Ohio law

Domestic Violence Laws in Ohio.

Ohio provides civil protection orders through Domestic Violence Civil Protection Orders (CPOs) and Civil Stalking Protection Orders (CSPOs) under Ohio Rev. Code §§ 3113.31, 2903.214. Ex parte orders issue immediately; full orders follow a hearing and last up to 5 years, renewable. Ohio criminalizes domestic violence as a separate offense under Ohio Rev. Code § 2919.25, with enhanced penalties for repeat offenses. Federal firearm dispossession under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(8) applies.

Last verified: 2026-04-17

State law

Key Ohio Statutes

Domestic Violence Civil Protection OrderOhio Rev. Code § 3113.31

Authorizes ex parte CPOs (immediate, effective through full hearing) and full CPOs (after hearing, up to 5 years, renewable). Protected: family or household members (spouses, former spouses, parent/child, persons with child in common, persons living as spouse).

Civil Stalking Protection OrderOhio Rev. Code § 2903.214

Similar to CPO but for victims of stalking, menacing by stalking, or sexually oriented offenses by someone other than a family/household member.

Domestic Violence (Criminal)Ohio Rev. Code § 2919.25

First offense: misdemeanor (first degree). Second offense: felony (fourth or third degree). Third offense: felony (third degree). Enhanced penalties for serious physical harm or deadly weapon.

Ohio Victims of Crime Compensation ProgramOhio Rev. Code Chapter 2743

Ohio Attorney General administers victim compensation. Reimburses victims for medical, counseling, and economic losses up to $50,000. Application within 2 years.

State law

Official Sources

Ohio Domestic Violence Network Ohio Supreme Court — DV Forms

Not Legal Advice

This page summarizes publicly available statutes and rules for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this content. Laws change — always verify with the primary source or consult a licensed attorney in Ohio.

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Domestic Violence Laws in Ohio.

Key Ohio Statutes

Official Sources

Not Legal Advice

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