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1. What is a JCPO?

A JCPO is short for Juvenile Civil Protection Order. A JCPO is a Court order directing a juvenile not to have contact with and to stay away from another person (juvenile or adult).

2. Who is able to request a JCPO?

Any person on his or her own behalf
Any parent or adult family/household member
Any other person

3. How does someone obtain a JCPO?

The JCPO begins with an individual (called the Petitioner), filing a written document called a Petition with the Clerk of Court. The Petitioner asks that the Court order another person (called the Respondent), to stay away. The completed form must be signed by the Petitioner in the presence of a Notary or Deputy Clerk of Court.
*A blank copy of a JCPO Petition is available under Forms, as well as the Ohio Supreme Court Instructions for filing a JCPO, or a copy may be obtained at the Clerk of Court.

4. What happens after the Petition is filed?

A hearing is held as soon as possible after the Petition is filed.

5. What happens in the hearing?

The Petitioner presents to the Court any testimony or evidence he or she may have and the Court decides whether a JCPO is granted.
A full hearing is set within ten (10) to fourteen (14) days.

6. How does the Clerk of Court/Sheriff locate the Respondent in a JCPO case?

It is the responsibility of the Petitioner seeking the JCPO to provide the Clerk’s Office with a current address for the Respondent so the proper Court papers can be delivered.

7. What if the JCPO is denied?

If the Court denies the JCPO, the Court shall grant a full hearing within thirty (30) days.

8. When is the JCPO effective?

A JCPO is effective when it is served (physically delivered) on the Respondent.

9. My protection has been violated. What should I do?

You should contact your local police or Sheriff. A violation of a JCPO may result in delinquency charges.