Overview
Logan County is located in Ohio with a population of approximately 46,000. The Logan County Court of Common Pleas, Probate Division handles all probate and estate matters for decedents who were domiciled in the county at the time of death.
Ohio probate is governed by Title 21 of the Ohio Revised Code. The process begins with filing an Application to Probate Will (if there is a will) or an Application for Authority to Administer Estate to appoint a personal representative. The court then issues Letters of Authority to the fiduciary.
Simplified Procedures:
- Release from Administration: Available if the estate is valued at $35,000 or less, or $100,000 or less if the surviving spouse is the sole heir.
- Summary Release from Administration: Available if the estate is valued at $5,000 or less, or up to $45,000 if the surviving spouse pays the funeral expenses and is entitled to the entire family allowance.
Fees:
Ohio law sets standard probate fees, but counties may require deposits. Attorneys and executors may also be entitled to statutory fees based on the value of the estate.
This guide provides an informational overview of the Logan County probate process. It is not legal advice and is not a substitute for consulting a qualified attorney. Laws and local procedures may change — verify current requirements with the court.
Courthouse Information
Logan County Probate Court
Probate matters in Logan County are handled at the Logan County Courthouse.
Address: 101 S. Main Street, Bellefontaine, OH 43311
Phone: (937) 599-7252
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
The Probate Court is located in the historic Logan County Courthouse in downtown Bellefontaine. The court handles estates, guardianships, name changes, adoptions, and marriage licenses.
Parking and Access
Street parking is generally available around the courthouse square. There are also public parking lots nearby. Visitors pass through security screening upon entering the building.
Filing Process
Step 1: Determine If Probate Is Necessary
Before filing, assess whether formal probate is required:
- Summary Release from Administration: For very small estates ($5,000 or less, or up to $45,000 for a surviving spouse with funeral reimbursement).
- Release from Administration: For estates under $35,000 (or $100,000 if passing to a spouse).
- Non-Probate Transfers: Assets with named beneficiaries (POD/TOD accounts, life insurance) or held in trust generally bypass probate.
Step 2: File the Application
If formal probate is needed, file the Application for Authority to Administer Estate with the Logan County Probate Court. Include:
- Original Will (if applicable)
- Certified Death Certificate
- Application to Probate Will (Form 2.0)
- Surviving Spouse, Children, Next of Kin, Legatees and Devisees (Form 1.0)
- Filing fee deposit (typically around $200-$250)
Step 3: Provide Notice
After filing, you must:
- Serve notice of the probate of the will to all heirs and beneficiaries who did not waive notice.
- File a Certificate of Service with the court proving notice was sent.
Step 4: Appoint Fiduciary & Inventory
Once appointed, the court issues Letters of Authority. The fiduciary must then:
- Gather and secure estate assets.
- File an Inventory and Appraisal (Form 6.0) within 3 months of appointment.
- Notify creditors if required.
Step 5: Administer the Estate
After the inventory is approved:
- Pay valid debts and administrative expenses.
- File federal and state tax returns if necessary.
- Distribute remaining assets to beneficiaries according to the will or state law.
- File a Fiduciary's Account (Form 13.0) to close the estate.
Local Requirements
Logan County-Specific Procedures
- Local Rules: The court has adopted local rules that supplement the state rules. Reviewing the Logan County Local Rules of Court is recommended before filing.
- Deposits: A deposit for court costs is required at the time of filing. The amount varies by the type of proceeding (e.g., full administration vs. release).
- Publication: If the address of an heir is unknown or if creditor notice is required, publication must be made in a newspaper of general circulation, typically the Bellefontaine Examiner.
Timeline & Fees
Filing Fees (Logan County)
Note: Fees are subject to change. Contact the court for the most current schedule.
- Full Administration Deposit: approximately $200 - $250
- Release from Administration: approximately $100 - $150
- Summary Release: approximately $60 - $100
- Will for Record Only: approximately $25 - $50
Payment Methods
The court typically accepts cash, checks, or money orders. Confirm with the clerk before visiting if credit cards are accepted.
Estimated Timelines
- Release from Administration: 2-4 months
- Full Administration (Simple): 6-9 months
- Complex/Contested Estates: 12+ months
Creditors generally have 6 months from the date of death to file claims against the estate.
Local Resources
Logan County Court Resources
- Court Website: www.logancountyohio.gov/probate-court.html
- Probate Forms: www.logancountyohio.gov/probate-forms.html
- Local Rules: Logan County Local Rules
Legal Aid and Attorney Referrals
- Ohio State Bar Association: (800) 282-6556 — ohiobar.org
- Legal Aid of Western Ohio: (877) 894-4599 — lawolaw.org
Publication
- Bellefontaine Examiner: (937) 592-3060 — examiner.org