Ohio
How do I object to a magistrate’s decision in Ohio?
Quick answer
Under Civ.R. 53(D)(3)(b)(i), a party may file written objections to a magistrate’s decision within 14 days of the filing of the decision, whether or not the court has already adopted it. Juv.R. 40(D)(3)(b)(i) sets the same deadline in juvenile court. If another party files timely objections, any other party may also file objections not later than 10 days after the first objections are filed.
Researched by Dan Martin, Legal Researcher · Published by Onbello Legal · Last updated October 2026
What the objections must include
Objections must be specific and state with particularity all grounds (Civ.R. 53(D)(3)(b)(ii)). An objection to a factual finding must be supported by a transcript of all the evidence on that finding, or by an affidavit of that evidence if a transcript is not available, filed within 30 days after the objections unless the court extends the time (Civ.R. 53(D)(3)(b)(iii)).
What the judge does
A magistrate’s decision is not effective unless the court adopts it. On timely objections, the court must rule and independently review the objected matters, and it may refuse new evidence unless the objecting party shows it could not, with reasonable diligence, have been produced before the magistrate (Civ.R. 53(D)(4)).
Why objections matter
Except for plain error, a party cannot argue on appeal that the court should not have adopted a finding or conclusion unless the party timely and specifically objected to it (Civ.R. 53(D)(3)(b)(iv)).
Tools and resources
Where to check this
Forms, deadlines, and local rules change. Verify anything on this page against the official self-help resources for your state before you rely on it.
This page is general legal information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney–client relationship. Laws and local rules vary and change. For advice about your situation, consult a licensed family-law attorney in your state.