OHIO — The Franklin County Court of Common Pleas has adopted new rules that prohibit civil arrests and deportations on courthouse grounds without a judicial warrant.
The court issued two emergency rules on Friday in response to a recent surge in civil immigration enforcement actions near the courthouse.
Over the last 30 days, officials have noticed an increase in such enforcement efforts on courthouse property.
Civil arrests on courthouse grounds are prohibited under Local Rule 111 unless a judicial warrant is issued. This rule does not apply to arrests based on criminal charges.
While Ohio law already prohibits civil arrests of plaintiffs, defendants, and witnesses traveling to and from court, the new rule explicitly extends that protection to courthouse grounds, such as sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots.
“This rule is intended to only apply to individuals having business with the courts and not intended to be a safe haven to avoid civil arrests for the public at large,” according to the regulations.
Local Rule 112 provides additional safeguards by prohibiting judicial warrant arrests inside a judge’s courtroom unless law enforcement obtains written approval from the judge.
It also prohibits court personnel from inquiring about immigration status, disclosing personal information to immigration authorities, or assisting with immigration enforcement efforts.
Because these rules were adopted on an interim emergency basis, they will be subject to public notice and comment within 90 days.
