The Case Types in the Columbiana County OHIO is more than a list of numbers it’s a complete record of the county’s legal activity. Whether you are checking a criminal case, civil lawsuit, probate matter, or traffic violation, understanding these case types helps you find accurate information quickly.
This guide explains all major case types handled in Columbiana County, how they appear in the docket, the forms involved, and how to interpret them correctly.
Case Types in the Columbiana County OHIO
1 : Criminal Cases
Why It Happens
Criminal cases occur when someone violates Ohio criminal laws examples include theft, assault, drug possession, domestic violence, and DUI/OVI.
These cases are prosecuted by the Columbiana County Prosecutor’s Office.
Process
- Arrest or Complaint Filed
- Arraignment (plea entered: Guilty / Not Guilty)
- Pre-Trial Conferences
- Trial (Judge or Jury)
- Sentencing (if convicted)
Forms Required
- Criminal Complaint Form
- Plea Form (Guilty / Not Guilty)
- Appeal Form (if challenging conviction)
Fees
- Filing: No fee for prosecution cases
- Appeal Fee: $150–$200
How to Check in Docket
Search for case numbers beginning with CR or CRB on the Columbiana County Court Docket Search page.
The docket will show: defendant name, charges, hearings, and case status.
2 : Civil Cases
Why It Happens
Civil cases involve disputes between private parties over money, contracts, property, and related matters.
Process
- Complaint filed by Plaintiff
- Defendant Receives Summons
- Answer Filed
- Discovery (document exchange)
- Mediation or Hearing
- Court Decision / Judgment
Forms Required
- Civil Complaint Form
- Summons Form
- Motion Forms (for responses or requests)
- Motion to Restrict Access to Civil Case Documents
Fees
- Filing Fee: $150–$250
- Appeal Fee: Around $150
How to Check in Docket
Look for cases starting with CV.
You’ll find party names, filing date, and judgment/next hearing status.
3 : Domestic Relations / Family Cases
Why It Happens
These cases involve family related matters such as:
- Divorce
- Child Custody
- Child Support
- Spousal Support
- Domestic Violence
Process
- Divorce/Dissolution Petition Filed
- Serve the Opposing Spouse
- Custody/Support Hearings
- Final Court Decree
Forms Required
- Divorce or Dissolution Form
- Child Custody Forms
- Child Support & Spousal Support Worksheets
Fees
- Divorce Filing Fee: $300–$400
- Custody Modification Fee: Around $150
How to Check in Docket
Search using DR (Divorce) or DV (Domestic Violence).
Some details may be limited for privacy.
4 : Traffic Cases
Why It Happens
Traffic cases occur due to violations such as:
- Speeding
- Driving Without License
- Reckless Operation
- OVI/DUI
Process
- Citation Issued
- Ticket filed with Municipal Court
- Defendant pays or requests a hearing
- Hearing & Judgment
Forms Required
- Traffic Ticket/Citation
- Not Guilty Plea Form (if contesting)
Fees
- Minor Violations: $100–$250
- Serious Offenses: $300+ or possible license suspension
How to Check in Docket
Search using TR or TRD.
The docket shows: citation number, charge, fines, and due dates.
5 : Probate / Estate Cases
Why It Happens
Probate matters include:
- Estate settlement after someone dies
- Guardianship of a minor or adult
- Name changes
- Wills & trusts filings
Process
- Petition Filed
- Submit Will / Death Certificate
- Hearing Held
- Appointment of Executor or Guardian
- Final Distribution / Approval
Forms Required
- Probate Application
- Guardianship Forms
- Estate Inventory Forms
Fees
- Filing Fee: $200–$300
- Certified Copies: $2 per page
How to Check in Docket
Search using prefixes PR, ES, or GC.
You’ll see estate name, executor details, and filings.
6 : Juvenile Cases
Why It Happens
Juvenile cases involve individuals under 18 involved in:
- Delinquency
- Abuse / Neglect / Dependency
- Juvenile Traffic
- Custody or Guardianship
Process
- Complaint Filed
- Preliminary Hearing
- Supervision / Counseling Orders
- Final Disposition
Forms Required
- Juvenile Complaint Form
- Guardianship / Consent Forms
Fees
- Filing Fee: $100–$150
- Copies: $0.10 per page
How to Check in Docket
Search with JV codes.
Privacy restrictions may hide full details.
7 : Small Claims Cases
Why It Happens
These involve disputes under $6,000, typically:
- Unpaid bills
- Damaged property
- Contract issues
- Landlord-tenant money disputes
Process
- Small Claims Complaint Filed
- Short Hearing Scheduled
- Defendant Responds
- Judge Issues Decision Quickly
Forms Required
- Small Claims Complaint
- Notice to Defendant
Fees
- Filing Fee: Up to $100
- Additional Service Fee: $20–$30
How to Check in Docket
Look for cases beginning with SC.
8 : Housing / Landlord-Tenant Cases
Why It Happens
These cases involve:
- Evictions
- Rent disputes
- Security deposit disagreements
- Property damage claims
Process
- Eviction Complaint Filed
- Tenant Served Notice
- Court Hearing
- Judgment (Eviction or Payment Order)
Forms Required
- Eviction (Forcible Entry) Form
- Rent Escrow Form
Fees
- Filing Fee: $125–$175
- Writ of Restitution: $35–$50
How to Check in Docket
Search for CVG, LM, or LT codes.
9 : Appeals
Why It Happens
If a person disagrees with a decision from Municipal or Common Pleas Court, they file an appeal.
Process
- Notice of Appeal Filed
- Court Sends Record to Higher Court
- Briefs from Both Sides
- Appellate Court Decision
Forms Required
- Notice of Appeal Form
- Statement of Error Form
- (Sometimes) Property Valuation Complaint (DTE Form)
Fees
- Appeal Filing Fee: $150–$200
- Transcript Fees: $2–$3 per page
How to Check in Docket
Search using CA (Court of Appeals).
How to Check Any Case Type in Columbiana County Court Docket
Step-by-Step Guide
- Visit the Columbiana County Court Docket Search page.
- Enter one of these:
- Case Number (CR, CV, DR, TR, PR, JV, SC, CA)
- Party Name
- Filing Date
- Case Number (CR, CV, DR, TR, PR, JV, SC, CA)
- Click Search.
- View details like case type, parties, and next hearing.
- Download or print docket information if needed.
Pro Tip
Always check the case prefix — it instantly tells you the case category.
Conclusion
Columbiana County handles a wide range of cases including criminal, civil, family, traffic, probate, juvenile, small claims, housing, and appeals.
Understanding the process, fees, and required forms helps you navigate the court system easily and ensures your rights remain protected.
How do I check my case status in Columbiana County?
Use the online docket search and look up by case number or party name.
Where can I get Columbiana County court forms?
Forms are available on the Clerk of Courts website or at the courthouse.
What fees apply?
Fees vary:
Traffic: $100–$300+
Civil: $150–$250
Probate: Varies by estate
Appeals: $150–$200
How do I file a Not Guilty Plea?
Submit a Not Guilty Plea form to the appropriate court (usually Municipal).
Can I appeal a decision?
Yes file a Notice of Appeal and follow the appellate process.