FRANKLIN COUNTY MUNICIPAL COURT
Columbus, Ohio
NINETY-THIRD
ANNUAL REPORT
2008
2
FRANKLIN COUNTY MUNICIPAL COURT CLERK’S OFFICE
INTRODUCTION
LETTER FROM THE CLERK
OFFICE OF THE CLERK OF COURT AND MISSION STATEMENT
HISTORY OF THE COURT
FRANKLIN COUNTY MUNICIPAL COURT ORGANIZATION
SECTION 1
FRANKLIN COUNTY MUNICIPAL COURT CLERK OF COURT STAFF
ORGANIZATIONAL CHART
FUNDING OF THE FRANKLIN COUNTY MUNICIPAL COURT CLERK’S OFFICE
SECTION 2
CLERK ADMINISTRATION DIVISION
SECTION 3
OFFICE OF INFORMATION SERVICES
SECTION 4
QUALITY CONTROL DIVISION
SECTION 5
COLLECTION DIVISION
SECTION 6
CIVIL DIVISION
SECTION 7
CRIMINAL DIVISION
COURTROOM SERVICE GROUP
ENVIRONMENTAL AND EXPUNGEMENTS
LIVE SCAN
SECTION 8
TRAFFIC VIOLATIONS BUREAU AND CORRESPONDENCE
SECTION 9
ACCOUNTING/FINANCE DIVISION
SECTION 10
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
3
FRANKLIN COUNTY MUNICIPAL COURT
SECTION 11
LETTER FROM ADMINISTRATIVE JUDGE
FRANKLIN COUNTY MUNICIPAL COURT ANNUAL REPORT 2008
SECTION 12
MAGISTRATES
COURTROOM BAILIFFS
COURT ADMINISTRATION
COURT INVESTIGATION
COURT SECURITY PROGRAM
INTERPRETER SERVICES
VEHICLE IMMOBILIZATION PROGRAM
VOLUNTEER SERVICES PROGRAM
ASSIGNMENT OFFICE
COURT REPORTERS
JURY COMMISSIONER’S OFFICE
LEGAL RESEARCH
DEPARTMENT OF PROBATION SERVICES
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE UNIT
SPECIALIZED PROBATION SUPERVISION PROGRAMS
INVESTIGATION SERVICES
SUPERVISED COMMUNITY SERVICE
RESTITUTION PROGRAM
THE PROVIDED-NO-CONVICTIONS PROGRAM (PNC)
SUPPORT SERVICES
SERVICE BAILIFFS
SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION PROGRAM
4
Letter from Clerk Lori M. Tyack
Welcome to the Ninety-Third Annual Report of the Franklin County Municipal Clerk’s Office. Over the past
ninety-three years a Clerk’s Office report has been released annually to the public. It is important to note that
this report is more than a reporting of raw statistics, it is an effective measurement of the efficiency of the
Clerk’s Office.
During 2008, our main focus has been to improve accessibility to the Clerk’s office. This has been
accomplished with the implementation of the IVR (Interactive Voice Response System). The IVR system was
designed to provide information to the public via voice prompts. An individual may obtain information such
as court date, time, location, fine amount and warrant information.
A concentrated effort has been made to improve the accuracy and efficiency in handling and processing court
documents. We have imaged all documents from 1992 to 2005. Day forward imaging of documents in
Criminal/Traffic and the Civil Division will be a priority for 2009.
In 2007 the Electronic Ticket (E-ticket) pilot project was developed to provide law enforcement agencies with
software to create traffic tickets using mobile computers in their cruisers. After creation of the ticket, an
electronic download and an image of the ticket is sent from the cruiser to the Clerk’s Office. This information
populates required fields in CourtView for the creation of a traffic case. One thousand nine hundred and one
(1,901) electronic tickets have been created since March 17, 2008. Unfortunately, due to budget constraints
the exportation of E-Citation data and image files were temporarily suspended as of December 29,
2008. However, 202 image files have been manually attached to cases since that date.
Since March 12, 2007, 8,317 defendants have been processed at the Fingerprint Station located directly next to
Courtroom 4C on the fourth floor of the Municipal Court Building. The average number of defendants
fingerprinted daily was nineteen (19). There have been 6,613 defendants fingerprinted for OVI traffic offenses,
both state and local ordinances and 1,704 defendants have been fingerprinted for Criminal misdemeanor
offenses. (140 felony charges are included in this count). However, due to budget constraints the Fingerprint
Station closed on February 6, 2009.
The Mission of the Clerk’s Office is to accurately maintain, safeguard and store all Court documents. Meetings
regarding the Retention Schedule with the City of Columbus Records Commission are attended by
staff. Safeguarding and securing personal information is an ongoing priority of this office. All copies of court
documents printed by this office are reviewed and redacted to secure all private information in order to deter
identity theft.
As Clerk, my commitment is to continue to find new ways to improve our operations and to cultivate
cooperation with other Government agencies and the community. Through my community outreach program I
have met with various community groups to educate them about the Clerk’s Office. I have made myself
available to listen to their issues and concerns as they try to navigate their way through the Court system. The
Clerk’s Office will continue to strive to educate constituents and taxpayers on the critical court and public
services the Clerk’s Office provides. I believe by educating the public and building cooperation with other
agencies, we may better serve all who depend on this office for accurate recordkeeping.
Lori M. Tyack, Clerk
Franklin County Municipal Court
5
The Clerk’s Office is entrusted with the responsibility of processing and archiving all
Court records in accordance with file retention requirements established by the Supreme
Court of Ohio. Additionally, the Clerk’s Office calculates and fully details all financial
transactions involving the Court. The Clerk’s Office compiles and publishes an Annual
Report each year that details the various categories of Court case filings and all financial
transactions connected with all Court cases, and statistically reports all relevant data
regarding the same.
OFFICE OF THE CLERK OF COURT
Lori M. Tyack, Clerk
MISSION STATEMENT
The Mission of the Franklin county Municipal Court clerk of Court’s Office is to
accurately maintain, safeguard and store all Court documents as well as collect and
disburse all monies as directed by legal mandates. This will be accomplished through
a knowledgeable and diverse staff that will strive to serve all who use this office
through competent customer service, communications and community outreach.
6
FRANKLIN COUNTY MUNICIPAL COURT
The Franklin County Municipal Court has jurisdiction over traffic citations, criminal misdemeanor charges and civil case
filings regarding disputes that range up to an amount of fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000.00), as well as actions
regarding building, health, housing or safety codes.
The Franklin County Municipal Court has county-wide jurisdiction and is divided into two (2) Divisions. The General
Division is served by fourteen (14) Municipal Judges and the Environmental Division is served by one (1) Municipal
Judge. Six (6) Magistrates also serve the Franklin County Municipal Court. Judges serve for a term of six (6) years.
COURT ADMINISTRATION
Administrative and Presiding Judge
Honorable Judge Carrie Glaeden
General Division Judges
Honorable Ted Barrow Honorable Paul M. Herbert
Honorable Andrea Peeples Honorable Anne Taylor
Honorable Janet A. Grubb Honorable James E. Green
Honorable Scott D.VanDerKarr Honorable H. William Pollitt, Jtr.
Honorable David B. Tyack Honorable Julia Dorrian
Honorable Amy Salerno Honorable Michael T. Brandt
Honorable W. Dwayne Maynard
Environment Division Judge
Honorable Harland H. Hale
Magistrates
Honorable Kathleen E. Graham Honorable David S. Jump
Honorable Mark A. Hummer Honorable Dennis R. Kimball
Honorable Antonio Paat Honorable Denise Mathews
Clerk of Court
Honorable Lori M. Tyack
Court Administrator
Keith Bartlett
7
FRANKLIN COUNTY MUNICIPAL COURT CLERK OF COURT STAFF 12/31/2008
Lori M. Tyack Clerk of Court
Obie Lucas Chief Deputy Clerk
Marilynn Stephens Director of Public Relations
Tommy McFerin Senior Advisor and Project Manager
Abbie Armitage Human Resource Manager
Michelle LaMarr Payroll Manager
Meagan McCabe Executive Assistant
Crystal Ross Fiscal Administrator
Ken Euman Assistant Fiscal Administrator
Roy Ball Director of Operations
Rita LaForrest Quality Control
Judy Vance Quality Control
Bob Condon/Melissa Messina Civil Division Manager
Julie Westcamp Assistant Manager, Civil Division
Matt Pendy Manager, Criminal/Traffic Division
Loren Ball Assistant Manager, Criminal/Traffic Division
Skip Peltier/Marisa Akamine Manager, Courtroom Services Group
Carly Albert Manager, Accounting/Finance Division
Mike Cherry Manager, Collection Division
Matt Hanna Manager, Office of Information Services
Sancha Young Traffic Violations/Communications Manager
Debra Jones Assistant Manager, Traffic Violations Bureau
Kim Mitchell Supervisor, Civil Division
Mike VanGundy Supervisor, Civil Division
Mindy Cody Supervisor, Civil Division
Brian Feldhaus Supervisor, Criminal/Traffic Division
Rick Kramer Supervisor, Criminal/Traffic Division
Jerome Kemp Supervisor, Criminal/Traffic Division
Mike Pizzurro Supervisor, 2nd Shift Criminal/Traffic Division
Colleen Peckens Supervisor, 2nd Shift Criminal/Traffic Division
Robyn Johnson Supervisor, 3rd Shift Criminal/Traffic Division
Rhonda Ferguson Supervisor, Accounting/Finance Division
Matt Davenport Supervisor, Accounting/Finance Division
Mark Hanson Supervisor, Office of Information Services
8
TABLE OF ORGANIZATION
Ticket
Initiation
Mail Room
1
st
Shift
2
nd
Shift
3
rd
Shift
Courtroom
Services
Group
Collection of
Unpaid Costs
Fines, BFs
Civil Filings
Civil File
Room
Collecting and
Disbursing
Monies
Various
Projects,
Reports, etc.
Serves the
Court and
Clerk’s Office
Clerk of Court
Traffic Violations
Communications
Manager
Criminal/Traffic
Manager
Collections
Manager
Civil
Manager
Accounting/
Finance
Manager
Quality Control
Manager
Office of
Information
Services
Manager
Chief Deputy Clerk
Administrative Division
Senior Advisor/Special Projects
Director of Public Relations
Human Resources Manager
Payroll Manager
Director of Operations
Fiscal Administrator
Assistant Fiscal Administrator
Assistant Manager Assistant Managers
9
MUNICIPAL COURT CLERK’S OFFICE 2008 GENERAL FUND
¾ Personnel Services $9,236,140
¾ Materials and Supplies 130,050
¾ Services for Operations and Maintenance 920,041
¾ Other 2,146
¾ Total $10,288,377
MUNICIPAL COURT CLERK’S OFFICE 2008 SPECIAL REVENUE FUND
¾ Personnel Services $ 693,313
¾ Materials and Supplies 51,362
¾ Services for Operations and Maintenance 663,148
¾ Other Expenditures ---------
¾ Capital Outlay 408,754
¾ Transfer Out-Operating 311,267
¾ Total $ 2, 127,844
10
The Administrative Division of the Clerk’s Office is comprised of the Office of the
Clerk, Chief Deputy Clerk, Public Relations Director, Director of Operations, Senior
Staff Advisor/Special Projects, Fiscal Administration, Payroll, and Human
Resources which includes Training. This Division oversees the day to day functions
of the Clerk’s Office. Directives, implementation and control of communications and
public relations for both external and internal audiences, budget, programs,
contracts, projects, grants, and employees are guided by this Division.
In 2008 the following grants were applied to:
The purchase of two (2) LiveScan finger print machines to permit finger printing of
summonsed criminal defendants in the Courthouse; and a total 7, 860 defendants
were processed since March 12, 2007.
The project E-Ticket enables Law Enforcement to electronically write traffic tickets
and then send by electronic transmission to the Clerk’s Office; and a total of 1,901
cases were processed in CourtView from March 17, 2008 to December 29, 2008.
In 2008, the Administrative Division accomplished and completed the following
office-wide incentives:
The implementation of customer comment cards to solicit input through the public
which promotes our mission to serve the public through communication and
community outreach.
The creation of an office-wide newsletter to enhance communication, identify
challenges and promote changes within the divisions.
Continually offer training for staff and leadership to promote development through
the office and work in partnership with City-Wide Training and EAP to build a
knowledgeable staff.
The promotion of flexibility in office work hours to better serve the public and to
accommodate our diverse staff to efficiently achieve and maintain the high level of
productivity.
Continually reviewing and updating the records retention schedule.
11
¾ The Office of Information Services (OIS) provides technical support and services
to the Franklin County Municipal Court and Clerk’s Offices. OIS is responsible for
the operations of information systems including database and related technology
infrastructure. Accomplishments for OIS in 2008 are as follows:
¾ Procurement and installation new server hardware, replacing legacy systems.
¾ Inception of systems virtualization at both the server and desktop level.
¾ Implementation of Voice Over IP telecommunications (VOIP) systems.
¾ Continue to build upon remote clerking capabilities, providing remote access to our
case management systems at OSU games.
¾ Continuous improvement to network infrastructure.
¾ Inception of video recording systems for courtrooms.
12
The Quality Control (QC) Division operates to minimize
erroneous data through a system of real-time work flow
monitoring, audit reporting based on expected data and Total
Quality Management (TQM) strategies. Through the
implementation of continuous improvement and change
management programs, QC has elevated efforts to refine
business processes and is better positioned to leverage new
technology. The following items are a few of the proactive
measures taken to ensure a high level of quality and to identify
opportunities for improvement:
The Quality Incident Reporting (QIR) system was implemented
to provide all team members with the ability to report quality
related issues from the QC team. This system provides a
means for any user to submit issues and concerns to the QC
team to ensure that no issue goes unrecognized.
Automated QIR prioritization tools have been developed to
easily identify the most prevalent issues, allowing QC to spend
less time analyzing data and more time developing corrective
actions.
A standard approach was adopted to define the basic steps
necessary to identify high-priority issues, establish root cause,
develop corrective actions, and to assist management with
development of training plans relating to the issue.
Web based groupware applications were developed to help
management work with team members when personnel are
separated either geographically or by shift.
13
The Collection Division oversees and coordinates the collection of debts owed to
the Court, with the primary objective of seeking monies due to the City of
Columbus taxpayers. The Collection Division operates in conjunction with three
(3) outside agencies. Additionally, the Collection Division is responsible for
securing surety bond agent registration, monitoring compliance of State and
Local Statutes and processing monthly billing statements.
In 2008, the Collection Division:
Collected over $2.4 million dollars.
Continued generating past due notices in-house for payable tickets prior to being
sent to the collection agencies.
Started collecting monies due on Bond Forfeiture Judgments in conjunction with
Capital Recovery Systems.
Bond money forfeited by the Court for 2008 -- $105,299.25
Bond Forfeiture Judgments paid for 2008 -- $64,539.75
Managed billings and compliance of twenty-three (23) bond companies and over
one hundred thirty (130) surety agents.
$ 530,532.89$2,451,826.39$6,744,761.95TOTALS
$ 253,663.11$1,174,080.11$2,553,507.00DANA & PARISER
$ 20,704.90$ 87,032.50$ 526,348.00CAPITAL RECOVERY
Enforcement Cases
$ 10,644.85$ 64,539.75$1,037,234.25CAPITAL RECOVERY Bond
Forfeitures
$245,520.03$1,126,174.03$2,627,672.70LINEBARGER
COMMISSION
PAID 2008
TOTAL COLLECTED
2008
TOTAL AMOUNT SENT IN
2008
AGENCIES
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The Civil Division is responsible for accepting, filing, issuing service, docketing,
processing and maintaining records for civil cases. Civil cases include: contract
disputes; personal injury; property damage; evictions; small claims; certificate of
judgment transfers; foreclosures; declaratory judgments; housing and safety code
issues.
In 2008, the Civil Division accomplished the following:
Improved the imaging process at the pleadings desk by scanning all documents
filed on cases assigned to a Judge, and all dismissals and satisfactions.
Restructured the Civil Division to focus one desk on public customer service
therefore giving staff more time to process numerous filings.
Updated garnishment forms with instructions and forms available on the website.
15
61,20815,48315,66515,47214,588Total
3921471008362Civil Environmental
40004Red Light Appeal
8826232118Declaratory Judgment
35951011Certificate of Judgment
834192221206215BMV Petition
10001Parking Violation Bureau
8,4362,2532,0112,0362,136Small Claims
20,2215,1215,3815,1544,565Forcible Entry & Detainer (Evictions)
30,0827,4997,6517,6977,235Contracts, Notes and Accounts
1,115236273265341Personal Injury/Property Damage
Total4th Qtr.3rd Qtr.2
nd
Qtr.1st Qtr.
2008New Civil Case Filings
16
460,572116,284115,200116,534112,554Total
117,84229,23329,87430,56628,169Mail Payments Processed
14831693810Motion for Contempt Orders
20843315480Motion and Order for Show Cause
22924728152Civil Capias Warrants
2,452525702634591Judgment Debtors
480928986213Revivors of Judgment
22145406175Exemplified Copies
19,9314,8684,6575,2185,188Notice of Failed Service Issued
105,74926,99725,07726,92526,750Notice of Final Order Issued
5610121321Civil Appeals Processed
8031141421Transfers to Common Pleas Court
13,1383,3272,8223,5343,455Certificates of Judgment Issued
848303016Judgments Certified to the BMV
46412310690145Writs of Execution Issued
6817161817Writs of Replevin Issued
7,7532,1572,1131,8181,665Requests for Set Outs Processed
12,1813,3223,2962,9652,598Writs of Restitution Issued
4,6031,3859871,0711,160Garnishments Released
21,4775,4625,8634,8445,308Garnishments Issued
00000Express Mail
21100Registered Mail
45219411Service by Publication Issued
213369Sheriff Service Issued
863221282211149Process Server Service Issued
25,9566,5046,8846,7575,811Bailiff Service Issued
48,62212,26812,57612,31911,459Ordinary Mail Service Issued
77,89919,56619,57519,17719,581
Total4th Qtr.3rd Qtr.2nd Qtr.1st Qtr.Civil Ancillary Proceedings
17
The Criminal Traffic Division processes and maintains criminal, traffic, and environmental
cases. The Criminal/Traffic Division provides a multitude of services to the general public, law
enforcement and the Court.
This Division plays an integral role in the promotion of public safety by providing support twenty-
four (24) hours per day to law enforcement agencies throughout the county. Twenty-four (24) hour
support is necessary for the filing and processing of criminal complaints as well as the verification
of active warrants.
The Criminal/Traffic Division is also responsible for collection and disbursement of bail/bond
monies for defendants who are in custody. This process includes providing documentation to the
Franklin County Sheriff’s Office so that defendants may be released from custody. The
Criminal/Traffic Division is responsible for electronically reporting several types of violations to the
Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).
Daily, the Criminal/Traffic Division provides numerous services to assist the public, law
enforcement, court personnel, and the legal community. Some of these services include collecting
payment for court fines, or for posting bond. The Division also processes applications for the
Expungement of records, and maintains and secures records ordered expunged. Other examples
of service include administering oaths, accepting criminal and traffic charges, filing motions, filing
search warrants, providing information about court cases, dispositions, and future court dates, as
well as assisting in the courtroom.
Five Year Comparison of Charges Filed
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
Environmental 11,407 10,018 11,810 11,406 11,760
Criminal 47,594 47,594 47,949 46,933 43,541
Traffic 199,890 199,890 192,307 189,093 181,760
Total 258,891 257,507 252,066 247,432 237,061
18
In 2008, the Criminal/Traffic Division accomplished the following:
• Implemented a direct phone line between the Clerk of Courts office and the BMV to help service the BMV in a timelier
manner.
•Instituted a new procedure with the CPD robbery unit, allowing the CPD robbery unit to be contacted when their
defendant has been arrested.
•Created a file scanning system that works along with our remote clerking allowing us to better manage electronic data.
•Continued to develop ongoing imaging projects and established an imaging station.
•Established a new file check out system that ensures that all active case warrants are hand delivered to the Judge.
•Implemented imaging of all warrant issues. Also, imaging all complaints regardless of year with the following charges:
Aggravated menacing, Violation of a temporary protection order and Domestic Violence once slated.
•Collaborated with Ohio State Police, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, and the Columbus Police Department at all OSU
home football games for clerking support.
•Initiated the Criminal Traffic File Finder Tool to help assist in locating files that are required by court personnel and
clerk personnel.
•Constructed the Continued Enforcement finder to assist in locating cases that have outstanding fines and costs due.
•Began a remote clerking project with the Dublin police department.
•Held regularly scheduled meeting with the Probation Department and the Assignment Office to address issues and
concerns.
•Reorganized the physical structure of the Call Center by re-positioning individual work stations and included the
addition of a permanent Call Center training station. This created a more efficient, effective, and open work/training
environment.
•Restructured human capital on all 3 Shifts by creating Criminal Division Teams that were allocated to each area of the
production floor. This fostered a higher level of expertise, increased customer service, efficiency, and gave team
members a greater sense of pride as well as ownership in their work product.
•Divided staff into smaller work groups, allowing team leaders to better focus on training, increasing the level of
specialization within the division. This change gave team members a greater sense of ownership in the areas they
were working and increased the level of pride in the completed work product.
•Utilized the Citywide Training Classes, Supreme Court of Ohio Judicial College Classes, and Ohio Courts Network
Classes to invest in the training of both the leadership team and the support staff. These classes helped further
develop skill sets, facilitated professional growth in the office, and provided tolls that equip staff to better serve the
community.
• Collaborated with senior staff members to provide training classes within the office to equip frontline staff on all 3
shifts with the information and training necessary to perform their jobs.
Criminal/Traffic Cases 2008
Type A Felony Cases 6,988
Type B Criminal Cases 24,731
Type C Traffic OVI Cases 6,463
Type D A other Traffic 113,108
Total 151
,
290
19
•Instituted processes for identifying, organizing, and successfully communicating critical weekly training initiatives.
•Developed Job Descriptions for all 3 Shifts of the Criminal Division Team, leaders and members. The new descriptions
better define job performance expectations and responsibilities.
•Maintained Criminal Division Operations on all 3 Shifts during the record breaking snow of the March of 2008 Blizzard.
•Provided assistance to other divisions to help ensure that critical tasks were executed within the Clerk’s Office.
•Developed a system of tracking staffing levels and work load on all 3 shifts of the Criminal Division. Due to reduced
staffing levels, critical tasks were reorganized and human capital was relocated to different shifts to ensure that the
operations on all 3 shifts were maintained to the best of our ability given the available resources.
•Collaborated with the Quality Control Division to improve the level of accuracy and quality of the Criminal Division’s
final work product.
•Developed and implemented an On-Call Procedure and Schedule for the Criminal Division to ensure that there is
always a leader either on duty or easily accessible to handle issues, provide direction, and emergency staffing support
past administrative hours.
•Developed and implemented a Resource Planning Guide to help leaders quickly evaluate the needs of the division,
prioritize, and obtain resources necessary to secure the operational needs of a shift with critically low staffing levels.
•Began the development of Document Control for processes and procedures.
•Initiated Case Management System Contingency Plans for the Criminal Division.
•Collaborated with the Training Coordinator, Jonathan Kopech, in developing a Franklin County Municipal Court Tour
and an Informational Packet, designed to better integrate new hires into the Criminal Division.
•Developed a Daily Shift Report Tool, enabling leaders to document and track resources, issues, and events that occur
during the shift. These reports have improved communication, reduced speculation, and have given Managers the
data needed to make informed decision when planning for the needs of each Shift and the needs of the entire Division.
•Developed a Skill Level Assessment Tool, to be used when doing 3 month, 6 month, and yearly appraisals. This tool
will track the skill level of the each team member as well as the shift as a whole. It will also help you determine and
prioritize future training initiatives.
•Increased productivity with a work force that was reduced by 13% in 2008 by raising the level of accountability for
leaders and team members.
•Reduced the training time for new team members from 12 months to 4 months.
•Successfully coordinated with the Office of Information Systems and local agencies to temporarily
relocate and maintain critical operations during a planned power outage.
•Developed a Criminal Division Deputy Clerk Incentive Program for rewarding excellence,
diligence, initiative, and outstanding customer service.
Total Criminal/ Traffic & Environmental Cases 2008
Criminal Cases 151,290
Environmental Cases 5,983
Total 157,373
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The Courtroom Service Group (“CSG”) is a select group of highly skilled Deputy Clerks in the Criminal/Traffic Division
responsible for the daily processing and updating of all cases on the Criminal/Traffic dockets. A CSG Clerk is assigned
to each of the fifteen Judges as well as the arraignment courtrooms (4C, 4D, 1A, 1B).
On a daily basis, CSG Clerks docket subpoenas and motions, process unpaid fines and costs, enter sentencing
information, issue warrants, process continuances, enter limited driving privileges, added Temporary Protections
Orders, update bond information, and update all entries on Courtview. Additionally, CSG clerks are responsible for
routing files to the Assignment Office, Probation Department, Accounting/Finance Department, Expungement
Department, Prosecutor’s Office, and to the Vehicle Immobilization Coordinator. The Group also timestamps, dockets,
pulls and routes Statement of Violations filed by the Probation Department. CSG also staffs LPD Court held on
Mondays at 1:30 pm. In addition, CSG Clerks run and process case management reports.
Each CSG member acts as a liaison between the Court and the Clerk’s Office. CSG Clerks are the neutral party in the
courtroom there to assist and provide information to everyone. After court, CSG assist with the public and attorney
counters, answering telephones, working in the file room, and/or helping the Traffic Violations Bureau. In 2008, Court
Services Group accomplished the following:
Restructured Courtroom Service Group to better meet the operational needs of the Criminal/Traffic Department.
Courtroom Service Group Clerks update case files in the courtrooms for four hours per day and spend the
remaining four hours assisting in various areas on the second floor. The new structure provides support for the
Judges and Magistrates as well as coverage to the phone team, counter team, file room and Traffic Violation
Bureau.
Established the BMV Clerk position. The BMV Clerk is responsible for reporting all convictions and suspension to
the BMV, performs case management to ensure accurate reporting, corrects errors on cases, and also serves as a
liaison between the BMV and the Clerk’s Office. This new role has changed the license forfeiture and warrant block
process from a five day a week task to a two day a week task.
21
370Number Of Cases Expunged By Order Of The Common Pleas Court
16Number Of Expungement Applications Withdrawn
450Number Of Applications Denied For Expungement
1757Number Of Cases That Were Ordered Expunged By The Court
2250Number Of Applications Received For Expungement Proceedings
The Environmental Division of the Court began operations in 1992. This division has
exclusive jurisdiction over criminal and civil actions to enforce building, housing, health, or
safety codes applicable to premises intended for the use as a place of human habitation.
Total Environmental Cases 2008
Type A – Environmental Felony Cases 3
Type B – Environmental Criminal Misdemeanor 3,823
Type C – Environmental Traffic OMVI Cases 9
Type D – Environmental All Other Traffic Cases 2,148
Total 5,983
22
5
266317Total
1
19Park Restrictions
2
Polluting Waters
52
Disturbing the Quiet
15
Unlawful Spitting
68
No Fishing License
29
No Hunting License
4
109227Littering
584
Wildlife Violation
Other Municipal
Ordinances
Ohio Revised
Code
City of Columbus
Ordinance
Natural Resources / Wildlife
182
74701Total
9
5111Health Code
172
Fire Code
45
Nuisance Abatement Code
165
286Zoning Code
8
52257Building Code
Other Municipal
Ordinances
Ohio Revised
Code
City of Columbus
Ordinance
Code Violations / Permits
20
629554Total
219
Prohibitions Concerning Animals
7
22Dog Running at Large
1
16Noisy Animals
1
3314Abandoning or Cruelty to Animals
1
1348Rabies Quarantine
676
Vicious Dog Insurance
9
561Confine Vicious Dog
7482
Dog Confinement
1
2710Dog Registration
Other Municipal
Ordinances
Ohio Revised
Code
City of Columbus
Ordinance
Dog Violations
Detail of Environmental Charges Filed In 2008
23
76
Disturbing the Quiet
142
Graffiti
Other Municipal
Ordinances
Ohio Revised
Code
City of Columbus
Ordinance
3427
Loud Sound
Other Municipal
Ordinances
Ohio Revised
Code
City of Columbus
Ordinance
11457144Total
57
Towing Requirements
1,2547
Maximum Wheel Load/ Protectors
15629
Width/ Height/and Weight
Exceeding Maximum,
142101
Load Dripping/Dropping
Other Municipal
Ordinances
Ohio Revised
Code
City of Columbus
Ordinance
Commercial Trucking
Offenses
5120Total
22
Fireworks
14
Open Burning/Dumping
26
Arson
Other Municipal
Ordinances
Ohio Revised
Code
City of Columbus
Ordinance
Fire Violations
0038Total
30
No Peddlers License
8
No Massage License
Other Municipal
Ordinances
Ohio Revised
Code
City of Columbus
Ordinance
Failure to Have License
24
212620Total
2
Extortion
25
Child Enticement
3220
Unlawful Restraint
29
Abduction
58
Kidnapping
Other Municipal
Ordinances
Ohio Revised
Code
City of Columbus
Ordinance
Kidnapping & Enticement
915672538Total
4
Assault by Caregiver
3
Felony Menacing by Stalking
7
Felony Aggravated Menacing
18
Menacing by Stalking
26992151
Menacing and Aggravated Menacing
604054384
Assault, Negligent Assault, Aggravated
Assault,
70
Assaulting a Peace Officer
36
Felony Assault
409
Felonious Assault
4
Aggravated Vehicle Assult
5
Aggravated Vehicular Manslaughter
521
Vehicular Homicide
52
Vehicular Manslaughter
45
Murder
18
Aggravated Murder
Other Municipal
Ordinances
Ohio Revised
Code
City of Columbus
Ordinance
Homicide & Assault
25
29031529Total
175
Failure to Change or Re-Verify
Address as Sex Offender
12
Failure to Register as Sex
Offender
13
Illegally Operating Sexually
Oriented Business
17
Pandering Obscenity
2826Loiter for Soliciting
1716Prostitution
811366Solicitation
288137Public Indecency
51Voyeurism
12Importuning
1Felony Importuning
14Sexual Battery
113Sexual Imposition
20
Gross Sexual Imposition -
Under 13 Years Old
8Gross Sexual Imposition
59
Unlawful Sexual Conduct with a
Minor
30Rape - Under 13 Years Old
58Rape
Other Municipal
Ordinances
Ohio Revised
Code
City of Columbus
Ordinance
Sex Offences
26
26273025Total
5
Loiter - Drug Offenses
1072
Possession of Drug Instruments
58
Possess / Sell Fake Drugs
15
Manufacture of Drugs
121
Illegal Procurement of Drug Documents
65
Deception to Obtain Dangerous Drugs
1112370
Drug Paraphanalia
1412809
Misdemeanor Drug Abuse
1567
Felony Drug Abuse
225
Trafficking in Drugs
Other Municipal
Ordinances
Ohio Revised
Code
City of Columbus
Ordinance
Drug Abuse
28379273Total
25255220
Criminal Damage & Endangerment
34453
Criminal Mischief
40
Vandalism
23
Aggravated Arson
17
Felony Aggravated Arson
Other Municipal
Ordinances
Ohio Revised
Code
City of Columbus
Ordinance
Arson, Vandalism & Criminal Mischief
27
44158261Total
9404
Complicity
83
Complicity / Felony
648
Attempt
62
Attempt / Felony
8143
Possession of Criminal Tools
125
Felony Possession of Criminal Tools
63031
Discharging Weapons
625
Weapons Use While Intoxicated
130
Weapons Under Disability
3134
Improper Handling of Firearm
101
Improper Handling of Firearm / Felony
615226
CCW
509
CCW / Felony
Other Municipal
Ordinances
Ohio Revised
Code
City of Columbus
Ordinance
Weapons
281781594Total
24
Aggravated Criminal Trespassing
28452594
Criminal Trespassing
14
Safecracking & Tampering with a Coin
Machine
263
Breaking & Entering
376
Burglary
118
Aggravated Burglary
251
Robbery
283
Aggravated Robbery
Other Municipal
Ordinances
Ohio Revised
Code
City of Columbus
Ordinance
Robbery, Burglary &
Trespassing
28
16358921145Total
6
Taking Identity of Another
84
Felony Taking Identity of Another
2
Felony Criminal Simulation
9
Criminal Simulation
80
Defraud, Counterfeit & Tamper with
Records
15
Misuse of Credit Card
13
Felony Misuse of Credit Card
1313044
RSP
880
Felony RSP
161190
Passing Bad Checks
59
Felony Passing Bad Checks
412
Forgery & Uttering
7
Felony Unauthorized Use of Property
1410
Unauthorized Use of Property
45
Felony Unauthorized Use of Motor
Vehicle - 48 Hours
9565
Unauthorized Use of Motor Vehicle
32
Theft by Deception
20
Felony Theft by Deception
1392768996
Theft / Petty Theft
566
Felony Theft
93
Grand Theft
Other Municipal
Ordinances
Ohio
Revise
d
Code
City of Columbus
Ordinance
Theft & Fraud
29
34547710Total
6610
Contribute, Influence with Minor
10
Protection Order for Stalking
3
Felony Violation Temporary Protection
Order
767
Violation Temporary Protection Order
7
Felony Domestic Violence
4094
Domestic Violence
39
Interfering with Custody
35
Felony Endangering Children
32
Endangering Children under OVI
28484
Endangering Children
Other Municipal
Ordinances
Ohio Revised
Code
City of Columbus
Ordinance
Offenses Against Family
10020072617Total
5
Felony Escape
71
Escape
390
Failure to Comply / Elude Officer
4421
Fleeing & Eluding / Felony
70
Assault on Police Officer / Felony
7
Impersonating an Officer
33
Obstructing Official Business / Justice /
Felony
33355528
Obstructing Official Business / Justice
3133
Riot - Inticing Violence
3367
Improper Use of 911
21914
Making False Alarms
1154
Inducing Panic
120
Misconduct Public Transportation
1013
Misconduct at Emergency
9021
Failure to Comply
12457387
Falsification / Certain Acts Prohibited
15246422
Resisting Arrest
284781117
Disorderly Conduct
Other Municipal
Ordinances
Ohio Revised
Code
City of Columbus
Ordinance
Offenses Against Peace Officers
30
0130Total
1
Illegal Bingo Game
3
Gambling
9
Public Gaming
Other Municipal
Ordinances
Ohio
Revise
d
Code
City of Columbus
Ordinance
Gambling
6912731636Total
7
Keeper of Place
92439
Open Container in Motor Vehicle
2118
Open Container in Liquor Store
272528
Open Container in Public Place
18183267
Open Container
202328
Minor Purchasing
31492269Prohibited Alcohol under 21 Years Old
Other Municipal
Ordinances
Ohio
Revise
d
Code
City of Columbus
Ordinance
Alcohol Offenses
0663189Total
7
Disrupt Public Services
379
Telephone Harassment
27
Harassment by Inmate
29
Convey Illegal Contraband to Jail
7
Felony Disrupt Public Services
189
Public Urination
145
Tampering with Evidence
13Felony Force or Threaten Witness
11
Witness Intimidation
45
Contempt of Court
Other Municipal
Ordinances
Ohio
Revise
d
Code
City of Columbus
Ordinance
Offenses Against Public Administration
31
42361313594Total
2
Physical Control Per Se
2662
Physical Control
45
OVI Felony
6419021117
OVI Per Se
33141842415
OVI
Other Municipal Ordinances
Ohio Revised
CodeCity of Columbus Ordinance
OVI & Physical Control
066415Total
2
Fireworks - Sale
4
Participating in Criminal Gang
1
Conspiracy
1
Perjury
13
Aggressive Panhandling
2
Ethic Intimidation
53
Illegal Tobacco Distribution
119
Civil Capias
380
Hold Foreign Jurisdiction
104
Fugitive from Justice
Other Municipal Ordinances
Ohio Revised
CodeCity of Columbus Ordinance
Miscellaneous Criminal Violation
32
1,246
Total Other Municipal Ordinances
39,865
Total Ohio Revised Code
12,226
Total City of Columbus Ordinance
33
Since March 12, 2007, 7,860 defendants have been processed at the Fingerprint Station located directly next to
Courtroom 4C on the fourth floor of the Municipal Court Building.
6,613 defendants have been printed for OVI traffic offenses, both state and local ordinances.
1,704 defendants have been printed for Criminal misdemeanor offenses. (140 felony charges are included in this
court).
Top numbers of criminal charges are:
38Soliciting:
44Protection Order Violation:
62Drug Abuse:
71Carrying Concealed Weapon:
104Telephone Harassment
127Aggravated Menacing /Menacing:
156Domestic Violence:
222Endangering Children:
245Public Indecency:
296Assault:
Since April 4, 2007 the average number of defendants fingerprinted is 19 per day.
Over 98% of the complaints were processed by a summons issued to the defendant.
Over 60% of the charges are within the jurisdiction of the Columbus Division of Police. The Division’s techs have
printed all defendants no matter what police jurisdiction.
•The record number of defendants fingerprinted in one week is 140 (December 1 through December 5, 2008).
•From September 8, 2008 through September 12, 2008 121 defendants were fingerprinted.
•There has been one (1) day in which 41 defendants were fingerprinted: Friday, 5-30-08
•There has been one (1) day in which 43 defendants were fingerprinted: Friday, 1-4-08
•There has been one (1) day in which 47 defendants were fingerprinted: Friday, 12-5-08
The record number of defendants fingerprinted in one day is 53 (Wednesday 11-26-08)
34
The Traffic Violations Bureau manages all complaints issued by the
following jurisdictions within Franklin County: Columbus Division of Police,
Ohio State Highway Patrol, Franklin County Sheriff, Ohio State University
Police, Port Columbus Police, eight (8) Townships, and other Municipal law
enforcement agencies. Within the Traffic Violations Bureau, is the
Communications Department. The purpose of the Communications
Department is to further promote ongoing communications and the delivery
of excellent public service to the general public, law enforcement agencies,
attorneys, court personnel, other courts and governmental agencies. The
responsibilities of The Traffic Violations Bureau and Communications
Department include the following:
Initiating payable and mandatory offenses; this includes traffic, criminal, and
environmental cases
Sending out notices and summonses for new court dates on traffic, criminal
and environmental cases
Opening, logging and processing mail for all divisions
Processing payments to ensure accuracy prior to being receipted
Referring cases to Magistrates and Judges for payment determinations
Sending out letters with incorrect traffic, criminal and or environmental
payments
Processing cases transferred from Mayor’s Courts
Completing public record requests pertaining to case dispositions
Entering Identification Tracking Numbers (ITN) into CourtView
In 2008, the Traffic Violations Bureau accomplished the following: Effective
September 23, 2008, a $10.00 increase was assessed on all moving
violations. We advised defendants of the $10.00 increase by letter when
their payments were short. Due to the high volume of tickets, there was a
large portion of letters that needed to be sent out to the defendants, which
we were successful in completing.
Cross-trained to ensure all daily responsibilities were met
Assisted the Criminal/Traffic Department with the end of the year file control
In 2008, New Traffic Case Filings: 163,358
CITY OF COLUMBUS TRAFFIC CHARGES FILED 2008
35
70No Motorcycle Endorsement3,046Failure to Control
382Muffler, Excessive Gas or Smoke271Failure to Comply
52Motor Vehicle/Cycle Noise1Fail/Keep to Right
5Mirror-Unobstructed View1,530 Expired Tags
1,890Marked Lanes222Duties/Non-Working Signal
4Manner of Signal-Bicycle585Driving Within Lanes
1Manner of Signal80Driving Unsafe Vehicle
4Lights Req on Prkd/Stopped Veh271 Driving u/OVI Suspension
2License Plate Violation2Driving Thru Cones
2Let Unlicensed Driver Drive57Driving Outside Restriction
5Lane Control Signals100Driving on Right Side
1Interfere w/Arrest144Driving Left of Center Prohibited
1Inadequate Brakes6Drive Thru Safety Zone
447Improper Right Turn3Drive over Fire Hose
118Improper Passing93Drive on Curb/Sidewalk
510Improper Left Turn51Drive on Closed Highway
824Hit Skip-Pub St/Pers Prop2Drive Across Grade Crossing
119Hazardous or No Passing Zone5,965Driving u/Susp-Rev
3 Hand/Arm Signal4,486Driving u/FRA Susp Immob
35FYT Right on Red2Display License of Other
30FTY “T” Intersection11Cycle Helmet/Glasses
206Following Too Closely68Counterfeit Plates
5Following Emergency Vehicle390Chg Course w/o Safety
3Focus and Aim of Headlights62Certain Acts Prohibited
79Fleeing2 Bumper Requirements
70
Flashing Traffic Signal14Brake Equipment Requirements
8Flashing Lights Prohibited5Board/Align in Motion Prohibited
32False Info to Issuing Officer56Blue Light Prohibited
733Failure to Yield/Private Drive1Bicycle to Yield to Pedestrian
2Failure to Yield/Funeral Proc2Bicycle to Yield Right of Way Xng
1Failure to Yield/Emerg Veh-Ped58Bicycle to Ride on Right
84Failure to Yield/Emerg Vehicle 299Bicycle Signal Device
73 Failure to Yield to Pedestrian119Bicycle Parking/Ride on Sidewalk
54Failure to Stop-School Bus50Bicycle Operate w/o Safety
138Failure to Stop Accident212Bicycle Lamps/Reflectors Req
3,352Failure to Signal435Backing w/o Safety
1,710Failure to Reinstate License16Backing on a Freeway
6Failure to Register 50Backing from Alley/Priv Dr/Bldg
487Failure to Display Two Plates3Backing Across Center Line
1Failure to Display License3Back up Lights/Forward
531Failure to Display Headlights139Appr Pub Safety Veh w/Lts Dis
63Failure to Display5,894ACDA
36
26Turn/Priv Drive/Alley/Bldg49Rear View Mirror-Clear View
2Turn/Disregard Paint48Rear License Plate Light
368Turn on Red4Prohibition/Highway
18Turn From One Way Street888Prohibited Turn
3Transfer Registration54Prohibited Right Turn
78Traffic Control Device-Pedestrian3Prohibited Riding In/On Vehicle
3,093Traffic Control Device147Prohibited Number of Headlights
2Traffic Dir Emergency/Xng1Prohibited Attaching to Vehicle
4Title Violation46Prohibited Start/Backing
30Temporary Permit/Motorcycle2Poster/Sign Window
477 Temporary Permit Violation524Pedestrian Use of Sidewalk Req
3Temp Plate-Display116Pedestrian Use of Shoulder Req
1Temp Permit w/o License Driver373Pedestrian Use of Crosswalk Req
4Tampering w/Traff Control Dev126Pedestrian Under the Influence
1,116Tail/License Plate Light Required7Pedestrian to Yield Vehicles
2,638Tag Violations18Pedestrian to Face Traffic
11Street Racing458Pedestrian Soliciting Ride Proh
120Stop/Sidewalk Area133Pedestrian Outside Crosswalk
3,213Stop Sign3Pedestrian Outside Bridge
95Stop Lights Required87Pedestrian on the Roadway
208Squealing Tires42Pedestrian Diag Cross Restriction
22,790Speed143Pedestrian Cross w/o Safety
235Slow Speed51Pedestrian Control Signal
3Slow Moving Veh on Right Side92Passing on the Right
5Skate/Coaster/Toy in Roadway10Passing on the Left
1
Signal/Stopping156Passing Left of Center
845Signal Terms/Lights7Parking Violation
1Sidewalk/Closed Alley Restr11Order of Officer-Pedestrian
10Side Cowl/Fender Back Up719Operation w/Proh Window Tint
489ROMV5Operate w/Foreign Tag
10Right of Way-Pedestrian1Operate Motor Vehicle w/o Title
37Right of Way/Stop/Yield25Operate w/Tag From Prev Owner
1,577Right of Way/Left Turn4Operate w/Outsied Rider Proh
71 Right of Way/Intersection25Open Door in Traffic
9Riding on Outside Prohibited579One Way-Highway/Rotary
14Riding Bicycle/Mtrcycle Restr13One Way-Bicycle
1Riding Bicycle/Mtrcycle Abreast101Obstructing Intersec/Railroad Xng
20Resisting Traffic Enf Official19Obstructed View-Driver/Pass
85Repeat Offender Violation70Obscured Windshield Prohibited
4Registration Violation6Obscured Lights
10Refl Mat on Window Prohibited24Non-Trans Material on Window
2Red/Light/Flag Req on Ext Load519No Operator’s Lic Exp < 6 Months
25Red Reflectors Required8,140No Operator’s License
37
47Yield Sign
88Wrongful Entrustment
67Wrong Side/Divided Road
15Windshield Required
6Vehicle Stop/Grad Crossing
9Valid Ops/Expired Ops
602U-Turn
678Use Tag to Another Vehicle
14Use of Headphones
111Use Fictitious Plates
30Unnecessary Horn
22Unauthorized Signs & Signals
562Two Lights Required
1,582Turning at Intersections
37Turn/Stop Signals
STATE OF OHIO TRAFFIC CHARGES FILED 2008
38
12Pedestrian Under Influence Proh872Failure to Si
g
nal
83Pedestrian Sudden Cross w/o Saf1,014Failure to Reinstate a License
41Pedestrian Soliciting Ride Proh269Failure to Display License
1Pedestrian on Freeway528Failure to Display Headlights
45Passing on the Right7Failure to Display
100Passing Left to Center1,100Failure to Control
212Parking Violations20Failure to Comply
24Parking On Highway14Fail to Stop School Bus
1Over 48 HR Parking36Fail to Register
4Operating w/Outside Rider Proh1Excessive Speed Bridge
27 Operate w/Tag from Prev Owner2Erect Stop Sign Priv
6Operate w/Foreign Tag1Equipment Turn Signal M/C
41One Way4Equipment Turn Signal
8Obstructing Inter/Railrd Crossing4Engine Noise Viol
1Obstructed View Passenger2Emrg Veh Ft Slow Down
7Obstructed View Driver51Duties/Non Working Signal
3Obscured Lights303Driving Within Lanes
5Non-Trans Mat on Window Proh164Driving Unsafe Vehicle
8Noncommercial MV Use3,944Driving u/Susp
5,647No Operator License141Driving u/Repeat Traffic Off Susp
202Muffler/Excessive Gas or Smoke3,083Driving u/FRA Susp
2Motor Bicycle Reg42Driving Outside License Rest
1,692Marked Lanes118Driving on Right Side of Roadway
2Interfere w/Officer114 Driving Left of Center Proh
2Install/Sale Safety Belt198Driving Action Appr Emer Veh
2Inadequate Brakes 6Drive thru Safety Zone
49Improper Passing17Drive on Curb/Walk
2Improper Bumper50Drive on Closed Highway
1Illegal Dealer Tag10Drive Across Grade Crossing
158Hit Skip-Pub St/Pers Prop16Drag Racing
1Historical Tags Violation11Dr u/FRA Susp Immob
58Hazard No Passing9Display Regs Comm
161Handicapped Parking4Display of Warn Dev Flamm Load
4FTY to Pedestrian in Crosswalk3Dealer Tag Display
34FTY Public Safety Vehicle60Counterfeit Plates
155FTY Private Drive508Child Restraint
1FTY Funeral Procession7Certain Acts Prohibited
1FTY Emergency Vehicle Ped4Bicycle on Right Side
357Following Too Close18Bicycle Lamps/Refl Req at Night
8Flashing Traffic Signal93Backing w/o Safety
3Flashing Lights Prohibited27Backing on a Freeway
78False Info to Issuing Officer2,097Apply Registration
42Failure to Stop Accident1,212ACDA
39
152Turning at Intersections
161Turn on Red
1Traffic Control Device Pedestrian
1,565Traffic Control Device
38Title & Reg Transfer
433Tinted Windows
8Temp Permit/Motorcycle Viol
72Temp Permit w/o Lic Driver
6Temp Plate Registrar
41Temp Permit Violation
1Tamper w/Vehicle ID
682Tail/License Plate Light
2,569Tag Violations
2Suspension Non Resident Violation
16Suspension Drug Offense
685Stop Sign
6Stop Sidewalk Area
109Stop Light Required
1Spotlight/Auxiliary Dr Lght Proh
22,830Speed
2Special Vehicles
1Solid Tires
1Slow Vehicle Headlight Required
106Slow Speed
1Slow Moving Vehicle on Right
294Signal Terms/Lights
38Side Cwl/Fnder/Back-up Lght Proh
705Seatbelt Passenger
12,648Seatbelt Operator
210Seatbelt Allow Passenger
42Yield Sign20Safety Lighting On Com Veh Req
82Wrongful Entrustment16Safety Glass
76Wrong Side/Divided Road334Right of Way at Intersections
56Windshield Required5Riding on Outside Proh
1Windshield Wiper Required29Riding Bicycle/Motorcycle Restr
21Windshield Placard Viol Prking87Req Dist of Headlight Beam
3Vehicle Stop/Grad Crossing5Refl Material on Window Proh
73 Valid Ops/Expired Ops14Red Refl Required on Motor Veh
269Use Tag to Another Vehicle7Red Light/Flag Req on Ext Load
8Use of Headphones265Reckless Operation
293Use Fictitious Plates37 Rear View Mirror/Clear View
10Unattended Motor Vehicle77Prohibited U Turn
246Two Lights Required1Permit Minor to Operate Vehicle
40
MAYOR COURT TRANSFERS 2008
AGENCY TOTAL
64WORTHINGTON
209WHITEHALL
257WESTERVILLE
14VALLEYVIEW
42UPPER ARLINGTON
254REYNOLDSBURG
20OBETZ
62NEW ALBANY
25MINERVA PARK
30MARBLE CLIFF
1LITHOPOLIS
133HILLIARD
3HARRISBURG
15GROVEPORT
223GROVE CITY
87GRANVIEW HEIGHTS
129GAHANNA
134DUBLIN
16CANAL WINCHESTER
30BRICE
31
BEXLEY
TOTAL CASES FILED: 1,779
41
The Accounting / Finance Division is to oversee the accounting of all fines, court cost, fees, bail,
garnishments, and judgments issued by the Court. The division also oversees the disbursement of
collected funds to the appropriate parties, and releases funds in satisfactions, judgments,
attachments, garnishments, and executions. The Accounting Division also has three internal
payment programs in compliance with the ORC, and Court rules. The programs are as follows:
Time Payment Program
This program under authorization by
the sentencing Judge allows a defendant
to make monthly payments on court fines
and costs; up to twelve months or until
balance is paid in full.
Rent Escrow Program
This program allows tenants with complaints
regarding their residential housing conditions
to deposit rent due into an escrow account
until the matter has been resolved.
Cases filed in 2008: 265
Trusteeship Program
This program allows a debtor to deposit a portion of the personal earnings with the Clerk of Courts
to avoid legal proceedings by creditors. The funds collected are disbursed to creditors equally until
all debt is paid in full. Cases filed in 2008: 51
The Accounting / Finance Division is responsible for preparing monthly a general accounting of all
money received and disbursed by the Clerk’s Office. These records are audited annually by a
licensed certified public accounting firm, and approved by the State Auditor’s Office.
2008 FRANKLIN COUNTY MUNICIPAL COURT
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Financial Statements
Balance Sheet
For the Period Year Ending December 31, 2008
Assets
Cash Civil Fund 1,152,601.83
Cash Trusteeship Fund 8,684.95
Cash Rent Escrow Fund 101,617.03
Cash Criminal/Traffic/Bail Fund 1,240,631.32
Total Assets 2,503,535.13$
Liabilities
Due to Payee Civil Fund 1,152,601.83
Due to Payee Trusteeship Fund 8,684.95
Due to Payee Rest Escrow Fund 101,617.03
Due to Payee Criminal/Traffic/Bail Fund 1,240,631.32
Total Liabilities 2,503,535.13$
Statement of Receipts and Disbursements
For the Year Ending December 31, 2008
Receipts
Receipts Civil Fund 25,795,730.96
Receipts Trusteeship Fund 244,018.05
Receipts Rent Escrow Fund 275,774.00
Receipts Criminal/Traffic/Bail Fund 22,020,187.56
Total Receipts 48,335,710.57$
Disbursements
Disbursements Civil Fund 25,827,420.84
Disbursements Trusteeship Fund 240,332.43
Disbursements Rent Escrow Fund 270,846.41
Disbursements Criminal/Traffic/Bail Fund 21,869,372.96
Total Disbursements 48,207,972.64$
1
Franklin County Municipal Court Financial Report
Statement of Civil Fund Receipts
For the Year Ending December 31, 2008
Court Costs 6,065,028.64
Civil Contempt Fine 1,000.00
Return Check Costs 325.00
Civil Environmental Penalty (8,700.00)
Small Claims Dispute Resolution 94,290.00
Administrative Fee - 1% State Legal Aid Fees 14,168.96
Civil Security Facilities 410,197.00
Civil Collection Fee -
Municipal Clerk Computerization Fees 586,021.00
Municipal Court Computerization Fees 175,809.00
State Legal Aid Fees 1,402,731.04
Publication Fees 520,991.00
Civil Bond Deposits 126,976.17
Civil Refund Cost Deposit 15,362.99
Civil Judgment Deposits 16,302,902.69
Civil Jury Deposits 32,000.00
Civil Refund/Overpayment Deposits 39,712.27
Civil Sheriff Deposits 7,385.00
Civil Towing Deposits 2,400.00
Civil Witness Deposits 2,980.20
Environmental Appraisal 2,565.00
Environmental Injunctive 619.00
Environmental Mortgage -
Environmental Sheriff 966.00
Total Receipts Civil Fund 25,795,730.96$
Statement of Trusteeship Fund Receipts
For the Period Year Ending December 31, 2008
Trusteeship Deposits 240,156.40
Court Costs 3,798.00
Overpayments 63.65
Total Receipts Trusteeship Funds 244,018.05$
Statement of Rent Escrow Fund Receipts
For the Year Ending December 31, 2008
Deposits 272,732.71
Court Costs 3,020.92
Overpayments 20.37
Total Receipts Rent Escrow Fund 275,774.00$
2
Franklin County Municipal Court Financial Report
Statement of Criminal/Traffic Fund Receipts
For the Year Ending December 31, 2008
Fines and Bail Forfeitures
Municipalities
Bexley 2,000.00
Brice 2,814.50
Canal Winchester 1,127.00
Dublin 21,642.00
Gahanna 9,208.00
Grandview Heights 14,148.40
Grove City 15,237.60
Groveport 4,701.00
Harrisburg 260.00
Hilliard 13,370.50
Lithopolis 100.00
Minerva Park 14,272.50
New Albany 7,817.00
New Rome -
Obetz 1,261.00
Reynoldsburg 21,183.40
Upper Arlington 19,784.00
Urbancrest 305.00
Valleyview 500.00
Westerville 18,664.00
Whitehall 11,054.90
Worthington 9,579.50
Townships
Blendon 78,155.75
Clinton 31,826.50
Franklin 15,971.30
Hamilton 21,481.40
Madison 38,163.50
Mifflin 18,831.95
Norwich 5,563.50
Perry 73,217.00
Prairie 31,677.57
Sharon 29,649.50
Washington 3,180.50
State of Ohio
Ohio Highway Patrol 465,707.37
Trauma and EMT Fund 5% 51,745.16
State Seatbelt 271,117.00
State Liquor 63,295.40
Child Restraint 10,869.00
Indigent Defense Support 107,772.95
Indigent Driver's Alcohol Treatment Fund 23,424.00
3
Franklin County Municipal Court Financial Report
Statement of Criminal/Traffic Fund Receipts
For the Year Ending December 31, 2008
Fines and Bail Forfeitures (continued)
City of Columbus
Columbus Fines 3,350,827.66
Ohio Highway Patrol 399,793.01
Cr/Tr Environmental Fines 32,468.00
Indigent Driver Alcohol Fund DUS -
Indigent Driver Alcohol Fund DUI 81,598.70
Collection Account 284,418.52
Appearance Bonds 142,295.10
Columbus Health Dept -
Immobilizing Device Fund 5,437.00
County of Franklin
Department of Animal Control 106,999.00
Franklin County Development Center 14,794.00
Ohio State Agencies 250.00
Ohio Department of Natural Resources -
Municipal 731,690.77
Columbus State Univ. PD 1,350.00
Ohio State University 48,051.00
ODJS Unemployment Fraud 100.00
Franklin County Sheriff (Note D Schedule 1) 445,078.58
Blendon Township 77,430.75
Clinton Township 31,401.50
Franklin Township 15,816.90
Madison Township 37,473.50
Mifflin Township 18,681.95
Perry Township 71,036.00
Sharon Township 28,995.50
Liquor Violations - County Share 63,295.40
Country Road and Bridge Fund 390,856.10
Ohio Highway Patrol 103,490.50
Ohio Department of Liquor Control -
Ohio Department of Taxation 750.00
Ohio Department of Commerce -
Port Columbus Police 18,143.50
Bureau of Motor Vehicles 7,182.40
Ohio Department of Public Safety 3,883.20
Capital Area Humane Society
1,883.00
Chessie Sea Board -
Ohio Ethics Commission -
OVI Education Fund Index 28,179.43
OVI Law Enforcement and Education
DUI
Franklin County Sheriff 5,835.40
Ohio Highway Patrol Dui 18,843.50
Port Columbus Airport Dui 250.00
Ohio State University Dui 1,599.00
Col Dev Cnt Dui 25.00
Columbus Regulation Division 40.00
4
Franklin County Municipal Court Financial Report
Statement of Criminal/Traffic Fund Receipts
For the Year Ending December 31, 2008
Fines and Bail Forfeitures (continued)
Other Entities
Metro Parks 2,470.00
State Wildlife Fund 5,453.00
State Watercraft Fund 165.00
State Drug/Pharmacy Fund 70,256.00
Ohio Department of Agriculture 1,525.00
Sheriff OMVI Housing the Prisoner Fund 170,306.40
ODPS Drug Law Enforcement 54,654.00
Refunds/Overpayments 73,428.05
Total Fines and Bond Forfeitures 8,479,180.97$
Costs
Assessed Costs 5,321,540.97
Mayors Court Costs
Total Costs 5,321,540.97$
Fees
Collection Fee 704,022.54
Criminal/Traffic Security Fee 800,754.60
State Jury Fees 5,479.00
City Jury Fees 4,585.20
Late Fee -
Municipal Court Computerization Fees 353,956.50
Municipal Clerk Computerization Fees 1,179,938.30
Witness Fees - Local 17,581.10
Local Expungements - City 6,340.00
Probation Fees 269,521.10
Home Incarceration Program 19,708.00
Probation Fees - Scram 50,801.00
Criminal/Traffic Diversion Fee 550.00
Prosecutor's Check Resolution 46,318.50
Returned Check Fees 5,267.00
Witness Fees - State 11,078.45
State Expungements - County 15,080.00
BMV Driver's License Suspension 1,005.00
BMV Warrant Block Reinstatement 2,125.50
State Expungements - State 22,620.00
Local Expungements - State 9,510.00
Victims-of-Crime Fee 952,812.50
Public Defender Fee 1,581,300.32
Crime Stopper Fee 9,551.06
Indigent Application Fee 93,905.00
Total Fees 6,163,810.67$
Time Payment Deposits (137.80)
Total Receipts Criminal/Traffic Fund 19,964,394.81$
5
Franklin County Municipal Court Financial Report
Statement of Bail Fund Receipts
For the Year Ending December 31, 2008
Bail Deposits
Appearance Bonds 1,312,327.80
Applied Appearance Bonds (192,077.25)
Appearance Costs 145,814.20
Applied Appearance Costs (142,262.20)
Cash Bonds 871,133.51
Applied Cash Bonds (143,937.31)
Bail Historical Adjustment -
1,850,998.75$
Total Bail Deposits
Victim-of-Crimes Posted
Victim-of-Crime Deposited 180,720.00
Applied Victims-of Crime (78,341.00)
Total Victim-of Crime Deposited 102,379.00$
Public Defender Posted
Public Defender Deposited 223,215.00
Applied Public Defender (130,725.00)
Total Public Defender Deposited 92,490.00$
Moving Violation State Fees Posted
Moving Violations Deposited 14,680.00
Applied Moving Violations (4,755.00)
Total Victim-of Crime Deposited 9,925.00$
Total Receipts Bail Fund 2,055,792.75$
6
Franklin County Municipal Court Financial Report
Statement of Disbursements to the City of Columbus
For the Year Ending December 31, 2008
Civil Fund
Court Costs 6,092,476.19
Small Claims Disbute Resolution 101,805.00
Civil Environmental Penalty (8,700.00)
Administrative Fees - 1% State Legal Aid Fees. 14,288.54
Civil Security Facilities 413,977.00
Civil Contempt Fine 1,000.00
Civil Collection Fee -
Municipal Clerk Computerization Fees 591,461.00
Municipal Court Computerization Fees 177,441.00
Returned Check Fees 325.00
Unclaimed Funds 528.95
Total Civil Fund Disbursements 7,384,602.68$
Trusteeship Fund
Court Costs 3,972.00
Unclaimed Funds 1,287.34
Total Trusteeship Fund Disbursements - 5,259.34$
Rent Escrow Funds
Court Costs 2,902.33
Unclaimed Funds -
Total Rent Escrow Fund Disbursements 2,902.33$
Criminal/Traffic Fund
Fines and Bail Forfeitures 3,337,609.52
Ohio Highway Patrol - City Share 396,223.21
Criminal/Traffic Environmental Fines 32,657.00
Columbus Health Dept. -
Court Costs 5,289,916.67
Collection Fee 703,197.29
Collection Account 282,063.52
Security Fee 795,183.00
Municipal Court Computerization Fees 351,893.00
Municipal Clerk Computerization Fees 1,172,977.90
Returned Check Fees 5,092.00
Witness Fees 17,657.10
Indigent Driver Alcohol Treatment - DUS -
Indigent Driver Alcohol Treatment - OVI 81,203.20
Law Enforcement and Education Fund 27,742.83
Expungement Fees - City Share 6,360.00
Home Incarceration Program 19,178.00
Probation Fees 268,754.50
Probation Scram Fees
49,992.00
Diversion Fees 550.00
Prosecutor Check Resolution 46,318.50
City Jury Fees 4,834.20
Appearance Bond Costs 142,087.10
Immobilizing Device Fine 4,737.00
Total Bail/Criminal/Traffic Fund Disbursements 13,036,227.54$
Criminal/Traffic/ Bail Unclaimed Funds 72,163.14
Total Criminal/Traffic/ Bail Unclaimed Funds 72,163.14
Total Disbursements to the Treasurer, City of Columbus 20,428,991.89$
7
Franklin Count
y
Munici
p
al Court Financial Re
p
ort
Statement of Disbursements to the State of Ohio
For the Year Ending December 31, 2008
Civil Fund
State Legal Aid Fees 1,414,569.46
Total Civil Fund Disbursements 1,414,569.46$
Criminal/Traffic Fund
Highway Patrol - State Share 461,573.67
Seatbelt Violations 269,591.00
Liquor Violations - State Share 63,568.90
Child Restraint Law 10,889.00
State Expungement Fees - State Share 22,140.00
Local Expungement Fee - State Share 9,540.00
Victims-of-Crime Fees 945,514.50
Public Defender Fees 1,569,117.32
BMV Driver License Suspension 990.00
BMV Warrant Block Reinstatement 2,155.50
Trauma and EMT Fund 5% 51,285.86
Indigent Defense Support 95,729.95
Indigent Driver's Alcohol Treatment Fund 20,503.50
Total Criminal/Traffic Fund Disbursements 3,522,599.20$
Total Disbursements to the Treasurer, State of Ohio 4,937,168.66$
8
Franklin County Municipal Court Financial Report
Statement of Disbursements to the County of Franklin
For the Year Ending December 31, 2008
Criminal/Traffic Fund
Fines and Bail Forfeitures
State Traffic Other State Other State
Arresting Agency 4511 & 4513 Traffic Violations
Department of Animal Control - - 106,018.00
ODJFS Unemployment Fraud - - 100.00
Franklin County Col. Development Center 14,264.40 350.00 75.00
Ohio Department of Public Safety 4,033.20 100.00
Municipal Police 430,398.11 106,606.95 189,479.21
Columbus State Univ. PD 335.00 - 1,015.00
Ohio State University 31,843.50 9,929.50 6,234.00
Ohio State Agencies - - 250.00
Public Utilities Commission of Ohio - - -
Port Columbus Airport 14,173.50 2,157.00 560.00
Ohio Department of Liquor Control - - -
Sheriff Office ( Note D Schedule 2) 297,837.30 100,252.68 45,197.10
Blendon Township - County Share 63,138.10 13,264.45 527.70
Clinton Township - County Share 17,771.00 13,299.00 642.00
Franklin Township - County Share 8,979.40 6,643.00 533.00
Madison Township - County Share 28,792.25 8,341.75 249.50
Mifflin Township - County Share 10,520.40 7,500.25 695.30
Perry Township - County Share 52,541.00 18,122.50 207.50
Sharon Township - County Share 24,453.50 4,410.00 125.00
Ohio Highway Patrol - County Share 102,364.32 142.50 65.08
Liquor Violations - County Share 63,568.90
Road and Bridge Fund - - 382,954.10
Department of Taxation - - 750.00
Department of Commerce - -
-
Bureau of Motor Vehicles - 7,019.40
Capital Area Humane Society - - 1,733.00
Chessie Sea Board Corp. - - -
Columbus Regulation Division - - 40.00
Ohio Ethics Commission - - -
Total Fines and Bail Forfeitures 1,097,411.78$ 295,052.78$ 808,138.79$
Witness Fees 10,895.85
Indigent Application Fee 92,997.80
Expungements Fees - County Share 14,760.00
State Jury Fees 5,536.00
Deduction for Law Library Fund (15,000.00)
Total Disbursements to the Treasurer, Franklin County 2,309,793.00$
9
Franklin County Municipal Court Financial Report
Statement of Disbursements to Municipalities
For the Year Ending December 31, 2008
Criminal/Traffic Fund
Mayors Costs OVI Fund Fines/Forfeitures Total
Bexley - 660.00 1,400.00 2,060.00
Brice 330.00 25.00 2,636.50 2,991.50
Canal Winchester 50.00 600.00 447.00 1,097.00
Dublin 4,826.00 850.00 14,212.00 19,888.00
Gahanna 2,207.00 843.00 6,016.00 9,066.00
Grandview Heights` - 1,048.00 12,865.40 13,913.40
Grove City 65.00 3,895.00 11,115.60 15,075.60
Groveport 10.00 613.00 3,703.00 4,326.00
Harrisburg - - 260.00 260.00
Hilliard 2,502.00 1,033.00 9,922.50 13,457.50
Lithopolis 100.00 100.00
Minerva Park 490.00 175.00 13,362.50 14,027.50
New Albany 1,320.00 550.00 4,838.00 6,708.00
Obetz 210.00 350.00 670.00 1,230.00
Reynoldsburg 1,341.00 2,685.00 16,870.40 20,896.40
Upper Arlington 878.00 575.00 18,058.00 19,511.00
Urbancrest - - 305.00 305.00
Valleyview - 100.00 450.00 550.00
Westerville 4,188.00 1,156.00 13,076.00 18,420.00
Whitehall 1,454.40 750.00 8,702.50
10,906.90
Worthington 1,856.00 2,432.50 5,218.00 9,506.50
Total Disbursements to Municipalities 184,296.30$
Statement of Disbursements to Townships
For the Year Ending December 31, 2008
Criminal/Traffic Fund
OVI Fund Fines/Forfeitures Total
Blendon 775.00 76,880.25 77,655.25
Clinton 375.00 31,762.00 32,137.00
Franklin 150.00 16,155.40 16,305.40
Hamilton - 21,181.40 21,181.40
Madison 640.00 37,383.50 38,023.50
Mifflin 175.00 18,715.95 18,890.95
Norwich - 5,376.00 5,376.00
Perry 2,218.00 70,871.00 73,089.00
Prairie - 30,894.57 30,894.57
Sharon 629.00 28,988.50 29,617.50
Washington - 3,243.00 3,243.00
Total Disbursements to Townships 346,413.57$
10
Franklin County Municipal Court Financial Report
Statement of Disbursements to Other Entities
For the Year Ending December 31, 2008
Civil Fund
Publication Fees 524,951.00
Civil Bond Deposits 12,054.65
Civil Deposits 15,632.16
Civil Judgment Deposits 16,416,602.97
Civil Jury Deposits 12,500.00
Civil Refund/Overpayment Deposits 39,507.27
Civil Sheriff Deposits 4,760.60
Civil Towing Deposits 1,600.00
Civil Witness Deposits 159.00
Environmental Appraisal 705.00
Environmental Sheriff 305.00
Unclaimed Funds (528.95)
Total Civil Fund Disbursements 17,028,248.70$
Trusteeship Fund
Trusteeship Deposit Payments 236,336.43
Overpayments 24.00
Unclaimed Funds (1,287.34)
Total Trusteeship Fund Disbursements 235,073.09$
Rent Escrow Fund
Rent Deposit Payments 267,944.08
Unclaimed Funds -
Total Rent Escrow Fund Disbursements 267,944.08$
Criminal/Traffic Fund
OVI Law Enforcement and Education
OVI Franklin County Sheriff 5,909.40
OVI Ohio Highway Patrol 18,775.50
OVI Port Columbus Airport 250.00
OVI Ohio State University 1,564.00
OVI Columbus Development Center 25.00
Other Entities
State Wildlife Fund 5,333.00
State Watercraft Fund 165.00
State Drug/Pharmacy Fund 69,714.00
Metro Parks 2,470.00
Law Library Fund 15,000.00
Ohio Department of Agriculture 1,525.00
Sheriff OMVI Housing the Prisoner Fund 169,742.70
Crime Stoppers Fee 9,466.06
ODPS Drug Law Enforcement 47,840.50
Overpayments/Refunds 78,257.54
Total Criminal/Traffic Disbursements 426,037.70$
Criminal/Traffic/ Bail Unclaimed Funds (72,163.14)
Total Criminal/Traffic/ Bail Unclaimed Funds (72,163.14)$
11
Franklin County Municipal Court Financial Report
Statement of Disbursements to Other Entities
For the Year Ending December 31, 2008
Bail Fund
Appearance Bond Returned to Individuals 1,119,483.55
Appearance Bond Cost 3,215.40
Cash Bond Returned to Individuals 723,323.70
Victims of Crime Returned to Individuals 104,038.00
Public Defender Returned to Individuals 92,585.00
Moving Violation State Fees Returned to Individuals 1,360.00
Total Bail Fund Disbursements 2,044,005.65$
Notes to the Financial Statements
Notes A - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Reporting Entity
The Franklin County Municipal Court (the court) was created and operates under the authority of Section 1901.01 of the
Ohio Revised Code. Under the present law, the Court operates with 15 elected Judges and an elected Clerk of Court, each
whom serves a six year term. The court has been granted jurisdictions for the entire area of Franklin County.
For financial reporting purposes, the Court is an agency fund group which consists of the agency fund of the five divisions
of the Court: Criminal/Traffic, Bail, Civil, Trusteeship and Rent Escrow. The operating expenses of the Court are funded by
the City of Columbus and Franklin County and are not; therefore, part of the reporting entity.
Basis of Accounting
The Court prepares its financial statements of the basis of cash receipts and disbursements. Under this method
of accounting, revenues are recognized when received in cash rather than when earned and disbursements are recognized
when paid rather than when incurred.
Note B - Civil Fund Receipts
In addition to the Civil Fund total receipts and disbursements, cases are processed for the City of Columbus, State
of Ohio and Franklin County agencies at not cost at the time of filing.
Additional Amount Breakdowns
See statements for summary totals of this information
Note C - Statement of Disbursements to Municipalities
The OVI Education Fund fine amounts are included in the totals for each municipality and township.
12
Franklin County Municipal Court Financial Report
Schedule 1
Statement of Criminal/Traffic Receipts
Detail of Sheriff Fines and Bail Forfeitures
State Traffic Other State Other State
Agency Location 4511 & 4513 Traffic Violations Violations
Sheriff Non - Township 76,852.00 37,776.70 13,351.60
Sheriff Blendon 28,689.00 1,935.00 4,194.00
Sheriff Brown Township 5,973.00 600.00 -
Sheriff Clinton Township 18,198.00 - 5,840.00
Sheriff Franklin Township 9,512.00 - 12,135.00
Sheriff Hamilton Township 12.50 21,468.90 -
Sheriff Jackson Township 27,770.60 7,187.00 50.00
Sheriff Jefferson Township 23,795.00 - -
Sheriff Madison Township 10,853.00 1,792.50
Sheriff Mifflin Township 34,156.20 3,805.00 5,535.00
Sheriff Norwich Township 5,101.00 462.50
Sheriff Perry Township 5,345.00 - 850.00
Sheriff Plain Township 8,276.00 1,230.00 -
Sheriff Pleasant Township 11,454.50 995.00
Sheriff Prairie Township 15,524.50 16,153.08 -
Sheriff Sharon Township 1,565.00 165.00 800.00
Sheriff Truro Township 12,937.00 9,557.50 -
Sheriff Washington Township 2,485.00 - 695.50
Total Sheriff 298,499.30$ 101,335.68$ 45,243.60$
13
Franklin County Municipal Court Financial Report
Schedule 2
Statement of Disbursements to Franklin County
Detail of Sheriff Fines and Bail Forfeitures
State Traffic Other State Other State
Agency Location 4511 & 4513 Traffic Violations Violations
Sheriff Non - Township 76,695.50 37,752.70 13,242.60
Sheriff Blendon Township 29,029.00 1,885.00 4,219.00
Sheriff Brown Township 5,898.00 600.00 -
Sheriff Clinton Township 18,373.00 - 5,565.00
Sheriff Franklin Township 9,557.00 - 12,210.00
Sheriff Hamilton Township 12.50 21,168.90 -
Sheriff Jackson Township 27,155.60 7,062.00 100.00
Sheriff Jefferson Township 24,480.00 - 30.00
Sheriff Madison Township 10,663.00 - 1,992.50
Sheriff Mifflin Township 34,142.20 3,905.00 5,635.00
Sheriff Norwich Township 4,976.00 400.00 -
Sheriff Perry Township 5,345.00 - 850.00
Sheriff Plain Township 8,256.00 1,230.00 -
Sheriff Pleasant Township 11,594.50 995.00 -
Sheriff Prairie Township 15,103.00 15,791.58 -
Sheriff Sharon Township 1,565.00 110.00 620.00
Sheriff Truro Township 12,482.00 9,352.50 -
Sheriff Washington Township 2,510.00 - 733.00
Total Sheriff 297,837.30$ 100,252.68$ 45,197.10$
14
Franklin County Municipal Court Financial Report
FRANKLIN COUNTY MUNICIPAL COURT
Columbus, Ohio
NINETY-THIRD
ANNUAL REPORT
2008
Front Row (left to right)
Judges Scott D. VanDerKarr, W. Dwayne Maynard, Janet A. Grubb, Administrative & Presiding Judge Carrie E.
Glaeden, Anne Taylor, James E. Green, H. William Pollitt, Jr.
Back Row (left to right)
Judges Andrea C. Peeples, Julia L. Dorrian, Ted Barrows, Michael T. Brandt, Harland H. Hale, Paul M.
Herbert, Amy Salerno, David B. Tyack
FRANKLIN COUNTY MUNICIPAL COURT
375 South High Street,
Columbus, Ohio 43215-4520
Chambers of
Judge Carrie E. Glaeden
Administrative & Presiding Judge
Telephone: 614/645-8206
March 23, 2009
Columbus City Council
Columbus City Clerk
Franklin County Municipal Court Clerk
Board of Commissioners of Franklin County
Citizens of Franklin County
In accordance with section 1901.14 of the Ohio Revised Code, it is my pleasure to
provide you with the 2008 Annual Report for the Franklin County Municipal Court.
As the largest and busiest Municipal Court in Ohio, we continually strive to improve
our services to every citizen who appears in this Court.
In 2008, we operated with 4% fewer staff; however, we provided 14.5% more
interpreter services to ensure citizens access to the Court with an increase of 35.5% increase in
Somali interpreter services alone. Our Probation Department also saw a 7.6 % increase in
cases in 2008.
Utilizing qualified volunteers from the community in various positions within the Court,
we saw an estimated cost savings to the Court of over 41% in 2008 from 2007.
Please feel free to contact me at 645-8206 or Court Administrator Keith Bartlett at 645-
8214 if you have any questions or would like any additional information.
Yours truly,
/s/ Carrie E. Glaeden
Judge Carrie E. Glaeden
Administrative and Presiding Judge
Enclosure
THE FRANKLIN COUNTY MUNICIPAL COURT
375 South High Street
Columbus, Ohio 43215-4520
614-645-8214
2008 ANNUAL REPORT
The Franklin County Municipal Court traces its origin to the creation of the Columbus Municipal Court
in 1916. Now, the geographic jurisdiction of the Court is all of Franklin County and those portions of
the City of Columbus that extend beyond the boundaries of Franklin County. The Court has 14 Judges
in the General Division and one judge in the Environmental Division. Judges serve six-year terms,
unless appointed or elected to fill a vacancy. Annually, they elect one of their peers to serve as the
Administrative and Presiding Judge.
The Judges who served the Franklin County Municipal Court during the year 2008 were Judge Carrie E.
Glaeden, Administrative and Presiding Judge, and Judges Janet A. Grubb, Anne Taylor, W. Dwayne
Maynard, James E. Green, Scott D. VanDerKarr, H. William Pollitt, Jr., Michael T. Brandt, Harland H.
Hale, Ted Barrows, Paul M. Herbert, Julia L. Dorrian, Amy Salerno, Andrea C. Peeples, and David B.
Tyack.
Judges preside over civil, criminal, and traffic cases and conduct both jury and non-jury trials. In jury
trials, judges interpret the law and the jury determines the facts. Non-jury trials are the most common
trials in this Court. In these trials, Judges have the dual role of interpreting the law and determining the
facts. The Judges also conduct criminal arraignments and preliminary hearings on felony cases; set
bond on criminal charges; issue search warrants; and impose sentence when a defendant is found guilty
of a traffic or criminal charge. The Judges hear civil cases with an amount in controversy of $15,000 or
less, and cases that are transferred from the Small Claims Division to the General Division of the Court.
Other civil disputes resolved in this Court included evictions, rent escrow proceedings, and proceedings
to aid in the collection of judgments.
The Environmental Division has exclusive jurisdiction to enforce local codes and regulations affecting
real property, such as fire and building codes. The Environmental Division has injunctive powers, and
there is no monetary limit on those cases that fall within the Division’s exclusive jurisdiction.
Each week a different Judge is assigned to the Duty Session to handle a variety of responsibilities, such
as applications from law enforcement officers for search warrants, probable cause hearings, and civil
wedding ceremonies.
MAGISTRATES
The Court employs an Administrative Magistrate, five full-time Magistrates and one part-time
Magistrate who preside over traffic arraignments, landlord-tenant actions, wage garnishments, small
claims cases, and other civil matters. Judges may refer a specific case to a magistrate to take testimony,
make legal rulings, and render a decision that is subject to final approval by the judge. Magistrates have
the authority in misdemeanor cases to accept guilty and no contest pleas. If the parties agree, they may
also hear contested criminal cases and preside over civil cases heard by a jury. Consent is not required
from either party for a Magistrate to hear a minor misdemeanor criminal case.
BAILIFFS
Bailiffs coordinate activities in the courtrooms, schedule cases, provide docket management, provide
information to the public about the status of cases, and act as liaisons between their assigned Judge or
Magistrate and attorneys, court personnel, and the general public. Each Judge has an assigned
Courtroom Bailiff, and there is an unassigned or “floater” Bailiff who rotates among the Judges when a
Judge’s Bailiff is absent. Each Magistrate also has a Bailiff, and there is a Duty Room Bailiff.
COURT ADMINISTRATION
Court Administration oversees the administrative and operational functions of the Court. It is the
vehicle by which the non-judicial policies of the Court are carried out. In addition to providing overall
support and direction to the Court’s nearly 190 employees, some of the specific functions of Court
Administration include personnel management, budgeting and fiscal management, purchasing, liaison
with other courts and agencies, public information, appointment of counsel, court investigation, court
security, interpreter services, vehicle immobilization, and volunteer services.
The Court Administrator, Keith Bartlett, is the chief non-judicial officer. The Court’s General Fund
Operating budget for 2008 was $13,984,435, with an additional $1.5 million Secure Facilities Fund
budget and $608,000 Computer Fund budget.
COURT INVESTIGATION
Court Investigation is a two-person unit that helps defendants resolve matters such as an extension of
time to pay a fine and court costs; delaying the start of court-ordered incarceration; issuance of or
change in limited driving privileges; withdrawal of warrant or order-in that has been issued; assistance
with impounded vehicle; assistance with Bureau of Motor Vehicle problems; and continuance of a court
date. In 2008, Court Investigation assisted approximately 17,693 individuals – 11,356 in-office
interviews; 4,302 telephone interviews; and 2,035 other requests for information and assistance.
COURT SECURITY PROGRAM
The Court Security Program was established to maintain a safe environment in the courthouse
for elected officials, Court employees, and all others having business in the courthouse. The staff
consists of a Security Director, control room operator and 14 security officers on the first shift, plus a
control room operator on the second and third shifts. In addition, the Court contracts with a private
security company that provides evening, weekend, and holiday coverage.
INTERPRETER SERVICES
During 2008, the Court employed two full-time Spanish interpreters and one part-time Spanish
interpreter who completed an estimated 8,800 requests for service. There were 608 requests for 31 other
languages, including 267 for Somali. The Court also filled 121 requests for American Sign Language
interpreters.
VEHICLE IMMOBILIZAITON PROGRAM
State law mandates the immobilization or forfeiture of vehicles operated by defendants who are
convicted of the following offenses: repeat OVI offenses (operating a vehicle while under the influence
of alcohol or drugs); driving under certain court or BMV-issued suspensions; Financial
Responsibility/Accountability (FRA) suspensions; and wrongful use of a vehicle. A steering wheel
locking device is used to immobilize vehicles. In 2008, the Court processed 8,738 driving under
suspension cases (a decrease of 07.5% from 2007) and 6,486 OVI cases (an increase of 07.4%). The
program’s two employees provide the communication from and to the courts, law enforcement and
defendants to ensure compliance with the court’s orders involving the defendant’s vehicle.
VOLUNTEER SERVICES PROGRAM
The Volunteer Services Program was developed to augment services to the Court and the community.
The Volunteer Coordinator recruits, screens, and places volunteers in appropriate positions by matching
their interests, skills, and scheduling requirements. Volunteers serve in a variety of positions, such as in
the Department of Probation Services and Assignment Office. In 2008, eight volunteers provided
3,954.15 hours of service at an estimated cost savings to the Court of $67,971.87.
ASSIGNMENT OFFICE
The Assignment Office is responsible for randomly assigning cases to the Judges. Criminal and traffic
cases are assigned when a not guilty plea has been entered. Civil cases are assigned after an answer or
motion is filed. The Court employs a single assignment system. This means that when a person is
charged with a criminal or traffic offense and already has a pending criminal or traffic case, or the
person is on probation to this Court, the new charges will be assigned to the Judge who presided in the
previous case. Once a case is assigned to a judge, the Assignment Office is responsible for the
management of the case as it proceeds through the system.
COURT REPORTERS
Court Reporters make a verbatim record of court proceedings, prepare a transcript from the record of
court proceedings upon request, and maintain records of exhibits introduced at court proceedings. The
Court has an obligation to provide a transcript of all proceedings upon request of a party, and there must
be a court record of all pleas and waivers. There are 14 full-time and two part-time Court Reporter
positions.
JURY COMMISSIONER’S OFFICE
It is the duty of the Jury Commissioner’s Office to summon and then assign prospective trial jurors to
courtrooms when needed, and track voir dire results and trial verdicts. Jury service is limited to two
weeks, except in those cases in which additional days are required to reach a verdict. Jurors are paid
$20 per day for each day they are in attendance, which by law is set by the County Commissioners. The
number of jurors summoned in 2008 was 4,294.
LEGAL RESEARCH
The Court employs a Legal Research Supervisor who provides legal research, supervises the work of
part-time law clerks, and serves as a part-time magistrate. The Supervisor and law clerks research and
prepare memoranda on issues pending before the Court, maintain the law library, review new case law
to ensure the Court’s compliance with the decisions, review pending legislation that may affect the
Court, advise the Judges and employees regarding new legal developments and applications of current
law to court procedures, and update local court rules.
DEPARTMENT OF PROBATION SERVICES
The Probation Officers assigned to general probation supervision are responsible for supervising all
types of cases that are referred by the Judges of the Court, and for enforcing the Court-ordered
conditions imposed upon those probationers. Conditions of probation may include: serving time in the
county jail; home incarceration in lieu of jail; payment of fines and court costs; completion of a three-
day residential Driver Intervention Program for OVI offenders; attendance at a drunk driving impact
panel presentation; testing for alcohol or drug use; completion of an alcohol, drug, or mental health
assessment, and, if warranted, a recovery or care program; domestic violence or anger management
counseling; attendance at a Defensive Driving Course or Underage Drinking Program; community
service work; and restitution to victims. In 2008, the Department handled 13,978 active cases.
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE UNIT
The Domestic Violence Unit offers offenders unique opportunities to secure treatment for their
behaviors. This Unit monitors offenders’ compliance with domestic violence counseling – which is
now a minimum of 40 weeks – in addition to all other Court orders. The Domestic Violence Unit has
two staff members dedicated to meeting the needs of domestic violence victims.
SPECIALIZED PROBATION SUPERVISION PROGRAMS
The Court has four specialized probation programs: Chemical Abuse Program (CAP), Multiple O.V.I.
Offender Program (MOP), Sex Offender Program, and Mental Health Program. These specialized
probation supervision programs offer judges sentencing options in cases involving alcohol or drug usage
or chemical dependency, sexually deviant behavior, or mental health issues. They also offer the
probationer a unique opportunity to obtain treatment for these particular problem areas, which enhances
public safety by helping clients achieve recovery through the fullest possible use of all available
treatment resources.
INVESTIGATION SERVICES
The Investigation Unit prepares presentence and post-sentence reports and conducts sealing of records
(expungement) investigations. These reports provide critical information for the Judge to consider in
making an appropriate disposition based on the particular defendant and facts. In 2008, there were
2,376 investigations ordered.
SUPERVISED COMMUNITY SERVICE
This sentencing alternative allows for placement of convicted offenders in unpaid positions with
nonprofit or governmental agencies where they perform a specified number of court-ordered community
service hours in lieu of costly incarceration. In 2008, offenders completed more than 29,700 hours of
community service.
RESTITUTION PROGRAM
The Restitution Program illustrates the Court’s commitment towards victims of crime and the
community at large. When a Judge orders a defendant to make restitution to a victim, the restitution
officer determines the amount to be paid, then collects and disburses the monies to the victim. In 2008,
more than $364,000 was collected for distribution to victims.
THE PROVIDED-NO-CONVICTIONS PROGRAM (PNC)
PNC is a special conditional sentence where all or part of a sentence may be suspended provided there
are no other convictions for a specific period of time, not to exceed five years. During 2008, the
program supervised 8,548 cases.
SUPPORT SERVICES
The Support Services Unit includes receptionists, intake officers, support relief officers, and one
transcriptionist.
SERVICE BAILIFFS
Service Bailiffs assist litigants, attorneys, and the Court by delivering court documents to parties and
enforcing both pre-judgment and post-judgment remedies. Responsibilities include service of
complaints, summonses, criminal and civil subpoenas, garnishments, juror letters, and revocation
hearing notices. Writs of replevin are enforced through seizure of property to be returned to the rightful
owner, and writs of execution through levy and sale of personal property for the purpose of satisfying
the judgment. Additionally, service bailiffs supervise the set-out of tenants’ property during an eviction.
The Service Bailiffs’ Department processed or served approximately 49,215 legal documents in 2008
and supervised 1,638 set-outs. The Department currently employs 17 full-time individuals: a Chief
Service Bailiff, two Deputy Chief Service Bailiffs, 13 Service Bailiffs, and a Secretary/Receptionist.
SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION AND
DISPUTE RESOLUTION PROGRAM
Small Claims Division
The Small Claims Division helps people and businesses file complaints for money damages up to
$3,000. Small Claims Court is somewhat less formal than the General Division of the Court. Small
Claims Court may also resolve cases more quickly, and usually an attorney is not required.
The Small Claims Division offers all of the required legal forms, information and instruction sheets,
brochures and booklets that address how to proceed in every phase of the case. Forms and information
are also available on the Court’s web page: www.fcmcclerk.com. In addition, the Small Claims
Division helps people who have won their cases collect their judgments and can explain and assist with
collection procedures.
The Division has five full-time employees. They provide support for the five Magistrates who hear
small claims cases. The staff initiates, assigns, and schedules each case for trial. The Division
processed more than 8,500 new small claims cases in 2008. The Small Claims Division also supports
the Court’s Dispute Resolution Program.
Dispute Resolution Program
The Dispute Resolution Program provides mediation and other dispute resolution services for the
citizens of Franklin County. In mediation, a neutral third party—the mediator—meets with disputing
parties to help them reach an agreement that is satisfactory to all parties. Mediation is very different
from trial or arbitration. The mediator works with the parties and provides an opportunity to discuss all
of their concerns and to reach an agreement that best suits their needs. The mediators are highly skilled
and experienced volunteers, and students from local law school and graduate programs.
In 2008, the Department’s free Evening Mediation Service scheduled 1,017 mediations. In 335
disputes, the parties came to agreement about all issues before or at mediation. Mediators in the
Evening Mediation Program are all volunteers who mediate as a community service.
In addition, the Department’s Check and Account Resolution Service (CARS) helped more than 1,623
individuals resolve disputes with businesses.
Judges and Magistrates referred 432 cases to mediation in 2008. One hundred twelve of these cases
were from individual dockets; the balance (320 cases) came from review of pro se answers by the Duty
Judge. Almost 75% of these cases (247) were resolved without trial. Of those that resolved only 15%
(37 cases) required a ruling on a summary judgment motion.
In November 2008, the Court agreed to provide mediation services for foreclosure cases in Franklin
County. The Franklin County Foreclosure Mediation Project (FCFMP) provides mediation services for
borrowers and lenders in mortgage disputes before a case is filed, after filing and even after judgment.
The goal is to assist borrowers and lenders in reaching prompt and satisfactory agreements to resolve
their disputes.
