Lucas County Probate Court

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Lucas County Probate Court

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The Lucas County Probate Court continually strives to fulfill its duties courteously, efficiently and effectively.

11/02/2026

Today, five children and four families celebrated a new chapter together at Lucas County’s Adoption Day.

Lucas County Children Services caseworkers opened the celebration with a ceremony recognizing the colors associated with adoption and the meaning each carries.

Before holding court to finalize the adoptions, Judge Puffenberger offered warm reflections on what this day means, not only for the children, but for everyone welcoming them home.

“The entire family is enriched when these children come into the home,” he said.

Congratulations to all four families, and thank you to the caseworkers and everyone who helped make this a meaningful and joyful day.

10/28/2026

Judge Puffenberger was honored at this morning’s Metroparks Board of Park Commissioners meeting, recognizing more than 30 years of appointing thoughtful, nonpartisan leaders with a genuine commitment to our park system.

Board Vice President Fritz Byers offered heartfelt remarks about the judge’s impact on both our park system and the community. He noted that Judge Puffenberger has presided over 8,400 adoptions during his years of service, just one part of a legacy that has touched thousands of lives as individuals and families navigate some of life’s most tender moments in Lucas County Probate Court.

The judge’s wife, Sarah, and daughter, Martha, joined him for the recognition. In his remarks, he credited his partnership with Sarah for making his work possible.

Following Byers’ tribute, the room rose in a standing ovation, a warm expression of gratitude for the judge’s years of service and the lasting difference he has made in our community.

10/26/2026

Metroparks Monday!

You never know who you might meet at Oak Openings in the fall! We hope you’re enjoying the gorgeous autumn colors throughout Metroparks Toledo. Judge Puffenberger's favorite park to visit this time of year is Wildwood. What's yours?

📸: Christy Frank

10/12/2026

The court will be closed on Tuesday, October 13 due to a water main break affecting the building.

09/21/2026

🌳 Metroparks Monday: Happy 10th Birthday, Middlegrounds!

This month, Middlegrounds Metropark is celebrating 10 years as downtown Toledo's urban oasis! This site used to be 28 acres of former industrial hardscape along the Maumee River. Thanks for your hard work, Metroparks Toledo, in transforming this into a park with a walking path, kayak cove, dog park, and place to watch the sunrise, as seen in the photo.

Middlegrounds was also a big milestone for the whole county: it was a major step toward Metroparks Toledo's goal of putting a park within 5 miles of every Lucas County resident.

Are you wondering why the Probate Court does Metroparks Monday posts? The Metroparks' volunteer Board of Park Commissioners, the folks who help steward growth like this, is appointed by our own Probate Court Judge Puffenberger. It's a small but meaningful way our court supports the green spaces we all enjoy.

Have you visited Middlegrounds lately? Metroparks Toledo has more anniversary events coming, including a History Tour on September 25. 🦆

📸: Christy Frank

09/07/2026

Congratulations to Judge Puffenberger, who served as Grand Marshal of the 2026 Toledo Labor Day Parade! The United Labor Committee honored him for his longstanding support of Northwest Ohio's labor unions. It was wonderful to see him celebrating the day alongside family and friends. Happy Labor Day to all the hardworking members of our community!

08/07/2026

Navigating the probate process after the loss of a loved one can feel overwhelming. In this helpful video, Magistrate Ned Adya explains two types of Release from Administration and shares practical information about funeral reimbursement, eligibility, and what families may need to know.

Watch the video to learn more about these important probate options and whether they may apply to your situation.

Please note: This video provides general information and is not legal advice.

Magistrate Ned Adya discusses two types of release from administrat...

07/31/2026

Congratulations, Luellen, on your retirement today after 30 years of dedicated service to the court. She has held many roles over the years, and her steady presence, kindness, humor, and commitment will be deeply missed.

Wishing you all the best in this wonderful new chapter!

07/13/2026

Metroparks Monday!

Summer is peak prairie and savannah season when many Metroparks Toledo locations are bursting with color. This bright blue butterfly was spotted at Secor Metropark among native flowers and grasses. It’s a beautiful place to enjoy the wildlife that makes Lucas County unique.

📸: Christy Frank

07/09/2026

Need copies of probate court records? Our records are public, and there’s a simple way to request what you need.

We’ve created a short video as part of Judge Puffenberger's Public Education Program that explains, step by step, how to:
– Identify the correct record you are seeking
– Request standard or certified copies
– Submit your request and pay any required fees

If you’re not sure where to start, this walkthrough is for you.

Watch the video at the link below.

If you still have questions after watching, contact our Records Department via email ([email protected]) and we’ll be glad to help.

Lukasz Wilson explains how to request copies of court records.

Address

700 Adams Street, Ste 200
Toledo, OH
43604

Telephone

+14192134775

Website

https://lucasprobate.org/

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