The Trumbull County Clerk of Courts is at 161 High Street NW, Warren, OH 44481. It’s a key place for legal and administrative services. These include managing court records, title services, and making documents public.
Clerk Randy Law leads the office, open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. It offers services like filing documents, issuing writs, and handling vehicle and watercraft titles.
This article will guide you through the roles, services, and processes of the Trumbull County Clerk of Courts. It’s a detailed guide for locals and visitors needing help.
What Is the Trumbull County Clerk of Courts?
The Clerk of Courts in Trumbull County is an elected official. They keep court records and make legal documents public. The office deals with civil, criminal, and domestic relations cases. It’s a vital resource for filing paperwork, accessing records, or processing titles in Warren, Ohio.
History of the Trumbull County Courthouse
The Trumbull County Courthouse is at High Street and Mahoning Avenue. It was built in 1896 after a fire destroyed the old courthouse. It’s the largest Common Pleas courtroom in Ohio. The building, listed on the National Historical Register, has the Clerk of Courts office on the first floor.
Key Services Offered by the Clerk of Courts
The Trumbull County Clerk of Courts offers many services to support the judicial system and public needs. Here are some main services:
- Court Document Filing: Handles filings for civil, criminal, and domestic relations cases.
- Public Records Access: Provides access to court records, either online or in-person.
- Title Services: Manages vehicle and watercraft title transfers and registrations.
- Passport Services: Processes passport applications on the fifth floor of the Administration Building.
- E-Filing Support: Offers electronic filing for attorneys and self-represented litigants.
Court Record Management
The Clerk of Courts keeps and organizes court records for various cases. This includes civil lawsuits, felony criminal cases, and domestic relations matters. Records are stored securely and can be accessed by the public. Some may require fees or in-person visits.
How to Access Court Records
To access court records, visit the Clerk of Courts office at 161 High Street NW or use the online portal at clerk.co.trumbull.oh.us. You may need to provide case numbers or party names for searches. Some records, like older ones, may only be available in person.
Trumbull County Jail Inmate Search
For inmate information, the Trumbull County jail inmate search is not managed by the Clerk of Courts. It’s available through the Trumbull County Sheriff’s Office website or by calling (330) 675-2508. The Clerk’s office may provide court records related to an inmate’s case, such as charges or court dates, upon request.
Title Office Services
The Trumbull County Clerk of Courts Title Office is on the first floor of the Administration Building. It handles vehicle and watercraft title services. Residents can register vehicles, transfer titles, or obtain duplicates. The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Vehicle Title Requirements
To register a vehicle or transfer a title, you’ll need:
- Proof of ownership (e.g., current title).
- Valid photo ID.
- Payment for fees (e.g., $16 for duplicate titles, $50 for salvage titles).
- Notarized documents for title transfers.
Fees for Title Services
The Title Office charges specific fees for its services. Below is a table outlining common fees:
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Duplicate Title | $16.00 |
| Salvage Title Conversion | $50.00 |
| Late Title Application | $5.00 |
| Title Transfer | Varies |
For more details, contact the Title Office at (330) 675-2407.
E-Filing and Modernization Efforts
The Clerk of Courts introduced e-filing for foreclosure cases as a pilot project. It expanded to other civil cases. This system allows attorneys and self-represented litigants to file documents electronically, improving efficiency.
Free webinars, hosted with the Trumbull County Bar Association, help users navigate the system.
Passport Services
The Clerk of Courts processes passport applications on the fifth floor of the Administration Building. Applicants need to bring a completed application, proof of identity, and a passport photo. The office does not provide photo services, so photos must be obtained elsewhere.
Call (330) 675-2557 to schedule an appointment.
Role in the Judicial System
The Clerk of Courts works closely with the Trumbull County Court of Common Pleas. This includes General, Family, and Probate Divisions. The office ensures all filings, such as pleadings or motions, are properly recorded and accessible to judges, attorneys, and the public.
It also issues writs and manages court schedules.
Trumbull County Court Structure
Trumbull County has multiple courts, each with specific roles:
- Common Pleas Court: Handles felony criminal cases, civil lawsuits, and domestic relations.
- Probate Court: Manages estates, guardianships, and marriage licenses.
- Municipal Courts: Address misdemeanor, traffic, and small claims cases in Warren, Girard, and Niles.
- Central District Court: Serves Cortland and surrounding areas for specific cases.
Contact Information and Hours
The Clerk of Courts office is located at 161 High Street NW, Warren, OH 44481. It operates Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and is closed on weekends and holidays. For inquiries, call (330) 675-2557 or visit clerk.co.trumbull.oh.us.
How to File Court Documents
To file documents, visit the Clerk’s office or use the e-filing system. Ensure all paperwork is complete and includes required fees. Self-represented litigants can use dedicated computer stations at the courthouse, funded by an Ohio Supreme Court grant.
Marriage Licenses and Probate Court
While the Clerk of Courts does not issue marriage licenses, the Trumbull County Probate Court, located nearby, handles them. Applicants need photo ID and, if previously married, a divorce decree or death certificate. The fee is $44, payable in cash or by credit card with a $3 processing fee.
Public Records and Transparency
The Clerk of Courts ensures public access to court records, promoting transparency. Most records are available online, but sensitive documents may require in-person requests. Fees may apply for copies, and users must comply with Ohio’s public records laws.
Trumbull County Courthouse Features
The courthouse’s Richardson Romanesque design includes Amherst sandstone and ornate courtrooms. Courtroom No. 1, the largest in Ohio, features oak paneling and Renaissance-style decor. The building also has restored brass thermostats and original furniture.
Common Pleas Court Collaboration
The Clerk of Courts works closely with the Common Pleas Court. Judges like Peter J. Kontos and Andrew D. Logan lead the court. The office handles case filings and ensures court operations run smoothly.
It also supports mediation programs. Magistrates like Anthony M. Cornicelli lead these efforts.
Title Transfer Process
To transfer a title, both parties need to sign with a notary. You must show proof of ownership and pay fees. If you’re late, there’s a $5 fee.
Contact the Title Office for more details.
Fees for Court Services
Court services come with fees. Here’s a table of common fees:
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Civil Case Filing | Varies |
| Copy of Court Record | $0.10/page |
| Certified Copy | $1.00/page |
| Writ Issuance | Varies |
Contact the Clerk’s office for exact fees.
Community Involvement
The Clerk of Courts works with local groups, like the Trumbull County Bar Association. They aim to educate the public about legal matters. Staff, including Clerk Randy Law, are involved in community projects.
The courthouse is at Courthouse Square, off Mahoning Avenue. The Clerk’s office is on the first floor. The Title Department and Passport Office are in the Administration Building across the street.
Signs help visitors find their way.
Online Resources and Tools
The Clerk’s website, clerk.co.trumbull.oh.us, has tools like case searches and e-filing. You can find forms for civil filings or title transfers. The site is updated regularly.
Juvenile and Family Court Support
The Trumbull County Family Clerk of Courts helps with juvenile and domestic cases. It offers resources for families dealing with legal issues. This includes custody or child support disputes.
Tips for Visiting the Clerk of Courts
- Bring a valid photo ID for all transactions.
- Check the office hours before visiting.
- Use the online portal for faster record searches.
- Call ahead to confirm fees and required documents.
- Schedule passport appointments in advance.
Challenges and Solutions
Visitors sometimes face long wait times or complex filing. The Clerk’s office offers e-filing and staff help. They also provide webinars and community outreach.
Importance of the Clerk of Courts
The Clerk of Courts makes sure the judicial system works well. It provides access to justice for everyone. The office manages records, facilitates filings, and offers title services.
Its role in Trumbull County is vital.
Future of the Clerk’s Office
The Clerk of Courts is modernizing, with plans for more e-filing and online access. Grant funding helps with technology upgrades. These efforts aim to make services quicker and more accessible.
Conclusion
The Trumbull County Clerk of Courts in Warren, Ohio, is key to the local justice system. It handles court records, title processing, and passport applications. The office is at 161 High Street NW, led by Randy Law.
It aims for transparency and public service. Whether you need to file a case, search records, or transfer a title, they help. For help, visit clerk.co.trumbull.oh.us or call (330) 675-2557.
Also, check out the historic courthouse. It shows the office’s important role in the community.
