Show All Answers

1. Has custody or parenting time ever been determined in another court?

If the answer is yes, and the other court is located in Ohio, you must first file your custody action in that court because it has continuing jurisdiction.

2. Were the parents married/divorced?

If yes, you must contact the Domestic Relations Court in the county where the divorce was filed.

3. Does the child reside in Shelby County?

If no, you must file in the county where the child resides unless Shelby County Juvenile Court has made a prior custody determination.

4. How do I file for custody or visitation or modifications of an existing custody or visitation order established in the Shelby County Juvenile Court?

The best way is to contact an attorney who will gather information and put it in the correct format to file a complaint or motion. You may, however, choose to file a pro se action on your own. If you choose to do so, you must correctly prepare all forms and proper legal papers on your own. If you fail to correctly complete all papers, your case may be dismissed. The court cannot act as your attorney. If you choose to file on your own, it will be up to you to try your own case. You must also pay a filing fee of $250 to start an action or reopen an existing case.

5. Am I required to have a hearing to obtain custody of a child?

Yes. It is important to gather all the important information so the magistrate or judge can make the decision that will be in the best interest of the child. Even if the parties agree about the outcome, the court must determine if all terms and provisions of an agreement are appropriate and in the best interest of the child.

6. Can I bring my other children with me to court?

Please arrange in advance for appropriate babysitting for younger children. Young children will not be permitted in the courtroom or unattended in the hallway unless at the discretion of the judge. Continuances will not be granted because you did not secure a babysitter.