Legal Question in Family Law in Ohio

Re: marrage problems

Can a husband change the locks on the house? Yes-and so can the wife!

Let me qualify the answer. If you are both residing in the home, neither one of you are prohibited from having the locks changed unless there has been some court order to the contrary. If the husband changes the locks you would be within your rights to call a locksmith to have them changed as soon as he goes off to work. You could also wait until he is not there and break in. This, again is assuming that you did not move out. If you moved out and then he changed the locks, then you will have to take a different approach!

What I have told you is based on legal rights. Having the locks changed back and forth could get expensive and also could end up in some sort of violence! If your husband will not voluntarily make reasonable arranegements for you to have your property then you will have to get an order from the court. If there is already a divorce action pending, then have your attorney get an order. I would move quickly so that things don't "disappear." If there is not an action already pending then you will have to decide if you are ready to start one. It may be possible to have the police escort you to pick up your things but they will usually only act as peace keepers and if your husband refuses to let you take your things they will not do anything unless you have a court order.

Feel free to call if you have any other questions.

Good Luck!

DHD

Re: marrage problems

Not as long as there are no court orders prohibiting contact. Especially if you are on a joint deed to the home. I suggest you request the local police/sheriff for an escort to retrieve yor things.