Overview
Medina County is located in Ohio with a population of approximately 184,625. The Medina County Probate Court 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 applicable) and an Application for Authority to Administer Estate to admit the will and appoint a personal representative. The court then issues Letters of Authority to the fiduciary.
Ohio offers simplified procedures for smaller estates:
* Release from Administration: For estates valued at $35,000 or less (or $100,000 or less if the surviving spouse is the sole heir).
* Summary Release from Administration: For very small estates (typically under $5,000 or up to $45,000 for a surviving spouse who paid funeral expenses).
Ohio law sets a statutory fee schedule for attorney and executor compensation based on the value of the estate.
This guide provides an informational overview of the Medina 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
Medina County Probate Court
Probate matters in Medina County are handled at the Medina County Courthouse. The Honorable Kevin W. Dunn presides as Probate Judge.
Address: 225 E. Washington St, 4th Floor, Medina, OH 44256
Phone: (330) 725-9703
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM
The Probate Court is located on the fourth floor of the courthouse. It handles estates, guardianships, adoptions, and name changes.
Parking and Access
Public parking is available around the courthouse square and in designated municipal lots nearby. Visitors must 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:
- Release from Administration: If assets are $35,000 or less ($100,000 if spouse is sole heir).
- Summary Release from Administration: For estates under $5,000 or up to $45,000 for a surviving spouse with funeral reimbursement claims.
- Non-Probate Transfers: Assets with named beneficiaries (TOD/POD), joint survivorship, or trust assets generally bypass probate.
Step 2: File the Application
If formal probate is needed, file the Application for Authority to Administer Estate with the Medina County Probate Court. Include:
- Original Will (if applicable)
- Certified Death Certificate
- Next of Kin Form (Form 1.0)
- Filing fee deposit (typically $200–$250 for full administration)
- Photo ID of the applicant
The court permits e-filing for certain document types; check the local rules for eligibility.
Step 3: Provide Notice
After filing, you must:
- Serve notice of the probate to all heirs and beneficiaries who have not waived notice.
- File a Certificate of Service with the court proving notice was given.
Step 4: Appoint the Fiduciary
The court will review the application. If approved, the judge issues Letters of Authority, granting the fiduciary the legal power to act on behalf of the estate.
Step 5: Administer the Estate
After receiving Letters, the fiduciary must:
- Inventory and Appraise: File an Inventory and Appraisal of all estate assets within 3 months of appointment.
- Notify Creditors: Creditors have 6 months from the date of death to file claims.
- Pay Debts & Taxes: Settle valid claims and file necessary tax returns.
- Distribute Assets: Distribute remaining assets to beneficiaries according to the will or state law.
- Close the Estate: File a Final and Distributive Account or a Certificate of Termination to close the case.
Local Requirements
Medina County-Specific Procedures
- Local Forms: Medina County requires specific local forms for certain actions, available on the court's website.
- Background Checks: The court may require background checks for certain fiduciary appointments.
- Publication: If the address of an heir is unknown, notice must be published in a newspaper of general circulation, typically the Medina County Gazette.
- Bond: A fiduciary bond is generally required unless the will waives it or all beneficiaries consent to waive it (and the court approves).
Timeline & Fees
Filing Fees (Medina County)
Fees are subject to change. Check the current fee schedule.
- Full Administration Deposit: approximately $200–$250
- Release from Administration: approximately $100–$150
- Summary Release: approximately $60–$100
- Will Deposit (for safekeeping): $25
- Marriage License: $65
Payment Methods
The court accepts cash, checks, money orders, and credit/debit cards (with a processing fee).
Estimated Timelines
- Release from Administration: 2–4 months
- Simple Full Administration: 6–9 months
- Complex Estates: 12+ months
The 6-month creditor claim period sets a minimum duration for most full administrations.
Local Resources
Medina County Court Resources
- Court Website: medinaprobate.org
- Probate Forms: medinaprobate.org/probate/common-probate-forms/
- Ohio Supreme Court Forms: supremecourt.ohio.gov
Legal Aid and Attorney Referrals
- Medina County Bar Association: (330) 725-9794 — Lawyer Referral Service
- Community Legal Aid: (800) 998-9454 — Legal assistance for low-income residents
Publication
- Medina County Gazette: (330) 725-4166 — Common publication for legal notices