Clerk of Courts

The Franklin County OH Clerk of Courts is a vital government office responsible for a range of services, including managing court records, processing legal documents, and overseeing the issuance of auto titles. This article provides a comprehensive look at the functions, services, and resources offered by the Franklin County Clerk of Courts, as well as detailed information for accessing these services.

Overview of the Franklin County Clerk of Courts

The Franklin County Clerk of Courts, led by Maryellen O'Shaughnessy, plays an essential role in managing the judicial processes in Franklin County. The office oversees two major functions: the management of court documents and the issuance of auto titles. This involves handling legal documents for the Court of Common Pleas, the 10th District Court of Appeals, and maintaining public records for the citizens of Franklin County.

With multiple divisions spread across various locations, the Clerk’s office ensures that residents, legal professionals, and businesses can access important services in a timely and efficient manner.

Key Services Offered by the Franklin County Clerk of Courts

Court Records Management

The Clerk of Courts manages records for a variety of legal cases, including criminal, civil, and domestic relations matters. These records are available to the public through the Clerk’s website and can be accessed online.

Public Records Search: The Public Records Search allows individuals to access case information for criminal and civil cases. It serves as a vital tool for those needing to track ongoing cases or retrieve legal records.

Requesting Public Records: For those who need specific records, the Clerk provides a Public Records Request Form, making it easier for individuals to obtain documents.

e-Filing Services

To accommodate the evolving needs of legal professionals and the public, the Clerk of Courts offers robust e-Filing services. These services allow attorneys, paralegals, and individuals representing themselves in court to file documents electronically, saving time and improving efficiency.

e-Filing Login: Through the e-Filing Portal, users can submit legal filings online.

e-Filing Resources: Additional resources and support for e-filers are available on the Clerk’s website.

Auto Title Division

The Auto Title Division of the Franklin County Clerk of Courts is responsible for the issuance of vehicle titles, including titles for new and used vehicles, watercraft, and more. This division also manages the issuance of titles for businesses and individuals under special circumstances.

Schedule an Appointment: With multiple locations for service, the Auto Title Division allows residents to schedule appointments through the Auto Title Appointment System.

Locations and Services: Visit any of the Auto Title Locations in Franklin County for in-person assistance.

Fees and Forms: The Clerk’s website provides detailed information on fees for auto title services and the necessary forms.

Legal Divisions

The Clerk’s office manages several legal divisions that serve different functions within the court system. These include the Appeals, Domestic Relations, Juvenile, and General divisions, each of which handles specific types of legal matters.

Appeals Division: Manages records and filings related to appeals in Franklin County.

Domestic Relations Division: Handles divorce, dissolution, custody, and other family-related cases.

Juvenile Division: Focuses on cases involving minors, including delinquency, dependency, and abuse cases.

General Division (Civil/Criminal): Oversees the filing of civil and criminal cases.

Each division provides procedural information and resources for those involved in these legal matters, and the Clerk’s office supports these processes with accessible online services.

Protection Orders

For individuals in need of legal protection, the Clerk of Courts facilitates the filing of protection orders. Whether for domestic violence, stalking, or other concerns, individuals can access detailed instructions and file for protection orders through the Clerk’s website.

Franklin County Clerk of Courts Locations and Contact Information

The Clerk of Courts has several offices located throughout Franklin County to better serve its residents. Here are the key locations and contact details:

Franklin County Clerk of Courts Main Office

Address: 373 South High Street, Columbus, OH 43215
Phone: 614-525-3600

Auto Title North

Address: 45 Great Southern Blvd, Columbus, OH 43207
Phone: 614-525-3090

Franklin County Municipal Court

Address: 375 South High Street, Columbus, OH 43215
Phone: 614-645-8214

Franklin County Court of Common Pleas

Address: 345 South High Street, Columbus, OH 43215
Phone: 614-525-3453

Franklin County Probate Court

Address: 373 South High Street, 22nd Floor, Columbus, OH 43215
Phone: 614-525-3894

Franklin County Juvenile Court

Address: 373 South High Street, 4th Floor, Columbus, OH 43215
Phone: 614-525-3628

Tenth District Court of Appeals

Address: 373 South High Street, 24th Floor, Columbus, OH 43215
Phone: 614-525-3580

Each of these divisions serves a unique function in Franklin County’s legal system, providing essential services to residents, businesses, and legal professionals alike.

Accessing Services and Resources Online

The Clerk of Courts makes a range of online resources available to streamline processes and improve accessibility:

Public Records: Search and request access to public records through the Franklin County Clerk of Courts website.

Online Payments: The office facilitates online payments for various legal fees, including court costs and fines.

e-Filing: Legal professionals and individuals can file court documents digitally via the Clerk’s e-Filing portal.

By utilizing these online services, users can efficiently manage their legal and vehicle title-related tasks without needing to visit the office in person. However, in-person service is still available at the various office locations across the county.

The Clerk of Courts’ Role in Legal Transparency and Public Service

The Franklin County Clerk of Courts office is committed to ensuring that all legal proceedings are handled with transparency and efficiency. Whether you are searching for court records, filing legal documents, or processing vehicle titles, the Clerk’s office aims to provide seamless services to the community.

By offering easy access to public records, a comprehensive e-Filing system, and a user-friendly Auto Title service, the office is enhancing its operations to better serve the people of Franklin County.

Contact Information for Franklin County Clerk of Courts

Address: 373 South High Street, Columbus, OH 43215
Phone: 614-525-3600
Website: clerk.franklincountyohio.gov

Franklin County Clerk of Courts FAQs

How can I access public records in Franklin County?

Public records for Franklin County are accessible through the Clerk of Courts' online platform. You can search for court cases, legal documents, and other public records directly on their Case Information Online portal. For more detailed requests, you can submit a formal Public Records Request through the Clerk's website. Please note that the information available online may not be the official record and should be cross-checked with the court file if accuracy is crucial.

What are the filing procedures for civil and criminal cases?

Filing procedures for both civil and criminal cases in Franklin County are managed through the Clerk of Courts' office. All necessary forms and guidelines are available on their website, and you can submit documents through the e-Filing system for cases under the jurisdiction of the Court of Common Pleas or the 10th District Court of Appeals. For assistance, the Clerk of Courts offers resources and step-by-step instructions to help ensure your filing complies with all necessary legal requirements.

Can I request a divorce or dissolution record from the Clerk of Courts?

Yes, divorce and dissolution records can be requested from the Franklin County Clerk of Courts. You can find procedural information for these cases, including required forms and instructions, on their official website. To request a record, you may need to submit a public records request, or you can visit the Clerk's office in person for assistance.

How can I pay for court-related services or fees?

Payments for various court-related services, such as filing fees, fines, and other charges, can be made online via the Franklin County Clerk of Courts' payment portal. The Clerk's office also accepts in-person payments. For specific details about payment options or to access the portal directly, visit their Online Payments page.