Ohio offers two paths: dissolution of marriage (a joint filing with a full agreement) and divorce (a complained-filed case if you don’t agree yet). Cases are filed in the Court of Common Pleas, Domestic Relations Division for the county where either spouse lives. Ohio uses equitable distribution.
At least one spouse must have lived in Ohio for six months, and you must satisfy 90 days of county residency before filing. File in the Domestic Relations court for that county. There is no fixed post-filing waiting period, but schedules depend on service, disclosures, settlement, and the court’s calendar.
Step 1: Choose dissolution or divorce and gather forms.
For dissolution, file a Joint Petition with a signed Separation Agreement and required affidavits. For divorce, file a Complaint, Summons, and financial affidavits. With children, include a Parenting Plan and UCCJEA affidavit.
Step 2: File with the clerk.
File at the Court of Common Pleas (many counties require e-filing). Pay the filing fee or request a fee waiver. You’ll receive a case number and file-stamped copies.
Step 3: Serve your spouse (for divorce).
Use certified mail, personal service by sheriff/process server, or obtain a waiver/acknowledgment. If you cannot locate your spouse after diligent efforts, request service by publication. Keep proof of service.
Step 4: Observe timelines and disclosures.
A defendant generally has 28 days after service to answer. Exchange complete financial information early; clean disclosures speed settlement and support calculations. Some counties require parenting classes.
Step 5: Settlement or hearing.
For dissolution, the court sets a hearing to review your agreement. For divorce, unresolved issues go to mediation, pretrials, and hearings.
Step 6: Final decree.
The court issues a Decree of Dissolution or Decree of Divorce addressing property/debt division, spousal support, parental rights and responsibilities, child support, and any name change. Obtain certified copies.
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Do we need to be separated before filing in Ohio?
No. There is no separation requirement to file for dissolution or divorce.
Which court handles divorces in Ohio?
The Court of Common Pleas, Domestic Relations Division in your county.
How long does an Ohio case take?
Uncontested dissolutions can resolve quickly after filing and a brief hearing; divorces depend on service, disclosures, mediation, and hearing dates.