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JUDGE PATRICK J. GALLAGHER

FORCIBLE ENTRY AND DETAINER INFORMATION SHEET

If you are filing an action in Forcible Entry and Detainer, you are asking the Court to evict a party/parties from your premises. 

1. The case begins with the plaintiff/landlord filing a complaint for forcible entry and detainer with the Clerk of Court.
2. The filing fee is $150.00 if filing a first cause of action. An additional $10.00 for each additional defendant.
3. You must file the original complaint and 4 copies of the original complaint for each person being evicted. (i.e., if you have 2 defendants – you must file the original complaint and eight copies of it).
4. Once the complaint is filed and processed you will be sent a hearing notice as to when your case will be heard. 
5. At the hearing, the Ohio Rules of Evidence and the applicable Ohio Rules of Civil Procedure will apply.
6. If restitution is granted and the defendant(s) fail to vacate the premises you will have to file a Writ of Restitution by filing a Praecipe for a Writ of Restitution with the Clerk of Court. A $25.00 fee applies.
7. If a move out is scheduled, a bonded mover must be hired and the defendant’s property must be stored for 30 days.

The Clerk’s office is available to help you process paperwork in your case only. However, the Clerk’s office is not permitted to give any advice regarding information that must be contained in your complaint. By law, the Clerk’s office IS NOT permitted to give any legal information or advice. If you have any legal questions contact a licensed attorney.