writing and served on the client and counsel for all other parties before it will be considered.

A motion to withdraw as counsel in any pending matter shall not be considered until filed in writing with a copy served on the client of the withdrawing counsel as well as counsel for all other parties.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion to withdraw as counsel

Must include

proposed order

A motion to withdraw must include a proposed approval entry providing for the Clerk to serve it on the client by ordinary mail.

A proposed entry to approve the withdrawal shall also be submitted with the motion and shall include a provision that a copy of the entry shall be served by the Clerk upon the client of the withdrawing counsel by ordinary mail.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Security deposit waiver or reduction request

A request to waive or reduce the security deposit must be submitted in writing with a proposed judgment entry to the Clerk for delivery to the Court.

A person requesting waiver or reduction of the security deposit shall submit a written request with the proposed Judgment Entry to the Clerk who will promptly deliver it to the Court for determination.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Entry ordering notice by publication

An entry ordering notice by publication must include the Clerk’s certification that the required additional cost deposit has been made.

All entries ordering notice by publication shall bear the certification of the Clerk that the required additional cost deposit has been made.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Proposed order

These entries must be provided to the Court in enough copies for processing and distribution.

These entries must be provided to the Court with sufficient number of copies for processing and distribution.

CRITICAL

Filed documents must be appropriately titled, including using “motion,” “brief in opposition,” and “reply” for the specified filings.

E. Title of Filing and Docket Type. 1. All filed documents must have an appropriate title. For example: a. Any filing requesting an act by the Court should be titled as a motion, not a “request”. b. A brief in opposition should be titled “brief in opposition”, not “reply.” c. A reply to a brief in opposition should be titled “reply”, and not “response”.

CRITICAL

The title entered into the E-Filing system must match the title in the document’s caption.

2. The title of a filing entered into the E-Filing system must match the title in the caption of the filed document.

CRITICAL

E-filed documents requiring an attorney’s or filing party’s signature must include a signature representation such as “/s/ (name).”

A. Attorney and Filing Party Signature. E-Filed documents that require an attorney’s or filing party’s signature must be filed with a representation of a signature such as “/s/ (name)”.

CRITICAL

When a document requires multiple signatures, the E-Filer must indicate the agreement of the other counsel or parties at the appropriate place using the signature representation described in Section A.

C. Multiple Signatures. When a stipulation or other document requires the signature of two or more individuals, the E-Filer must indicate the agreement of other counsel or parties at the appropriate place in the document, usually on the signature line, using the representation of a signature as detailed in Sec. (A).

CRITICAL

Applies to

Revised document

A revised document must be identified as revised and its title must state the filing date of the document it replaces.

3. The revised document must be identified and must reference the date of filing of the document being revised in its title. For example, a document submitted in place of a motion to dismiss that was filed on June 1, 2025, should be titled “Revised Motion to Dismiss (original filed on June 1, 2025)”.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

A motion seeking leave to file instanter after a technical problem must include a signed declaration explaining the missed deadline.

2. The motion must be accompanied by a signed declaration explaining the failure to meet the deadline.

CRITICAL

Applies to

In camera review submission

A party submitting documents for in-camera review must file a Notice of Documents Submitted for In Camera Review.

The party submitting the documents for in camera review must file a Notice of Documents Submitted for In Camera Review.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Pleading

Pleadings must include the specified contact details and attorney registration number for attorneys, or the specified contact details for self-represented parties.

The name, address, telephone number, fax number, email address and attorney registration number of the attorney shall also be on all pleadings filed with the Clerk. Self- represented parties shall include their address, telephone number, fax number and email address on the pleadings.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Pleading

Pleadings may not include a party’s Social Security Number unless the law specifically authorizes or requires it.

4.2 Pleadings shall not include the Social Security Number of any party unless specifically authorized or required by law.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Civil complaint

A civil complaint will not be accepted unless accompanied by the Court-prescribed classification form classifying the case and designating the trial attorney.

4.4 No civil complaint shall be accepted for filing unless accompanied by a classification form prescribed by the Court that classifies the case and clearly designates the trial attorney.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Classification form

When a complaint is filed, the attorney or party completing the classification form must certify whether the case was previously filed and dismissed.

4.5 The attorney or party completing the classification form (Appendix G) upon the filing of a complaint shall certify as to whether the case had been filed previously and dismissed.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Refiled complaint

A complaint refiled after dismissal under Civil Rule 41 must state “This is a refiled case” beneath the case number and identify the previous case number.

If the case was previously dismissed under Civ. R. 41, then, under the case number, the re- filed complaint shall contain the statement: “This is a refiled case” and shall state the number of the previous case.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Subpoena

5.2 The Clerk shall also accept any format for a subpoena that clearly states the following information: 1. Name of the Court; 2. Case number and caption of the case; 3. Date, time and place of appearance including full address of the Court; 4. Name and address of witness including county of residence; 5. Identification of documents or evidence to be produced; 6. Identification of officer to serve said subpoena; 7. Return of service of the subpoena.

5.2 The Clerk shall also accept any format for a subpoena that clearly states the following information: 1. Name of the Court; 2. Case number and caption of the case; 3. Date, time and place of appearance including full address of the Court; 4. Name and address of witness including county of residence; 5. Identification of documents or evidence to be produced; 6. Identification of officer to serve said subpoena; 7. Return of service of the subpoena.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

Must include

proposed order

Every motion must be accompanied by a supporting brief memorandum and a proposed entry.

6.1 All motions submitted shall be accompanied by a brief memorandum in support of the relief requested and a proposed entry.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Summary judgment motion

A summary-judgment motion must include a supporting memorandum and permitted supporting affidavit or documents, and attach copies of referenced documents and cited deposition transcript pages.

7.1 All motions for summary judgment shall be accompanied by a memorandum in support of the motion and supporting affidavit or other documents permitted by Civ. R. 56. The movant shall attach to the motion copies of all documents referred to in the motion or memorandum in support along with copies of the pages of transcripts of depositions of witnesses referred to in the memorandum.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Default judgment motion

Must include

proposed order

A motion for default judgment must be submitted with a proposed entry.

A proposed entry shall be submitted with the motion.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Complaint or default judgment motion

A default judgment on a promissory note, negotiable instrument, or account requires satisfactory proof of the underlying instrument or account, attached to the complaint or motion or provided at the hearing.

The Court will not grant a default judgment seeking recovery on a promissory note, negotiable instrument or an account unless satisfactory proof of the actual note, instrument or statement of account showing the original creditor, debtor and terms thereof is attached to the complaint or motion, or is provided at the hearing on the motion.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Discovery motion

A motion to enforce discovery requests, for sanctions, or for a protective order must describe the moving party's efforts to resolve the issue before filing.

Any motion filed seeking enforcement of discovery requests, sanctions or protective orders shall set forth the efforts of the moving party to resolve the issues prior to the filing of the motion.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Discovery request

A party who serves discovery requests must not file a copy of the requests with the Clerk.

Any party filing requests for discovery shall not file a copy of that document with the Clerk.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Discovery response documents

A party responding to discovery must not file copies of the documents it provided.

The responding party shall not file copies of the documents provided.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Judgment entry

Must include

caption, judge name, case number

Unless the Court directs otherwise, the prevailing party's counsel or the prevailing self-represented party must prepare the judgment entry, which must include a caption listing all parties, the case number, the entry title, and the Judge's name.

Unless the Court designates otherwise, judgment entries shall be prepared by the counsel for the prevailing party or the self-represented party who prevails. Entries shall contain a caption listing all parties, the case number, the title of the entry and the name of the Judge

CRITICAL

Applies to

Final judgment entry

A final judgment entry must state that it is a final appealable order with no just cause for delay and include a provision requiring service on the parties under Civ. R. 58(B).

Final judgment entries shall contain the language that it is a final appealable order and there is no just cause for delay. It shall also contain a provision requiring the Clerk of Courts to serve the judgment on the parties in the action pursuant to Civ. R. 58(B).

CRITICAL

Applies to

Entry

Must include

certificate of service

An entry submitted for signature without all endorsements must certify that it was served on opposing counsel or the appearing self-represented party and that the objection period has expired.

Any entry presented to the Court for signature without endorsement by all counsel or parties shall contain the certification that the entry was served upon the opposing counsel or appearing self-represented party and that the time for objection has expired.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

A nunc pro tunc entry or judgment-modifying entry requires a motion specifying the date of the prior entry, the error, and any other information needed for the Court to decide whether to approve it.

The Court shall not approve a nunc pro tunc entry or an entry modifying a judgment unless there is a motion filed requesting the issuance of a nun pro tunc entry that specifically sets forth the date of the prior entry being modified, the error in the prior entry, and any other information necessary for the Court to determine whether to approve the entry.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Complaint

The plaintiff must file the original complaint and enough copies for clerk service and return of file-stamped copies.

The plaintiff shall file the original complaint and sufficient copies for service by the Clerk and for returning file stamped copies.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Foreclosure counterclaim or crossclaim

Defendants filing foreclosure counterclaims or crossclaims must file enough copies for clerk service and return of file-stamped copies.

Defendants filing counterclaims or crossclaims for foreclosure shall file sufficient copies for service by the Clerk and return file stamped copies.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Complaint

A copy of the subject promissory note must be filed with the complaint, or, if unavailable then, before a motion for summary judgment or default judgment is filed.

A copy of the promissory note which is the subject of the action shall be filed with the complaint as required by Civ. R. 10(D). If a copy of the note is not available at the time of the filing, a copy thereof shall be filed prior to the filing of a motion for summary judgment or default judgment.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Complaint

The complaint must include a copy of the mortgage and, if the plaintiff is not the named mortgagee, copies of the mortgage assignments whether or not recorded.

A copy of the mortgage which secures the promissory note that is the subject of the action shall be attached to the complaint as required by Civ. R. 10(D). If the plaintiff is not the mortgagee named in the mortgage, the plaintiff shall file copies of the assignments of the mortgage with the complaint whether or not the assignment has been recorded.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Complaint

A preliminary judicial title report or opinion must be filed with the complaint, and a final report or opinion must be filed before or with a motion for summary judgment or default judgment.

16.4 A preliminary judicial title report or title opinion as provided by law shall be filed with the complaint. A final judicial title report or title opinion shall be filed prior to or with a motion for summary judgment or default judgment.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

A final judicial title report or opinion must be filed before or with a motion for summary judgment or default judgment.

A final judicial title report or title opinion shall be filed prior to or with a motion for summary judgment or default judgment.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

A party seeking summary judgment or default judgment must submit a proposed judgment entry with the motion.

16.5 The party seeking summary judgment or default judgment shall submit a proposed judgment entry with this motion.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Proof of publication

The party granted foreclosure must prepare the publication notice and pay the newspaper before the sale, and proof of payment must be filed with the newspaper's proof of publication.

16.6 The party granted foreclosure shall prepare the notice of publication and pay the newspaper directly for that cost prior to the sale date. Proof of payment shall be filed with the proof of publication by the newspaper publishing the notice.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Entry

An order to sell foreclosure real estate may be withdrawn only by a judge-signed entry; the clerk or sheriff may not withdraw the property without a court entry, except upon receipt of a bankruptcy-court stay notice.

16.7 An order to sell real estate upon foreclosure can only be withdrawn by entry signed by the Judge. The Clerk or sheriff are not authorized to withdraw the property from sale without an entry from this Court except in the case of receipt of a notice of stay from a U.S. Bankruptcy Court.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Entry

An entry distributing less than all sale proceeds must include hearing-setting language for final distribution, obtained from the Assignment Commissioner before the entry is presented.

Entries providing for distribution of less than 100% of the proceeds must contain language setting a hearing on final distribution which will be obtained from the Assignment Commissioner prior to presentation of the entry.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

A request made after the sale-confirmation and distribution entry is filed to correct or modify that entry must be made by motion specifying the provisions to be corrected and filed with the proposed entry.

16.9 If a nunc pro tunc entry or an entry modifying a prior entry confirming sale and ordering proceeds distributed is requested after the entry confirming sale and ordering distribution of proceeds if filed, a motion requesting said entry stating with specificity the provisions to be corrected shall be filed with the proposed entry.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Praecipe

If a writ of possession is required, the party granted foreclosure judgment must file a praecipe for the writ with the Clerk of Court.

16.10 If a writ of possession is required, the party granted the judgment for foreclosure shall file a praecipe for the writ with the Clerk of Court.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Mediation case summary

Attorneys must submit a Mediation Case Summary to the mediator covering the listed facts, issues, discovery status, damages and injuries, and settlement efforts.

Attorneys shall submit a “Mediation Case Summary” to the mediator which shall contain the following: 1. Summary of material facts; 2. Summary of legal issues; 3. Status of discovery; 4. List of special damages and summaries of injuries; 5. Settlement attempts to date, including demands and offers.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Proof of financial counseling

Homeowners requesting mediation in foreclosure cases must complete financial counseling and file proof with the Court at least five days before the scheduled hearing.

In foreclosure cases, the homeowners requesting mediation shall be required to complete financial counseling and to file proof thereof with the Court at least five (5) days before the scheduled hearing.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Mediator report

At the conclusion of mediation, the Court must be informed whether mediation occurred or was terminated, the settlement status, attendance, and any future session dates and times.

At the conclusion of the mediation and in compliance with R.C. 2710.06, the Court shall be informed of the status of the mediation including without limitation all of the following: 1. Whether the mediation occurred or was terminated; 2. Whether a settlement was reached on some, all, or none of the issues; 3. Attendance of the parties; 4. Future mediation session(s), including date and time.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Settlement entry

If mediation results in settlement, counsel for the parties must submit the necessary entry in accordance with Local Rule 10.

If the mediation results in settlement, counsel for the parties are responsible for submitting the necessary entry in accordance with Local Rule 10.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Joint entry

When mediation settles some but not all issues, the parties must submit a joint entry listing settled and disputed issues within five business days after mediation ends.

If some, but not all, issues in the case are settled during mediation, then the parties shall submit a joint entry to the Court listing the issues settled and that remain disputed within five (5) business days of the termination of the mediation.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Complaint or petition

Must include

caption

Complaints and petitions must include all parties’ full names, prior surnames, aliases, and addresses; pleadings must also include each unrepresented party’s phone number.

The caption of all complaints and petitions shall include the full names, prior surnames, aliases, addresses of all parties to the action. Pleadings shall also contain the phone number of any unrepresented party.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Filing

A party’s Social Security number and date of birth must not appear on any filing unless otherwise directed by statute.

The social security numbers and date of births of parties shall not be included on any filing, unless otherwise directed by statue.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Complaint or petition

The case classification form in Appendix G must be filed with every complaint or petition.

The case classification form (Appendix G) shall be filed with all complaints or petitions.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Complaint

A plaintiff must complete, sign, and file Appendix C with every complaint for divorce, spousal support, or legal separation.

(Appendix C signed by the plaintiff) shall be completed, signed and filed with every complaint for divorce, spousal support, or legal separation.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Answer

A defendant or respondent must complete, sign, and file the Appendix C disclosure statements with a counterclaim or answer.

The defendant or respondent shall complete, sign and file the disclosure statements contained in Appendix C with a counterclaim or the answer to the complaint.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition

Both parties must complete and sign Appendix C and include it with the dissolution petition.

Both parties to a dissolution proceeding shall complete and sign Appendix C and include it with the petition for dissolution.

CRITICAL

Filing the affidavits listed in Appendix C is mandatory and cannot be waived.

The filing of the Affidavits listed in Appendix C is NOT waivable.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition

An unrepresented dissolution petitioner must include or file a waiver of attorney with the petition.

18.3 A waiver of attorney for an unrepresented petitioner in a dissolution shall be included in or filed with the petition.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition

A waiver of service of process on the parties must be filed with a dissolution petition.

18.4 A waiver of service of process on the parties shall be filed with a petition of dissolution.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Pleading

In cases involving minor children, the specified affidavits and child-support application or equivalent forms must be completed, signed, and filed with the pleadings in addition to the Rule 18.2 forms.

18.5 In a case involving minor children, a UCCJA Affidavit/Parenting Proceeding Affidavit (Supreme Court D.R. Form 3), Healthcare Affidavit (Supreme Court D.R. Form 4), and an Application for Child Support Services (IV-D) in Appendix C or similar form containing the same information must be completed, signed, and filed with the pleadings, in addition to the forms listed in 18.2.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

An ex parte motion must be filed pursuant to Civil Rule 75(N) and accompanied by a sworn affidavit with sufficient factual allegations supporting immediate court intervention.

Motions for ex parte orders shall be filed pursuant to Civ. R. 75(N) and shall be accompanied by sworn affidavit that contains sufficient allegations of fact that support immediate intervention of the Court by ex parte order.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Affidavit

An ex parte order cannot be based on an affidavit containing only conclusions; the affidavit must provide specific facts supporting the necessary findings.

Ex parte orders shall not be issued based upon affidavits that contain mere conclusions of the affiant without specific factual allegations that will support the necessary findings by the Court to issue such orders.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Affidavit

The Court generally will not issue an ex parte parental-rights order unless supporting affidavits demonstrate that immediate issuance is necessary for the children’s protection or best interests.

19.3 The Court will not generally issue ex parte orders allocating parental rights unless the affidavits filed in support of the motion demonstrate that immediate issuance of an order is necessary for the protection or best interests of the children.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

Must include

proposed order

A party seeking an ex parte order must present a proposed order with the motion and supporting affidavits.

19.4 A party seeking an ex parte order shall present a proposed order to the Court with the motion and supporting affidavits.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Proposed order

An ex parte order must allocate parenting time to the non-residential parent unless the Court finds that doing so is not in the children’s best interests.

The order shall include an allocation of parenting time with the minor children to the non-residential parent unless the Court finds that it is not in the best interests of the children.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Proposed order

The proposed ex parte order must require the children to continue attending the school they attended before the complaint was filed.

It shall also include language that requires the children to continue to attend the same school they were attending prior to the filing of the complaint.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Affidavit

Unless supporting affidavits show exigent or other compelling circumstances, the Court will not grant specified ex parte financial orders until 14 days after the motion is served on the opposing party.

Unless proof of exigent or other compelling circumstances is shown in the supporting affidavits, the Court will not grant ex parte orders for child support, spousal support, or payment of expenses and debts until fourteen (14) days after service of the motion has been made upon the opposing party to give that party opportunity to file counter

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

Motions and supporting affidavits for exclusive-possession orders must detail property ownership and whether the property is marital or non-marital.

Motions and affidavits in support shall set forth detailed information regarding the ownership of the property and whether it is marital or non-marital property.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

A motion for a temporary order must include a supporting memorandum specifying the reason for relief and a detailed supporting affidavit to be accepted for filing.

No motions for a temporary order shall be accepted for filing by the Clerk unless there is attached thereto a memorandum in support stating with specificity the reason for the relief sought and a detailed supporting affidavit.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

A motion or supporting memorandum to modify, terminate, or vacate a temporary order must specify the relief sought, and its affidavit must state supporting facts; generalized or conclusory allegations result in denial without a hearing.

The motion and/or memorandum in support shall state with particularity the specific relief sought and the affidavit shall state specific facts that support the motion. Motions, memoranda and affidavits that set forth only generalized or conclusory allegations shall be denied without hearing.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

Motions for exclusive possession of marital premises and their supporting memoranda and affidavits must detail property ownership, marital status, and the parties’ past possession.

Motions for exclusive possession of marital premises, supporting memoranda, and affidavits in support shall set forth detailed information regarding the ownership of the property and whether it is marital or non-marital property as well as detailed information about the parties’ past possession of the property.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

Must include

proposed order

A party seeking temporary orders must present a proposed order when filing the motion and attach a child support worksheet with an affidavit supporting the worksheet information.

A party seeking temporary orders shall present a proposed temporary order to the Court when the motion is filed. A child support worksheet must be attached to the motion together with an affidavit supporting the information set forth in the worksheet.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Child support order

Child support orders must address uninsured medical expenses and maintaining the children’s insurance, include legally required cash-medical language when there is no insurance, and require payment through Ohio Child Support Payment Central with Appendix F standardized language.

Child support orders shall include a provision for payment of all uninsured medical expenses and for the party with medical insurance covering the children to maintain it. If the parties do not have medical insurance for the child, it shall contain the cash medicals language required by law. Further, it must contain language requiring the payment of child support to be through the Ohio Child Support Payment Central and other standardized language for child support orders as set forth in Appendix F.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Order

Orders allocating marital debts and expenses must specify each party’s obligations, may not impose a general obligation to pay all marital debts and expenses, and must require prompt delivery of a bill received by the other party.

Orders requiring payment of marital expenses and debts shall state with particularity the specific debts and expenses to be paid by each party to the action. A general order requiring payment of “all marital debts and expenses” shall not be issued. If the debt or expense is to be paid by the opposing party and the other party receives the bill for that debt or expense, the order shall contain language that requires that party to provide the other with the bill immediately upon receipt.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Written objection

An admissibility objection to a document provided at least 14 days before a hearing must be made in a written objection stating the particular legal objection at least 7 days before the hearing, unless its basis was unforeseeable.

21.2 No objections as to the admissibility of any document provided pursuant to this rule at least fourteen (14) days before a scheduled Court hearing shall be considered unless the party opposing introduction of the document files a written objection to the introduction of that document at least seven (7) days prior to the hearing setting forth the particular legal objection being raised or unless the basis for the objections was unforeseeable prior to the hearing.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Order allocating parental rights

All orders allocating parental rights must include a copy of the Court’s standard parenting time schedule in Appendix E.

In all cases, the Court shall issue a parenting time schedule as set forth in the standard parenting time schedule of this Court, Appendix E. A copy of this schedule shall be attached to all orders allocating parental rights.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Final decree

Final decrees or entries designating parental rights and responsibilities must prohibit the residential parent from moving the children out of Ohio to establish residency in another state unless a court approves the change and establishes a parenting schedule or the parties sign an agreement.

All final decrees or entries designating parental rights and responsibilities shall order the residential parent not to remove the children from the State of Ohio for the purpose of establishing residency for them in another state without either; (1), a Court order approving such change and establishing a parenting schedule, or; (2), an agreement signed by the parties.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Gal application resume

A person seeking approval as a GAL must submit a resume describing relevant training, experience, and expertise.

Any person seeking to be approved for appointment as a GAL shall submit a resume’ setting forth the applicant’s training, experience and expertise demonstrating the ability to successfully perform the duties of GAL.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Gal performance complaint

A complaint about a GAL’s performance must be submitted in writing, signed, and include the complainant’s name, address, and telephone number.

Any complaints regarding the performance of a GAL shall be submitted in writing to the Court. The complaint must be signed, and the name, address, and telephone number of the complainant must be included with the complaint.

CRITICAL

Applies to

GAL report

The GAL must attach to the report a statement that the GAL has met their responsibilities.

The GAL shall attach to their report that they have met their responsibilities.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Psychological or psychiatric report

The evaluator must provide the Court an original report containing the case name, case number, and hearing date at least seven days before the hearing, unless otherwise ordered, and mail copies to counsel or any unrepresented party.

The psychologist or psychiatrist will provide the Court with the original written report and recommendation(s) (including case name, case number, date of hearing) no less than seven (7) days prior to the hearing unless otherwise ordered, with copies mailed to counsel for each party, or to a party, if unrepresented.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Divorce or dissolution decree

If the parties have already divided and exchanged personal property, the divorce or dissolution decree must include the specified statement.

If personal property has been divided and exchanged before the divorce or dissolution decree is filed, the decree shall include the following language: “All personal property has been divided and exchanged.”

CRITICAL

Applies to

Divorce decree

If personal property has not been divided and exchanged, the divorce decree must include the specified division-and-exchange terms.

If personal property has not been divided and exchanged before the divorce decree is filed, the decree shall include the following language: “The parties shall exchange and divide all personal property no later than thirty (30) days after the filing date of the final decree. If the parties cannot agree upon a date to conduct this division and exchange, the date for the division and exchange of personal property shall be at 12:00 (Noon) on the 30th day following the filing of the decree. If either party fails to abide by the terms of the final decree regarding the division and exchange of personal property, the Court shall entertain a motion for contempt or a motion to compel the division or exchange of personal property. The Court will only entertain these motions if filed by a party on or before the 30th day after the expiration of the 30-day period.”

CRITICAL

Applies to

Final judgment entry

When a QDRO is to be issued, the final judgment entry must contain both specified statements.

In all cases in which a QDRO is to be issued, the final judgment entry shall contain the following language: “The Court retains jurisdiction with respect to Qualified Domestic Relations Order to the extent required to maintain its qualified status and the original intent of the parties. The Court also retains jurisdiction to enter further orders as are necessary to enforce the assignment of benefits to the non-participant as set forth herein, including the re-characterization thereof as a division of benefits under another plan, as applicable, or to make an award of spousal support, if applicable, in the event that the participant fails to comply with the provisions of this order.” “The participant shall not take actions, affirmative or otherwise, that can circumvent the terms and provisions of the Qualified Domestic Relations Order, or that may diminish or extinguish the rights and entitlements of the participant.”

CRITICAL

Applies to

Complaint or motion

A complaint or motion seeking attorney fees must contain a specific written request for them.

24.1 Attorney fees will not be granted unless there has been a specific written request therefore, made in the complaint or motion being determined by the Court.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Continuance request

A continuance request must be signed by trial counsel of record and, if the Court requests or the rule requires, by the parties.

Requests for continuances shall be signed by trial counsel of record, and if requested by the Court or required by this rule, by the parties.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Continuance motion

A continuance motion based on counsel’s required appearance in another court must attach the assignment notice and be made on a court date scheduled before the hearing date or as soon as the conflict is discovered.

No motion for continuance due to a conflict with counsel’s appearance being required in another Court shall be granted unless there is attached to the motion a copy of the assignment notice for said Court date, and that a Court date scheduled prior to the hearing date or as soon as the conflict is discovered.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Continuance entry

A proposed continuance entry must state the new date and time for the next Court date or provide blank spaces for them.

26.4 No entry of continuance of a Court date shall be granted unless the entry submitted includes a new date and time for the next Court date or blank spaces to insert them.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Settlement agreement

If the parties settle before the final hearing or pretrial, they must prepare and submit the applicable written agreement to the Court.

28.1 If the parties reach a settlement agreement prior to the date of the final hearing or pre- trial, the parties shall prepare a written separation agreement and/or shared parenting plan, if applicable in the case of a divorce or legal separation proceeding, or other agreement for post decree motion and submit it to the Court.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Proposed entry

If opposing counsel does not respond or prevailing counsel fails to prepare the document timely, the proposed entry submitted to the Court must note the submission date and the nonresponse on the approval line.

If the prevailing party prepares the necessary document(s) as noted above but opposing counsel fails to respond with approval or objections, or if the prevailing party fails to timely prepare the necessary document as noted above, counsel shall submit the proposed entry to the Court with a notation on the line for approval by the non-responding counsel of the date that it was submitted and that the counsel did not respond.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Proposed decree of dissolution

A proposed decree of dissolution of marriage must be submitted to the Court before the final hearing.

A proposed decree of dissolution of marriage shall be submitted to the Court prior to final hearing.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Child support order entry

Entries containing child support orders must specify the order’s effective date, payment through Ohio Child Support Payment Central, and a cash medical provision when applicable.

All entries containing child support orders shall specify the effective date of the order that it shall be paid through Ohio Child Support Payment Central, and a provision for cash medical if applicable.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Child support order entry

Orders must include the applicable Revised Code child-support language, and entries must include one child support worksheet.

All orders shall include the language required by Chapter 3119 or other applicable provisions of the Revised Code regarding child support orders. All entries shall include one child support worksheet.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Child support order entry

An entry that deviates from the child-support guidelines must state the specific reasons for the deviation.

If there is a deviation in child support, the entry must set forth the specific reasons for the deviation

CRITICAL

Applies to

Child support worksheet

A worksheet showing the guideline child-support amount must be filed with the Court before the order is approved.

a child support worksheet showing the amount payable under the child support guidelines must be filed with the Court prior to approval of the order.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion to set aside magistrate order

An objection to a Magistrate’s order must be made by a motion to set it aside, accompanied by a memorandum specifying the motion’s basis.

An objection to a Magistrate’s order must be by motion to set aside the order pursuant to Civil Rule 53(D)(2)(b). The motion must be accompanied by a memorandum stating with particularly the basis of the motion.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion to set aside magistrate order

If a motion to set aside is based on factual findings made after a hearing, the movant must file a transcript request with the motion.

If the motion is based upon factual findings made after a hearing, the movant shall file with the motion request for a transcript with the motion.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion to set aside magistrate order

If the motion is based on findings from affidavits submitted under Civil Rule 75(N) without a hearing, it must be accompanied by an affidavit stating specific supporting facts.

If the motion is based upon findings made based upon affidavits submitted with a motion pursuant to Civil Rule 75(N) without hearing, the motion shall be accompanied by an affidavit setting forth specific facts in support of the motion.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Objection

An objection to a Magistrate’s decision must state its basis specifically, and the movant must request a transcript copy.

30.3 Objections to Magistrate’s Decision. An objection to a decision of the Magistrate shall be filed in accordance with Civil Rule 53(D)(3) and shall state with specificity the basis for the objection. The movant shall request a copy of the transcript.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

The Court will not hold an oral hearing on objections unless a party files a motion and shows good cause; otherwise, it will review the record and rule.

30.4 Unless a motion for oral hearing is filed by a party and good cause therefore is shown, the Court will not conduct an oral hearing on the objections, but will make an independent review of the objections, transcript and record and issue a ruling.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

A motion to modify a prior Court order must identify the order date and provision, specify the requested modification, and state its factual and legal basis.

31.1 All options to modify previous Court orders shall state the date of the prior order for which a modification is sought, shall state with particularity the specific provision of said order for which modification is being requested, shall state with particularity the requested modification and shall contain a statement of the facts and legal basis for the modification.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

A motion objecting to a Jackson County CSEA administrative child-support determination must state the exact objections and attach the determination.

31.2 Motion to modify child support orders that are objecting to an administrative determination of child support by the Jackson County CSEA shall specify the exact objections, and shall have a copy of the administrative determination attached.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

The movant must specify the claimed administrative errors and include a proposed child-support worksheet for the amount sought, if any.

The movant shall state with particularity the claimed errors made in the administrative proceeding and shall include a proposed child support worksheet for the amount that the movant claims should be ordered if any.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

An agreed modification requires a joint motion signed by both parties and acknowledged before a notary public.

If the parties agree to a modification, a joint motion to modify signed by both parties and acknowledged before a notary public shall be filed in accordance with applicable rules and procedures.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Proposed order

The movants must submit an entry granting the modification, signed by each party and acknowledged before a notary public.

The movants shall submit entry granting the modification also signed by each party and acknowledged before a notary public.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Proposed order

The proposed entry must identify the date and provision of the order being modified and specify the modification.

The proposed entry shall specify the date and provision of the order being modified and the specific modification being made.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

A motion to show cause for contempt must meet the stated content and affidavit requirements.

32.1 Any motion to show cause why a party shall be held in contempt shall:

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

A motion to show cause concerning unpaid child or spousal support must include the listed support-order and payment information.

32.3 Motions to show cause pertaining to non-payment of child or spousal support shall also state:

CRITICAL

Applies to

Show cause motion

A show cause motion for unpaid medical bills must include an attached completed Explanation of Medical Bills identifying the specified bill amounts and a calculation of the total claimed, in a computer program or adding-machine tape.

32.4 A show cause motion for unpaid medical bills shall contain: A. An “Explanation of Medical Bills” completed and attached to the motion identifying the provider, the service, the amount of the charge, the amount paid by insurance, the amount for which the ex-spouse is liable and a calculation of the total amount claimed to be owed either in a computer program or in an adding machine tape attached to the motion.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Show cause motion

The motion must include a Movant-signed affidavit alleging the applicable listed facts or other pertinent information.

B. An affidavit signed by the Movant alleging the following as applicable: 1. Movant has sent copies of the bills to the ex-spouse and the dates sent, the bills were returned and the dates returned; 2. Movant has sent bills to the ex-spouse and the ex-spouse has not paid or acknowledged receipt of the bills. 3. Movant has sent copies of the bills to the ex-spouse and the ex-spouse has refused payment; or, 4. Any other pertinent information.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Medical bill claim

At the relevant proceeding, the moving party must be able to identify each bill and the specified service, treatment, payment, and claimed-amount details.

32.6 The moving party must be able to identify the bills, date of service, purpose for treatment, total bill, amounts paid by insurance, amount paid by Movant, and amount sought from the opposing party.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Show cause motion

A motion to show cause concerning property or debt provisions must identify the specific property or debt at issue and the efforts made to obtain the opposing party’s compliance.

32.8 Motions to show cause pertaining to property or debt provisions of an order shall state the specific property or debt in issue and the efforts made to obtain compliance with the order by the opposing party.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Notice of filing

When a document is maintained in the family file, the public case file must contain a Notice of Filing signed by the Clerk of Courts that identifies the document’s filing and date.

33.6 The public case file shall contain, in place of the document contained in the family file, a Notice of Filing signed by the Clerk of Courts reflecting the filing of the document maintained in the family file and the date thereof.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion to continue

A defendant’s motion to continue must include a waiver of speedy-trial rights.

34.6 Any motion to continue filed by the defendant shall include a waiver of speedy trial rights

CRITICAL

Applies to

Proposed entry for continuance

The entry submitted for granting a continuance must state that speedy-trial time is extended and charged to the defendant.

the entry submitted for granting of the continuance must state that the speedy trial time is extended and time charged to the defendant.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Exhibit list

The State and defendant must present an exhibit list seven business days before trial and mark intended exhibits before trial, except exhibits not reasonably intended to be offered into evidence.

34.9 The State and the defendant shall present the Court with a list of exhibits seven (7) business days prior to commencement of trial and shall mark all exhibits that are intended to be offered into evidence prior to trial. This shall not apply to exhibits that were not reasonably intended to be offered into evidence.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Prospective witness list

The State and defendant must present a list of prospective witnesses seven business days before trial, but may call witnesses not listed if their need was not reasonably anticipated.

34.10 The State and Defendant shall present a list of prospective witnesses to the Court seven (7) business days prior to commencement of trial. The parties shall not be prohibited from calling witnesses not on the list that were not reasonably anticipated to be needed to

CRITICAL

Applies to

Video deposition

Video depositions must be filed with a typed certified transcript and a list of objections, in addition to conforming to Superintendence Rule 13.

38.1 The filing of video depositions shall conform to Superintendence Rule 13, and in addition, a typed certified copy of the transcript and a list of objections shall be filed along with the video depositions.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Cqe petition

A CQE petitioner must complete the online petition, print and file it with the Notice to Court of Petition, and include the DRC Electronic Petitioner Number on the Notice.

2. Petitioner must complete the online petition at www.drccque.com 3. Petitioner shall print the fully completed electronic Petition and file the same along with the Notice to Court of Petition with the Common Pleas Clerk of Courts. The Petitioner shall include the DRC Electronic Petitioner Number on the Notice.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Cqe petition

Petitions submitted through the DRC must include electronic access to the Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections CQE Summary.

5. All Petitions submitted through the DRC shall include electronic access to the Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections CQE Summary (SQE Summary).

CRITICAL

Applies to

Trial brief

Trial briefs must include facts, controlling law, proposed witnesses and exhibits, anticipated evidentiary issues, and proposed voir dire subjects in jury trials; copies must be served on opposing counsel when filed.

Trial briefs shall include the following: - (a) Statement of the facts; - (b) A discussion of the controlling law with particular emphasis on those legal issues which may justify a complete or partial motion under Civ R 50; - (c) A list of proposed witnesses along with a description of the subject matter of the testimony of each witness; - (d) An index of all proposed exhibits containing a brief description of each exhibit; - (e) A discussion of any evidentiary issue likely to arise at trial. Copies are to be served on opposing counsel at the time of filing, or face exclusion; - (t) For a jury trial, trial briefs shall also include any proposed subjects for voir dire examination.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Trial brief

Unlisted lay or expert witnesses may not testify, and unlisted exhibits may not be introduced at trial, absent good cause.

If a witness is not listed in the trial brief, the witness shall not testify, absent a showing of good cause. This rule applies to lay witnesses, as well as, expert witnesses. Exhibits not listed in the trial brief shall not be introduced at trial, absent a showing of good cause.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Jury instructions

Proposed jury instructions must be filed with the trial brief, include applicable O.J.I., be discussed among counsel, and identify agreed and disputed instructions with authority; a limited exception applies to instructions that could not reasonably have been anticipated and arise at trial.

Proposed Jury Instructions are to be filed with the trial brief of the parties. Counsel shall submit Proposed Jury Instructions with applicable O.J.I. Counsel for the various parties are required to confer with one another regarding proposed jury instructions. The proposed instructions agreed upon by all counsel shall be identified. Disputed instructions shall also be identified, along with separate citations to legal authority for each instruction. No proposed instruction will be considered by the Court unless the proposed instructions have been submitted in compliance within the provision stated above, except those requests that could not have been reasonably anticipated and arise in trial may be submitted prior to closing arguments when the instructions are to be finalized.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Trial brief

Unique or sensitive voir dire questions must be submitted with the trial brief.

Any unique or sensitive voir dire questions shall be submitted with the trial brief.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Trial brief

Any stipulations of fact must be submitted with the trial brief.

Stipulations of fact, if any, shall be submitted with the trial brief.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Exhibits

Two copies of all exhibits, one for the Court and one for the Court Reporter, shall be furnished by counsel on the day of trial.

Two copies of all exhibits, one for the Court and one for the Court Reporter, shall be furnished by counsel on the day of trial.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Proposed findings conclusions

In non-jury cases, each party’s counsel must prepare proposed findings and conclusions, and the plaintiff’s conclusions must state the applicable jurisdiction-conferring statute.

In all non-jury cases, counsel for each of the parties shall prepare proposed Findings of Fact and Conclusions of law, which shall be filed with the Court and served upon opposing counsel not later than ten (10) Court days before the date set for trial. Plaintiffs Conclusion of Law shall include a statement of the applicable statute conferring jurisdiction upon the Court.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Jury instructions

A complete set of closing jury instructions must be submitted by both parties.

7. The Defendant and State shall submit a complete set of closing jury instructions seven (7) days prior to trial.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Affidavit

Every category on the affidavit must be completed rather than left blank.

Do not leave any category blank.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Affidavit of property and debt

The affidavit must list the filer’s, spouse’s, and jointly held property and debts.

List ALL OF YOUR PROPERTY AND DEBTS, THE PROPERTY AND DEBTS OF YOUR SPOUSE, AND ANY JOINT PROPERTY OR DEBTS.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Affidavit of property and debt

The affidavit must state each asset’s most recent value and the balance owed for each debt.

You must provide the most recent value for each asset and balance owed for each debt.

CRITICAL

No category may be left blank; write “NONE” for an item when there is none.

Do not leave any category blank. For each item, if none, put "NONE."

CRITICAL

Applies to

Parenting proceeding affidavit

Requested information for additional children must be provided on an attachment labeled 1(d).

d. Additional children are listed on Attachment 1(d). (Provide requested information for additional children on an attachment labeled 1(d).)

CRITICAL

Applies to

Parenting proceeding affidavit

The affidavit requires the filer to select one response about participation in other custody or visitation cases and provide the requested case details.

# 2. Participation in custody case(s): (Check only one box) ☐ I HAVE NOT participated as a party, witness, or in any capacity in any other case, in this or any other state, concerning the custody of or visitation (parenting time), with any child subject to this case. ☐ I HAVE participated as a party, witness, or in any capacity in any other case, in this or any other state, concerning the custody of or visitation (parenting time), with any child subject to this case. Explain: ____________________________________________________________________________________ a. Name of each child: ________________________________________________________________________ b. Type of case: ________________________________________________________________________________ c. Court and State: _____________________________________________________________________________ d. Date and court order or judgment (if any): ________________________________________________

CRITICAL

Applies to

Parenting proceeding affidavit

The affidavit requires the filer to select one response about information concerning other cases that could affect the current case and provide the requested details.

# 3. Information about custody case(s): (Check only one box) ☐ I HAVE NO INFORMATION of any cases that could affect the current case, including any cases relating to custody; domestic violence or protection orders; dependency, neglect, or abuse allegations; or adoptions concerning any child subject to this case. ☐ I HAVE THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION concerning cases that could affect the current case, including any cases relating to custody; domestic violence or protection orders: dependency, neglect, or abuse allegations; or adoptions concerning a child subject to this case, other than listed in Paragraph 2. Explain: ____________________________________________________________________________________ a. Name of each child: ________________________________________________________________________ b. Type of case: ________________________________________________________________________________ c. Court and State: _____________________________________________________________________________ d. Date and court order or judgment (if any): ________________________________________________

CRITICAL

Applies to

Parenting proceeding affidavit

The affidavit requires disclosure of specified criminal convictions, including guilty pleas, for the filer and household members.

List all of the criminal convictions, including guilty pleas, for you and the members of your household for the following offenses: any criminal offense involving acts that resulted in a child being abused or neglected; any domestic violence offense that is a violation of R.C. 2919.25; any sexually oriented offense as defined in R.C. 2950.01; and any offense involving a victim who was a family or household member at the time of the offense and caused physical harm to the victim during the commission of the offense.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Parenting proceeding affidavit

The affidavit requires the filer to select one response about nonparties with physical custody or claimed custody or visitation rights.

# 5. Persons not a party to this case: (Check only one box) ☐ I DO NOT KNOW OF ANY PERSON not a party to this case who has physical custody or claims to have custody or visitation rights with respect to any child subject to this case. ☐ I KNOW THAT THE FOLLOWING NAMED PERSON(S) not a party to this case has/have physical custody or claim(s) to have custody or visitation rights with respect to any child subject to this case.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Domestic relations confidential case filing information sheet

Complete the Domestic Relations Confidential Case Filing Information Sheet for every party known at filing and provide the appropriate case-type and party-type codes and descriptions.

Complete this form for all parties known at the time of filing. Provide the most appropriate Casse Type and Party Type codes and descriptions.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Domestic relations confidential case filing information sheet

The filing information sheet requires the full Social Security Number.

NOTE: The FULL Social Security Number (SSN) is required.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Affidavit

The affidavit must be sworn or affirmed before a notary, and it must not be signed until the notary is present.

(Do not sign until Notary Public is present) I, (print name) _________________________, swear or affirm that I have read this Affidavit and, to the best of my knowledge and belief, the facts and information stated in this Affidavit are true, accurate, and complete. I understand that if I do not tell the truth, I may be subject to penalties for perjury.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Affidavit of property and debt

The affidavit must list the filer’s, spouse’s, and jointly held property and debts.

List ALL OF YOUR PROPERTY AND DEBTS, THE PROPERTY AND DEBTS OF YOUR SPOUSE, AND ANY JOINT PROPERTY OR DEBTS.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Affidavit of property and debt

The affidavit must state the most recent value of each asset and the balance owed on each debt.

You must provide the most recent value for each asset and balance owed for each debt.

CRITICAL

Do not leave any category blank; enter “NONE” for an item that does not apply.

Do not leave any category blank. For each item, if none, put "NONE."

CRITICAL

Applies to

Parenting proceeding affidavit

The parenting proceeding affidavit must list every residence where the children have lived during the last five years.

You must list the residences for all places where the children have lived for the last FIVE years.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Parenting proceeding affidavit

List additional children on an attachment labeled 1(d) and provide the requested information for them.

d. Additional children are listed on Attachment 1(d). (Provide requested information for additional children on an attachment labeled 1(d).)

CRITICAL

Applies to

Parenting proceeding affidavit

The affidavit requires the filer to select one participation response and, if reporting participation, provide the requested case details.

2. Participation in custody case(s): (Check only one box) I HAVE NOT participated as a party, witness, or in any capacity in any other case, in this or any other state, concerning the custody of or visitation (parenting time), with any child subject to this case. I HAVE participated as a party, witness, or in any capacity in any other case, in this or any other state, concerning the custody of or visitation (parenting time), with any child subject to this case. Explain: a. Name of each child: b. Type of case: c. Court and State: d. Date and court order or judgment (if any):

CRITICAL

Applies to

Parenting proceeding affidavit

The affidavit requires the filer to select one response about cases that could affect the current case and explain any such information not listed in Paragraph 2.

3. Information about custody case(s): (Check only one box) I HAVE NO INFORMATION of any cases that could affect the current case, including any cases relating to custody; domestic violence or protection orders; dependency, neglect, or abuse allegations; or adoptions concerning any child subject to this case. I HAVE THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION concerning cases that could affect the current case, including any cases relating to custody; domestic violence or protection orders; dependency, neglect, or abuse allegations; or adoptions concerning a child subject to this case, other than listed in Paragraph 2. Explain: a. Name of each child: b. Type of case: c. Court and State: d. Date and court order or judgment (if any):

CRITICAL

Applies to

Parenting proceeding affidavit

The affidavit requires listing all convictions, including guilty pleas, for the filer and household members involving the specified offenses.

4. Information about criminal convictions: List all of the criminal convictions, including guilty pleas, for you and the members of your household for the following offenses: any criminal offense involving acts that resulted in a child being abused or neglected; any domestic violence offense that is a violation of R.C. 2919.25; any sexually oriented offense as defined in R.C. 2950.01; and any offense involving a victim who was a family or household member at the time of the offense and caused physical harm to the victim during the commission of the offense. | NAME | CASE NUMBER | COURT/COUNTY/STATE | CHARGE |

CRITICAL

Applies to

Parenting proceeding affidavit

The affidavit requires the filer to select one response about nonparties with physical custody or claimed custody or visitation rights and name any such persons.

5. Persons not a party to this case: (Check only one box) I DO NOT KNOW OF ANY PERSON not a party to this case who has physical custody or claims to have custody or visitation rights with respect to any child subject to this case. I KNOW THAT THE FOLLOWING NAMED PERSON(S) not a party to this case has/have physical custody or claim(s) to have custody or visitation rights with respect to any child subject to this case.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Request for service

A request for service must identify the requested service method by marking the appropriate box.

You must indicate the requested method of service by marking the appropriate box.

CRITICAL

Update the Clerk of Courts if any contact information listed on the form changes.

YOU MUST UPDATE THE CLERK OF COURTS IF ANY OF THE ABOVE CONTACT INFORMATION CHANGES.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Complaint for divorce without children

A Request for Service must be filed with the divorce complaint.

A Request for Service (Uniform Domestic Relations Form 31/Uniform Juvenile Form 10) must be filed with this form.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Affidavit

Do not sign the affidavit until a Notary Public is present.

(Do not sign until Notary Public is present)

CRITICAL

Applies to

Affidavit of property and debt

The affidavit must list the filer’s, spouse’s, and jointly held property and debts.

List ALL OF YOUR PROPERTY AND DEBTS, THE PROPERTY AND DEBTS OF YOUR SPOUSE, AND ANY JOINT PROPERTY OR DEBTS.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Affidavit of property and debt

Provide the most recent value for every asset and the balance owed for every debt.

You must provide the most recent value for each asset and balance owed for each debt.

CRITICAL

Do not leave any category in the affidavit blank.

Do not leave any category blank.

CRITICAL

Enter “NONE” for an item when none applies.

For each item, if none, put "NONE."

CRITICAL

If an exact figure is unknown, provide the best estimate and mark it “EST.”

If you do not know exact figures for any item, give your best estimate, and put "EST."

CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition for dissolution of marriage

File the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, Form 17, with the original and two copies.

1. Petition for Dissolution of Marriage – Form 17 (Original and 2 copies)

CRITICAL

Applies to

Separation agreement

File the Separation Agreement, Form 19, with the original and five copies.

2. Separation Agreement – Form 19 (Original and 5 copies)

CRITICAL

Applies to

Affidavit of basic information income and expenses

File the Affidavit of Basic Information, Income, and Expenses, Form 1, with the original and two copies.

3. Affidavit of Basic Information, Income, and Expenses – Form 1 (Original and 2 copies)

CRITICAL

Applies to

Affidavit of property and debt

File the Affidavit of Property and Debt, Form 2, with the original and two copies.

4. Affidavit of Property and Debt – Form 2 (Original and 2 copies)

CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition for dissolution of marriage

The Petition must be filed with a Separation Agreement (Uniform Domestic Relations Form 19).

A Separation Agreement (Uniform Domestic Relations Form 19) must be filed with this Petition.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition for dissolution of marriage

If there are children, file a Parenting Proceeding Affidavit and either a Shared Parenting Plan or a Parenting Plan with the Petition.

If there is/are child(ren), a Parenting Proceeding Affidavit (Uniform Domestic Relations Form 3) and either a Shared Parenting Plan (Uniform Domestic Relations Form 20) or a Parenting Plan (Uniform Domestic Relations Form 21) must be filed with this Petition.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition

The petition states that the Separation Agreement is attached and incorporated into it.

7. Petitioners entered into a Separation Agreement which is attached and incorporated herein as if fully written.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition

If the petitioners have minor children, the petition provides for one of the specified parenting plans to be attached and incorporated.

8. If Petitioners have (a) minor child(ren): (select one) ☐ Petitioners agreed to a Shared Parenting Plan which is attached and incorporated herein as if fully written. ☐ Petitioners agreed to a Parenting Plan which is attached and incorporated herein as if fully written.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Separation agreement

If the parties have minor children or children with disabilities, the Separation Agreement must have an attached Shared Parenting Plan or Parenting Plan.

If the parties have any minor child(ren) or child(ren) with disabilities, a Shared Parenting Plan (Uniform Domestic Relations Form 20) or Parenting Plan (Uniform Domestic Relations Form 21) must be attached.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Separation agreement

When dissolution, divorce, or separation proceedings are instituted, the Separation Agreement must be presented to the Court for adjudication and incorporation into the Judgment Entry.

If one or both of the parties institute or have instituted proceedings for dissolution, divorce, or separation, this Agreement shall be presented to the Court with the request that it be adjudicated to be fair, just, and proper, and incorporated into a Judgment Entry.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Affidavit

Do not leave any affidavit category blank; enter “NONE” when an item does not apply.

Do not leave any category blank. For each item, if none, put "NONE."

CRITICAL

Applies to

Affidavit

If an exact figure is unknown, provide the best estimate and mark it “EST.”

If you do not know exact figures for any item, give your best estimate, and put "EST."

CRITICAL

Applies to

Affidavit

Do not sign the affidavit until a Notary Public is present.

(Do not sign until Notary Public is present)

CRITICAL

Applies to

Property debt affidavit

The affidavit must list the filer’s, spouse’s, and joint debts.

List ALL OF YOUR DEBTS, your spouse's debts, and any joint debts.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Property debt affidavit

Do not leave any category blank.

Do not leave any category blank.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Property debt affidavit

The affidavit includes an oath or affirmation that the filer has read it, believes its contents are true, accurate, and complete, and understands the potential penalties for perjury.

I, (print name)____________________, swear or affirm that I have read this Affidavit and, to the best of my knowledge and belief, the facts and information stated in this Affidavit are true, accurate, and complete. I understand that if I do not tell the truth, I may be subject to penalties for perjury.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Financial disclosure fee waiver affidavit

The fee-waiver affidavit includes the applicant’s certification that the financial information is true and that the applicant cannot prepay the case costs or fees.

I, _________________________, hereby certify that the information I have provided on (Print Name) this financial disclosure form is true to the best of my knowledge and that I am unable to prepay the costs or fees in this case.

WARNING

Applies to

Filing documents

Before filing, forms that require notarization must be signed before a notary, and all copies must be prepared.

Before bringing your documents to the Clerk of Court's office to be filed, please be sure that the forms are signed in the presence of a Notary, if required, and that all copies have been made.

WARNING

Applies to

Separation agreement

The Court may require additional forms to accompany this document. You must check the requirements of the county in which you file.

The Court may require additional forms to accompany this document. You must check the requirements of the county in which you file.

WARNING

Applies to

Separation agreement

A legal description of the property (found in the property's deed) should be attached.

A legal description of the property (found in the property's deed) should be attached.

WARNING

Applies to

Separation agreement

Provide vehicle year, make, model, and vehicle identification or serial number (VIN/SN) for all titled vehicle(s).

Provide vehicle year, make, model, and vehicle identification or serial number (VIN/SN) for all titled vehicle(s).

WARNING

For any item that does not apply, enter “NONE.”

For each item, if none, put "NONE."

WARNING

If an exact figure is unknown, provide the best estimate and mark it “EST.”

If you do not know exact figures for any item, give your best estimate, and put "EST."

WARNING

Applies to

Affidavit of property and debt

If an exact debt figure is unknown, provide the best estimate and mark it “EST.”

If you don't know exact figures for any item, give your best estimate, and put "EST."

WARNING

Applies to

Affidavit of property and debt

If more space is needed, attach an explanatory page and identify the question it answers.

If more space is needed to explain, please attach an additional page with the explanation and identify which question you are answering.

WARNING

Applies to

Complaint

Noncompliance may result in sanctions against the plaintiff, including dismissal of the complaint.

Failure to comply with this rule may result in the imposition of sanctions against the plaintiff including dismissal of the complaint.

WARNING

Applies to

Motion

The Court reviews the motion and the reasons for the original error and may set a hearing if the motion lacks sufficient particularity.

The Court shall review the motion and the reasons for the error in the original entry and may set the matter for hearing if the motion does not contain sufficient particularity.

WARNING

Applies to

Exhibits

Plaintiffs must identify exhibits with numbers, defendants with letters, and court exhibits with Roman numerals.

Plaintiff shall use numbers to identify exhibits, and defendant shall use letters to identify exhibits. Court exhibits shall be identified with Roman Numerals.

WARNING

Applies to

Attorney fee affidavit

As an alternative to expert testimony at the final hearing, the fee-requesting party may submit an affidavit to the opposing side stating the attorney’s qualifications and hourly rate, itemized services, and estimates of remaining preparation and hearing-attendance time.

24.2 As an alternative to retaining an expert to testify at the final hearing on the issue of reasonableness and necessity of legal services, the party requesting fees may submit an affidavit to opposing counsel or self-represented party setting forth qualifications of the requesting party’s attorney, the hourly rate of the attorney, and an itemized statement of the services rendered, with an estimate of the remaining preparation time and time required for attendance to the final hearing.

WARNING

Applies to

Attorney fee affidavit

The affidavit should be offered as an exhibit at the final hearing.

24.3 The affidavit should be offered as an exhibit at the final hearing.

WARNING

Applies to

Motion

The Court will not hear additional evidence at a granted oral hearing.

If oral hearing is granted, the Court will not hear additional evidence.

WARNING

Applies to

Trial brief

Counsel shall exchange exhibits lists in their trial briefs and may submit a joint copy to the Court and Court Reporter on the day of trial.

Counsel shall exchange exhibits lists in their trial briefs and may submit a joint copy to the Court and Court Reporter on the day of trial.

WARNING

Applies to

Settlement notification

The parties are requested to notify the Court as soon as possible of a settlement, by filing written notification signed by each party’s attorneys.

The parties are requested to notify the Court at the earliest possible time if settlement is reached in the case. Notification must be filed with the Court in writing, signed by the attorneys for each party.

WARNING

Applies to

Affidavit

For any affidavit item that does not apply, enter “NONE.”

For each item, if none, put "NONE."

WARNING

Applies to

Affidavit

If an exact figure is unknown, provide the best estimate and mark it “EST.”

If you do not know exact figures for any item, give your best estimate, and put "EST."

WARNING

Applies to

Affidavit

Do not sign the affidavit until a Notary Public is present.

(Do not sign until Notary Public is present)

WARNING

Applies to

Affidavit of property and debt

The affidavit must list the filer’s debts, the spouse’s debts, and any joint debts.

List ALL OF YOUR DEBTS, your spouse's debts, and any joint debts.

WARNING

Applies to

Affidavit of property and debt

For an item with an unknown exact figure, provide the best estimate and mark it “EST.”

If you don't know exact figures for any item, give your best estimate, and put "EST."

WARNING

Applies to

Affidavit of property and debt

If additional space is needed for an explanation, attach a page identifying the question being answered.

If more space is needed to explain, please attach an additional page with the explanation and identify which question you are answering.

WARNING

Applies to

Confidential case filing information sheet

Complete additional Confidential Case Filing Information Sheets if more space is needed.

If additional space is needed, complete additional Confidential Case Filing Information Sheets.

WARNING

Applies to

Affidavit of basic information income and expenses

Complete every category; enter “NONE” when an item does not apply and use an estimated figure marked “EST.” when an exact figure is unknown.

Do not leave any category blank. For each item, if none, put "NONE." If you do not know exact figures for any item, give your best estimate, and put "EST."

WARNING

If an exact figure is unknown, provide the best estimate and mark it “EST.”

If you do not know exact figures for any item, give your best estimate, and put "EST."

WARNING

Applies to

Affidavit of property and debt

Add additional pages if more space is needed to complete the affidavit.

If more space is needed, add additional pages.

WARNING

Applies to

Affidavit of property and debt

The affidavit must list the filer’s debts, the spouse’s debts, and all joint debts.

List ALL OF YOUR DEBTS, your spouse's debts, and any joint debts.

WARNING

Applies to

Affidavit of property and debt

Do not leave any category blank.

Do not leave any category blank.

WARNING

Applies to

Affidavit of property and debt

For each item, if none, put "NONE."

For each item, if none, put "NONE."

WARNING

Applies to

Affidavit of property and debt

If an exact debt figure is unknown, provide the best estimate and mark it “EST.”

If you don't know exact figures for any item, give your best estimate, and put "EST."

WARNING

Applies to

Affidavit of property and debt

If more space is needed, attach an additional page explaining the matter and identify the question being answered.

If more space is needed to explain, please attach an additional page with the explanation and identify which question you are answering.

WARNING

Applies to

Affidavit

Do not sign the affidavit until a notary public is present.

(Do not sign until Notary Public is present)

WARNING

Applies to

Request for service

The Court may require additional forms to accompany this document.

The Court may require additional forms to accompany this document.

WARNING

Applies to

Request for service

Check the filing county’s requirements for the request for service.

You must check the requirements of the county in which you file.

WARNING

Applies to

Forms requiring notarization

Before bringing your documents to the Clerk of Court's office to be filed, please be sure that the forms are signed in the presence of a Notary, if required, and that all copies have been made. The Clerk of Court's office can also notarize any documents for a Notary fee of $3.00.

Before bringing your documents to the Clerk of Court's office to be filed, please be sure that the forms are signed in the presence of a Notary, if required, and that all copies have been made. The Clerk of Court's office can also notarize any documents for a Notary fee of $3.00.

WARNING

Applies to

Affidavit of basic information income and expenses

Do not repeat expenses already listed when completing the monthly installment payments section.

(Do not repeat expenses already listed.)

WARNING

Applies to

Affidavit of property and debt

Add additional pages if more space is needed.

If more space is needed, add additional pages.

WARNING

Applies to

Affidavit

The affidavit must list the filer’s debts, the spouse’s debts, and any joint debts.

List ALL OF YOUR DEBTS, your spouse's debts, and any joint debts.

WARNING

Applies to

Affidavit

Do not leave any category blank. For each item, if none, put "NONE."

Do not leave any category blank. For each item, if none, put "NONE."

WARNING

Applies to

Affidavit

If an exact debt figure is unknown, provide the best estimate and mark it “EST.”

If you don't know exact figures for any item, give your best estimate, and put "EST."

WARNING

Applies to

Affidavit

If more space is needed, attach an explanatory page and identify the question it answers.

If more space is needed to explain, please attach an additional page with the explanation and identify which question you are answering.

WARNING

Applies to

Filing documents

Before filing, ensure forms that require notarization are signed before a notary and all required copies have been made.

Before bringing your documents to the Clerk of Court's office to be filed, please be sure that the forms are signed in the presence of a Notary, if required, and that all copies have been made.

WARNING

Applies to

Separation agreement

Three (3) copies of the Separation Agreement should be brought with you to the Final Hearing.

Three (3) copies of the Separation Agreement should be brought with you to the Final Hearing.

WARNING

Applies to

Separation agreement

The Court may require additional forms to accompany this document.

The Court may require additional forms to accompany this document.

WARNING

Filers must check the requirements of the county where they file.

You must check the requirements of the county in which you file.

WARNING

Applies to

Separation agreement

3. A legal description of the property (found in the property's deed) should be attached.

3. A legal description of the property (found in the property's deed) should be attached.

WARNING

Applies to

Separation agreement

The separation agreement should identify each titled vehicle by year, make, model, and VIN or serial number.

Titled vehicles include, but are not limited to, boats, trailers, automobiles, motorcycles, trucks, mobile homes not officially converted to real estate, golf carts, motor scooters, sport utility vehicles (SUV), recreational vehicles (RV), and all purpose vehicles (APV). Provide vehicle year, make, model, and vehicle identification or serial number (VIN/SN) for all titled vehicle(s).

WARNING

Applies to

Affidavit

Add additional pages if more space is needed to complete the affidavit.

If you need more space, add additional pages.

WARNING

Applies to

Affidavit

The affidavit must include the stated truth affirmation, and the signer must not sign until a notary public is present.

(Do not sign until Notary Public is present) I, (print name) _________________________, swear or affirm that I have read this Affidavit and, to the best of my knowledge and belief, the facts and information stated in this Affidavit are true, accurate, and complete. I understand that if I do not tell the truth, I may be subject to penalties for perjury.

WARNING

Applies to

Affidavit of property and debt

The property-and-debt affidavit must list each party’s and any joint property and debts, provide current values and debt balances, and use the stated instructions for blank, unknown, or additional information.

Instructions: Check local court rules to determine when this form must be filed. List ALL OF YOUR PROPERTY AND DEBTS, THE PROPERTY AND DEBTS OF YOUR SPOUSE, AND ANY JOINT PROPERTY OR DEBTS. You must provide the most recent value for each asset and balance owed for each debt. Do not leave any category blank. For each item, if none, put "NONE." If you do not know exact figures for any item, give your best estimate, and put "EST." If more space is needed, add additional pages.

WARNING

Applies to

Property debt affidavit

For each item, if none, put "NONE."

For each item, if none, put "NONE."

WARNING

Applies to

Property debt affidavit

If an exact debt amount is unknown, provide a best estimate and mark it “EST.”

If you don't know exact figures for any item, give your best estimate, and put "EST."

WARNING

Applies to

Property debt affidavit

If more space is needed, attach an additional page that explains the matter and identifies the question being answered.

If more space is needed to explain, please attach an additional page with the explanation and identify which question you are answering.

INFO

Applies to

Affidavit of property and debt

Additional pages may be added if more space is needed.

If more space is needed, add additional pages.

INFO

Applies to

E filed document

A signature representation on an e-filed document has the same effect as an original signature for applicable procedural signature requirements.

B. Effect of Signature on E-Filed Pleading. The representation of a signature on an e-filed document has the same effect as an original signature for purpose of signature requirements imposed by all applicable Rules of Procedure.

INFO

Applies to

Electronic document

A judge or magistrate may sign an electronic document using a digitized signature image, which has the same effect as a conventional paper signature entered on the journal.

E. Judge and Magistrate Signatures. Electronic documents may be signed by a Judge or Magistrate via a digitized image of his or her signature. All documents signed in this manner will have the same effect as if the Judge or Magistrate had affixed his or her signature to a paper copy of the document and it had been entered on the journal in a conventional manner.

INFO

Applies to

Civil complaint classification form

If multiple attorneys are listed as trial attorney on the classification form, each is considered the trial attorney for the case.

If more than one attorney is listed as trial attorney, each person listed shall be considered the trial attorney for the case.

INFO

Applies to

Affidavit

Additional pages may be added when more space is needed to complete the affidavit.

If you need more space, add additional pages.

INFO

Applies to

Affidavit of property and debt

Additional pages may be added if more space is needed.

If more space is needed, add additional pages.

INFO

Applies to

Affidavit of basic information income and expenses

Attach additional pages if more space is needed.

If you need more space, add additional pages.

INFO

Applies to

Affidavit of property and debt

Attach additional pages to the affidavit if necessary.

(If necessary, attach additional pages)