Chapter 11 – The Judicial Branch
11.6 Courts of Common Pleas
The Courts of Common Pleas are an important part of Ohio’s judicial system, serving as the primary trial courts for felony legal matters. Each of Ohio’s 88 counties has its own Court of Common Pleas, which is divided into several specialized divisions: General, Domestic Relations, Juvenile, and Probate.
- The General Division handles major civil and criminal cases, including felonies and civil disputes involving large sums of money.
- The Domestic Relations Division deals with family-related cases such as divorce, child custody, and support issues.
- The Juvenile Division focuses on cases involving minors, including delinquency and child protection matters.
- The Probate Division manages issues related to wills, estates, adoptions, and guardianships.
These courts are established by the Ohio Constitution and have broad jurisdiction, meaning they can hear a wide variety of cases. Judges in the Courts of Common Pleas are elected to six-year terms and must be experienced lawyers who reside in the counties they serve. This structure ensures that the judges are familiar with local issues and can make informed decisions that reflect the needs and values of their communities.
Watch this video to differentiate civil from criminal cases and then review the specialized divisions of the court:
YouTube URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qGo72EakJu0
Duration: 7:18
Case Example
In the General Division of the Court of Common Pleas, a typical case might involve a person charged with burglary. The court would conduct a trial, hear evidence from the prosecution and defense, and if the defendant is found guilty, the judge would determine the appropriate sentence, which could include prison time.
Foundational Facts
The structure and jurisdiction of Ohio’s Common Pleas Courts are outlined in Title 23 of the Ohio Revised Code. These courts handle a range of cases, including civil, criminal, family, and probate matters, serving as the primary trial courts across Ohio’s counties.
Why Probate Judges Select Metroparks Board Members
Metroparks in Ohio are county-based park systems designed to preserve natural landscapes and provide recreational opportunities for the public. Each is governed by a three-member board of park commissioners. County probate judges have the unique responsibility of appointing those governing boards.
This practice dates to the early 20th century when the state legislature established the system to ensure that park management remained fair and impartial. By having probate judges, who are trusted and neutral legal officials, select the commissioners, the goal was to keep the board free from political influence and focused solely on preserving and improving the parks for public enjoyment.
The probate judges’ role in appointing the Metroparks Board helps maintain transparency and accountability in park operations. Since judges are seen as objective and knowledgeable, their appointments are generally trusted to prioritize the community’s best interests. This system helps ensure that the commissioners are dedicated to their roles and committed to the long-term sustainability and accessibility of the Metroparks, which are valuable resources for recreation, conservation, and education in Ohio.
If you’d like to read more about these park boards, click on the following links:
Reference
Ohio Legislative Service Commission. 2023. Chapter 11 – The Judicial Branch in A Guidebook for Ohio Legislators. Columbus OH p. 126-127.
