Domestic violence is one of the most heinous issues that Ohio family law has to deal with.  While trying to cope with domestic violence matters may make a person feel helpless at times, there are a great deal of options available to assist victims of domestic violence. Ohio Legal Services is a great website to use to find information about the law and other community resources.

Ohio law defines domestic violence as any attempt of physical violence, threats, or sexual abuse committed by a family or household member.  Ohio law considers any and all forms of abuse to a child or minor as domestic violence. A family or household member is classified as a person who is or has been living with the victim, be it a current or former spouse, parent, or common law partner. Additional information about the definition of domestic violence in Ohio can be found here.  

In Ohio, there are two courses of action that victims of domestic violence can take. The first option is to have the perpetrator arrested and charged with the crime of domestic violence, and the second approach is to obtain a Civil Protection Order, which is also viable when filed by a minor. Same sex partners can also file for a Civil Protection Order and be offered the same protection. More information about protective orders can be found at the Columbus City Attorney website. 

When a Protection Order is issued, it can command the abuser to stay away from the victim or anyone else stated in the filing, and it can order the abuser to relinquish custody if minor children are involved. In a Protection Order, the court can also prohibit the perpetrator from returning to the victim’s residence. The order may show that the offender has been legally evicted from the home and ordered to vacate. The order may also keep the defendant from entering any school or businesses frequented by the affected family members. In cases where the perpetrator has been ordered to relinquish child custody or stay away from the victim’s residence, he or she is still required to provide financial support when necessary, such as with child support or mortgage payments if he or she shared a residence with the victim.

In Ohio, paperwork packets are available for victims who want/need to file “pro se” (without an attorney). There is no fee for making a report of domestic violence to courts in Ohio. In Ohio family court, there are advocates who can assist you with your filing and the hearing process.

Ohio’s law enforcement officials are required to keep a running log to record all incidents of domestic violence.  This log will contain space for them to report all of the information that is relevant to the domestic violence issue, including information about the relationship between the victim and the offender.

Domestic violence is a horrible reality. However, Ohio courts are able to offer protection to victims and their families. Additionally, there are emergency shelters that exist to aid with immediate escapes.