What are the steps I need to take as a landlord to legally evict a tenant in Ohio?

As a landlord, if you need to legally evict a tenant in Ohio, you must follow the appropriate procedures under Ohio law. Here are the steps you need to take:

1. Provide the tenant with written notice: You must first provide the tenant with written notice of their lease violation or the reason for eviction. The notice must specify the lease violation or reason for eviction and give the tenant a specific amount of time to remedy the lease violation or vacate the premises. The amount of time required in the notice generally depends on the violation or reason for eviction, but it is typically at least three days for non-payment of rent.
2. File a complaint for eviction: If the tenant fails to remedy the lease violation or vacate the premises within the time specified in the notice, you may then file a complaint for eviction with the appropriate court. You will need to provide the court with the original lease agreement, the written notice to the tenant, and any other evidence you have to support your claim for eviction.
3. Serve the tenant with the complaint and summons: Once you have filed the complaint, you must serve the tenant with a copy of the complaint and summons. The summons will inform the tenant of the date, time, and location of the eviction hearing.
4. Attend the eviction hearing: At the eviction hearing, you will need to present evidence of the lease violation or reason for eviction and argue your case before the judge. The tenant will also have the opportunity to present their argument or defense.
5. Obtain a judgment for eviction: If the judge determines that you have met the legal requirements for eviction, they will issue a judgment for eviction. The tenant will typically have a certain amount of time to vacate the premises voluntarily or be forcibly removed by law enforcement.

Note that there may be limitations or exceptions to the eviction process in certain situations, such as if the tenant is a member of the military. Additionally, if the tenant has filed for bankruptcy, there may be an automatic stay on eviction proceedings.

Since eviction proceedings can be complex and require strict adherence to legal procedures, it is highly recommended that you consult with an experienced landlord-tenant attorney for guidance and assistance throughout the process.