Probate Court and Richland County Parks

When people think about Probate Court, they usually think about wills, estates, and guardianships. Those are important parts of the court's work, but Probate Court's work sometimes extends beyond wills, estates, and individual family matters.

Ohio law gives the Probate Judge certain limited responsibilities involving public institutions, including the appointment of members of the county park district board.

In Richland County, parks, trails, public lands, and shared spaces are important parts of community life. The Probate Judge does not manage those resources, but the court's statutory role in certain appointments is one example of how the office can affect institutions that serve the public.

That is another reason the office requires a judge who understands the law, respects the limits of the judicial role, and takes every statutory responsibility seriously.

Robert Franco believes voters deserve to understand those connections when choosing a Probate Judge.