Q:

When can I get a court appointed lawyer?

A:

The Court only appoints attorneys for criminal cases when the defendant is indigent; OR when an individual is facing a contempt of court charge where the possibility of a jail term being imposed is an option.

Q:

Can I file my own divorce, dissolution, or civil action?

A:

Yes.  However, indviduals filing their own actions must follow the same procedures as attorneys.  Pleadings must be typed on 8.5 x 11 paper, captioned IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF FULTON COUNTY, OHIO.  All pleadings must have your name, address and phone number on the cover page.  If you use internet forms you must be sure they are Ohio specific and contain all necessary information.  Court staff adn Clerk of Court staff MAY NOT give legal advice on how to prepare your documents.  Please see Section on Court Rules for additional information on filing documents.

Q:

When, or at what age, can my child choose which parent he/she wants to live with?

A:

Under Ohio Law while a child is under the age of eighteen, and a dependent the allocation of the primary residential parenting status is determined by the Court.

Q:

How did I get selected for Jury Duty?

A:

The names are chosen from Voter Registration listings, Driver's License Registration listings, or a combination of both.  The lists are entered into the computer and are chosen randomly by the computer through the use of a key number.

Q:

Is there a Legal Aid Organization in Fulton County?

A:

The closest Legal Aid Organizations are in Toledo at 419.724.0460; and Defiance at 419.255.0814.