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The Domestic Violence Department will be closed on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. for staff training.
During this time, individuals seeking assistance may access information and forms to begin the court process for a Domestic Violence or Dating Violence Civil Protection Order by visiting https://ccdrc.ohiolegalhelp.org/.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation. Services will resume promptly following the training.
Navigation Services and the Assignment & Scheduling Department will be closed on Thursday, September 25 from 2:45 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. for staff training.
Both offices will open Friday, September 26 at 8:30 a.m. We appreciate your understanding.
Public Defenders are not appointed for all cases. The Cuyahoga County Public Defender provides legal representation only in contempt and paternity proceedings for parties who are indigent.
A party must request the assistance of a public defender by filing a written motion or verbal motion at the first hearing scheduled on the case. A party also needs to complete a Public Defender Financial Disclosure Form to determine if the party qualifies for a public defender to be appointed.