Honorable Patrick T. Dinkelacker
Hamilton County Courthouse
1000 Main Street
Room 360
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
Chris Collini, Bailiff
Phone Number: 513-946-5961
Emily Albrinck, Constable
Phone Number: 513-946-5962
Fax Number: 513-946-5964
Courtroom Procedures
MOTION PRACTICE
When a civil motion is filed, alert the court and the constable will set a date for oral argument. The court generally hears oral arguments on all contested motions. Any motion can be set for oral argument. Arguments are generally scheduled at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. I try to rule on all motions within two (2) weeks of argument. All dispositive motions should be filed with the court at least 30 days before the pretrial date.
SETTLEMENT
I will become involved in settlement discussions if the parties so request.
CALENDARING, CONTINUANCES
In criminal cases, scheduling is done through the bailiff.
In civil cases, a case scheduling order is established at the case management conference with the constable. Counsel select and sign on to the date for trial. Unless unusual and/or extreme unforeseen circumstances arise, a trial date is firm. If you wish to appear via telephone for a case management conference, you must notify the constable at least one (1) business day in advance as a courtesy to the court; otherwise you are expected to appear in person.
PRETRIAL
Pretrial statements are due two (2) weeks prior to the pretrial conference which is generally two (2) weeks before trial. Counsel should follow the format of the Local Rules.
TRIAL
Proposed jury instructions should be filed and emailed to the constable two weeks before trial. Please send these in Word format for easy editing. Trial briefs are not required. If testimony is to be presented by videotape or deposition, objections should be presented at least one week before trial.
COURTROOM ETIQUETTE
Counsel is expected to be professional, respectful, and courteous at all times. My staff and I will act in the same manner.
Counsel in criminal cases should check in with the bailiff (Chris Collini).
Counsel in civil cases should check in with the constable (Emily Albrinck).
EXPECTATIONS
As long as the rules are followed and courtesy is exercised, you will have a pleasant professional experience in my courtroom.