Is it true that private judges can hear certain cases outside of a courtroom?
Yes. Since 1984, Ohio law has allowed retired judges to hear certain cases. The law says parties to certain civil actions can refer their case to a retired judge who will hold proceedings outside of a courtroom. Actions can include divorce, personal injury and medical malpractice cases that do not require a jury. The only exclusions are cases in the small claims division of a municipal or county court. Q: How would I go about hiring a private judge for my divorce? A: You and your spouse must agree to use a retired judge, and you must file a motion in the court to transfer the case. Once the case is transferred, it can go forward. Once you have hired the judge, you must provide facilities, equipment, and personnel reasonably needed during the action or proceeding, and you must pay all costs, including the judge’s fee. No tax dollars are used for this service. Typically, the parties’ attorneys prepare the motion to transfer the case to the private judge, and the attorneys also provide wh
