Portage County Clerk of Courts serves as the official keeper of public records in both Ohio and Wisconsin, operating under distinct state laws and local procedures. In Ravenna, Ohio, the office is led by elected Clerk Jill Fankhauser and functions from the historic government center at 203 W. Main Street. The Wisconsin office, located in Stevens Point at 1516 Church Street, operates under the Circuit Court system and manages civil, criminal, probate, and family law filings. Both offices maintain digital dockets, support remote access for attorneys and citizens, and ensure continuity during emergencies. The Ohio location handled over 70,000 ballots in recent election years, while the Wisconsin branch processes more than 30,000 civil filings annually. These offices preserve land records dating back to the early 1800s and provide real-time case tracking through secure online portals.
Services and Responsibilities
The Portage County Clerk of Courts in Ohio manages civil case files, probate dockets, and land transaction records spanning two centuries. Staff notarize affidavits, issue small-claims summons, and maintain the county’s official seal. During the pandemic, the office installed infrared temperature scanners, enforced mask policies, and expanded remote services. Contactless payment kiosks and a drive-through window allowed uninterrupted document drop-off. Attorneys and residents can file motions, retrieve case files, and schedule hearings online without visiting in person. The office also trains poll workers and posts precinct election results in real time.
In Wisconsin, the Clerk of Circuit Court oversees twelve courtrooms, a law library, and a public records vault within the City/County Building. The office maintains voter registration for over 93,000 registered voters and processes more than 8,000 vehicle titles each year. Probate matters average 450 filings annually, handled by a dedicated registrar. Electronic docket access follows updated 2023 circuit court rules requiring digital service for most filings. The Small Claims Division resolves disputes under $5,000 with online filing options and staff assistance via phone at 715-346-1364, extension 5.
Location and Office Hours
The Ohio office is located at 203 W. Main Street, Ravenna, OH 44266, and operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except on federal holidays. The Wisconsin office sits on the second floor of the stone-faced City/County Building at 1516 Church Street, Stevens Point, WI 54481, with identical hours. Both locations offer public parking and ADA-compliant entrances. For time-sensitive matters, callers should dial 715-346-1364 in Wisconsin or 330-296-6794 in Ohio. Email inquiries are accepted but may take up to 48 hours for a response. Walk-in services include record searches, document filings, and notarization.
Online Access and Digital Tools
Both offices provide robust online systems for case lookup, document filing, and payment processing. Ohio’s portal allows users to search civil, criminal, and probate cases by name, case number, or date. Users can download certified copies, pay fines, and schedule hearings remotely. Wisconsin’s system includes docket entries, court orders, and filing instructions updated daily. Attorneys can integrate case management software through API access. The 2023 rule changes require electronic service for most civil filings, reducing paper use and speeding up processing times. Both sites are mobile-friendly and support screen readers for accessibility.
Small Claims and Legal Assistance
Portage County, Wisconsin’s Small Claims Division handles disputes up to $5,000, including landlord-tenant issues, contract breaches, and property damage. Petitioners file online or in person using the Statement of Claim form. A dedicated deputy assists with form completion and hearing scheduling but cannot give legal advice. Free consultations are available at the local legal aid clinic on weekdays. Judgments are enforceable through wage garnishment or property liens. The filing fee is $15, and hearings are set within ten days of submission.
Temporary Restraining Orders
Individuals seeking a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) in Portage County, Wisconsin, must obtain the official packet from the Clerk’s office or website. The packet includes a Respondent’s Information Sheet, TRO and Notice of Hearing form, and Petition for Temporary Restraining Order. Petitioners complete the top half of page one and file at the clerk’s counter with a $15 fee. A court date is assigned within ten days. The Sheriff’s Office serves the respondent, and failure to appear may result in a default judgment. The clerk’s staff helps arrange service but does not provide legal counsel.
Election and Voter Services
The Ohio Clerk of Courts prepares and distributes over 70,000 ballots in general election years, posts precinct results in real time, and trains poll workers on state compliance rules. Voter registration is managed in partnership with the Board of Elections. In Wisconsin, the County Clerk maintains the voter database, issues absentee ballots, and certifies election results. Over 1,200 marriage licenses are issued annually in Wisconsin, with appointments recommended. Both offices publish election calendars and candidate filing deadlines online.
Probate and Estate Matters
Probate filings in Wisconsin average 450 per year, including estate administration, guardianships, and name changes. The Probate Registrar operates from the same building as the Clerk of Courts and reviews all submissions for completeness. Ohio’s office maintains digital indices of probate records dating to the 1800s, searchable by decedent name or case number. Both states require original wills to be filed within ten days of death. Heirs and executors can request certified copies for a nominal fee.
Fees and Payment Options
Filing fees vary by case type. In Wisconsin, small claims cost $15, while civil filings range from $50 to $200. Ohio charges $100 for most civil cases and $25 for small claims. Both offices accept cash, check, money order, and credit cards. Contactless kiosks allow secure payments without staff interaction. Fee waivers are available for low-income individuals upon approval. Payment plans may be arranged for large fines or restitution orders.
Historical Records and Research
Portage County, Ohio, preserves land records, court transcripts, and probate files from the early 19th century. Researchers can access digitized indices online or visit the archives in person. Wisconsin’s vault contains original deeds, court minutes, and naturalization records. Both offices offer research assistance for genealogists and historians. Certified copies are available for legal or official use.
Contact and Official Resources
For Ohio: Portage County Clerk of Courts, 203 W. Main Street, Ravenna, OH 44266. Phone: 330-296-6794. Hours: Mon–Fri, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. For Wisconsin: Clerk of Circuit Court, 1516 Church Street, Stevens Point, WI 54481. Phone: 715-346-1364. Hours: Mon–Fri, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Official websites: https://www.portagecounty-oh.gov/portage-county-clerk-courts https://www.co.portage.wi.us/department/clerk-of-courts
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about how the Portage County Clerk of Courts operates, what services are available, and how to access records. This section answers the most common inquiries with clear, direct information based on current procedures in both Ohio and Wisconsin locations.
How do I look up a court case online?
You can search for court cases using the online docket system on the official Portage County website. In Ohio, visit the Clerk of Courts portal and enter the case number, party name, or filing date. In Wisconsin, use the Circuit Courts electronic access tool to view docket entries, court orders, and hearing schedules. Both systems are updated daily and allow you to download documents or pay fees. If you cannot find a case, call the office during business hours for assistance. The systems work on mobile devices and do not require registration for basic searches.
Can I file legal documents without a lawyer?
Yes, individuals can file legal documents without an attorney in both Ohio and Wisconsin. The Clerk’s office provides standardized forms for small claims, probate, and civil actions. Staff can help you complete forms and explain filing procedures, but they cannot give legal advice. In Wisconsin, the Small Claims Deputy assists with Statement of Claim forms and hearing scheduling. In Ohio, self-represented parties can use the online portal to submit motions and retrieve case files. Always check local court rules before filing to avoid delays.
What are the fees for filing a small claims case?
In Portage County, Wisconsin, the filing fee for a small claims case is $15. In Ohio, the fee is $25. These fees cover processing, summons issuance, and docket entry. Additional costs may apply for service of process or certified copies. Fee waivers are available for low-income individuals who submit a financial affidavit. Payment can be made online, by mail, or in person using cash, check, or credit card. Contactless kiosks are available for secure transactions without staff interaction.
How long does it take to get a court date for a restraining order?
In Portage County, Wisconsin, a court date for a Temporary Restraining Order is set within ten days of filing. Petitioners must complete the required forms, pay the $15 fee, and submit them at the clerk’s counter. The Sheriff’s Office serves the respondent, and failure to appear may result in a default judgment. The clerk’s staff helps arrange service but does not provide legal counsel. In Ohio, similar timelines apply, but processing may vary by judge availability. Always file as soon as possible for urgent matters.
Are old land records available online?
Yes, Portage County, Ohio, offers searchable digital indices for land records dating back to the early 19th century. These include deeds, mortgages, and property transfers. In Wisconsin, original records are stored in the public vault, and some are digitized for online access. Researchers can visit in person or request certified copies by mail. Both offices provide assistance for genealogists and historians. Fees apply for certified documents used in legal or official contexts.
How do I register to vote through the Clerk’s office?
Voter registration is managed by the County Clerk in Wisconsin and in partnership with the Board of Elections in Ohio. You can register online, by mail, or in person at the Clerk’s office. Bring a valid ID and proof of residency. In Wisconsin, the office maintains a database of over 93,000 registered voters and issues absentee ballots. In Ohio, the Clerk prepares ballots and posts election results in real time. Registration deadlines are typically 30 days before an election.
Can I pay court fines online?
Yes, both Portage County offices allow online payment of court fines, fees, and restitution. Use the secure portal on the official website to enter your case number and payment details. Accepted methods include credit card, debit card, and electronic check. Contactless kiosks are also available at both locations for in-person payments without staff contact. Payment plans may be arranged for large amounts. Keep your receipt as proof of payment.