FAQs
Animal Shelter
Does my dog have to wear his/her license tag?
Yes. First of all, it is the law. Also, wearing the license tag is thequickest way for your dog to be returned to you if he/she becomes lost.
Do you accept credit/debit cards as payment?
Yes, the Miami County Animal Shelter accepts credit/debit cards (there is a 2.7%processing fee for credit/debit cards), cash, and checks with photoidentification. No starter checks, please.
How soon are dogs available for adoption after they arrive at the animal shelter?
Dogs wearing current license tags must be held for 14 days. Dogs withoutlicense tags must be held 3 business days. After that time period the dog may beavailable for adoption and they are kept for as long as it takes and we have room.
What is a service dog?
According to the ADA (American Disabilities Act) effective 3/15/11 aservice animal is defined as a dog that has been individually trained to dowork or perform tasks directly to an individual person’s disability.
Are emotional support, therapy, comfort, or companion animals considered service animals under the ADA?
No. Because they have not been trained to perform a specificjob or task. However, some State or local governments have laws that allowpeople to take emotional support animals into public places. Please checkwith your State and local government agencies for more information.
Common Pleas - Domestic Relations
Do you accept fax filings?
Yes, we do accept fax filings. See Local Rule 2.09.
Common Pleas - Jury Duty
I Received a Summons for Jury Duty?
Please take the time to thoroughly read the summons andthe letter accompanying the summons. It contains a great deal ofinformation that may be helpful to you. Once you have read it, pleasefill out the questionnaire that was included to the fullest extentpossible and mail it back to the Court using the enclosed envelopeas soon as possible.
Eligibility to Serve as a Juror?
To be eligible to serve on jury duty, you must be at least18 years of age, a citizen of the United States and resident of MiamiCounty. You must able also be able to communicate in the English language.
How Long Does Jury Duty Last?
In Miami County, Petit Jurors are selected for a one-monthperiod. You may be called to serve at any time during that term. Youmay also be called more than once during your term. It is also possiblethat your services will not be needed at all during your term. You willknow when to report upon receiving a second notification that the USMail. Grand Jurors serve a term of four months and are required toreport at the direction of the Court.
What is a Petit Jury?
If you are selected as a Petit Juror, you will hear acase which is criminal or civil. A criminal trial will involve afelony (a more serious type of crime.) The law requires twelve(12) jurors to be seated in a criminal case, only eight (8) jurors arerequired in a civil case. In a criminal trial, the jury must finda litigant guilty or not guilty by unanimous vote. In civil cases, thelaw requires a vote of a least three-fourths of the jury to reach averdict. Most jury trials will seat one to two “alternate-jurors” inthe event, sickness or unforeseen circumstances arise in which one of theregular jurors are unable to hear the entire trial. The alternate-jurorhears the trial, in its’ entirely, but does not participate injury deliberations unless the alternate replaces one of the originaljurors. A petit jury trial typically lasts one to three days, butcould be longer depending on the type of case.
What is a Grand Jury?
A Grand Jury hears evidence about crimes and decides whether ornot a person should be “indicted” and tried for committing a crime. The Grand Jurydoes not decide guilt or innocence. If you are summoned to court to beselected to serve on a Grand Jury, you will serve a term of four (4) months.
How Was I Summoned for Jury Duty?
According to Ohio law, jurors may be summoned from the list ofregistered voters in the county or jurors may be summoned from a list ofregistered voters and licensed drivers in the county. Presently, this courtsummons jurors from the list of registered voters of Miami County, Ohio. Asource list is developed by a random computerized drawing from the registeredvoters in the county. From this source list there are three random computerizeddrawings each year. The jurors that are drawn are notified by mail they havebeen selected for jury duty.
How to Request an Excuse from Jury Duty?
According to the law of Ohio, you can be excused from jury dutyonly by the Court. When considering requests of excuse, the Court is required toobserve statutory provisions. Requests to be excused from jury service should besubmitted in writing. The address, fax number and email address are included onour letterhead. Please be clear and precise in your description of yourrequest. The Judge will review the request and you will be notified of hisdecision. If at the particular time you are called for jury duty, it will be anundue hardship, you should make that fact known. You may be able to work somethingout regarding your service through the Court Administration Office at937-440-5992.
How Much Will I Be Paid for Jury Duty?
Petit Jurors: Individuals are paid, by the court, for their servicesas a petit juror. The pay is calculated by the number of days that petitjurors are summoned and instructed to report to the Safety Building forjury selection. Petit jurors are compensated at the rate of $40.00 per dayfor each day present. After the tenth day of being seated on a jury trialpetit jurors are compensated at the rate of $80.00 per day. However, ifyou are not seated on a jury trial and are excused before noon, you willreceive $20.00. Payment is by check, which will arrive at your residencewithin one month following your jury service.
Grand Jurors: Individuals are paid for their services as aGrand Juror. The pay is $20.00 for a half day, or $40.00 for a fullday. Payment is by check, which will arrive at your residenceevery thirty (30) days during your term.
Proof For Employer of Your Jury Duty.
Should any juror’s employer require proof of juryservice so that you may receive your pay, or for any other reason, youmay go to the Office of the Clerk of Courts which is located on the thirdfloor of the Safety Building and a certificate will be furnished toyou. These are furnished at any time you ask for them.
Emergency - Late Arrival?
In the event any emergency should arise while serving as a juror, such asillness, car trouble, etc., which would make you report late or make it difficult tocome in, call the Court Administration Office as soon as possible at(937) 440-5992. However,once you have been sworn as a juror in a case, every reasonable effort should be made tocontinue or the case would have to start anew.
Is There a Dress Code for Jurors?
Please wear comfortable clothing that also reflects the seriousness ofyour responsibility. Business-casual attire is encouraged. Shorts, mini-skirts,tank tops, shirts with suggestive language or logos, and hats are all considered tobe inappropriate attire for the courtroom. The temperatures from the jury room andthe courtroom may vary, so you may bring a sweater or jacket with you.
Juror’s Code of Conduct.
While a case is being tried, you may not talk about thecase among yourselves or with others, nor should you listen to outsideconversations. You may not mingle with lawyers or witnesses during arecess, nor accept such favors as a ride home from witnesses, parties,or counsel.
If any interested party approaches you or other jurors, immediately reportthis communication to the judge. Each juror must retain impartiality.
Do I Need to Call in Every Day to Check Reporting Status?
No. You do not need to call in every day the month you are assigned forduty. You will receive another summons outlining your report date and time withadditional instructions for reporting, etc.
Petit Jurors will be assigned a Code Number of either Code 1 or Code 2. You willfollow those instructions pertaining to your Code Number that corresponds with yourreport date. You can also check your juror status using the Miami County Common PleasCourt’s website. However, if you doreport for jury duty and ultimately selected and impaneled as a juror, you willreport from day to day until discharged by the Court. You will receive additionalinstructions by the Court during the jury selection process.
Will I Be Excused for Vacations, Medical Issues, etc.?
All requests to be excused must be put in writing and includeyour name, juror ID number and any documentation. You may be excused forpreviously scheduled vacation times or other dates due to medicalappointments. Please be specific as to dates for appointments and vacationso that we can ensure an excusal for the needed dates - you may still berequired to serve during your assigned month, but the court attempts togrant excused absences for any previously scheduled plans, medicalappointments or other medical emergencies. The court attempts to notifyall excused jurors by letter. Jurors who have been granted a partialexcusal due to pre-planned vacations, or medical appointments, willnot receive a letter. However, you may inquire at the office of theCourt Administrator at (937) 440-5992 or send an email to commonpleasjuryinfo@miamicountyohio.gov to verify a temporary excusal.
What Should I Do if I have an Unexpected Event Come Up After My Paperwork was Returned?
Please put the information in writing and if possible include anydocumentation, juror number and dates for excusal. You can send the information throughfax to Court Administration at 937-440-6011 or e-mail at commonpleasjuryinfo@miamicountyohio.gov
What if I Have Moved Out of the County or State?
Please fill out the questionnaire and include your new address. You maywrite on the back of the questionnaire that you have moved, and then mail itback to the court using the enclosed envelope. The court must have thisinformation in writing. If you move out of the county in the middle of your term, thecourt also needs that information in writing and faxed to 937-440-6011, or mailed toJury Commissioner at 201 W. Main Street, Troy, Ohio 45373. You may also send via e-mail to commonpleasjuryinfo@miamicountyohio.gov
What Should I Do if I Have Received a Jury Summons for a Deceased Family Member?
We apologize for any undue hardship this has caused. Please mark the summons “Deceased” and Return in envelope provided.
What Should I Do if I Have Received a Jury Summons for a Previous Resident of my Home?
Please treat the summons as you would any other piece of mail thatdoes not belong to you. Mark the outside “Return to Sender“.
What if a Family Member is Away at College or in the Military?
Please attach a note to the summons explaining the situation andreturn it. You will be notified in writing, if they have been excused fromserving jury duty based upon the circumstances.
What if I Have Moved Out of the County or State?
Please fill out the questionnaire and include your new address. You maywrite on the back of the questionnaire that you have moved, and then mail it back tothe court using the enclosed envelope. The court must have this information inwriting. If you move out of the county in the middle of your term, the court alsoneeds that information in writing and faxed to 937-440-6011 or mailed to JuryCommissioners’ Office, 201 W. Main Street, Troy, Ohio 45373. You may alsosend via e-mail: commonpleasjuryinfo@miamicountyohio.gov
Do I Have to Respond to the Jury Summons?
Yes. Your jury summons is an official court order. If anyone fails toreport for jury duty without a lawful excuse from the court, they may be broughtbefore the court for contempt of court proceedings.
Without jurors, the jury system cannot work the way the Constitution intendedit to. We realize the sacrifice we are asking you to make and understand thatyou may be apprehensive about serving. However, the majority of people saythey find the experience rewarding and wouldn’t mind doing it again.
What Happens When I Report for Jury Duty?
Please report to the Miami County Safety Building located at201 W. Main Street. The Safety Building is situated next to the Miami CountyCourt House. Please note that you will be entering a secured area where you will berequired to pass through security checkpoints, including metal detectors. Therefore,please leave all unnecessary personal items at home or in your vehicle. Upon passingthrough security screenings, you will take the elevator to the 3rd floor. Upon exitingthe elevators, turn right. Court personnel will be in view to assist with yourcheck-in process. If you need employment letters, the Clerk’s office willprovide one to you upon request.
What Happens During Jury Selection on the Trial Date?
There is no guarantee that you will be seated on a jury the followingmorning. The court has the responsibility to examine jurors under oath oraffirmation as to the individual juror’s qualifications to serve. The judgewill ask all jurors questions and will permit both the plaintiff and defensecouncil to ask questions of the jurors. Jurors may ask questions of the judge oreither party regarding their responsibilities as juror. At this time you can voiceany care, concerns or issues that you feel prevent you from serving on a jury.
The court and opposing parties seek a jury who will be impartial and have openminds. Your honest answer to each question is extremely important. The court and opposingparties will select jurors who will hear the case. No prospective juror shall fail toanswer any legal and pertinent question posed to the prospective juror by the court.
If any question is asked that you would prefer not to answer in front of the entirejury pool, you may ask the court to answer privately on the record.
Where do I Park?
Park in an area unrestricted on time - the residential area ofFranklin Street and Water Street is recommended. Please, do not park inany lots that are marked “Restricted or Reserved” surrounding the SafetyBuilding and Municipal Court. For a view of downtown parking, you mayvisit Troy’s website.
What are the Office Hours and Location?
The Safety Building is located at 201 W. Main Street, Troy, Ohio and issituated next to the Miami County Courthouse. The Safety Building opens to the publicbeginning at 7:30 A.M. Monday through Friday. The Court of Common Pleas opens at8:00 A.M. and closes at 4:00 p.m. The Court is closed on Saturdays, Sundays andlegal holidays.
Human Resources
I have a question for HR that isn’t listed here. What should I do?
It’s easy! Submit your question online and a member of ourteam will contact you within one business day. If this is an emergencysituation, however, you can reach us at (937) 440-8045 or contact your supervisor.
I recently moved. Who do I contact to update my information?
Please complete the Employee Information Change form and return it to Human Resources.
How do I change my biweekly HSA contribution?
HSA contributions can be changed on a quarterly basis. To changeyour contribution, email Amy Saltis and be sure to include your full name asit appears on your payroll check, your current contribution, your newcontribution, and which quarter you wish to make this change effective.
My spouse no longer has health insurance coverage. Can I add them to our plan?
A dependent losing coverage qualifies as a life changingevent. You have 30 days from the effective date (the date their coverageends) to add your dependent to our plan. You will need to provide proof ofcoverage lost, date of birth, and social security number. Please emailsomeone on the HR team as we will be happy to assist you.
I need a new insurance card.
You can request a new insurance card from Anthem on theirwebsite. You can also view your card online in case you need itimmediately. Dental insurance cards can be requested through theirwebsite as well. Vision insurance does not have physical ID cardsmailed to you, you can see your coverage on their website butthere is no option to request cards.
Juror Information
What list are jurors names drawn from?
This court summons jurors from the list of registered voters inthe county. However, Ohio law allows for jurors to be summoned from thelist of registered voters in the county, or jurors may be summoned from acombined list of registered voters and licensed drivers in the county.
Juvenile Court
What happens if my license is suspended?
Sometimes as a result of a traffic violation, or drug/alcoholcharge or failure to comply with a court order to pay fines and courtcosts, the Court will find it necessary to suspend a juvenile’sdriving privileges or the right to apply and test for a driver’slicense. This can be for a specific amount of time or until certainconditions are met by the juvenile. Under certain conditions they mayget permission to obtain from the court limited driving privileges forschool or work.
How/where do I pay my court costs? What forms of payment does the court accept?
The Court accepts cash, checks, credit cards, or moneyorders for payment of fines, court costs or filing fees. Payment may bemade in person, by phone (if paying by credit card) or by mail to:Miami County Juvenile Court, 201 W Main St. Troy, Oh 45373.
How can I change my Court date or time?
Court hearings are not appointments; court hearing dates and timescannot simply be changed. Continuances should only be requested in emergencysituations. The Court will consider written requests for continuances and aregranted only at the discretion of the Judge or Magistrates. You may stop bythe Clerk’s Office or you may visit the Forms Center link below.
Forms Center
How do I contact a city/county department?
Visit the Staff Directory to find all department andstaff contact information.
Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?
Use the FAQs page to easily find answers to the questions youask the most.
Municipal - Jury Info
How did my name get selected for jury duty?
Your name was obtained from the list of registered voters inMiami County, which was provided by the Board of Elections. The drawing ofprospective jurors is performed according to statutory guidelines, which assurea random selection of a fair cross section of the community. Being a registeredvoter is NOT a prerequisite to serving. Your voting record (how you voted orvoting frequency) has nothing to do with your ability to be selected. It is onlythe source list that is used to obtain jurors’ names.
What hours will I serve?
Normal business hours for the court are 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. If you arein the jury pool, your report time will be 7:45 a.m. everyday and you will need toremain in the jury assembly room until released for the day by the Jury Managers. Youwill be released for lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. Release times each day willvary, but usually fall between 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. If you are seated as a swornjuror, the judge on your case will tell you what time to report each day. Pleaseexpect to be here until 4:00 p.m. when actually seated on a jury.
What happens when I report for jury duty?
When you arrive at the Miami County Municipal Court, you will beasked to verify your juror questionnaire. The information contained on thequestionnaire is used to assist attorneys in selecting a jury. The originalcopy is kept by the Jury Manager and copies are made of the questionnaire to beused in the courtroom. After all the jurors have been checked in, you will gothrough our juror orientation. Our juror orientation video is viewed and theCourt Administrator or Bailiff will go over many other areas of concern.The entire orientation will last about ½ hour. After orientation, we willhopefully be assigning new jurors to courtroom service.
I got a jury summons for a deceased family member. What should I do?
We apologize for any undue hardship this has caused. Please mark theoutside of the summons "DECEASED" and return it to our office. We will be sure totake the name out of our system. You should also contact the Board of Elections tomake sure they have been notified that the family member is deceased. Otherwise, thename will remain on their records, allowing us to have access to it each year whennew jurors are pulled.
Can I volunteer for jury service or send someone in my place if I am unable serve?
We wish it were that easy! State law and local rules requirethat all prospective jurors be selected AT RANDOM from the source list that is used.
I received a jury summons for the previous resident of my home. What should I do?
You should treat the summons as you would any other piece ofmail that does not belong to you. Simply write "NOT AT THIS ADDRESS -RETURN TO SENDER" on the outside of the summons and put it backin the mail. We will process it as an undelivered summons.
I’ve been called several times for jury duty and yet I know a lot of people who have never been called. Why?
The drawing of prospective jurors each year is a completely RANDOMprocess. There really isn’t a good explanation of why some people arecalled more than once when others haven’t been called at all. You may beinterested to know that 90% of the people who report for jury duty haveNEVER served before!
I meet the eligibility requirements for serving as a juror but am I really "qualified" to serve?
You do not need any special skills, training, or legal knowledge tobe a juror. You do need to be able to listen carefully, follow instructions, keepan open mind, and be willing to make a decision free from personal feelings orbiases. As a juror, you will be responsible for impartially evaluating all thefacts that are presented to you during the trial and, as the judge instructs, applythe law as it is written to the facts of the case.
I got a jury summons for Miami County and I no longer live in Miami County. What do I do?
To be eligible to serve in Miami County, you must reside in MiamiCounty. If you have moved from Miami County, please fill out the appropriatesection of your jury summons. Once you have filled it out, mail the entiresummons back to the Jury Commission. In the meantime, you may want to contactthe Board of Elections to make sure they know that you have moved outsidethe county. Otherwise, you could continue to be called for service.
What if my employer requires me to turn in a statement that verifies my attendance to jury duty?
Work Verifications/Proof of Service Reports are in the form ofyour summons for service. We do not keep track of the actual hours youspend in court, only the number of days that you report. Your employment isprotected by law while you are serving as a juror. If you have any problems withyour employer in connection with your jury service, please notify theJury Commission immediately.
Is it possible that I might report for jury duty but never get to sit on a jury?
Unfortunately yes. Although there is a slight chance that you will neverget called for a case, there is a possibility that you will not be seated as a swornjuror. It is our hope that every juror will at least have the opportunity to gothrough the jury selection process. Also, you may experience a situation whereyou are called to sit as a prospective juror and the case resolves justmoments before the trial begins. If this should happen to you, please donot feel as if your time has been wasted. Your presence alone encourages resolution.
I got a jury summons in the mail. What do I do?
First, don’t panic! Second, please take the time to READIT!! A common mistake many people make is simply not reading through the summons. Muchtime and preparation went into the design of our summons. Some of your initialquestions and concerns will be easily addressed through the information containedin the jury summons itself. It will explain briefly your term of service, when andwhere to report, what to do if you have a request to be excused, how to handlemandatory disqualifications, courthouse location and parking information, dresscode, contact phone numbers and information about this web site. If after readingthrough the summons and/or our web site and you still have questions orconcerns, please do not hesitate to call us at (937) 440-3937. We will beglad to assist you in any way we can.
Do I have to respond to the jury summons?
To answer your question directly, yes. Your jury summons is an officialcourt order. If anyone fails to report for jury duty without a lawful excuse fromthe court, they may be brought before the court for possible contempt of courtproceedings. If found in contempt by the judge, the court may impose a fine and/orother punishment as provided by Ohio law. Indirectly, let us say this. Withoutjurors, the jury system cannot work the way the authors of the Constitution ofthe United States wanted it to. We realize the sacrifice that we are asking youto make. We also understand that you may be apprehensive about being called toserve. However, the overwhelming majority of people who serve find the experienceto be highly rewarding. When asked, most people say they wouldn’t mind todo it again sometime in the future. Jury duty for most people will mean asubstantial, though temporary, change to your everyday life, rearrangingschedules and missing work. But if you were ever involved in a dispute orcharged with a criminal offense, wouldn’t you want someone just likeyou to make those same sacrifices in order to be a part of your jury?
Municipal Court - Probation
How can one get access to find out an offender’s court date?
Public Access to cases filed in the Court are available on the rightside of the Court’s home page. Select the Court View icon for case information.
How does one find out which Probation Officer supervises a particular offender?
In order to determine an offender’s Probation Officer, youmust call the Probation Department at (937) 440-3940during regular business hours. It is necessary that you know the completeproper spelling of the offender’s name. Any further contact with theidentified Probation Officer, you must call the Probation Department andselect the Probation Officer from the automated phone system. Please makesure to push the # sign on your phone prior to the Officer’s extension number.
What is the difference between probation and parole?
The main difference between the two is that probation(or Community Control) is a court sanction of community supervision inlieu of a jail. Parole (or Post-Release Control) is granted by the AdultParole Authority on FELONY cases after an offender has served a setprison term, and then released under certain guidelines.
What should I do if I know an offender who has violated the terms of his/her probation or has an active warrant for their arrest from the Probation Department?
Violations of probation vary on a case by case basis, as all offendersdo not have the same Conditions or Case Plans. If you believe that someone youknow has violated probation or has an active warrant, you may call thatoffender’s probation officer at (937) 440-3940. As violations of probation mustbe documented and verified, please be aware that probation officers must take certainsteps before acting on the information provided.
How many offenders are on probation?
The Miami County Municipal Court Adult Probation Department supervisesapproximately 800 offenders.
How can one get copies of Court entries or Public Records.
These questions can be answered by contacting the Clerk of Courts at(937) 440-3910.
What are the requirements to become a Probation Officer?
The qualifications for employment as a Probation Officer are: completion of anassociates degree, however, a bachelors degree is preferred. Experience in probation,parole, social casework or counseling and knowledge of the criminal justice system is alsopreferred. Good written and oral communication skills, as well as knowledge andapplication of computer systems are necessary.
What are the Probation Department’s hours of operation
The Miami County Municipal Court Adult Probation Department’s normal businesshours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, however, Officer work hours vary in order to facilitate successful offender supervision. The department is closed for business on the following holidays:
- New Year’s Day
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day
- Presidents’ Day
- Memorial Day
- Independence Day
- Labor Day
- Columbus Day
- Veterans’ Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
Municipal Court Main
How can I pay for a traffic citation?
All Traffic citations are paid, in advance of your scheduled Court date on the ticket, and to the Miami County Clerk of Courts. You can post the bond amount;- Directly to the Clerk’s Office on the third floor of the Courthouse, or- Mail your payment to the Miami County Clerk of Courts, 215 W. Main Street, Troy, Ohio 45373, or- Call the Clerk’s Office at (937) 440-3910 for questions about the amount due, and for other forms of payment.
The Court facilitates a Traffic Safety Class that will allow for a dismissal of yourtraffic offense when completed. For eligibility and program description, see"Traffic Safety Program" on the Court’s home page.
How do I find out when my Court date is?
You should have received a Court notice, however, select the "Courtview"Public Access icon on the Court’s website that will allow you to search yourcase for specific information.
Where do I go for a Marriage License?
The Miami County Probate Court, located in the Miami County Safety Building (second floor), is where you will apply and receive a license. The Miami County Municipal Court Judges provide for the actual marriage ceremony. Please contact Court Services to make arrangements or if you have additional questions.
Who do I talk to regarding an inmate in the Miami County Jail?
For matters that relate to the sentencing, commitments andearly releases, contact the Miami County Probation Department. (937) 440-3940.For matters that relate to the inmates visitation, well being, and for any personal concernsmust be directed to the Miami County Sheriff’s Office(937) 440-6085.
How do I get a Public Defender
The Public Defender’s office is located on the second floor of the MiamiCounty Municipal Courthouse. Their phone number is(937) 440-3950, or(937) 440-3952.
Operations & Facilities
Where is the Operations & Facilities Department Located?
The Operations & Facilities Department is located in the historicPower Plant at 209 W. Water Street in Troy, Ohio.
Probate Court
Who may adopt?
A husband and wife jointly, a step-parent, and a single adult may all adopt.
Recorder
General Questions
What does the County Recorder’s Office do?
The Miami County Recorder maintains and preserves the official records for public land transactions within Miami County and the discharge records of Miami County Military Veterans. The Recorder ensures these records are accurately filed, indexed, preserved and made accessible to the public. Learn more about the duties of the Miami County Recorder.
Can the Recorder’s Office prepare my deed or other legal documents?
No. The Recorder’s Office cannot prepare deeds, complete legal forms, choose wording for documents, or give legal advice. If you need a deed or other legal document prepared, you should contact an attorney or other qualified professional.
Can the Recorder’s Office tell me whether I have a “good title” to my property?
No. The Recorder’s Office records documents and provides access to public records, but it cannot determine whether title is clear or give an opinion about ownership, liens, or legal rights. A title company, attorney, or professional title examiner can assist with a title search.
Can I “lock” or “freeze” the title to my property?
No. It is legally impossible to “lock” or “freeze” a property title. Under Ohio law, the County Recorder does not have the authority to verify the validity or accuracy of a document’s contents and is required to record any document presented that meets basic statutory requirements.
While we cannot necessarily stop fraudulent activity, Miami County offers a FREE notification service allowing for prompt awareness and action to help combat mortgage and deed fraud. To sign up for this FREE service, call our office at (937) 440-6040 or register for Property Fraud Alert
Deeds and Property Records
How can I obtain a copy of my deed, mortgage, lien or other recorded document?
You may search our database and print your documents free of charge by visiting the page, Land Records Search on our website. Copies may also be requested from the Recorder’s Office in person, by mail, or online for a fee of $2.00 per page.
I paid off my mortgage, when will I receive a new deed?
Paying off a mortgage usually does not create a new deed. You should have received your deed at the closing upon purchasing the property. Unlike a car title, a new deed is not generated when you pay off your mortgage. After a mortgage is paid in full, the lender will record a Release/Satisfaction of Mortgage showing the mortgage has been paid.
How do I change the name on my deed?
Changing a name on a deed generally requires recording a properly prepared, new legal document. The Recorder’s Office cannot advise you which document to use or prepare it for you. You may wish to consult an attorney to determine the proper steps for your situation.
Recording Documents
What information is needed to record a deed?
Deeds presented to the Miami County Recorder's Office for recording must contain the following information:
- Name(s) of the buyer(s) and seller(s)
- Legal description of the property
- Signature(s) of the seller(s)
- ‘Prepared by’ statement (if notarized in the State of Ohio);
The execution is according to the state in which the signature was notarized. The notary must contain the following:
- A notary statement
- Notary's signature
- Notary expiration date.
If all the above criteria are met, the Recorder’s Office will circulate the document through the Engineer’s and Auditor’s departments for their approval and stamps (as necessary).
Recording Fees can be found on our website: Recording Fees
What information is needed to record a mortgage?
Mortgages presented to the Miami County Recorder's Office for recording must contain the following information:
- Name(s) of the borrower(s) and lender(s)
- Legal description of the property
- Signature(s) of the borrower(s)
- 'Prepared by’ statement (if notarized in the State of Ohio);
The execution is according to the state in which the signature was notarized. The notary must contain the following:
- A notary statement
- Notary's signature
- Notary expiration date.
- Recording Fees can be found on our website: Recording Fees
How long does it take to record a document?
Processing times depend on how the document is submitted, whether all requirements are met, and the office’s current workload. Documents are generally recorded in the order received once they are accepted for recording. Documents submitted after 3:30pm may not be put on record until the next business day.
Why might a document be rejected or not recorded?
A document may be rejected if it does not meet legal or formatting requirements, lacks required signatures or notarization, does not include required information, is not authorized to be recorded, or does not meet applicable standards. The Recorder’s Office may also be required to refuse certain documents under Ohio law.
Liens, Searches, and Public Access
How can I find out whether there are liens on a property?
The Recorder’s Office is only one of the offices where liens may be recorded. You may search our database for liens, but the Recorder’s Office cannot guarantee that a search is complete or interpret the legal effect of recorded documents. A title company, attorney, or professional title examiner can help determine whether liens or other encumbrances affect a property. You may search our database and print your documents free of charge by visiting the page, Land Records Search on our website. Copies may also be requested from the Recorder’s Office in person, by mail, or online but there is a fee of $2.00 per page.
Are recorded documents public records?
Most recorded documents are public records and may be reviewed or copied unless a specific law restricts access to certain confidential information. The Recorder’s Office adheres to applicable public records and confidentiality requirements.
Sanitary Engineer
What are the payment options for paying a water or sewer bill?
Options:
Via Mail: Mail a check or money order toSanitary Engineering, 2200 N. County Rd. 25-A, Troy, Ohio 45373In Person: Payments can be paid to the Sanitary Engineering office bycash, check or credit card during office hours (8 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday)Via Deposit Box: There is a deposit box available at the Sanitary Engineering officeduring facility open hours (6 am to 6 pm, Monday through Friday) or atthe Miami County Safety Building, 201 W. Main Street in Troy (Next tothe Courthouse) anytime day or nightAutoPay (ACH): The Sanitary Engineering Department now offersAutoPay (ACH) for water and sewer customers. A customer’s waterand/or sewer bill will be automatically deducted from a checking orsavings account every month. To enroll, complete the ACH form locatedunder the Customer Service tab, or on the back of your bill, andsubmit with a voided check. Often times, it takes a month or so tobegin, so please check with our office regarding current bills.Online Payment System: Our Water and/or Sewer customers will need to“Register New Account” using account numbers shown on the billing statement withasterisks (*). Will also need to enter street address as shown on the billingstatement using ALL capital letters, but no city, state or zip code info is needed.Note: There is a convenience fee that is applied when paying throughPoint & Pay that is paid to them, NOT to Sanitary Engineering.
If you have problems signing up on the system, please call the office at 937-440-5653,Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm.
Transit
How does the Transit service generally work?
Anyone is eligible to ride regardless of age or ability. Thehours of operation for transportation are as follows:
Monday - Friday 5:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
We ask that you schedule your trip at least 24 hours in advance. Same dayrequests are not guaranteed. Trips can be scheduled up to 7 days inadvance. The pick-up and drop-off times may be up to 15 minutes earlieror later than your scheduled pick-up time to accommodate other riders. It is up toyou to be watching for the bus. Trips should be scheduled one hour prior to thedesired time of arrival. Exact fare is needed when boarding the bus.
What information do I need to provide as a first time rider?
Your name, home address, mailing address, phone number, emergencycontact, date of birth, and any special needs.
Is there a lift on the bus?
All of our buses have lifts.
Is there a way to help pay for rides?
We offer two cards that have no cost to apply for. Bothdo require an application to be filled out and signed with proofneeded (specified on the application).
Our Blue Card Application is for anyone 65 years of age orolder or with a documented permanent disability.
The Title XX Application is based on income. Anyone regardless ofage is eligible to apply. Income level must be at or below 150%Federal Poverty Guidelines. MCPT will determine eligibility followingJFS criteria. Acceptable documentation for proof of income includes the following:
Current Social Security benefit letterPay stubsPrintouts from Job and Family Services if receiving that type of aidVeterans benefit statementPensions statement
I have a service animal. Can they ride the bus?
No pets are allowed to ride in Transit vehicles. Serviceanimals are allowed to ride.
Can my child ride with me on the bus?
Yes, children under the age of 7 ride free whenaccompanied by an adult. You must provide your own car seat if needed.
Children less than 4 years old or 40 pounds must use a safety seat.Children less than 8 years old, unless they are at least 4 foot 9 inches tall must use a booster seat.Children ages 8-15 must use a child safety seat or safety belt.
Will the driver provide assistance to/from the bus?
If you need assistance to/from the door in order to board the bus, pleasefill out a door-to-door request form. Please remember to tell the scheduler that you will require assistance with boarding.
Safety is our number one priority. During inclement weather, Miami County Transit reservesthe right to deny door-door assistance requests, should there be a potential safetyhazard to the passenger or driver.
If I would need someone to assist me, how much would it cost for them to ride?
Passenger aides must be pre-approved by the Transportation Manager withwritten notice from the doctor on prescription pad or office letterhead. Uponapproval, the aide is able to ride for free. Otherwise, their fare would be$4.00 one way for a trip within Miami County.
Can the driver help me load groceries on the bus?
Carry on items are permitted, provided they do notexceed what you can comfortably carry in one trip. All passengers arepermitted to carry personal items on the buses. In addition, all carry onitems must be secured in a tote bag or other means of control. No looseitems that may become a hazard in the event of a sudden stop, will bepermitted. No open containers of drinks, food, or other liquids thatcan spill are permitted.
Bags are available on all buses for $1.00 each.
What age can my child ride the bus alone?
Passengers that are 14 years or older may ride the bus without an parent or adult.
Why can’t you pick me up at the time I need a trip?
Our scheduler will work hard to schedule your trip at your requestedtime, but service is very limited and there are certain times of the day when there are noopenings. Our service is first come/first serve and scheduled if space is available. Wesuggest that you schedule your trips as early as possible to reserve the time you need.
Can you wait for me while I run into the store?
No. You will need to schedule a pick up and return trip when you call. You trip is completed when you leavethe bus at any destination. On most days the driver has other trips scheduled and cannot wait.
Why can’t you take me straight home or to my destination?
Our service is a public transportation shared ride program. The driver mayhave other riders that are scheduled to be picked up and dropped off during your trip. Keepthis in mind when scheduling your trip and give yourself extra time to get to your destination.
I use a mobility device. Can I get on your vehicle?
Yes, all of our vehicles are accessible to mobility devices. Our drivers aretrained to assist passengers in loading, unloading, and securing mobility devices.
What if I accidently leave something behind on the vehicle?
If you leave anything on the vehicle, call our office at(937) 335-7433. We will make every effort to locate and returnlost items to our customers. Please understand that Miami County Public Transit is notresponsible for items left on the vehicle.
If i have a bike, can I bring it on the bus with me?
Yes, we do have buses equipped with bike racks. Please let the schedulerknow this information when you scheduled the ride.
How do I become a driver?
If you are interested in becoming a part of the team that provides Miami CountyPublic Transit service, please contact the Safety Manager at (937)335-7433. Ifopenings are available, you can apply here. ALL applications must be submitted online.
Treasurer
What are the TAX collection DUE DATES?
Due Dates are printed on your statement. Due datepostmarked envelopes are accepted as on time payment. Please disregard anybills wrongfully sent to you.
REAL ESTATE TAX
1st Half due February 14
2nd Half due July 20
Mobile Home Tax
1st Half due March 1
2nd Half due July 31
Are there Delinquent Payment Contracts?
We have this available to help you get caught up on past duetaxes. Please call the office for further details.
What are the penalties for past due taxes?
For ten days after the due date a 5% penalty is applied. After that, a10% penalty is added on all unpaid current tax and remains the same until the second halfstatement is mailed. At which time it is included on the bill, if not paid before.
Is there a Homestead Exemption available?
You may qualify is you are age 65 or older, or permanently disabled, andlive in your own residence. For further information, call the Miami County Auditor at937-440-5925.
Valuation Questions in Regards to Your Tax Bill
Call the Miami County Auditor at 937-440-5925.
Is there an Owner Occupied Residence redution?
All owner occupied residences qualify for reduction. Callthe Miami County Auditor for the form at 937-440-5925.
Do you have Tax Lien Certificate Sales?
This is by section 5721.32 of the Ohio Revised Code. All Ohiocounties can now do a tax lien sale.
Veterans Services
How can I get a copy of my DD214 and or service record?
There are two options for getting discharge paperwork. First, you maycall our office to schedule an appointment and we can go through the process, oryou may go tohttps://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-recordsand submit your own request either by mail or fax. If you have any questions, please do nothesitate to reach out to our office.
Where are you located?
Miami County Veterans’ Services is located on the ground level ofthe Hobart Center for County Government. The facility sits between the Troy-MiamiCounty Public Library and the new Kettering Health Network.