Trumbull County Court Records

What Is Trumbull County Court Records

Trumbull County court records encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's court system. These records serve as the comprehensive documentation of judicial activities and are maintained pursuant to Ohio Revised Code § 149.43, which governs public records in the state.

Court records in Trumbull County typically include:

• Case files containing pleadings, motions, and other filed documents
• Docket sheets chronicling case events and filings
• Court orders and judgments
• Hearing and trial transcripts
• Evidence and exhibits admitted during proceedings
• Sentencing information in criminal matters
• Settlement agreements in civil cases
• Jury verdicts and judicial opinions

These records differ from other public records such as property deeds, vital statistics (birth, death, marriage certificates), and tax records, which are maintained by other county departments. Court records specifically document judicial proceedings and decisions rendered by the courts.

The Trumbull County Clerk of Courts maintains records for the following courts within the county:

• Trumbull County Court of Common Pleas (General Division)
• Domestic Relations Division
• Juvenile Division
• Probate Division
• County Courts (Eastern, Central, and Western Districts)

Court records encompass a wide range of case types including civil litigation, criminal prosecutions, domestic relations matters, probate proceedings, juvenile cases, and traffic violations. The specific content and accessibility of these records vary based on case type and applicable confidentiality laws.

Are Court Records Public In Trumbull County

Court records in Trumbull County are generally public documents accessible to citizens under both the Ohio Public Records Act and the common law right of access to judicial records. The Ohio Constitution and state statutes establish a presumption of openness for court proceedings and their associated records.

Under Ohio Revised Code § 149.43(B)(1), "all public records shall be promptly prepared and made available for inspection to any person at all reasonable times during regular business hours." This statute applies to court records with certain exceptions.

Publicly accessible court records typically include:

• Civil case files (complaints, answers, motions, orders)
• Criminal case files after formal charges are filed
• Judgments, orders, and judicial opinions
• Docket sheets listing case events and filings
• Court calendars and hearing schedules
• Property records related to judgments and liens

However, not all court records are publicly accessible. The following categories of records may be sealed, redacted, or restricted:

• Juvenile court records (with limited exceptions)
• Adoption proceedings
• Mental health commitment records
• Records sealed by court order
• Documents containing sensitive personal identifiers
• Grand jury proceedings
• Cases involving minors as victims
• Certain domestic violence and protection order cases

Access to federal court records in Ohio differs from state court records and is governed by federal rules. The Ohio Supreme Court Rules of Superintendence provide additional guidance on public access to court records throughout the state, including Trumbull County.

How To Find Court Records in Trumbull County in 2026

Members of the public seeking court records in Trumbull County may utilize several methods to locate and access these documents. The county maintains multiple access points for record retrieval:

In-Person Requests:

• Visit the Trumbull County Clerk of Courts office during regular business hours
• Complete a public records request form specifying the desired records
• Provide case numbers or party names to facilitate record location
• Pay applicable copy fees for document reproduction

Trumbull County Clerk of Courts
160 High Street NW
Warren, OH 44481
(330) 675-2557
Trumbull County Clerk of Courts

Mail Requests:

• Submit a written request to the appropriate court clerk
• Include specific case information and document descriptions
• Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope for response
• Include payment for applicable fees (call ahead to confirm amount)

Online Access:

• Utilize the Trumbull County Clerk's online case search portal
• Access the Ohio Courts Network for statewide case information
• Search for specific cases using party names, case numbers, or filing dates
• Download available documents (fees may apply for certain documents)

For specialized court divisions, contact the specific court directly:

Trumbull County Probate Court
161 High Street NW
Warren, OH 44481
(330) 675-2521
Trumbull County Probate Court

Trumbull County Juvenile Court
220 Main Avenue SW
Warren, OH 44481
(330) 675-2560
Trumbull County Juvenile Court

When requesting records, be prepared to provide identification and pay applicable fees for copies. Current copy fees are $1.00 per page for standard documents, with additional charges for certified copies and specialized records.

How To Look Up Court Records in Trumbull County Online?

Trumbull County offers several digital platforms for accessing court records online. These systems provide convenient remote access to case information and, in some instances, complete document images.

The primary online resources include:

Trumbull County Clerk of Courts Case Search:

• Access the Clerk's online portal
• Search by case number, party name, or attorney
• View case dockets, party information, and scheduled events
• Access document images for many civil and criminal cases
• Monitor case status and review judgment information

Ohio Courts Network (OCN):

• Visit the Ohio Courts Network
• Create a user account if required
• Search across multiple Ohio courts simultaneously
• Access case information from courts throughout the state
• View basic case details and docket information

Specialized Court Portals:

• Probate Court records: Trumbull County Probate Court
• Domestic Relations cases: Domestic Relations Division
• Traffic and minor criminal cases: County Court Case Search

When using these online systems:

1. Begin with the most specific information available (case number is ideal)
2. Use exact name spellings when possible
3. Narrow searches by date ranges to manage results
4. Be aware that some documents may not be available online due to confidentiality restrictions
5. Note that certain documents may require in-person requests

Online access is generally available 24/7, though system maintenance may occasionally limit availability. Technical support for online systems is typically available during regular business hours by contacting the respective court clerk's office.

How To Search Trumbull County Court Records for Free?

Ohio law guarantees the public's right to inspect court records without charge, as established in Ohio Revised Code § 149.43(B)(1). While fees may apply for copies or certified documents, viewing records is free of charge.

Free access options in Trumbull County include:

In-Person Inspection:

• Visit the Trumbull County Clerk of Courts during business hours
• Request to view specific case files at public terminals
• No fee is charged for viewing records on-site
• Take notes or use personal devices to photograph documents (where permitted)

Trumbull County Clerk of Courts
160 High Street NW
Warren, OH 44481
(330) 675-2557
Trumbull County Clerk of Courts

Free Online Resources:

• Basic case information is available at no cost through the Trumbull County Clerk's website
• Docket information and case status can be viewed without fees
• The Ohio Courts Network provides free basic case information
• Court calendars and hearing schedules are freely accessible online

Public Access Terminals:

• Computer terminals at the courthouse provide free access to electronic records
• Available during regular business hours
• May offer more comprehensive access than remote online systems
• Staff assistance is available for terminal operation

While basic record searches are free, be aware that:

• Document printing from public terminals incurs copy fees
• Certified copies require payment of certification fees
• Extensive research assistance may not be available without charge
• Some specialized searches may require staff assistance and associated fees

The Trumbull County Law Library also provides free access to certain legal resources and may assist with locating publicly available court information.

What's Included in a Trumbull County Court Record?

Trumbull County court records contain comprehensive documentation of legal proceedings. The specific contents vary by case type but generally include the following components:

Case Initiation Documents:

• Complaints or petitions that commence civil actions
• Indictments or information in criminal cases
• Summonses and service of process documentation
• Initial appearances and arraignment records
• Filing fee receipts and case assignment notices

Pleadings and Motions:

• Answers, counterclaims, and cross-claims
• Pretrial motions (dismissal, summary judgment, etc.)
• Discovery-related filings and disputes
• Evidentiary motions and rulings
• Post-trial motions and appeals notices

Court Orders and Judgments:

• Temporary restraining orders and preliminary injunctions
• Scheduling orders and continuances
• Evidentiary rulings and sanctions
• Final judgments and decrees
• Post-judgment collection documents

Evidentiary Materials:

• Witness lists and expert designations
• Exhibit lists and admitted evidence
• Deposition transcripts filed with the court
• Affidavits and sworn statements
• Documentary evidence entered into the record

Procedural Documentation:

• Docket sheets listing all case activities
• Hearing notices and court calendars
• Certificates of service
• Attorney appearances and withdrawals
• Court reporter notes and transcripts

Case-Specific Documents:

• Divorce decrees and parenting plans in domestic relations cases
• Probated wills and estate inventories in probate matters
• Sentencing information in criminal proceedings
• Guardian ad litem reports in juvenile cases
• Settlement agreements in resolved civil matters

Court records also typically include party information, attorney details, financial transactions related to the case, and documentation of compliance with court orders. Pursuant to Ohio Supreme Court Rules of Superintendence Rule 44, certain personal identifiers are redacted from publicly accessible versions of these records.

How Long Does Trumbull County Keep Court Records?

Trumbull County maintains court records according to retention schedules established by the Ohio Supreme Court under Rules of Superintendence 26 through 26.05. These schedules vary by record type and court division.

Common Pleas Court - General Division:

• Felony case files: 50 years after final disposition
• Civil case files: 15 years after final disposition
• Domestic relations cases: 25 years after final disposition
• Index and docket records: Permanent retention
• Journal entries: Permanent retention
• Evidence and exhibits: Until appeals exhausted plus 60 days

County Courts (Misdemeanor and Traffic):

• Misdemeanor cases: 5 years after final disposition
• Traffic cases: 5 years after final disposition
• Small claims: 5 years after final disposition
• Civil cases: 15 years after final disposition
• Index and docket records: 25 years
• OVI (Operating Vehicle Impaired) cases: 50 years

Probate Court:

• Estate administration: 12 years after final account
• Guardianships: 5 years after termination
• Adoptions: Permanent retention
• Marriage licenses: Permanent retention
• Wills: Permanent retention

Juvenile Court:

• Delinquency and unruly cases: Until child's 21st birthday
• Juvenile traffic offenders: 5 years after final disposition
• Permanent custody cases: Permanent retention
• Abuse, neglect, dependency: 2 years after child turns 18

These retention periods are established pursuant to Ohio Revised Code § 2301.18, which mandates that clerks of courts maintain complete records of all proceedings. After the retention period expires, records may be transferred to microfilm, electronic storage, or destroyed according to approved procedures.

Certain records of historical significance may be transferred to the Ohio History Connection (formerly Ohio Historical Society) for permanent preservation rather than being destroyed. Additionally, index records are typically maintained for longer periods than the underlying case files to provide reference capability.

Types of Courts In Trumbull County

Trumbull County's judicial system consists of several courts with distinct jurisdictions and responsibilities:

Trumbull County Court of Common Pleas - General Division
161 High Street NW
Warren, OH 44481
(330) 675-2557
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Trumbull County Court of Common Pleas

Trumbull County Court of Common Pleas - Domestic Relations Division
161 High Street NW, 2nd Floor
Warren, OH 44481
(330) 675-2385
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Domestic Relations Division

Trumbull County Court of Common Pleas - Juvenile Division
220 Main Avenue SW
Warren, OH 44481
(330) 675-2560
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Juvenile Division

Trumbull County Court of Common Pleas - Probate Division
161 High Street NW, 4th Floor
Warren, OH 44481
(330) 675-2521
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Probate Division

Trumbull County Eastern District Court
7130 Brookwood Drive
Brookfield, OH 44403
(330) 448-5583
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM
County Courts

Trumbull County Central District Court
180 North Park Avenue
Warren, OH 44481
(330) 675-2555
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM
County Courts

Trumbull County Western District Court
3954 West Market Street
Cortland, OH 44410
(330) 637-5007
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM
County Courts

The court hierarchy in Ohio proceeds from local courts (Municipal/County Courts) to the Court of Common Pleas, then to the Eleventh District Court of Appeals (which serves Trumbull County), and finally to the Ohio Supreme Court. Each level has progressively broader authority to review decisions from lower courts.

What Types of Cases Do Trumbull County Courts Hear?

Trumbull County's court system handles a diverse range of legal matters, with each court division addressing specific case types according to statutory jurisdiction:

Court of Common Pleas - General Division:

• Felony criminal prosecutions
• Civil cases with claims exceeding $15,000
• Administrative appeals
• Real property disputes
• Complex commercial litigation
• Post-conviction relief petitions
• Civil protection orders
• Foreclosure proceedings

Court of Common Pleas - Domestic Relations Division:

• Divorce and dissolution proceedings
• Legal separation cases
• Spousal support determinations
• Child custody and visitation matters
• Child support establishment and enforcement
• Domestic violence civil protection orders
• Post-decree modifications
• Paternity determinations

Court of Common Pleas - Juvenile Division:

• Delinquency cases involving minors
• Unruly child proceedings
• Juvenile traffic offenses
• Abuse, neglect, and dependency cases
• Permanent custody determinations
• Juvenile civil protection orders
• Emancipation petitions
• Juvenile bindover hearings for serious offenses

Court of Common Pleas - Probate Division:

• Estate administration
• Will contests
• Guardianships for minors and incompetent adults
• Conservatorships
• Adoptions
• Name changes
• Marriage licenses
• Mental health commitments

County Courts (Eastern, Central, and Western Districts):

• Misdemeanor criminal cases
• Traffic violations
• Civil cases with claims up to $15,000
• Small claims matters (up to $6,000)
• Preliminary hearings in felony cases
• Eviction proceedings
• Ordinance violations
• Limited protection orders

Case assignment follows jurisdictional boundaries established by the Ohio Revised Code, with certain matters exclusively reserved for specific courts. Appeals from County Courts and the Court of Common Pleas are directed to the Eleventh District Court of Appeals, which serves Trumbull and four other northeastern Ohio counties.

How To Find a Court Docket In Trumbull County

Court dockets in Trumbull County provide chronological listings of all actions taken in a case. These essential records are accessible through multiple channels:

Online Docket Access:

• Visit the Trumbull County Clerk of Courts website
• Select the appropriate court division from the menu
• Enter search criteria (case number, party name, filing date)
• Review the resulting docket sheet showing all case events
• Access linked documents where available

In-Person Docket Review:

• Visit the clerk's office for the relevant court division
• Request docket information at the public service counter
• Provide case number or party names to facilitate search
• Review docket information on public access terminals
• Request printed copies of docket entries (fees apply)

Specialized Docket Searches:

• Criminal cases: Trumbull County Prosecutor's Office maintains case tracking
• Probate matters: Probate Court case search
• Domestic Relations: Domestic Relations Division search
• County Court cases: County Courts docket search

Daily Court Calendars:

• Current day's hearings are posted outside courtrooms
• Weekly schedules available at clerk's offices
• Some courts publish calendars on their websites
• Attorney docket lists available through court administration

When searching for docket information, note that:

1. Case numbering follows a year-specific format (e.g., 2026-CV-001234)
2. Party names should be searched using last name first
3. Some older cases may not be fully available in electronic systems
4. Sealed or confidential cases have restricted docket access
5. Docket terminology varies by court division

For assistance with docket searches, contact the appropriate clerk's office directly. Staff cannot provide legal advice but can help locate publicly available docket information.

Which Courts in Trumbull County Are Not Courts of Record?

In Ohio's judicial system, "courts of record" maintain complete, verbatim documentation of proceedings, while "courts not of record" maintain only limited documentation. This distinction is established by Ohio Revised Code § 1901.01 and related statutes.

In Trumbull County, all currently operating courts are classified as courts of record, including:

• Trumbull County Court of Common Pleas (all divisions)
• Trumbull County Eastern District Court
• Trumbull County Central District Court
• Trumbull County Western District Court

These courts maintain comprehensive records of all proceedings, including:

• Verbatim transcripts of hearings when requested
• Complete documentation of evidence presented
• Detailed journal entries and orders
• Preservation of all filed documents

Historically, some limited jurisdiction courts in Ohio operated as courts not of record, including:

• Mayor's courts (handling minor ordinance violations)
• Justice of the peace courts (abolished in Ohio in 1957)
• Certain municipal courts prior to statutory reforms

While mayor's courts continue to operate in some Ohio municipalities, they are not present in Trumbull County. Mayor's courts, when they exist, are not courts of record pursuant to Ohio Revised Code § 1905.01 and maintain only summary documentation rather than verbatim records.

The distinction between courts of record and courts not of record affects:

• Appeal procedures (appeals from courts not of record typically involve trials de novo)
• Record preservation requirements
• Evidentiary value of court documentation
• Procedural formality and rules

All Trumbull County courts maintain records according to the Ohio Rules of Superintendence and are subject to the same record retention requirements applicable to courts of record throughout Ohio.

Lookup Court Records in Trumbull County