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March 16, 2026 Get Citation Alerts Download PDF Add Note

Young v. Young

Ohio Court of Appeals

• Citations: 2026 Ohio 883
• Docket Number: 5-24-52

• Judges: Willamowski

• Opinion

• Authorities (33)

• Cited By (0)

• Summaries (0)

• Similar Cases (21.6K)

• PDF

Syllabus

Marital Residence; Equalization Payment; Spousal Support; Child Support; Exclusion of Evidence. A trial court's classification of property as marital or separate is a factual determination and is reviewed under a manifest weight standard. R.C. 3105.18 directs trial courts to consider the matter of spousal support after determining the division of property between the parties. A separation agreement is a contract between two parties. However, once a separation agreement is incorporated into a court order, the obligations therein are not imposed by contract but by decree. R.C. 3105.171(F) contains factors that a trial court is to consider in dividing marital property.

Combined Opinion

[Cite as Young v. Young, 2026-Ohio-883.]

IN THE COURT OF APPEALS OF OHIO
THIRD APPELLATE DISTRICT
HANCOCK COUNTY

SEAN YOUNG,
CASE NO. 5-24-52
PLAINTIFF-APPELLANT/
CROSS-APPELLEE,

v.

TONI YOUNG,
OPINION AND
DEFENDANT-APPELLEE/ JUDGMENT ENTRY
CROSS-APPELLANT.

Appeal from Hancock County Common Pleas Court
Domestic Relations Division
Trial Court No. 2022 DR 505

Judgment Affirmed in Part, Reversed in Part and Cause Remanded

Date of Decision: March 16, 2026

APPEARANCES:

Scott H. Smith for Appellant

Howard A. Elliott for Appellee
Case No. 5-24-52

WILLAMOWSKI, J.,

{¶1} Plaintiff-appellant and cross-appellee Sean D. Young (“Sean”) appeals

the judgment of the Domestic Relations Division of the Hancock County Court of

Common Pleas, arguing that the trial court erred by (1) improperly classifying

several assets as marital; (2) finding that he had not overpaid in child support since

October of 2022; (3) selecting a valuation for the marital residence that relied on

excluded evidence; (4) ordering him to pay spousal support; (5) failing to appoint a

receiver to administer the sale of the marital residence; and (6) directing him to pay

for several costs associated with the marital residence.

{¶2} Defendant-appellee and cross-appellant Toni R. Young (“Toni”)

appeals the judgment of the Domestic Relations Division of the Hancock County

Court of Common Pleas, arguing that the trial court erred by (1) excluding her

appraiser’s valuation of the marital residence; (2) ordering her to pay a $66,002.22

equalization payment; (3) setting her award of spousal support at $100.00 a month;

and (4) ordering her to pay the first $420.00 of court costs. For the reasons set forth

below, the judgment of the trial court is affirmed in part and reversed in part.

Facts and Procedural History

{¶3} Sean and Toni were married in 1990. On June 1, 2017, the parties filed

a complaint for separation with the Domestic Relations Division of the Hardin

County Court of Common Pleas (“Hardin County Domestic Relations Court”) that

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Case No. 5-24-52

became the basis of Case No. 2017-3076-DRK. A separation agreement that had

been signed by both parties was filed alongside this complaint. On July 18, 2017,

the Hardin County Domestic Relations Court issued an order of legal separation that

incorporated this separation agreement. However, the separation agreement did not

divide and allocate several assets, including the marital residence and three

retirement accounts that existed at this time.

{¶4} Toni and Sean attempted to reconcile on several occasions over the next

five years but ceased any further attempts at reunification in October of 2022. On

December 19, 2022, Sean filed a complaint for divorce with the Domestic Relations

Division of the Hancock County Court of Common Pleas (“trial court”). At this

time, only one of Sean and Toni’s five children, E., had not yet reached the age of

majority. After the parties sought to have Case No. 2017-3076-DRK transferred

from Hardin County to Hancock County, the trial court in Hancock County accepted

jurisdiction over this case on August 30, 2023, and the Hardin County case was

transferred to and consolidated with the Hancock County case.

{¶5} On September 25, 2023, Sean filed a motion to show cause, alleging

that Toni had violated the terms of the order of legal separation by preventing him

from having visitation with his two youngest children, A. and E. In examining

Sean’s show cause motion, the magistrate noted that the trial court had appointed a

guardian ad litem (“GAL”) on October 30, 2023 at the request of both parties. The

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Case No. 5-24-52

trial court ultimately denied the show cause motion to permit further investigation

into the parenting issues raised by Sean.

{¶6} After Sean withdrew his request for reasonable parenting time, the

parties each sought to have the GAL discharged and relieved of further investigative

responsibilities in this case. The trial court later discharged the GAL and approved

the GAL fees of $420.00. These fees were paid out of a $600.00 deposit that Sean

had previously made with the trial court.

{¶7} On November 14, 2023, Toni filed a motion to show cause, alleging

that Sean had violated the order of legal separation by failing to pay to have the

propane tank at the marital residence refilled. This motion remained pending at the

time of the final hearing. Sean later testified that he did not have the funds in the

relevant timeframe to cover this cost. Toni presented evidence that she paid

$1,061.41 to have the propane tank refilled.

{¶8} On March 13, 2024, Sean filed a motion to emancipate his youngest

son, A., from the child support obligation that was established in the order of legal

separation. Sean pointed out that A. had turned eighteen over a year earlier in

October of 2022. He then requested that the payments he had made since A’s

eighteenth birthday in 2022 be credited towards his future child support obligation

for his remaining minor child, E. In response, the magistrate issued an order that

temporarily suspended the disbursement of Sean’s child support obligation.

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Case No. 5-24-52

{¶9} On March 13, 2024, Sean also filed a motion to compel Toni to grant

his appraiser, Jon Fleegle (“Fleegle”), access to the marital residence so that he

could complete a full assessment of the property. This motion stated that Fleegle

was available to conduct a walk-through visit on March 15, March 19, or March 21,

1. On March 19, 2024, the magistrate issued an order that directed Toni to grant

Fleegle access to the marital residence on one of the dates listed in Sean’s motion.

{¶10} However, Fleegle was not given an opportunity to tour the inside of

the house before he ultimately conducted a “drive-by” examination of the property

on March 27, 2024. (Doc. 132). Based on several sales comparisons, he concluded

the marital residence was worth $331,000.00. After receiving a copy of Fleegle’s

evaluation, Toni had an appraiser, Ken Stefko (“Stefko”), go through marital

residence on April 13, 2024 to conduct another valuation. Stefko took several

pictures of the interior of the marital residence for his report and concluded that the

property was worth $250,000.00.

{¶11} On April 15, 2024, Sean filed a motion in limine that sought to have

Stefko’s appraisal excluded from evidence. In support of this motion, he pointed

out that Fleegle was never granted access to the marital residence, even though Sean

and his attorney had engaged in repeated efforts to schedule a walk-through visit

since January. This motion also indicated that Sean had received Stefko’s report

three days before the date of the final hearing. No ruling on this motion was made

prior to the final hearing.

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Case No. 5-24-52

{¶12} On April 18, 2024, the final hearing was held before a magistrate.

Fleegle testified that the marital residence was worth $331,000.00. However, he

revised his valuation to $301,000.00 after he was presented with the pictures of the

home’s interior that Stefko had taken. Stefko then identified his report and testified

that the marital residence was worth $250,000.00. Fleegle and Toni each testified

about the efforts that were made to schedule a walk-through visit for the appraisal.

{¶13} On July 29, 2024, the magistrate issued a decision. Pursuant to Sean’s

motion, the magistrate concluded that most of Stefko’s report and testimony should

be excluded but that Stefko’s pictures of the home’s interior should be admitted.

The marital residence was then assigned a value of $301,000.00 based on Fleegle’s

revised appraisal.

{¶14} Toni was awarded the marital residence but was given a timeline for

the sale of the house if she was unable to refinance the debts associated with this

property. While Sean had made contributions to several of his retirement accounts

after the order of legal separation had been issued, the value of these accounts was

effectively divided between the parties. To balance the division of assets, Toni was

directed to make an equalization payment of $66,002.22 to Sean.

{¶15} In examining Sean’s motion to have A. emancipated from child

support, the magistrate concluded that, based on the evidence in the record, Sean’s

child support obligation for A. under the order of legal separation should be

terminated as of his nineteenth birthday in October of 2023. The magistrate then

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Case No. 5-24-52

recommended that Sean’s child support obligation for E. should be $586.91 a

month, commencing on the date of the final hearing on April 18, 2024, and that his

spousal support obligation should be $100.00 a month for two years.

{¶16} As to Toni’s show cause motion, the magistrate determined that Sean

should reimburse Toni in the amount of $1,061.42 for the costs of refilling the

propane tank. However, the magistrate found that Sean should not be held in

contempt because he was financially unable to pay this bill at the time it had come

due. Since Sean’s $600.00 deposit was used to pay the entire GAL bill of $420.00,

the magistrate’s decision concluded by finding that Toni should pay the first

$420.00 of court costs.

{¶17} Sean and Toni each filed objections to the magistrate’s decision.

Aside from correcting a scrivener’s error, the trial court overruled the objections of

the parties and adopted the magistrate’s decision. On November 27, 2024, the trial

court issued the divorce decree.

{¶18} Sean filed his notice of appeal on December 13, 2024. On appeal, he

raises the following six assignments of error:

Sean’s First Assignment of Error

The trial court failed to award Husband, as his separate property,
his real or personal property interests which were acquired after
the decree of legal separation issued under section 3105.17 of the
Revised Code.

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Case No. 5-24-52

Sean’s Second Assignment of Error

A[.’s] date of emancipation for child support purposes should
have been as of his eighteenth birthday because Wife failed to
present evidence that A[.] was continuously attending a
recognized and accredited high school on a full-time basis after
his eighteenth birthday.

Sean’s Third Assignment of Error

The trial court abused its discretion by accepting a modified value
of the marital residence based solely on evidence which had been
precluded by the trial court.

Sean’s Fourth Assignment of Error

The trial court abused its discretion by finding that an award of
spousal support in this matter was reasonable and appropriate.

Sean’s Fifth Assignment of Error

The trial court abused its discretion by ordering that Wife be in
control of the manner and time of sale of the marital residence.

Sean’s Sixth Assignment of Error

The trial court abused its discretion by ordering that Husband
pay to Wife the cost of refilling the propane tank and paying the
balance owed to Water Solutions as of December 19, 2022.

Toni filed her notice of appeal on December 27, 2024. On appeal, she raises the

following four assignments of error:

Toni’s First Assignment of Error

The trial court abused its discretion in granting Appellant/Cross-
Appellee’s motion for the trial court to exclude the testimony of
the Appellee/Cross-Appellant’s expert concerning the valuation
of the marital home.

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Case No. 5-24-52

Toni’s Second Assignment of Error

The trial court abused its discretion and erred by ordering a
$66,002.22 equalization payment by Appellee/Cross-Appellant’s
[sic] to Appellant/Cross-Appellee in connection with the division
of marital assets.

Toni’s Third Assignment of Error

The trial court abused its discretion and erred by entering into an
order of spousal support for the Appellee/Cross-Appellant as to
both the amount and duration of the spousal support order.

Toni’s Fourth Assignment of Error

The trial court abused its discretion and erred in ordering that
the Appellee/Cross-Appellant be responsible for the payment of
the Guardian ad Litem (GAL) fees herein.

For the sake of clarity, we will later consider Sean’s third assignment of error

together with Toni’s first assignment of error and Sean’s fourth assignment of error

together with Toni’s third assignment of error.

Sean’s First Assignment of Error

{¶19} Sean asserts that he acquired interests in several of the retirement

accounts at issue and the marital residence after the order of legal separation was

issued. He argues that the trial court erred in classifying these interests as marital

property.

Legal Standard

{¶20} In divorce proceedings, assets owned by the parties are classified as

either marital or separate property. R.C. 3105.171(A)(4). In general, separate

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Case No. 5-24-52

property is awarded to the party that owns the asset while marital property is to be

divided equitably—if not equally—between the parties. Worden v. Worden, 2017-

Ohio-8019, ¶ 14 (3d Dist.), citing R.C. 3105.171(C)(1). “Marital property” includes

[a]ll real and personal property that currently is owned by either or
both of the spouses, including, but not limited to, the retirement
benefits of the spouses, and that was acquired by either or both of the
spouses during the marriage[.]

R.C. 3105.171(A)(3)(a)(i). “Separate property” includes “[a]ny real or personal

property or interest in real or personal property acquired by one spouse after a

decree of legal separation issued under . . . [R.C.] 3105.17 . . . .” (Emphasis added.)

R.C. 3105.171(A)(6)(a)(iv).

Standard of Review

{¶21} A “trial court’s classification of property as marital or separate is a

factual determination” and is reviewed under a manifest weight standard. Worden

at ¶ 17. Thus, “the classification of an asset will not be reversed if the record

contains some competent, credible evidence that supports the trial court’s

determination.” Freytag v. Freytag, 2024-Ohio-2403, ¶ 23 (3d Dist.).

Legal Analysis

{¶22} Sean raises two main arguments that assert the trial court did not

properly classify various interests as his separate property. First, he points to the

trial court’s handling of the five retirement accounts at issue in this case. Sean’s

testimony indicates that he made contributions to the Ohio Police and Fire Pension

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Case No. 5-24-52

Fund (“P&F Pension”); the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System (“OPERS”);

and an Ohio Deferred Compensation plan (“ODC”) before he and Toni entered into

the separation agreement. For some reason, the separation agreement did not divide

these three retirement accounts between the parties.

{¶23} Nonetheless, the Hardin County Domestic Relations Court

incorporated this separation agreement into an order of legal separation that was

issued on July 18, 2017. Sean subsequently made contributions to the OPERS

account. He then opened a retirement account with the Teachers Insurance and

Annuity Association (“TIAA”) in 2018 and a King Development, Ltd., Retirement

Savings Plan (“King Plan”). Thus, the record indicates that, after the order of legal

separation was issued, Sean opened two retirement accounts (TIAA and King Plan)

and made contributions to at least three of the five retirement accounts (the TIAA,

King Plan, and OPERS accounts) at issue in this case.

{¶24} In this case, the trial court used the date on which the divorce

complaint was filed to determine the extent to which the funds in these accounts

were marital or separate. Thus, any contributions that Sean made to these retirement

accounts before December 19, 2022 were classified as marital property. As a result,

the divorce decree awarded Toni one-half of the retirement accounts with the P&F

Pension; OPERS; and the King Plan. Sean then received the TIAA account, the

ODC account, and an equalization payment of $66,002.22 to offset the award of the

marital residence to Toni.

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Case No. 5-24-52

{¶25} On appeal, Sean argues that the trial court’s classification of the funds

in these retirement accounts should not have been based upon the date on which the

complaint for divorce was filed. To decide this argument, we turn to the statutory

definitions of marital and separate property. R.C. 3105.171(A)(6)(a)(iv) states that

“separate property” includes “any real or personal property acquired by one spouse

after a decree of legal separation issued under . . . [R.C.] 3105.17 . . . .”

{¶26} Based on this language, we conclude that the interests in these

retirement accounts that Sean acquired through the contributions that he made after

the order of legal separation was issued on July 18, 2017 were his separate property.

Thus, the trial court erred in classifying the contributions that Sean made between

the issuance of the order of legal separation and the filing of the divorce decree as

marital property. For this reason, we reverse the portions of the divorce decree that

relate to the classification and division of the retirement accounts between the

parties.

{¶27} On remand, the trial court must determine the amount of any

contributions that Sean made to each retirement account after the order of legal

separation was issued by the Hardin County Domestic Relations Court. The

portions of the retirement accounts that are attributable to the contributions that Sean

made after July 18, 2017 are to be classified as his separate property.1 The portions

1
This process is complicated by the fact that the order of legal separation did not divide these accounts in
2017. Thus, several of the retirement accounts currently contain marital contributions, the appreciation on
marital contributions, Sean’s separate contributions, and the appreciation on Sean’s separation contributions.

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Case No. 5-24-52

of these retirement accounts that are attributable to the contributions that were made

during the marriage and prior to July 18, 2017 are to be classified as marital

property. Accordingly, Sean’s first argument herein is well-taken.

{¶28} Second, Sean argues that the trial court erred in ordering an

arrangement that effectively divided the value of the marital residence equally

between the parties. He points out that he made all of the payments on the debts

associated with the marital residence from the time the order of legal separation was

issued through the date of the final hearing. For this reason, Sean asserts that the

trial court should have awarded him a greater share of the value of the marital

residence to reflect the payments he made after the order of legal separation.

{¶29} However, under the separation agreement, the marital residence

remained a jointly owned property. Sean then assumed responsibility for paying the

mortgage and the home equity loan. Because of the allocation of these debts to him,

Sean was not “paying Wife full spousal support” under the separation agreement.

(Doc. 140). Thus, Sean agreed to pay the debts associated with the marital residence

in lieu of having a higher level of spousal support.

{¶30} Under this arrangement, Sean forwent a portion of his income and

Toni forwent a higher level of spousal support to facilitate the payment of these

obligations. We find this arrangement to be substantively equivalent to one in which

Sean agreed to pay a higher level of spousal support and the parties divided the

responsibility to make payments on these debts.

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Case No. 5-24-52

{¶31} Further, we also note that Sean does not identify any evidence in his

brief that suggests he paid more towards these debts than what he was obligated to

pay under the order of legal separation. Having examined the evidence in the record,

we conclude that Sean has failed to demonstrate that the trial court erred in declining

to classify a portion of the equity in the marital residence as his separate property.

Accordingly, the second argument herein is not well-taken.

{¶32} In summary, the trial court erred in the process of classifying the five

retirement accounts at issue in this case. However, the trial court’s decision to

classify the jointly owned residence as marital property was supported by

competent, credible evidence. To the extent that the trial court improperly classified

and divided the funds in the five retirement accounts between the parties, Sean’s

first assignment of error is sustained.

Sean’s Second Assignment of Error

{¶33} Sean asserts that the trial court should have concluded that he had

overpaid on his child support obligation since A. turned eighteen in October of 2022.

Legal Standard

{¶34} “In Ohio, a parent’s obligation to pay child support normally

terminates when the child reaches the ‘age of majority.’” Sweet v. Sweet, 2023-

Ohio-548, ¶ 10 (2d Dist.). R.C. 3109.01 defines “age of majority” as including

“[a]ll persons of the age of eighteen years or more, who are under no legal disability,

are capable of contracting and are of full age for all purposes.” However, R.C.

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Case No. 5-24-52

3119.86 identifies several circumstances that could extend a parent’s duty of support

beyond a child’s eighteenth birthday.

(1) The duty of support to a child imposed pursuant to a court child
support order shall continue beyond the child’s eighteenth birthday
only under the following circumstances:

(a) The child is mentally or physically disabled and is incapable of
supporting or maintaining himself or herself.

(b) The child’s parents have agreed to continue support beyond the
child’s eighteenth birthday pursuant to a separation agreement that
was incorporated into a decree of divorce or dissolution.

(c) The child continuously attends a recognized and accredited high
school on a full-time basis on and after the child’s eighteenth birthday.

...

(B) A court child support order shall not remain in effect after the
child reaches nineteen years of age unless the order provides that the
duty of support continues under circumstances described in division
(A)(1)(a) or (b) of this section for any period after the child reaches
age nineteen. An administrative child support order shall not remain
in effect after the child reaches age nineteen.

R.C. 3119.86(A)(1), (B).2 Further, “Ohio law recognizes that for any number of

reasons, overpayment of child support can occur.” Dario v. Colliver, 2011-Ohio-

4342, ¶ 34 (12th Dist.); Dietrich v. Dietrich, 2010-Ohio-3608, ¶ 10 (8th Dist.).

Generally, a domestic relations court loses jurisdiction to modify
parental rights and responsibilities, including child support, when a

2
On December 19, 2024, a revision to R.C. 3119.86 was enacted and took effect on March 25, 2025. This
revision moved the provision in R.C. 3119.86(B) to R.C. 3119.861 and reordered the subsections in R.C.
3119.86. However, the provisions relevant to this opinion were not substantively altered. Since the divorce
decree was issued before the revisions to R.C. 3119.86 were enacted, this opinion sets forth the former version
of this code section.

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Case No. 5-24-52

child is emancipated. . . . [However,] the court retains jurisdiction to
reduce an overpayment to judgment.

(Citations omitted.) Sandel v. Choma, 2017-Ohio-8301, ¶ 13 (9th Dist.).

“Alternatively, the overpayment can be ordered liquidated over time by applying it

as a credit toward the obligor’s current support obligation.” Dietrich at ¶ 10.

Standard of Review

{¶35} Appellate courts apply an abuse-of-discretion standard when

reviewing a trial court’s decisions regarding a party’s overpayment of child support.

Dario at ¶ 34. See Hubbard v. Hubbard, 2009-Ohio-2194, ¶ 13 (3d Dist.). An abuse

of discretion is present where a determination is arbitrary, unreasonable, or

unconscionable. Pelger v. Pelger, 2019-Ohio-1280, ¶ 10 (3d Dist.).

Legal Analysis

{¶36} The order of legal separation that was issued by the Hardin County

Domestic Relations Court required Sean to make a biweekly payment of $200.00 in

child support for his two youngest children, A. and E. In this case, Sean filed a

motion requesting that A. be declared emancipated from the child support order as

of his eighteenth birthday in October of 2022. Sean asserted that he had overpaid

on his child support obligation between A.’s eighteenth birthday in October of 2022

and the filing of his motion in March of 2024. He then sought an order that would

credit this alleged overpayment towards his future child support obligation for his

remaining minor child, E.

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Case No. 5-24-52

{¶37} In response, the magistrate issued an order that directed the Child

Support Enforcement Agency not to disburse any further payments from Sean until

the issue of A.’s emancipation had been decided after the final hearing. However,

Sean’s motion and his testimony at the final hearing did not indicate when A. had

completed his high school education. This information would have established

whether Sean’s child support obligation should have terminated when A. turned

eighteen in October of 2022.

{¶38} In the absence of such evidence, Sean failed to demonstrate that A.’s

eighteenth birthday was the point at which he began to overpay on his child support

obligation. The magistrate noted that the record did not establish when A. had

completed his high school education but did establish when he turned nineteen.

Thus, the point at which the magistrate could definitively conclude from the

evidence before him that Sean began overpaying on his child support obligation was

when A. turned nineteen. R.C. 3119.86(A)(1)(c), (B).

{¶39} Based on the evidence in the record, the magistrate concluded that the

level of child support established in the order of legal separation should remain in

effect through A.’s nineteenth birthday in October of 2023. Sean’s child support

obligation for his remaining minor child, E., was then set at the level of $200.00 a

month from the time of A.’s nineteenth birthday in October of 2023 through the date

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Case No. 5-24-52

of the final hearing on April 18, 2024.3 The trial court then adopted the magistrate’s

decision on this matter.

{¶40} In summary, Sean’s arguments address the amount that he overpaid in

child support under the order of legal separation and not the amount of his child

support obligation under the divorce decree. However, he did not present evidence

that could establish that his child support payments for A. through his nineteenth

birthday constituted an overpayment on his obligation. Having examined the

record, we conclude that Sean has failed to demonstrate that the trial court abused

its discretion in this matter. Accordingly, Sean’s second assignment of error is

overruled.

Sean’s Third and Toni’s First Assignments of Error

{¶41} Toni and Sean challenge different aspects of the trial court’s decision

to exclude significant portions of Stefko’s report and testimony.

Legal Standard

{¶42} Civ.R. 37 authorizes a trial court to impose sanctions where a party

“fails to obey an order to provide or permit discovery.” Civ.R. 37(B)(1). See Welly

v. Welly, 2015-Ohio-4804, ¶ 43 (3d Dist.). Civ.R. 37(B) contains the following list

of sanctions that a trial court may impose in addressing a discovery violation:

3
The magistrate’s decision stated the amount of Sean’s child support obligation in monthly terms while the
order of legal separation had stated this amount in biweekly terms. The order of legal separation required
Sean to make a biweekly payment of $200.00 in child support for A. and E. Thus, the monthly payment of
$200.00 in child support for E. was essentially half of the child support obligation that Sean previously had
under the order of legal separation for A. and E. Commencing on the date of the final hearing, the level of
Sean’s spousal support for E. was set at $586.91 per month.

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Case No. 5-24-52

(a) Directing that the matters embraced in the order or other
designated facts shall be taken as established for purposes of the
action as the prevailing party claims;

(b) Prohibiting the disobedient party from supporting or opposing
designated claims or defenses, or from introducing designated matters
in evidence;

(c) Striking pleadings in whole or in part;

(d) Staying further proceedings until the order is obeyed . . . ;

(e) Dismissing the action or proceeding in whole or in part;

(f) Rendering a default judgment against the disobedient party; or

(g) Treating as contempt of court the failure to obey any orders except
an order to submit to a physical or mental examination;

Civ.R. 37(B)(1). Pursuant to this rule, “a trial court may exclude expert testimony

as a sanction . . . .” Miller v. Miller, 2025-Ohio-1923, ¶ 25 (5th Dist.). In deciding

the appropriateness of a discovery sanction,

the trial court should weigh the conduct of the party offering
[evidence] along with the level of prejudice suffered by the opposing
party attributable to the discovery violation, in order to determine the
appropriate sanction.

(Brackets sic.) Black v. Hicks, 2020-Ohio-3976, ¶ 56 (8th Dist.), quoting Savage v.

Correlated Health Servs., 64 Ohio St.3d 42, 55 (1992).

{¶43} This process involves “consider[ing] the posture of the case and what

efforts, if any, preceded the noncompliance . . . .” Gebi v. Worku, 2017-Ohio-8462,

¶ 9 (10th Dist.), quoting Russo v. Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co., 36 Ohio App.3d

175, 178 (9th Dist. 1987). The trial court must then “impose the least severe

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Case No. 5-24-52

sanction that is consistent with the purpose of the rules of discovery.” Cap. One,

N.A. v. Jones, 2026-Ohio-62, ¶ 31 (3d Dist.), quoting Black at ¶ 55.

Standard of Review

{¶44} The decision of what sanction to impose for a discovery violation is

committed to the sound discretion of the trial court. Gebi at ¶ 9. An abuse of

discretion is more than an error of judgment but is present when a decision is

arbitrary, unreasonable, or unconscionable. Heimann v. Heimann, 2022-Ohio-241,

¶ 85 (3d Dist.).

Legal Analysis

{¶45} In this case, the magistrate issued an order on January 10, 2024 that

directed the parties to obtain an appraisal for the marital residence. The order of

legal separation gave “exclusive use” of the marital residence to Toni. (Doc. 74).

However, the first appraiser Sean found was never able to access the inside of the

house while he was available to conduct an evaluation. As a result, Sean found a

new appraiser and retained Fleegle.

{¶46} Fleegle testified that he communicated with Toni’s attorney to

schedule a walk-through visit at the house but that these efforts were unsuccessful.

On March 13, 2024, Sean filed a motion to compel, seeking an order that directed

Toni to permit an inspection of the premises on one of three identified dates on

which Fleegle was available: March 15, March 19, or March 21, 2024.

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{¶47} In response, the magistrate issued an order on March 19, 2024 that

directed Toni to give Fleegle access to the house for an inspection of the premises.

However, Fleegle testified that he was ultimately “not allowed access” into the

marital residence. (Tr. 24). On March 27, 2024, Fleegle conducted a curbside

evaluation in which he examined the external features of the house. He testified

that he was later contacted by Toni’s attorney to schedule a walk-through visit, but

he declined this offer as the appraisal had already been completed.

{¶48} Toni testified that, after she had learned that Fleegle had valued the

house at $331,000.00, she contacted Stefko to schedule an appraisal because she

thought Fleegle’s valuation was too “high.” (Tr. 201). Five days before the final

hearing, Toni granted Stefko entry into the house to conduct a walk-through visit

and to take pictures of the home’s interior. He concluded that the marital residence

was worth $250,000.00.

{¶49} Sean filed a motion in limine that requested Stefko’s entire report and

appraisal be excluded pursuant to Civ.R. 37. He pointed out that Toni never granted

Fleegle access to the marital residence so that he could conduct a complete

evaluation. He also noted that he only received Stefko’s report three days before

the final hearing.

{¶50} The magistrate ultimately found that most of Stefko’s report and

testimony should be excluded from evidence. However, his decision specified that

Stefko’s pictures of the home’s interior and the testimony related to these

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photographs should be admitted. Thus, the magistrate’s determination on Sean’s

motion was limited to certain portions of Stefko’s report and testimony. The trial

court then adopted this decision.

{¶51} On appeal, the parties challenge different aspects of this

determination. First, Toni argues that the trial court erred in excluding most of

Stefko’s report and testimony in accordance with the magistrate’s decision. At the

final hearing, she testified that a walk-through visit was not scheduled with Fleegle

because all of the dates in Sean’s motion to compel had already passed by the time

she received the order from the trial court. She also testified that she did not

remember when Sean first attempted to schedule a walk-through for an appraisal.

{¶52} However, in evaluating this testimony, the magistrate found that

Toni’s testimony on this matter was “not credible, and has strong signs of being

intentionally deceptive.” (Doc. 140). The magistrate concluded that Toni “actively

interfered with Plaintiff’s appraisal.” (Doc. 140). The magistrate pointed out that

Toni had been made aware of the need to schedule a walk-through visit; had sole

possession of the house; worked part-time outside of the home; and quickly found

time to accommodate Stefko.

{¶53} The identified portions of Stefko’s report and testimony were

ultimately excluded because the magistrate found that Toni’s “maneuvers were

manipulative, self-serving, and impaired trial preparation.” (Doc. 140). In reaching

this conclusion, the trial court appropriately considered Toni’s conduct and the

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impact on Sean’s ability to prepare his case. Having examined the evidence in the

record, we conclude that Toni has failed to establish that the trial court abused its

discretion in excluding portions of Stefko’s report and testimony.

{¶54} Second, Sean asserts that the trial court should not have selected

Fleegle’s revised valuation of $301,000.00 for the marital residence because he used

pictures that were excluded as part of Stefko’s report in making this revision.

However, the ruling on Sean’s motion stated that these pictures were not excluded.

Thus, the trial court did not act inconsistently with its ruling by using a valuation

from Fleegle that partially relied on Stefko’s pictures.

{¶55} Further, Fleegle’s testimony indicates that his original valuation of

$331,000.00 was based on the assumption that the interior of the home was in better

condition than what was depicted in Stefko’s pictures. After being presented with

these pictures, Fleegle testified that the marital residence was worth $301,000.00.

Since Stefko’s report and testimony had been largely excluded, the trial court

selected what was, according to Fleegle’s testimony, the most accurate valuation

presented at the final hearing.

{¶56} We also note that discovery violations should generally be addressed

with the “least severe sanction that is consistent with the purpose of the rules of

discovery.” Jones, 2026-Ohio-62, ¶ at 31 (3d Dist.), quoting Black at ¶ 55. In its

determination, the trial court struck a balance between addressing Toni’s discovery

violation and the need for assigning an accurate valuation to the marital residence.

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Having examined the evidence in the record, we conclude that Sean has failed to

establish that the trial court abused its discretion by failing to order a more stringent

sanction in this case.

{¶57} In summary, we find no indication that the trial court abused its

discretion in excluding portions of Stefko’s report and testimony or in admitting the

pictures from Stefko’s report. Thus, the parties have failed to establish that the trial

court erred by largely excluding Stefko’s report or by using Fleegle’s revised

valuation of the marital residence. Accordingly, Sean’s third assignment of error

and Toni’s first assignment of error are overruled.

Sean’s Fourth and Toni’s Third Assignments of Error

{¶58} Both parties challenge aspects of the trial court’s decision to order

Sean to pay Toni $100.00 a month in spousal support for two years.

Legal Standard

{¶59} R.C. 3105.18 addresses the award of spousal support in divorce

proceedings and provides the following:

In divorce and legal separation proceedings, upon the request of either
party and after the court determines the division or disbursement of
property under . . . [R.C.] 3105.171 . . ., the court of common pleas
may award reasonable spousal support to either party.

(Emphasis added.) R.C. 3105.18(B). See also R.C. 3105.171(C)(3) (“trial courts

“shall provide for an equitable division of marital property under this section prior

to making any award of spousal support . . . under section 3105.18 . . . .”).

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{¶60} In turn, R.C. 3105.18(C)(1) contains a list of factors that a trial court

is to consider in deciding the matter of spousal support. Since R.C. 3105.18(C)(1)(i)

directs a trial court to consider “[t]he relative assets and liabilities of the parties,”

the division of property between the parties is a factor that affects the determination

of spousal support. Fordyce v. Fordyce, 2011-Ohio-3406, ¶ 8 (7th Dist.). For this

reason, a trial court will generally need to revisit an award of spousal support if the

division of property is reversed on appeal. Herman v. Herman, 2021-Ohio-3876, ¶

17 (3d Dist.); O’Rourke v. O’Rourke, 2010-Ohio-1243, ¶ 27 (4th Dist.).

Legal Analysis

{¶61} On appeal, Sean argues that the trial court should not have ordered him

to pay spousal support while Toni argues that the amount of the spousal support

award is inadequate.4 However, under Sean’s first assignment of error, we reversed

the division of several assets between Sean and Toni. While the substance of their

arguments are rendered moot by this prior determination, the trial court will need to

revisit its spousal support award after adjusting the division of assets on remand.

Miller v. Miller, 2017-Ohio-7646, ¶ 42 (6th Dist.); Carmichael v. Carmichael,

2012-Ohio-5811, ¶ 12 (9th Dist.); Evans v. Evans, 2025-Ohio-1470, ¶ 28 (10th

Dist.). Thus, to the extent that the spousal support award must be reevaluated in

4
We note that the trial court did reserve jurisdiction over the issue of spousal support in the order of legal
separation in Hardin County Case No. 2017-3076-DRK.

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light of the revised property division, Sean’s fourth assignment of error and Toni’s

third assignment of error are sustained.

Sean’s Fifth Assignment of Error

{¶62} Sean argues that the trial court should have provided for the

appointment of a receiver to administer the sale of the marital residence in the event

that Toni was unable to obtain refinancing.

Legal Standard

{¶63} “A receiver is in part defined as a ‘fiduciary of the court, appointed as

an incident to other proceedings wherein certain ultimate relief is prayed. He is a

trustee or ministerial officer representing the [appointing] court . . . .’” Koeblitz v.

Koeblitz, 2021-Ohio-2269, ¶ 16 (8th Dist.), quoting State ex rel. Celebrezze, 60

Ohio St.3d 69, fn. 4 (1991), quoting Black’s Law Dictionary (6th Ed. 1990). “The

primary purpose of a receiver is to carry out orders of the court.” King v. King,

2013-Ohio-2038, ¶ 37 (11th Dist.).

{¶64} Under R.C. 2735.01, a receiver may be appointed by . . . the court of

common pleas . . . [a]fter judgment, to carry the judgment into effect” or “to dispose

of property according to the judgment.” R.C. 2735.01(A)(4)-(5). See Echols v.

Echols, 2022-Ohio-1719, ¶ 28 (11th Dist.); Ratliff v. Ratliff, 1998 Ohio App. Lexis

3614, *12 (10th Dist. Aug. 6, 1998). Receivers have been appointed in domestic

relations cases when necessary to facilitate the sale of marital property. King at ¶

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41 (A trial court appointed a receiver after a party to a divorce action failed to sell

the marital residence in compliance with a court-ordered timeline.).

Standard of Review

{¶65} The appointment of a receiver is “an extraordinary, drastic and

sometimes harsh power which equity possesses and is only to be exercised where

the failure to do so would place the petitioning party in danger of suffering an

irreparable loss or injury.” Jardine v. Jardine, 2022-Ohio-1754, ¶ 11 (8th Dist.),

quoting Equity Ctrs. Dev. Co. v. S. Coast Ctrs., Inc., 83 Ohio App.3d 643, 649 (8th

Dist. 1992). Since this matter involves the exercise of an equitable power, “[t]he

decision of whether or not to appoint a receiver rests in the sound discretion of the

court and will not be disturbed absent an abuse of that discretion.” Newcomer v.

Newcomer, 2013-Ohio-5627, ¶ 76 (6th Dist.).

Legal Analysis

{¶66} In the divorce decree, Toni was awarded the marital residence but had

one year from the date of the final hearing on April 18, 2024 to obtain refinancing

for the mortgage and home equity loan associated with this property. If she was

unable to obtain refinancing by April 18, 2025, the divorce decree gave her until

August 18, 2025 to sell the marital residence before the property would have to be

sold at a public auction by October 31, 2025.

{¶67} On appeal, Sean argues that the trial court should have provided for

the appointment of a receiver in the event that Toni was unable to obtain refinancing

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within one year of the final hearing. He asserts that such a measure is necessary to

ensure that the house is sold in a reasonable time and manner.

{¶68} However, the trial court ordered an arrangement that seeks to protect

the interests of both parties to this action. The divorce decree relieves Sean of the

responsibility to pay for the mortgage and any expenses related to the real estate

after April 18, 2024. After assigning the marital residence a value of $301,000.00,

the trial court awarded the house to Toni. The trial court then ordered Toni to pay

Sean an equalization payment to offset the award of the marital residence. This

overall framework provides incentives for the house to be sold in a reasonable time

and for a reasonable price.

{¶69} In conclusion, Sean’s arguments fail to establish that the trial court

abused its discretion by failing to provide for the appointment of a receiver in the

event that Toni did not obtain refinancing within the specified timeframe. See

Solomon v. Solomon, 2022-Ohio-2262, ¶ 15 (8th Dist.).5 Accordingly, Sean’s fifth

assignment of error is overruled.

Sean’s Sixth Assignment of Error

{¶70} Sean argues that he should not have been ordered to reimburse Toni

for the cost of refilling the propane tank at the marital residence as part of a ruling

on a show cause motion that she filed to enforce the order of legal separation.

5
We note that all of the dates in the divorce decree that form the timeline for the disposition of the marital
residence had passed by the time that this appeal was heard on January 6, 2026. We cannot discern from the
record whether any progress has been made towards refinancing or selling the house.

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Legal Standard

{¶71} “A separation agreement is a contract between two parties and its

validity is governed by contract law . . . .” Jones v. Jones, 2008-Ohio-6069, ¶ 25

(3d Dist.). However, once a trial court incorporates a separation agreement into a

decree, “the separation agreement is superseded by the decree, and the obligations

imposed are not those imposed by contract, but are those imposed by decree, and

enforceable as such.” Ross v. Ross, 2020-Ohio-5237, ¶ 28 (11th Dist.), quoting

Holloway v. Holloway, 130 Ohio St. 214, 216 (1935). In other words, “the ‘contract’

becomes a ‘court order’ or ‘judgment’ . . . .” C.B. v. B.B., 2025-Ohio-2219, ¶ 44

(8th Dist.).

{¶72} “Contempt proceedings constitute the inherent means by which courts

enforce their lawful orders.” Hans v. Stedman, 2005-Ohio-4819, ¶ 15 (10th Dist.).

In a civil contempt proceeding, the movant bears the initial burden of
demonstrating by clear and convincing evidence that the other party
has violated an order of the court. . . . If the movant meets her burden,
the burden shifts to the other party to either rebut the showing of
contempt or demonstrate an affirmative defense by a preponderance
of the evidence.

(Citations omitted.) Starr v. Starr, 2025-Ohio-5788, ¶ 26 (3d Dist.).

{¶73} If the non-moving party presents “a valid defense for non-

compliance,” the trial court is not required to hold a party in contempt for failing to

abide by the terms of the prior court order. Burge v. Burge, 2016-Ohio-4658, ¶ 14

(7th Dist.). However, the fact that a party is not held “in contempt does not change

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the . . . [prior court] order.” Burge at ¶ 14. Thus, the non-moving party may still

have a remaining obligation under the prior court order, even though this party was

not held in contempt for his or her previous noncompliance. Id.

Standard of Review

{¶74} “An appellate court will not reverse a trial court’s decision in a

contempt proceeding absent an abuse of discretion.” Stuber v. Stuber, 2003-Ohio-

1795, ¶ 19 (3d Dist.). As noted previously, an abuse of discretion is more than an

error of judgment but is present when a decision is arbitrary, unreasonable, or

unconscionable. Heimann, 2022-Ohio-241, at ¶ 85 (3d Dist.).

Legal Analysis

{¶75} Sean raises two main arguments herein. The first addresses the trial

court’s resolution of a show cause motion filed by Toni. In this case, Sean signed a

separation agreement that contained the following provision: “Husband shall also

pay the propane bill upon notice that it needs to be filled.” (Doc. 74). This

separation agreement was then incorporated into the order of legal separation that

was issued by the Hardin County Domestic Relations Court. In 2023, Toni filed a

motion to show cause, alleging that Sean had failed to pay the costs of refilling the

propane tank at the marital residence after she had provided proper notice.

{¶76} The parties gave testimony about this matter at the final hearing

because the motion to show cause was still pending at this time. Toni presented

evidence that she paid to have the propane tank refilled in 2023. In response, Sean

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did not dispute that he was responsible for this cost. While he indicated that Toni

had provided him with proper notice, Sean testified that he did not have the funds

at that time to cover this expense.

{¶77} In deciding the show cause motion, the magistrate found that Sean

failed to pay to have the propane tank refilled in 2023 and that Toni had paid

$1,061.42 to cover this cost. However, the magistrate found that Sean was

financially “unable to comply with the prior order” and that he should not, therefore,

be found in contempt. (Doc. 140). Since Sean was still assigned this obligation

under the order of legal separation, the magistrate concluded that he should

reimburse Toni for the $1,061.42 that she spent on refilling the propane tank.

{¶78} On appeal, Sean asserts that, in adopting the magistrate’s decision, the

trial court was essentially imposing a spousal support obligation without

considering the factors listed in R.C. 3105.18(C)(1). However, this obligation did

not originate in the divorce decree issued in Hancock County but in the order of

legal separation issued in Hardin County Domestic Relations Court. In turn, the

order of legal separation imposed the terms of a separation agreement in which Sean

had voluntarily assumed the responsibility for covering the costs of refilling the

propane tank. Thus, the trial court was merely enforcing the terms of the order of

legal separation for a cost that had already been incurred after a show cause motion

had been filed by Toni.

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{¶79} In summary, Sean admitted that he was responsible for this expense

under the order of legal separation and that he did not fulfill this obligation in 2023.

Toni then filed a show cause motion, seeking to have this portion of the order of

legal separation enforced. Having examined the record, we conclude that the trial

court did not abuse its discretion in resolving this show cause motion by directing

Sean to pay Toni $1,061.42 as reimbursement for the costs of refilling the propane

tank in 2023. Thus, Sean’s first argument is without merit.

{¶80} Second, Sean argues that the trial court erred in handling a debt owed

to Water Solutions that was incurred under a rental agreement for a water

desulfurization system at the marital residence. At the time of the order of legal

separation, the parties owed $4,735.60 to Water Solutions. However, the rental

agreement with Water Solutions still existed as an “ongoing bill” in 2024. (Tr. 223).

For this reason, the trial court had to allocate any debt with Water Solutions that had

accrued under the rental agreement through the time of the divorce hearing.

{¶81} Under the terms of the separation agreement, Sean was to “provide his

best efforts to make payments on [a list of] . . . overdue debts, so long as he can.”

(Doc. 74). Included in this list was the $4,735.60 sum that the parties owed to Water

Solutions. After making Sean responsible for paying the mortgage and the home

equity loan, the separation agreement stated that Toni was responsible for “pay[ing]

all other household bills, except those addressed hereafter.” (Doc. 74). The

separation agreement then expressly assigned the following household expenses to

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Sean: refilling the propane tank, pumping the septic tank, and paying for two-thirds

of the costs of any home repairs.

{¶82} The costs of renting the water desulfurization system for the marital

residence were not a household expense that was assigned to Sean under the

separation agreement. Since Toni was responsible for household bills that were not

assigned to Sean, the ongoing payments on the rental agreement with Water

Solutions became her responsibility after the order of legal separation became

effective in 2017. But in allocating the Water Solutions debt that existed at the time

of the final hearing, the trial court ordered Sean to pay the portion of this obligation

that had accrued through the filing of the divorce complaint on December 19, 2022.

Toni was then made responsible for any portion of this obligation that had accrued

under the rental agreement after December 19, 2022.

{¶83} Because of the division of household expenses in the separation

agreement, Toni should have been responsible for any portion of the debt with

Water Solutions that was incurred under the rental agreement after the terms of the

separation agreement became effective in 2017. Since Sean was made responsible

for the debts incurred under this rental agreement through December 19, 2022, we

reverse the portion of the order that addresses the debt to Water Solutions.

{¶84} On remand, the trial court will need to determine what portion of the

debt with Water Solutions was incurred under the rental agreement as a household

expense after the terms of the separation agreement became effective in 2017. The

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trial court will then need to reallocate the Water Solutions debt between the parties.

Thus, the second argument herein is well-taken. Accordingly, Sean’s sixth

assignment of error is sustained to the extent that it addresses the allocation of the

Water Solutions debt.

Toni’s Second Assignment of Error

{¶85} Toni argues that the trial court erred in setting the amount of her

equalization payment to Sean at $66,002.22.

Legal Standard

{¶86} In a divorce proceeding, a trial court is to “classify the assets of the

parties as marital or separate.” Kesler v. Kesler, 2018-Ohio-5059, ¶ 8 (3d Dist.). In

general, the separate property is awarded to the party that owns the asset while the

marital property is divided between the parties. Worden v. Worden, 2017-Ohio-

8019, ¶ 14 (3d Dist.). Under R.C. 3105.171(C), marital property is to be divided

equally between the parties unless such a distribution would be inequitable. Devito

v. Devito, 2024-Ohio-2234, ¶ 13 (1st Dist.).

{¶87} In dividing the marital property, a trial court is to consider the factors

set forth in R.C. 3105.171(F). This list of factors includes “[t]he duration of the

marriage”; “[t]he assets and liabilities of the spouses”; and “[a]ny retirement

benefits of the spouses . . . .” R.C. 3105.171(F)(1), (2), (9). Further, a trial court

may order a party to make an equalization payment to bring the distribution of assets

into an equitable balance. Stewart v. Stewart, 2025-Ohio-1635, ¶ 54-57 (1st Dist.).

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Legal Analysis

{¶88} On appeal, Toni challenges the order directing her to make an

equalization payment of $66,002.22 to Sean. She again asserts that, by excluding

most of Stefko’s report and testimony, the trial court ended up overvaluing the

marital residence and consequently ordered an inflated equalization payment to

balance the award of the house to her. In deciding Toni’s first assignment of error,

we concluded that the trial court did not err in largely excluding Stefko’s report and

testimony. Thus, to the extent that she argues the trial court erred in determining

the value of the marital residence, Toni’s argument herein is without merit.

{¶89} However, under Sean’s first assignment of error, we concluded that

the trial court erred in the process of classifying several assets. The reclassification

of these assets on remand will affect the distribution of property between the parties

and the considerations that supported the trial court’s decision to order an

equalization payment in the amount of $66,002.22. For this reason, the trial court

must revisit the equalization payment after adjusting the allocation of assets in

accordance with this opinion. To the extent that the equalization payment was

affected by the misclassification of several assets, Toni’s second assignment of error

is sustained.

Toni’s Fourth Assignment of Error

{¶90} Toni asserts that the trial court erred by ordering her to pay the costs

of the guardian ad litem fees.

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Legal Standard

{¶91} A “trial court has discretion over the amount of the guardian ad litem

fees, as well as the allocation to either or both of the parties.” Hitchcock v.

Hitchcock, 2025-Ohio-2668, ¶ 51 (5th Dist.). GAL “[f]ees may be allocated based

on the parties’ litigation success and economic status.” Ehrmantrout v.

Ehrmantrout, 2024-Ohio-1328, ¶ 52. In apportioning GAL fees, a trial court may

also consider “which party caused the work of the guardian ad litem.” Strauss v.

Strauss, 2011-Ohio-3831, ¶ 77 (8th Dist.).

{¶92} Similarly, a trial court has the discretion to determine the proper

allocation of court costs between the parties. Ehrmantrout at ¶ 52. For this reason,

a trial court’s determination as to the proper allocation of GAL fees or court costs

will not be reversed on appeal in the absence of an abuse of discretion. Id. at ¶ 52,

1. See also Strauss at ¶ 79. More than an error at judgment, an abuse of discretion

is present where a decision is unreasonable, arbitrary, or unconscionable. Freytag,

2024-Ohio-2403, at ¶ 8 (3d Dist.).

Legal Analysis

{¶93} In this case, the trial court appointed a GAL pursuant to a “joint oral

motion of Plaintiff and Defendant . . . .” (Doc. 94). The GAL fees of $420.00 were

then paid entirely with the funds from Sean’s $600.00 deposit. Since Sean’s deposit

was used to pay the GAL fees of $420.00, the magistrate directed Toni to pay the

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first $420.00 of court costs. The remaining courts costs were then to be divided

equally between the parties.

{¶94} Toni objected to this allocation of the GAL fees on the grounds that

Sean had initially requested the GAL. She also asserts that the work performed by

the GAL was rendered unnecessary when Sean withdrew his motion for reasonable

parenting time and requested that the GAL be discharged. On appeal, she argues

that Sean should be responsible for the GAL fees.

{¶95} However, in his decision, the magistrate summarized several

comments that the GAL made about the investigation at the final hearing as follows:

Due to scheduling issues with Defendant, the GAL was unable to meet
with the child. Without Defendant’s cooperation, and with
Defendant’s failure to produce the child, the Guardian ad Litem could
not prepare a report or provide informed recommendations.

(Doc. 140). The GAL also indicated that she was not given an opportunity to

schedule an interview until after Sean withdrew his motion and was never able to

have any discussions with the minor child. The magistrate then found that Toni had

“failed to cooperate with the investigation.” (Doc. 140).

{¶96} After reviewing the findings of the magistrate, the trial court approved

the magistrate’s decision on this issue. We note that, under this arrangement, each

party was responsible for making a $420.00 payment towards different expenses

before the remaining court costs were divided equally between them. Thus, each

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party was ultimately made responsible for one half of the total amount of GAL fees

and court costs that were incurred in this case.

{¶97} In summary, the record indicates that the parties jointly requested a

GAL. Since Sean had already paid for the GAL fees of $420.00, the trial court

directed Toni to pay the first $420.00 of court costs. Having examined the record,

we conclude that Toni has failed to demonstrate that the trial court abused its

discretion by ordering an arrangement that essentially divided the GAL fees and

court costs equally between the parties. Accordingly, Toni’s fourth assignment of

error is overruled.

Conclusion

{¶98} Having found no error prejudicial to appellant Sean Young in the

particulars assigned and argued in his second, third, and fifth assignments of error,

the judgment of the Domestic Relations Division of the Hancock County Court of

Common Pleas is affirmed as to these issues. Having found error prejudicial to the

appellant in the particulars assigned and argued in his first, fourth, and sixth

assignments of error, the judgment is reversed as to these issues.

{¶99} Having found no error prejudicial to cross-appellant Toni Young in

the particulars assigned and argued in her first and fourth cross-assignments of error,

the judgment of the Domestic Relations Division of the Hancock County Court of

Common Pleas is affirmed as to these issues. Having found error prejudicial to the

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cross-appellant in the particulars assigned and argued in her second and third cross-

assignments of error, the judgment is reversed as to these issues.

{¶100} This cause of action is hereby remanded for further actions consistent

with this opinion.

Judgment Affirmed in Part
Reversed in Part
And Cause Remanded

ZIMMERMAN, P.J. and WALDICK, J., concur.

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JUDGMENT ENTRY

For the reasons stated in the opinion of this Court, it is the judgment and

order of this Court that the judgment of the trial court is affirmed in part and reversed

in part with costs assessed equally between Appellant and Appellees for which

judgment is hereby rendered. The cause is hereby remanded to the trial court for

further proceedings and for execution of the judgment for costs.

It is further ordered that the Clerk of this Court certify a copy of this Court’s

judgment entry and opinion to the trial court as the mandate prescribed by App.R.

27; and serve a copy of this Court’s judgment entry and opinion on each party to the

proceedings and note the date of service in the docket. See App.R. 30.

John R. Willamowski, Judge

William R. Zimmerman, Judge

Juergen A. Waldick, Judge

DATED:
/hls

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