Forms & Procedures

Section 1 - Complaint for Divorce, Legal Separation, or Annulment

-Sections 1.1 to 1.9 provide forms for filing a Divorce, Legal Separation, or Annulment
 -Sections 1.10 to 1.16 provide forms for filing an Answer to a Divorce, Legal Separation, or Annulment

 

FILING FEE:  August 3, 2015

–  $325.00 (without Children)

–  $375.00 (with Children)

All fees are payable by CASH, PERSONAL CHECK, CERTIFIED CHECK, MONEY ORDER, MASTERCARD, VISA, AMERICAN EXPRESS, or DISCOVER CARD.

NOTICE – If you are paying by credit card, a fee will be added as dictated by this schedule: https://www.courtclerk.org/forms/pnp_schedule.pdf. When using a credit card, the card holder must be present.

Checks and Money Orders are to be made payable to: CLERK OF COURTS

REQUIRED COPIES: If you are using Certified Mail service or Regular Mail service you will need your original set of documents plus 3 copies of all documents. If you are using Sheriff's service, you will need your original set of documents plus 3 copies of all documents. If you are using the Publication process and posting, you will need your original set of documents plus 4 copies of all documents.

If there will be Shared Parenting in a case:
Shared Parenting Plans must be submitted at the Decree Office (room 3-50) and approved by the assigned Magistrate prior to the final hearing. To be  approved, the plan must be submitted with the following attachments: .

1. Appropriate Child Support Computation Worksheet (including deviation from guideline support amount, if appropriate). ODJFS Worksheet now available.

2. Standard Parenting Order (Form 2.7) If the said order is referenced in the body of the plan.

3. Appropriate health care order (Form 7.17 if private health insurance is available- Form 7.20 if not).

Shared Parenting Plans are generally approved or rejected within 5 business days, and can be picked up at the decree office (room 3-50).

1.1 Complaint for Divorce, Legal Separation - Children and 75N

 

** Pursuant to O.R.C. 3109.053, in any action for divorce, dissolution of marriage, legal separation, or annulment in which there are any minor children of the marriage, the parties must successfully complete a court-approved in-person or on-line parenting education course. Certification from the parenting education class is valid for two years. Parties must retake the class if certification has expired.

** For parenting education course options, Click Here.

* ALL DOCUMENTS LISTED BELOW ARE REQUIRED AND MUST BE COMPLETED IN FULL !
 Packet Cover Sheet and Filing Instructions

 Complaint ( Draft Your Own or use Uniform Domestic Relations Form 7 )

 		 
 CDR Property Statement ( CDR Form No. 4.1 )
 Motion and Affidavit for Temporary Order w/o Oral Hearing ( CDR Form No. 3.2 )
 Affidavit of Income and Expense ( CDR Form No.7.3 )
 Group Health Insurance Affidavit ( CDR Form No. 7.16 )
 Affidavit in Compliance with ORC 3127.23 (CDR Form No. 2.1 )
Child Support Computation Worksheet 
ODJFS Support Worksheet
 Mandatory Disclosure Order ( CDR Form No. 1.26 )
 Administrative Restraining Order ( CDR Form No. 19.0 )

 IV-D Application ( Form ODHS 7076 )
 Questionnaire ( MUST BE TYPED ) ( CDR Form No. 1.1 )
 Notice of Service Form ( CDR Form 3.4 )

  PDF  Word Tmp
 Support Account Data Form ( CDR Form CDR4905 )

  PDF Word Tmp 
 Copy of Plaintiff's Drivers License or State I.D.



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1.2 Complaint for Divorce, Legal Separation - Children - No 75N

 

** Pursuant to O.R.C. 3109.053, in any action for divorce, dissolution of marriage, legal separation, or annulment in which there are any minor children of the marriage, the parties must successfully complete a court-approved in-person or on-line parenting education course. Certification from the parenting education class is valid for two years. Parties must retake the class if certification has expired.

** For parenting education course options, Click Here.

* ALL DOCUMENTS LISTED BELOW ARE REQUIRED AND MUST BE COMPLETED IN FULL !
 Packet Cover Sheet and Filing Instructions
 Complaint ( Draft Your Own or use Uniform Domestic Relations Form 7 )

 PDF
  
 CDR Property Statement ( CDR Form No. 4.1 )
 Affidavit of Income and Expense ( CDR Form No.7.3 )
 Affidavit in Compliance with ORC 3127.23 ( CDR Form No. 2.1 )

 Group Health Insurance Affidavit ( CDR Form No. 7.16 )

 Mandatory Disclosure Order ( CDR Form No. 1.26 )
 Administrative Restraining Order ( CDR Form No. 19.0 )

 IV-D Application ( Form ODHS 7076 )
 Questionnaire ( MUST BE TYPED ) ( CDR Form No. 1.1 )
 Copy of Plaintiff's Drivers License or State I.D.



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1.3 Complaint for Divorce, Legal Separation - Children and Separation Agreement

 

** Pursuant to O.R.C. 3109.053, in any action for divorce, dissolution of marriage, legal separation, or annulment in which there are any minor children of the marriage, the parties must successfully complete a court-approved in-person or on-line parenting education course. Certification from the parenting education class is valid for two years. Parties must retake the class if certification has expired.

** For parenting education course options, Click Here.

* ALL DOCUMENTS LISTED BELOW ARE REQUIRED AND MUST BE COMPLETED IN FULL !
 Packet Cover Sheet and Filing Instructions
 Complaint ( Draft Your Own or use Uniform Domestic Relations Form 7 )

 		 
 Waiver of Service of Summons ( CDR Form No. 9.3 )
 Separation Agreement ( Draft Your Own or use Uniform Domestic Relations Form 19 )

 		 
 Affidavit of Income and Expenses ( CDR Form No.7.3 )
 Affidavit in Compliance with ORC 3127.23 ( CDR Form No. 2.1 )
 Group Health Insurance Affidavit ( CDR Form No. 7.16 )

 Administrative Restraining Order ( CDR Form No. 19.0 )

 IV-D Application ( Form ODHS 7076 )
 Questionnaire ( MUST BE TYPED ) ( CDR Form No. 1.1 )

 Request for Merits Setting Entry ( CDR Form No. 9.1 )
 Copy of both Parties' Drivers license or State I.D.

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1.4 Complaint for Divorce, Legal Separation - No Children and 75N Request for Household Expenses

 

* ALL DOCUMENTS LISTED BELOW ARE REQUIRED AND MUST BE COMPLETED IN FULL !
 Packet Cover Sheet and Filing Instructions
 Complaint (Draft Your Own or use Uniform Domestic Relations Form 6)

 		 
 CDR Property Statement ( CDR Form No. 4.1 )
 Motion and Affidavit for Temporary Order w/o Oral Hearing ( CDR Form No. 3.2 )
 Affidavit of Income and Expenses ( CDR Form No.7.3 )

 Mandatory Disclosure Order ( CDR Form No. 1.26 )
 Administrative Restraining Order ( CDR Form No. 19.0 )

 Questionnaire ( MUST BE TYPED ) ( CDR Form No. 1.1)

 Notice of Service Form ( CDR Form 3.4 )

  PDF  Word Tmp
 Support Account Data Form ( CDR Form CDR4905 )

  PDF  Word Tmp
 Copy of Plaintiff's Driver's License or State I.D.

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1.5 Complaint for Divorce, Legal Separation - No Children and 75N Request for Spousal Support

 

* ALL DOCUMENTS LISTED BELOW ARE REQUIRED AND MUST BE COMPLETED IN FULL !
 Packet Cover Sheet and Filing Instructions
 Complaint (Draft Your Own or use Uniform Domestic Relations Form 6)

  
 CDR Property Statement ( CDR Form No. 4.1 )
 Motion and Affidavit for Temporary Order w/o Oral Hearing ( CDR Form No. 3.2 )
 Affidavit of Income and Expenses ( CDR Form No.7.3 )

 Data Form ( CDR Form No. CDR4905 )
 Mandatory Disclosure Order ( CDR Form No. 1.26 )
 Administrative Restraining Order ( CDR Form No. 19.0 )

 Questionnaire ( MUST BE TYPED ) ( CDR Form No. 1.1)

 Notice of Service Form ( CDR Form 3.4 )

  PDF  Word Tmp
 Copy of Plaintiff's Driver's License or State I.D.

 		 

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1.6 Complaint for Divorce, Legal Separation - No Children - No Spousal Support or Household Expenses

 

* ALL DOCUMENTS LISTED BELOW ARE REQUIRED AND MUST BE COMPLETED IN FULL !
 Packet Cover Sheet and Filing Instructions
 Complaint (Draft Your Own or use Uniform Domestic Relations Form 6)

  
 CDR Property Statement ( CDR Form No. 4.1 )
 Affidavit of Income and Expenses ( CDR Form No.7.3 )

 Mandatory Disclosure Order ( CDR Form No. 1.26 )
 Administrative Restraining Order ( CDR Form No. 19.0 )
 Questionnaire ( MUST BE TYPED ) ( CDR Form No. 1.1)

 Copy of Plaintiff's Driver's License or State I.D.

 		 

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1.7 Complaint for Divorce, Legal Separation - No Children and the Parties have a signed Separation Agreement

 

 * ALL DOCUMENTS LISTED BELOW ARE REQUIRED AND MUST BE COMPLETED IN FULL!
 Packet Cover Sheet and Filing Instructions
 Complaint ( Draft Your Own or use Uniform Domestic Relations Form 6 )

 		 
 Waiver of Service of Summons ( CDR Form No. 9.3 )
 Separation Agreement ( Draft Your Own or use Uniform Domestic Relations Form 19 )

 		 
 Affidavit of Income and Expenses ( CDR Form No.7.3 )
 Administrative Restraining Order ( CDR Form No. 19.0 )
 Request for Merits Setting Entry ( CDR Form No. 9.1 )
 Questionnaire (MUST BE TYPED) ( CDR Form No. 1.1 )

 Copy of both Parties' Drivers license or State I.D.

 		 

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1.8 Complaint for Annulment - With Children

 

** Pursuant to O.R.C. 3109.053, in any action for divorce, dissolution of marriage, legal separation, or annulment in which there are any minor children of the marriage, the parties must successfully complete a court-approved in-person or on-line parenting education course. Certification from the parenting education class is valid for two years. Parties must retake the class if certification has expired.

** For parenting education course options, Click Here.

 * ALL DOCUMENTS LISTED BELOW ARE REQUIRED AND MUST BE COMPLETED IN FULL!
 Packet Cover Sheet and Filing Instructions
 Complaint for Annulment With Children ( CDR Form 1.12 or Your Own )

 		 
 CDR Property Statement ( CDR Form No. 4.1 )
 Affidavit of Income and Expenses ( CDR Form No.7.3 )
 Affidavit in Compliance with ORC 3127.23 ( CDR Form No. 2.1 )

 PDF  Word Tmp
 Group Health Insurance Affidavit ( CDR Form No. 7.16 )

 PDF  Word Tmp
 Questionnaire ( MUST BE TYPED ) ( CDR Form No. 1.1)

  PDF  Word Tmp
 IV-D Application ( Form ODHS 7076 )

  PDF Word Tmp
 Administrative Restraining Order ( CDR Form No. 19.0 )
 Mandatory Disclosure Order ( CDR Form No. 1.26 )

  PDF Word Tmp
 Decree of Annulment - Children - No Private Insurance (CDR Form 912) ( Rev 1/25/2021 )
 Decree of Annulment - Children - With Private Insurance (CDR Form 911) ( Rev 8/1/2016 )		  PDF
 PDF
 Questionnaire (MUST BE TYPED) ( CDR Form No. 1.1 )

 Copy of Drivers license or State I.D.

 		 

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1.9 Complaint for Annulment - No Children
 
 * ALL DOCUMENTS LISTED BELOW ARE REQUIRED AND MUST BE COMPLETED IN FULL!
 Packet Cover Sheet and Filing Instructions
 Complaint for Annulment - No Children ( CDR Form 1.13 or Your Own )

 		 
 CDR Property Statement ( CDR Form No. 4.1 )
 Affidavit of Income and Expenses ( CDR Form No.7.3 )
 Questionnaire ( MUST BE TYPED ) ( CDR Form No. 1.1)

  PDF  Word Tmp
 Administrative Restraining Order ( CDR Form No. 19.0 )
 Mandatory Disclosure Order ( CDR Form No. 1.26 )

  PDF  Word Tmp
 Decree of Annulment - No Children ( CDR Form 913 )
 (Must be submitted prior to final hearing)		  PDF
 Questionnaire (MUST BE TYPED) ( CDR Form No. 1.1 )

 Copy of Drivers license or State I.D.

 		 

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1.10 Answer or Counterclaim to Divorce, Legal Separation , or Annulment - Children and 75N

 

** Pursuant to O.R.C. 3109.053, in any action for divorce, dissolution of marriage, legal separation, or annulment in which there are any minor children of the marriage, the parties must successfully complete a court-approved in-person or on-line parenting education course. Certification from the parenting education class is valid for two years. Parties must retake the class if certification has expired.

** For parenting education course options, Click Here.

 * ALL DOCUMENTS LISTED BELOW ARE REQUIRED AND MUST BE COMPLETED IN FULL!
 Answer or Counterclaim (Draft Your Own or use Uniform Domestic Relations Form 9 or
 Form 11)

 Counterclaim Form 9 PDF
Answer Form 11 PDF 
 CDR Property Statement or (CDR Form No. 4.1)

   PDF   Word Tmp
 Motion and Affidavit for Temporary Orders w/o Oral Hearing (CDR Form No. 3.2)

   PDF  Word Tmp
 Affidavit of Income and Expenses (CDR Form No. 7.3) 

   PDF  Word Tmp
 Group Health insurance Affidavit (CDR Form 7.16)

   PDF  Word Tmp
 Affidavit in Compliance with ORC 3127.23 (CDR Form No. 2.1)

   PDF  Word Tmp
 Child Support Computation Worksheet

ODJFS Support Worksheet
 IV-D Application (Form ODHS 7076) 

  PDF  Word Tmp
 Questionnaire (MUST BE TYPED)(CDR Form No. 1.1)

   PDF  Word Tmp
 Notice of Service Form ( CDR Form 3.4 )

  PDF Word Tmp 
 Support Account Data Form ( CDR Form CDR4905 )

   PDF   Word Tmp
 Copy of Defendant's Driver's License or State ID

  

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1.11 Answer or Counterclaim to Complaint for Divorce, Legal Separation  - Children - No 75N

 

** Pursuant to O.R.C. 3109.053, in any action for divorce, dissolution of marriage, legal separation, or annulment in which there are any minor children of the marriage, the parties must successfully complete a court-approved in-person or on-line parenting education course. Certification from the parenting education class is valid for two years. Parties must retake the class if certification has expired.

** For parenting education course options, Click Here.

 * ALL DOCUMENTS LISTED BELOW ARE REQUIRED AND MUST BE COMPLETED IN FULL!
 Answer or Counterclaim (Draft Your Own or use Uniform Domestic
 Relations Form 9 or Form 11)

  Counterclaim Form 9 PDF
Answer Form 11 PDF 
 CDR Property Statement or (CDR Form No. 4.1) 

       PDF       Word Tmp
 Affidavit of Income and Expenses (CDR Form No. 7.3) 

  PDF Word Tmp
 Group Health insurance Affidavit (CDR Form 7.16)

  PDF  Word Tmp
 Affidavit in Compliance with ORC 3127.23 (CDR Form No. 2.1)

  PDF Word Tmp
 IV-D Application (Form ODHS 7076)

  PDF Word Tmp
 Questionnaire (MUST BE TYPED)(CDR Form No. 1.1)

  PDF Word Tmp
 Copy of Defendant's Driver's License or State ID

  

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1.12 Answer or Counterclaim to Complaint for Divorce, Legal Separation - No Children and 75N Request for Household Expenses

 

  * ALL DOCUMENTS LISTED BELOW ARE REQUIRED AND MUST BE COMPLETED IN FULL!
 Answer or Counterclaim (Draft Your Own or use Uniform Domestic 
 Relations Form 8 or Form 10)

 Counterclaim Form 8 PDF
Answer Form 10 PDF 
 CDR Property Statement (CDR Form No. 4.1) 

      PDF    Word Tmp
 Motion and Affidavit for Temporary Orders w/o Oral Hearing (CDR Form No. 3.2)

  PDF Word Tmp
 Affidavit of Income and Expenses (CDR Form No. 7.3)

  PDF Word Tmp
 Notice of Service Form (CDR Form No. 3.4)

  PDF Word Tmp
 Questionnaire (MUST BE TYPED)(CDR Form No. 1.1)

  PDF Word Tmp
 Copy of Defendant's Driver's License or State ID

  

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1.13 Answer or Counterclaim for Divorce, Legal Separation - No Children and 75N Request for Spousal Support

 

 * ALL DOCUMENTS LISTED BELOW ARE REQUIRED AND MUST BE COMPLETED IN FULL!
 Answer or Counterclaim (Draft Your Own or use Uniform Domestic 
 Relations Form 8 or Form 10)

 Counterclaim Form 8 PDF 
 Answer Form 10 PDF
 CDR Property Statement (CDR Form No. 4.1) 

      PDF     Word Tmp
 Motion and Affidavit for Temporary Orders w/o Oral Hearing (CDR Form No. 3.2)

  PDF Word Tmp
 Affidavit of Income and Expenses (CDR Form No. 7.3)

  PDF Word Tmp
 Notice of Service Form (CDR Form No. 3.4)

  PDF Word Tmp
 Data Form (CDR Form No. CDR4905)

  PDF Word Tmp
 Questionaire (MUST BE TYPED)(CDR Form No. 1.1)

  PDF Word Tmp
 Copy of Defendant's Driver's License or State ID

  

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1.14 Answer or Counterclaim to Complaint for Divorce, Legal Separation - No Children - No Spousal Support or Household Expenses

 

  * ALL DOCUMENTS LISTED BELOW ARE REQUIRED AND MUST BE COMPLETED IN FULL!
 Answer or Counterclaim (Draft Your Own or use Uniform Domestic 
 Relations Form 8 or Form 10)

 Counterclaim Form 8 PDF 
Answer Form 10 PDF 
 CDR Property Statement (CDR Form No. 4.1) 

     PDF     Word Tmp
  Affidavit of Income and Expenses (CDR Form No. 7.3)

  PDF Word Tmp
  Questionaire (MUST BE TYPED)(CDR Form No. 1.1)

  PDF Word Tmp
  Copy of Defendant's Driver's License or State ID

  

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1.15 Answer or Counterclaim to Annulment - Children

 

** Pursuant to O.R.C. 3109.053, in any action for divorce, dissolution of marriage, legal separation, or annulment in which there are any minor children of the marriage, the parties must successfully complete a court-approved in-person or on-line parenting education course. Certification from the parenting education class is valid for two years. Parties must retake the class if certification has expired.

** For parenting education course options, Click Here.

 * ALL DOCUMENTS LISTED BELOW ARE REQUIRED AND MUST BE COMPLETED IN FULL!
 Answer or Counterclaim (Draft Your Own or use Uniform Domestic
 Relations Form 9 or Form 11)

  Counterclaim Form 9 PDF
Answer Form 11 PDF 
 CDR Property Statement or (CDR Form No. 4.1) 

       PDF       Word Tmp
 Affidavit of Income and Expenses (CDR Form No. 7.3) 

  PDF Word Tmp
 Group Health insurance Affidavit (CDR Form 7.16)

  PDF  Word Tmp
 Affidavit in Compliance with ORC 3127.23 (CDR Form No. 2.1)

  PDF Word Tmp
 IV-D Application (Form ODHS 7076)

  PDF Word Tmp
 Questionnaire (MUST BE TYPED)(CDR Form No. 1.1)

  PDF Word Tmp
 Copy of Defendant's Driver's License or State ID

  

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1.16 Answer or Counterclaim to  Annulment - No Children


 * ALL DOCUMENTS LISTED BELOW ARE REQUIRED AND MUST BE COMPLETED IN FULL!
 Answer or Counterclaim (Draft Your Own or use Uniform Domestic
 Relations Form 8 or Form 10)

  Counterclaim Form 8 PDF
Answer Form 10 PDF 
 CDR Property Statement or (CDR Form No. 4.1) 

       PDF       Word Tmp
 Affidavit of Income and Expenses (CDR Form No. 7.3) 

  PDF Word Tmp
 Questionnaire (MUST BE TYPED)(CDR Form No. 1.1)

  PDF Word Tmp
 Copy of Defendant's Driver's License or State ID

  

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Section 2 - Petition for Dissolution


NOTICE: Effective June 1, 2023 the Hamilton County Domestic Relations Court requires a decree and associated documents be submitted at the time of filing a new petition for dissolution. If the petition , decree and associated documents are e-filed through the Clerk of Courts website, rejected decree documents should be resubmitted through the e-filing program. Click HERE for information about the Accept/Reject/Resubmit process.


FILING FEE: August 3, 2015

–  $325.00 (without Children)

–  $375.00 (with Children)

All fees are payable by CASH, PERSONAL CHECK, CERTIFIED CHECK, MONEY ORDER, MASTERCARD, VISA, AMERICAN EXPRESS, or DISCOVER CARD.

NOTICE – If you are paying by credit card, a fee will be added as dictated by this schedule.      www.courtclerk.org/forms/pnp_schedule.pdf

When using a credit card, the card holder must be present.

Checks and Money Orders are to be made payable to: 
CLERK OF COURTS

REQUIRED COPIES: If filing a Waiver of Service with your Petition, you will need your original set of documents plus 3 copies of all documents.

  1. If there will be a Shared Parenting or Parenting Plan in a case:
    Shared Plans or Parenting Plans must be e-filed or submitted to the Court and approved by the assigned Magistrate prior to the final hearing. To be approved, the plan must be submitted with the following attachments:
    • Appropriate Child Support Computation Worksheet (including deviation from guideline support amount, if appropriate) ODJFS Worksheet is now available. 
    • Standard Parenting Order (Form 2.7) if the said order is referenced in the body of the plan.
    • Appropriate health care order (Form 7.17) if private health insurance is available - Form 7.20 if not).
    Shared Parenting or Parenting Plans submitted are generally approved or rejected within 5 business days.

 

2.1 Petition for Dissolution - Children

 

PLEASE READ:

** Pursuant to O.R.C. 3109.053, in any action for divorce, dissolution of marriage, legal separation, or annulment in which there are any minor children of the marriage, the parties must successfully complete a court-approved in-person or on-line parenting education course. Certification from the parenting education class is valid for two years. Parties must retake the class if certification has expired.

** For parenting education course options, Click Here.

** Shared Parenting Plans or Parenting Plans must be e-filed or submitted to the Decree Office at the time of filing for approval by the Court.

* ALL DOCUMENTS LISTED BELOW ARE REQUIRED AND MUST BE COMPLETED IN FULL !
 Packet Cover Sheet and Filing Instructions

 Petition (Draft Your Own or use Uniform Domestic Relations Form 17)

  
 Separation Agreement (Draft Your Own or use  Form 19)

  
 Waiver of Service Consent to Merits ( CDR Form No. 9.3A )
 Waiver of Representation (1 for each unrepresented Litigant) (CDR Form No. 9.2 )
 Proof of Attendance at Parenting Education Class (Both Parties)

 Registration Information
 Copy of both parties' drivers license or State I.D.
 Questionnaire ( MUST BE TYPED ) ( CDR Form No. 1.1 )
 IV-D Application ( Form No. ODHS 7076 )
 Financial Disclosure Affidavit ( CDR Form No. 7.2 )
 Group Health Insurance Affidavit ( CDR Form No. 7.16 )
 Affidavit in Compliance with ORC 3127.23 ( CDR Form No. 2.1 )
 Final Decree of Shared Parenting ( CDR Form No. 2.3 ) (if appropriate)

  PDF  Word Tmp
 Shared Parenting Plan or Parenting Plan (if appropriate)  
                CDR Form 2.2 - Shared Parenting Plan
 
                or Uniform Domestic Relations Form 21 - Parenting Plan		  Form 21
 Decree / Final Judgment (Your Own or use Form 18)

 CDR Form 18
 Appropriate Health Care Order  (CDR Form No. 7.17) or PDF Word Tmp
 (CDR Form No. 7.20)  PDF  Word Tmp
 Appropriate Child Support Worksheet

 ODJFS Support Worksheet 
 Standard Parenting Order (if applicable) (CDR Form 2.7)

 PDF  Word Tmp
 Support Account Data Form (CDR Form CDR4905)

 PDF  Word Tmp
 Health Care Verification Form (if possible)(CDR Form 7.21)

 PDF Word Tmp

** If there will be Shared Parenting or a Parenting Plan in a case:

Shared Parenting Plans or Parenting Plans must be E-Filed or submitted to the Court at the time of filing and approved by the assigned Magistrate prior to the final hearing. To be approved, the plan must be submitted with the following attachments:

  • Appropriate Child Support Computation Worksheet (including deviation from guideline support amount, if appropriate). ODJFS Worksheet is now available.
  • Standard Parenting Order (Form 2.7) if the said order is referenced in the body of the plan.
  • Appropriate health care order (Form 7.17) if private health insurance is available- (7.20) if not.

Shared Parenting or Parenting Plans are generally approved or rejected within 5 business days. 

2.2 Petition for Dissolution - Spousal Support

 

* ALL DOCUMENTS LISTED BELOW ARE REQUIRED AND MUST BE COMPLETED IN FULL !
 Packet Cover Sheet and Filing Instructions
 Petition (Draft Your Own or use Uniform Domestic Relations Form 17)

  
 Separation Agreement (Draft Your Own or use  Form 19)

  
 Waiver of Service Consent to Merits ( CDR Form No. 9.3A )
 Waiver of Representation (1 for each unrepresented Litigant) ( CDR Form No. 9.2 )
 Questionnaire  (MUST BE TYPED ) ( CDR Form No. 1.1 )
 Financial Disclosure Affidavit ( CDR Form No. 7.2 )
 Support Account Data Form (CDR Form No. CDR4905)

 PDF  Word Tmp
 Decree / Final Judgment (Your Own or use Form 18)

  CDR Form 18 
 Copy of both Parties' Drivers license or State I.D.

2.3 Petition for Dissolution - No Children and No Spousal Support

 

* ALL DOCUMENTS LISTED BELOW ARE REQUIRED AND MUST BE COMPLETED IN FULL !
 Packet Cover Sheet and Filing Instructions

 Petition (Draft Your Own or use Uniform Domestic Relations Form 17)

  
 Separation Agreement (Draft Your Own or use Form 19)

  
 Waiver of Service Consent to Merits ( CDR Form No. 9.3A )
 Waiver of Representation (1 for each unrepresented Litigant) ( CDR Form No. 9.2 )
 Questionnaire ( MUST BE TYPED ) ( CDR Form No. 1.1 )
 Waiver of Financial Disclosure Affidavit ( CDR Form No. 7.1 )
 Decree / Final Judgment (Your Own or use Form 18)

 CDR Form 18
 Copy of both Parties' Drivers license or State I.D.

 

Section 3 - Decree/Final Judgment of Divorce, Legal Separation, or Annulment

REQUIRED COPIES: The Court will only need to keep the original Decree for our file. Certified copies can be ordered from and printed by the Clerk of Courts office .

Note that your marriage is not terminated until the Decree is filed with the Clerk of Courts. The Clerk of Court’s office will notify attorneys and unrepresented litigants via mailed postcard when the Decree is journalized. The date the Decree is journalized on the Clerk of Court’s docket is the date your marriage is officially terminated. Certified copies may be picked up in the Clerk of Courts office, room 3-47, after you receive the postcard. 

3.1 Decree/Final Judgment of Divorce, Legal Separation or Annulment with Children

 

 Decree/Final Judgment ( Your Own or use Form 12A  Divorce Decree - Children - No Private Health
 Insurance OR Form 12B Divorce Decree - Children - With Private Health Insurance)
  Form 12A Tmp
Form 12B PDF  Form 12B Tmp
 Separation Agreement ( Optional ) ( Your Own or use Form 19 )

  
 Shared Parenting Plan (if appropriate ) ( Form 2.2 Shared Parenting )

  PDF Word Tmp
 Final Decree of Shared Parenting (if appropriate) ( CDR Form No. 2.3 )
 Appropriate Health Care Order ( CDR Form No. 7.17 ) or
( CDR Form No. 7.20 )
 Appropriate Child Support Worksheet
 Standard Parenting Order ( CDR Form No. 2.7 )
 Support Account Data Form ( CDR Form No. CDR4905 )
 IV-D Application (or copy) ( Form ODHS 7076 )
 Health Care Verification Form (if possible) ( CDR Form No. 7.21 )

    • Appropriate Health Care Order (Use Form 7.17 if private health insurance is available - Form 7.20 if not)
    • Standard Parenting Order (Form 2.7) is applicable if referred to in the Decree or Parenting Plan or Shared Parenting Plan.
    • You will need to provide the original of all documents except:
      • Support Account Data Form (1 Copy)
      • IV-D Application (1 Copy)
      • Health Care Verification Form (1 Copy)
3.2 Decree/Final Judgment of Divorce, Legal Separation or Annulment - No Children with Spousal Support

 

 Decree/Final Judgment ( Your Own or use Form 11 )

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 Separation Agreement ( Optional ) ( Your Own or use Form 19 )

  
 Support Account Data Form ( CDR Form No. CDR4905 )

    • You will need to provide the original of the Decree and Separation Agreement but only 1 copy of the Data Form.
3.3 Decree/Final Judgment of Divorce, Legal Separation or Annulment - No Children or Spousal Support

 

 Decree/Final Judgment ( Your Own or use Form 14 )

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 Separation Agreement ( Optional ) ( Your Own or use Form 19 )

  

  • You will need to provide the original of the Decree and Separation Agreement.

Section 4 - Motions - Pre Decree

All motions should be E-Filed. If you are unable to E-File, you may mail the motions through U.S. Mail or present to the Docket Office in Room 3-46 for review of documents and to receive hearing date. Motion then taken to the Clerk of Courts Room 3-47 for filing and service request.

COST: None.

REQUIRED COPIES: You will need your original Motion and at least 3 copies of all documents (Court’s copy, service copy and your copy).

4.1 Contested Custody - Pre Decree

 

If parents are unable to agree regarding the permanent allocation of parental rights and responsibilities of their children, an investigation or Early Neutral Evaluation (ENE) may be required. The investigation may be initiated by: 1) a Decision or Order of the Magistrate, 2) an Order by the Judge or 3) an Agreed Entry between the parties. ENE may be initiated by: 1) an Entry Ordering Early Neutral Evaluation, 2) a Motion for Early Neutral Evaluation or 3) an Agreed Entry Early Neutral Evaluation.

A Brief Focused Investigation costing $400 will most likely be ordered in cases where all children involved are over 10 years of age. A Full Investigation costing $800 will most likely be ordered where one or all of the children involved are under 10 years of age. ENE costs $200.

In order to begin the investigation, the parties or their attorneys must deposit the appropriate fee with the Clerk of Courts in Room 3-47. A copy of the Entry Ordering Investigation (DR 2.5) and the completed Request For Services Form (DR 2.4) will be transferred by the courtroom staff to the Dispute Resolution Department in Room 3-001. A Social Worker/Counselor will investigate the case and make recommendations. All cases in which the allocation of parental rights and responsibilities are contested will be set for a pretrial conference before the assigned Judge. If after the pretrial conference, the case remains contested, the case will then be scheduled for a custody trial before the assigned Judge.

In order to begin ENE, the parties or their attorneys must schedule the ENE session and follow-up phone conference with the assigned Judge or Magistrate by going to the Docket Office in Room 3-46, at which time the ENE team (a Social Worker/Counselor and Magistrate) will be assigned to the case. The parties or their attorneys must also deposit the appropriate fee with the Clerk of Courts in Room 3-47.

Questions regarding this process may be directed to the Dispute Resolution Department at 946-9079.

4.2 Pre-Decree Motion for Contempt of Support and/or Parenting Time

 

 Motion ( CDR Form No. 3.8 )
 Affidavit for Citation ( CDR Form No. 13.1 )
 Summons

Provided by the Court
 Written Request for Service ( CDR Form No. 43.7A )

Section 5 - Motion - Post Decree

All motions should be E-Filed. If you are unable to E-File, you may mail the motions through U.S. Mail or present to the Docket Office in Room 3-46 for review of documents and to receive hearing date. Motion will then be taken to the Clerk of Courts in Room 3-47 for filing and service request.

Filing Process:
E-Filing:
1. Create an account with the Hamilton County Clerk of Courts office through their website: https://www.courtclerk.org/forms-filings/e-filing/.
2. Submit all required documents. Make sure all are signed and notarized.
3. You will be prompted to enter your credit card information to pay any required filing fee.
4. A docket clerk will review all e-filed paperwork. If you fail to submit all required paperwork correctly and accurately, it may be rejected.
5. A docket clerk will contact you to schedule any required hearing.

U.S. Mail:
1. Make sure all documents have been signed and notarized.
2. Submit all original documents and the required number of copies to the Hamilton County Court of Domestic Relations.
Mail the documents to:
Hamilton County Court of Domestic Relations
Attn: Docket Office, Room 3-46
800 Broadway
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
3. Include a check or money order made payable to: CLERK OF COURTS. You may contact the Clerk of Courts to determine alternative payment methods.
4. A docket clerk will review all submitted paperwork. If you fail to submit all required paperwork correctly and accurately, it may be rejected.
5. A docket clerk will contact you to schedule any required hearing.

In Person:
1. Bring all original documents and the required number of copies to the Domestic Relations Docket Office, Room 3-46. The docket staff will ensure all documentation has been provided and will notify you of any omitted paperwork.
2. Once the Docket Office acknowledges the complete filing, you will go to the Clerk of Courts, Room 3-47 to pay any required fees.

For Sections 5.1 and 5.2 :

Documents needed for modification or establishment of a Child Support Order pursuant to O.R.C.§ 3119.05 .

In order for the Judge or Magistrate to accurately set a child support order, you are required to bring the following documents to verify your income and obligations to pay child or spousal support.  

  1. Pay stubs, employer statements, receipts and expense vouchers related to self-generated income, tax returns, and all supporting documentation and schedules for the tax returns;

  2. Supporting documentation outlining pre-existing child support or spousal support obligations and  verification that payments are being made.  A CSEA payment record is an example of an acceptable method of documentation.;

  3. Documentation of overtime, commissions, and bonuses received during the three years immediately prior to the time when the person's child support obligation is being computed. A statement from an employer is an acceptable method of documentation, if a pay stub does not specify overtime, commissions or bonuses separately from wages.

COST: $125.00 for all issues.

All fees are payable by CASH, PERSONAL CHECK, CERTIFIED CHECK, MONEY ORDER, MASTERCARD, VISA, AMERICAN EXPRESS, or DISCOVER CARD.

NOTICE – If you are paying by credit card, a fee will be added as dictated by this schedule.      www.courtclerk.org/forms/pnp_schedule.pdf

When using a credit card, the card holder must be present.

Checks and Money Orders are to be made payable to: 
CLERK OF COURTS

REQUIRED COPIES: For matters involving child support, you will need your original Motion and at least 4 copies of all documents. For all other issues, you will need your original Motion and at least 3 copies of all documents.

5.1 Post Decree Motion to Modify Support and/or Health Care

 

 Packet Cover Sheet and Instructions ( CDR Form No. PDMS ) 
 Motion ( CDR Form No. 3.8 - Serve CSEA)
 Affidavit of Income, Expenses and Financial Disclosure ( CDR Form No. 7.3 )
 Group Health Insurance Affidavit ( CDR Form No. 7.16 )
 IV-D Application ( Form No. ODHS 7076)
 Appropriate Support Worksheet
 Written Request for Service ( CDR Form No. 43.7A )
 Support Account Data Form ( CDR Form No. 4905 )

Documents needed for modification or establishment of a Child Support Order pursuant to O.R.C.§ 3119.05

In order for the Judge or Magistrate to accurately set a child support order, you are required to bring the following documents to verify your income and obligations to pay child or spousal support.  

  1. Pay stubs, employer statements, receipts and expense vouchers related to self-generated income, tax returns, and all supporting documentation and schedules for the tax returns;

  2. Supporting documentation outlining pre-existing child support or spousal support obligations and verification that payments are being made.  A CSEA payment record is an example of an acceptable method of documentation.;

  3. Documentation of overtime, commissions, and bonuses received during the three years immediately prior to the time when the person's child support obligation is being computed.  A statement from an employer is an acceptable method of documentation, if a pay stub does not specify overtime, commissions or bonuses separately from wages.

5.2 Post Decree Motion to Modify Spousal Support

 

 Motion ( CDR Form No. 3.8 )
 Affidavit of Income, Expenses and Financial Disclosure ( CDR Form No. 7.3 )
 Written Request for Service ( CDR Form No. 43.7A )
 Support Account Data Form ( CDR Form No. 4905 )

Documents needed for modification or establishment of a Child Support Order pursuant to O.R.C.§ 3119.05

In order for the Judge or Magistrate to accurately set a child support order, you are required to bring the following documents to verify your income and obligations to pay child or spousal support.  

1)  Pay stubs, employer statements, receipts and expense vouchers related to self-generated income, tax returns, and all supporting documentation and schedules for the tax returns;

2)  Supporting documentation outlining pre-existing child support or spousal support obligations and verification that payments are being made.  A CSEA payment record is an example of an acceptable method of documentation.;

3)  Documentation of overtime, commissions, and bonuses received during the three years immediately prior to the time when the person's child support obligation is being computed.  A statement from an employer is an acceptable method of documentation, if a pay stub does not specify overtime, commissions or bonuses separately from wages.

5.3 Post Decree Motion for Contempt of Support and/or Parenting Time

 

 Packet Cover Sheet and Instructions ( CDR Form No. PDMC )
 Motion ( CDR Form No. 3.8 - Serve CSEA )
 Affidavit for Citation ( CDR Form No. 13.1 )
 Summons

Provided by Court
 Written Request for Service ( CDR Form No. 43.7A )

5.4 Contested Custody - Post Decree

 

 Packet Cover Sheet and Instructions

 Motion for Change of Custody ( CDR Form No. 3.10 )
 Affidavit in Compliance with 3127.23 of the O.R.C. ( CDR Form No. 2.1 )
 
 Written Request for Service ( CDR Form No. 43.7A )
5.5 Post Decree Motion to Modify Parenting Time

 

 Motion ( CDR Form No. 3.11 )
 Written Request for Service ( CDR Form No. 43.7A )
5.6 Post-Decree Motion for Contempt of Medical Expenses

 

 Motion ( CDR Form No. 3.8 )
 Medical Expense Sheet ( CDR Form No. 1.25 )
 Written Request for Service ( CDR Form No. 43.7 )

  PDF  Word Tmp

* See Local Rule 1.25 for more Information.

Section 6 - Agreed Entries - Pre Decree

All Agreed Entries not requiring a hearing may be submitted to the assigned Magistrate or Judge, whichever is appropriate. For Post Decree Agreed Entries, there is a $3.00 per page charge for any Agreed Entry that is five (5) pages or more. This is to be paid to the Clerk of Courts in Room 3-47 after the Magistrate or Judge approves the agreement. 

 

6.1 Pre-Decree Agreed Entry with Child Support:

 

 Agreed Entry

Your Own
 Affidavit of Income,Expenses ( or copy) ( CDR Form No. 7.3 )
 IV-D Application (or copy) ( Form No. ODHS 7076 )
 Appropriate Support Worksheet (or copy)
 Support Account Data Form ( CDR Form No. 4905 )

6.2 Pre Decree Agreed Entry - Spousal Support:

 

 Agreed Entry

Your Own
 Affidavit of Income Expenses (or copy) ( CDR Form No. 7.3 )
 Support Account Data Form ( CDR Form No. 4905 )
6.3 Pre Decree Agreed Entry - Health Care:

 

 Agreed Entry

Your Own
 Health Care Verification Form ( CDR Form No. 7.21 )
 IV-D Application (or copy) ( Form No. ODHS 7076)
 Group Health Insurance Affidavit (or copy) ( CDR Form No. 7.16 )
 Data Form ( CDR Form No. 4905 )

Section 7 - Agreed Entries - Post Decree

*All Agreed Entries must be accompanied by a Joint Motion and Waiver of Service.


All Motions are first presented to the Court of Domestic Relations Docket Office in Room 3-46 for review of documents and to receive hearing date. Motion will then be taken to the Clerk of Courts in Room 3-47 for filing.

COST: $125.00 for all issues.

All fees are payable by CASH, PERSONAL CHECKS, CERTIFIED CHECK, MONEY ORDER, MASTER CARD, VISA, AMERICAN EXPRESS, or DISCOVER CARD.

NOTICE - If you are paying be credit card, a fee will be added as dictated by this schedule www.courtclerk.org/forms/pnp_schedule.pdf

When using a credit card, the card holder must be present.

Checks and Money Orders are to be made payable to:
CLERK OF COURTS

REQUIRED COPIES: For matters involving child support, you will need your original Motion and at least 3 copies. For all other issues, you will need your original Motion and at least 2 copies.

7.1 Post Decree - Agreed Entry - Change of Residential Parent

 

 Joint Motion Requesting Change of Residential Parent ( Your Own or CDR Form No. 3.8A )
Your Own or PDF
 Waiver of Service ( CDR Form No. 9.3 )
 Affidavit in Compliance with ORC 3127.23 ( CDR Form No. 2.1 )
 Health Care Verification ( CDR Form No. 7.21 )
 Agreed Entry ( Your Own or CDR Form No. 2.16 )
Your Own or PDF
 Standard Parenting Order ( applicable if referred to in the Agreed Entry )( CDR Form No. 2.7 )
 Appropriate Child Support Worksheet

 ODJFS Support Worksheet
 IV-D Application ( Form No. ODHS 7076 )