Athens Court Information, Location and Rules

Athens Municipal Court prides itself on impartial, fair, speedy and sure administration of justice using procedural simplicity to eliminate unfair expense and delay. The rules are applicable in cases filed with the court except those cases which are in clear conflict with the law of Supreme Court Rules, Criminal Procedure and Civil Procedure. These local rules are available in the court’s website http://www.supremecourt.ohio.gov/JudSystem/trialCourts/ or http://www.athensmunicipalcourt.com/. Paper copies of these rules can be obtained from the Clerk’s office at extra charge.

Misdemeanor Violation Bureau

The Clerk of Court is appointed as the violations clerk of the Misdemeanor Violation Bureau to collect fines and give receipts according to Rule 4.1 of the Ohio Rules of Criminal Procedure. Fines are charged by the Violation Bureau and these are published as “Fines and Costs in Misdemeanor Cases.”

Traffic Violation Bureau

In the Traffic Violation Bureau, the Clerk of Court collects fines and gives receipts as per Rule 13, Ohio Traffic Rules. Fines are also charged by the violation bureau and the schedule of fines is available at the public counter of the court.

Criminal Practice

Domestic violence under the criminal practice of the court states that the victim shall be provided with an emergency number or hotline by the arresting officer as a part of his duty so that the victim can receive appropriate counseling service from the Victim or Witness Assistance Program. The arresting officer shall note the name of the referral on the appropriate court paper.

Cases which are related to child abuse, neglect or child endangerment should be reported to the Children’s Services department of the court. However these cases are not meant to be dismissed on the request of the victim unless and until the victim has received proper counseling from the victims advocate.

No contact and temporary protection orders will not be rejected, except when the alleged victim makes a request in open court after consultation with the victim’s advocate.

Small Claims Cases

Small claims requests should be made in writing as directed by the Small Claims Division a minimum of seven days prior to the trial date. The continuance of the small claims cases will only be granted if a good reason is shown for its continuance and it is backed by approval of the court.

Jury Services

The Municipal Court of Athens has jury services which are not applicable to those who are:
•    less than eighteen years of age
•    not a citizen of the United States
•    not the residents of the specific jurisdictions in which they have been called upon to serve
•    convicted of a felony and do not have their civil rights restored.

Contact the Athens Municipal Court in downtown Athens, Ohio at:

City Building, 2nd Floor
8 E. Washington St.
Athens, Ohio 45701
8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday
(740) 592-3328
Fax (740) 592-3331