Estate Planning & Probate in Franklin County, Ohio
Franklin County estate questions split two ways—planning so your family skips probate, or settling an estate that is already in it. Pick the path that fits, then work from the local Probate Court details.
Someone died — settling an estate
Filing probate at the Probate Court, what it costs, transferring property, and local attorneys.
What to do when someone dies in Franklin County→Planning ahead as a property owner
Keep a Franklin County home out of probate with a transfer-on-death deed or a living trust.
Estate planning in Franklin County→The Probate Process in Franklin County
Probate is the court-supervised process of settling someone's estate after they die — validating the will, paying debts and taxes, and transferring what's left to the heirs. In Franklin County, probate runs through the Probate Court at 373 S. High St., 22nd Fl., Columbus. Franklin County runs probate e-filing through probate.franklincountyohio.gov, its own system rather than a shared statewide portal.
Full Franklin Countyprobate guide: cost, how to file & attorneys →Probate Court Record
Probate Court
Franklin County
Address
Phone
Hours
Recording Deeds & Property Documents
Recording Office Record
County Recorder
Franklin County
Address
Phone
Fax
Hours
E-recording
$34 for the first 2 pages plus $8 for each page beyond 2; a 2-page TOD deed records for $34; TOD deeds are exempt from transfer tax.
Full recording details →Verified September 8, 2026 · Source
Local Procedures at the Probate Court
The court offers a self-help center, in 373 S. High St., 22nd Floor, Columbus, OH 43215. Staff can review paperwork for completeness and explain procedures, though they cannot provide legal advice. Call 614-525-7251 for details.
Ohio Estate Planning Articles
Articles about estate planning, probate, and trusts relevant to families in Franklin County.
Is this your situation?
Get a complete guide for your specific circumstances.
