Chapter 5101:2-20 | Adult Protective Services

Rule 5101:2-20-01 | Adult protective services definitions.

• Effective: October 1, 2021
• Promulgated Under: 111.15

(A) This rule contains the definitions of terms used in Chapter 5101:2-20 of the Administrative Code.

(B) Definitions.

(1) "Abandonment" means desertion of an adult by a caretaker without having made provision for transfer of the adult's care.

(2) "Abuse" means the infliction upon an adult by self or others of injury, unreasonable confinement, intimidation or cruel punishment with resulting physical harm, pain, or mental anguish.

(3) "Adult" means any person sixty years of age or older within this state who is handicapped by the infirmities of aging or who has a physical or mental impairment which prevents the person from providing for the person's own care or protection, and who resides in an independent living arrangement.

(4) "Adult protective services" means an array of services provided to adults who are at risk of abuse, neglect or exploitation. Services include but are not limited to: intake/ referral, investigating reports of abuse, neglect, or exploitation, and protective services as defined in paragraph (B)(27) of this rule.

(5) "Area agency on aging" means a public or private nonprofit entity designated under section 173.011 of the Revised Code to administer programs on behalf of the department of aging.

(6) "Caretaker" means a person assuming the primary responsibility for the care of an adult by any of the following means:

(a) On a voluntary basis;

(b) By contract;

(c) Through receipt of payment for care;

(d) As a result of a family relationship;

(e) By the order of a court of competent jurisdiction.

(7) "Case management" means services performed or arranged by the county department of job and family services (CDJFS) or its designated agency to manage the life cycle of an adult protective services case.

(8) "Case record" means the permanent documentation of the assessment/investigation and the provision of protective or social services to vulnerable adults maintained as hard copy files, electronic files, or as a combination of both.

(9) "Caseworker" as used in rule 5101:2-20-07 of the Administrative Code means a CDJFS or its designated agency's staff person who is responsible for the provision of adult protective services.

(10) "Community mental health agency" means any agency, program, or facility with which a board of alcohol, drug addiction, and mental health services contracts to provide the mental health services listed under section 5119.01 of the Revised Code.

(11) "Court" means the probate court in the county where an adult resides.

(12) "Designated agency" means an agency which is designated through a contract/written agreement with the CDJFS to perform the department's duties of receiving and investigating reports of suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation; evaluating the need for, and to the extent of available funds, providing or arranging for the provision of protective services.

(13) "Emergency" means that the adult is living in conditions which present a substantial risk of immediate and irreparable physical harm or death to self or any other person.

(14) "Emergency services" means protective services furnished to an adult in an emergency.

(15) "Emotional abuse" means to threaten, humiliate, intimidate, or psychologically harm an adult. Also, the violation of an adult's right to make decisions and loss of privacy.

(16) "Exploitation" means the unlawful or improper act of a person using, in one or more transactions, an adult or an adult's resources for monetary or personal benefit, profit or gain when the person obtained or exerted control over the adult or the adult's resources in any of the following ways:

(a) Without the adult's consent or the consent of the person authorized to give consent on the adult's behalf.

(b) Beyond the scope of the express or implied consent of the adult or the person authorized to give consent on the adult's behalf.

(c) By deception.

(d) By threat.

(e) By intimidation.

A person is an individual who is known to the adult subject through a familial and/or social relationship.

(17) "In need of protective services" means an adult known or suspected to be suffering from abuse, neglect, or exploitation to an extent that either life is endangered or physical harm, mental anguish or mental illness results or is likely to result.

(18) "Incapacitated person" means a person who is impaired for any reason to the extent that he lacks sufficient understanding or capacity to make and carry out reasonable decisions concerning the person's self or resources, with or without the assistance of a caretaker. Refusal to consent to the provision of services shall not be the sole determinative that the person is incapacitated.

(19) "Independent living arrangement" means a domicile of a person's own choosing, including, but not limited to, a private home, apartment, trailer, or rooming house. "Independent living arrangement" includes a residential facility licensed under section 5119.34 of the Revised Code that provides accommodations, supervision, and personal care services for three to sixteen unrelated adults, but does not include any other institution or facility licensed by the state or a facility in which a person resides as a result of voluntary, civil, or criminal commitment.

(20) "Mental illness" means a substantial disorder of thought, mood, perception, orientation, or memory that grossly impairs judgment, behavior, capacity to recognize reality, or ability to meet the ordinary demands of life.

(21) "Neglect" means any of the following:

(a) Failure of an adult to provide for self the goods or services necessary to avoid physical harm, mental anguish, or mental illness;

(b) Failure of a caretaker to provide such goods or services;

(c) Abandonment.

(22) "Outpatient health facility" means a facility where medical care and preventive, diagnostic, therapeutic, rehabilitative, or palliative items or services are provided to outpatients by or under the direction of a physician or dentist.

(23) "Peace officer" means a peace officer as defined in section 2935.01 of the Revised Code.

(24) "Physical abuse" means intentional use of physical force resulting in bodily injury, pain or impairment.

(25) "Physical harm" means bodily pain, injury, impairment or disease suffered by an adult.

(26) "Principals of the case" are the alleged adult victim or the adult subject of the report, the caretaker of the alleged adult victim or adult subject of the report and the alleged perpetrator.

(27) "Protective services" means services provided by the CDJFS or its designated agency to an adult who has been determined by evaluation to require such services for the prevention, correction or discontinuance of an act of, as well as, conditions resulting from abuse, neglect or exploitation. Protective services may include, but are not limited to, case work services, medical care, mental health services, legal services, fiscal management, home health care, homemaker services, housing-related services, guardianship services, and placement services as well as the provision of such commodities as food, clothing, and shelter.

(28) "Reasonable decisions" means decisions made in daily living that facilitate the provision of food, shelter, clothing, and health care necessary for life support.

(29) "Referral" means a verbal or written statement received by the CDJFS from any person who has reason to believe that an adult has suffered or is suffering abuse, neglect or exploitation.

(30) "Report" means a referral accepted to be investigated by the CDJFS as a result of a screening decision.

(31) "Screening" means the process of receiving and recording information from any person to determine whether the information provided should be accepted as a report of adult abuse, neglect or exploitation or screened out.

(32) "Senior service provider" means a person who provides care or specialized services to an adult, except that it does not include the state long-term care ombudsman or a regional long-term care ombudsman.

(33) "Sexual abuse" means nonconsensual sexual contact of any kind with an adult regardless of age of the perpetrator.

(34) "Supervisor" as used in rule 5101:2-20-07 of the Administrative Code means a person who is employed by the CDJFS or its designee to oversee, direct or manage one or more workers employed by the agency in an adult protective services capacity.

(35) "Validated (substantiated)" means confirming evidence that substantiates or verifies the allegation of abuse/self neglect/neglect/exploitation.

(36) "Working day" means Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, except when such day is a holiday as defined in section 1.14 of the Revised Code.

Last updated August 27, 2026 at 9:42 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5101.61
Amplifies: 5101.60
Five Year Review Date: 12/30/2026
Prior Effective Dates: 10/12/1989 (Emer.), 12/20/1989

Rule 5101:2-20-02 | Ohio database for adult protective services.

• Effective: October 17, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 111.15

The purpose of this rule is to outline the access, use, and maintenance of the Ohio database for adult protective services (ODAPS).

(A) What is the purpose of ODAPS?

The purpose of ODAPS is for each county department of job and family services (CDJFS) to collect and submit data to the Ohio department of job and family services (ODJFS) concerning the implementation of sections 5101.60 to 5101.73 of the Revised Code.

(B) Who has access to the data in ODAPS?

(1) Access to and use of data in ODAPS is limited to the extent necessary to carry out the adult protective services (APS) program.

(2) Access is granted by ODJFS based on the request of the CDJFS.

(C) What is the responsibility of the CDJFS regarding personnel changes and ODAPS access?

The CDJFS is to notify ODJFS of any personnel changes in relation to staff access needs for ODAPS.

(D) What is needed for access to ODAPS?

Personnel having access to ODAPS will be:

(1) Trained in the confidentiality of ODAPS.

(2) Informed of all penalties related to the misuse and abuse of ODAPS.

(3) Trained in security procedures.

(4) Signed the JFS 07078 "Code of Responsibility."

(5) Completion of ODAPS user training.

(E) What is the responsibility of the CDJFS regarding unauthorized ODAPS access?

The CDJFS is to monitor access to and use of ODAPS to prevent and identify unauthorized use.

(F) What are the penalties for unauthorized access to or disclosure of data in ODAPS?

In addition to the criminal penalty provision listed in section 5101.99 of the Revised Code, the CDJFS may impose administrative penalties up to and including dismissal from employment.

(G) How is the confidentiality of data in ODAPS maintained?

Data entered in ODAPS is confidential and dissemination of any adult protective services case information is to be in accordance with rule 5101:2-20-05 of the Administrative Code.

(H) What information is to be entered into ODAPS by the CDJFS?

The CDJFS is to enter all case record information in ODAPS.

(I) What is the timeline for entering and updating information in ODAPS?

Case record information is to be entered in ODAPS no later than three working days after the occurrence of an event or as the information becomes available.

Last updated October 19, 2026 at 8:10 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5101.61
Amplifies: 5101.60 to 5101.71
Five Year Review Date: 10/17/2031
Prior Effective Dates: 4/1/2018, 12/1/2019

Rule 5101:2-20-03 | Adult protective services designated agency provisions.

• Effective: October 1, 2021
• Promulgated Under: 111.15

(A) The county department of job and family services (CDJFS) may designate another agency to perform the following duties:

(1) Receive and screen referrals, and investigate reports of abuse, neglect, or exploitation.

(2) Evaluate the need for protective services.

(3) To the extent of available funds, provide or arrange for the provision of protective services.

(B) The CDJFS shall specify the duties of the designated agency. The designated agency shall perform the duties mutually agreed upon and comply with rules 5101:2-20-04, 5101:2-20-05, 5101:2-20-11, 5101:2-20-12, 5101:2-20-13, 5101:2-20-14, and 5101:2-20-16 of the Administrative Code.

(C) The CDJFS shall enter into a contract and/or written agreement with the agency it selects to act as its designated agency.

(D) The CDJFS has the ultimate responsibility to ensure that all reports assigned to a designated agency are investigated and managed in compliance with the law.

Last updated August 27, 2026 at 9:45 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5101.61
Amplifies: 5101.61, 5101.652
Five Year Review Date: 12/30/2026
Prior Effective Dates: 12/1/2007, 8/1/2012

Rule 5101:2-20-04 | Adult protective services case records.

• Effective: October 17, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 111.15

The purpose of this rule is to establish the standards of maintaining comprehensive, accurate, and confidential case records for adult protective services (APS) by county departments of job and family services (CDJFS) to support service delivery and compliance with state and federal regulations.

(A) What standards are the CDJFS to follow in documenting case records?

(1) Each CDJFS is to maintain a complete and official case record for every adult who is the subject of a referral of adult maltreatment.

(2) All case information is to be documented in the Ohio database for adult protective services (ODAPS) from the time the referral is received until the case is closed. ODAPS is the official and permanent case record.

(3) The case record is to contain all information, pictures, documents, and communications pertaining to the investigation of adult maltreatment, and the provision of services to address any concerns.

(B) What information is to be included in the case record?

Each case record prepared, maintained, and permanently kept is to contain, but not limited to, the following information, as applicable:

(1) Information on each referral received including the screening decision.

(2) Information on each referral that is categorized and screened as an information and referral.

(3) Documentation of attempts to locate the correct address of the principals of the report and attempted face-to-face contacts.

(4) Justification for all extensions and waivers for failing to complete any information gathering activity.

(5) Documentation of requests for assistance from law enforcement and the corresponding rationale for the request.

(6) Assessments used in determining the need for services.

(7) Case notes of the activities and statements of persons involved in the case, including the names, dates, and times of occurrence.

(a) Case notes are to be prepared by or under the supervision of the staff member with the most direct knowledge of the occurrence.

(b) Opinions of CDJFS staff and others included in case notes are to be identified as such.

(8) Documentation of verbal, written, or electronic referrals to community service providers, including other public agencies and private agencies.

(9) Documentation of the decision to transfer the case or make a referral regarding the case to another county.

(a) The case record is to include a narrative of discussions held with the proposed receiving CDJFS and any decisions made during that discussion.

(b) If the proposed receiving CDJFS declines to accept the transfer of the case, the CDJFS responsible for the case is to:

(i) Make a new referral to the proposed receiving CDJFS.

(ii) Document that a new referral was made in the case record prior to closing the case.

(10) Documentation of the services provided directly by the CDJFS including the dates of service.

(11) Reports from service providers.

(12) Documentation sent to the prosecuting attorney when a mandated reporter fails to make a report of adult maltreatment.

(13) Documentation or copies of all referrals, assessments, and investigations.

(14) Documentation of information provided to a county interdisciplinary team for case review.

(15) Copies of any release of information when confidential information is released for any reason.

(16) Documentation of all complaints, motions, petitions, pleadings, and other documents submitted to the court or any other party.

(17) Documentation of all court orders, findings, written determinations, and journal entries from the court.

(18) Documentation of applications for financial or social service support programs.

(19) Documentation verifying the citizenship or immigration status of the client, as applicable.

(20) Documentation of all visits and communications with the principals of the case.

(21) Documentation of case plan development, review, necessary amendments, and signatures.

(C) What is to be included in the case notes section of the case record in ODAPS?

The case notes is to document the date and time of all activities performed during the investigation, assessment, case planning, and provision of services, including, but not limited to:

(1) Phone calls.

(2) Personal interviews.

(3) Reason and date for APS termination.

(4) Dates(s) of receipt and preparation of documentation or communication.

(D) How will the CDJFS record case information that cannot be directly entered into ODAPS?

Any case information or documentation that cannot be directly entered into ODAPS is to be uploaded into the system and maintained as part of the electronic case record.

(E) What is the confidentiality of the case record?

The case record is to be considered confidential and not public record, in accordance with rule 5101:2-20-05 of the Administrative Code.

Last updated October 19, 2026 at 8:10 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5101.61
Amplifies: 5101.60 to 5101.71
Five Year Review Date: 10/17/2031
Prior Effective Dates: 12/1/2007

Rule 5101:2-20-05 | Confidentiality and dissemination of adult protective services information.

• Effective: October 17, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 111.15

The purpose of this rule is to establish confidentiality standards and authorized disclosure of adult protective services (APS) information to ensure sensitive data is only shared under specific legal circumstances to protect the rights and privacy of individuals involved.

(A) What information is confidential and can only be shared when dissemination is authorized under this rule?

(1) Each referral, assessment, investigation, and record of provision of services related to adult maltreatment is confidential.

(2) Information in the Ohio database for adult protective services (ODAPS) is confidential and is not subject to disclosure pursuant to section 149.43 or 1347.08 of the Revised Code.

(B) What actions are to be taken if unauthorized dissemination of information occurs?

If any person commits, causes, permits, or encourages unauthorized dissemination of information, the county department of job and family services (CDJFS) is to:

(1) Notify the county prosecutor.

(2) Notify the Ohio department of job and family services (ODJFS).

(3) Maintain a copy of the notification in the case record.

(C) To whom can the CDJFS release the identity of the referent or any person providing information during the course of an assessment or investigation?

The identity of the referent or any person providing information during the course of the assessment or investigation is not to be released or affirmed by the CDJFS to any party without the written consent of the individual(s) involved, except in the following situations:

(1) ODJFS staff with supervisory responsibility in the administration of Ohio's APS program.

(2) Law enforcement when investigating a criminal case.

(3) The county prosecutor when information is needed for criminal proceedings.

(4) Another CDJFS assessing or investigating an adult maltreatment report involving a principal of the case.

(D) To whom can the CDJFS release case information contained in the case record, excluding the identity of the referent or any person providing information during the course of the assessment or investigation?

(1) Upon request, the information is to be released to:

(a) The adult who is the subject of the report.

(b) Legal counsel for the adult.

(2) The court, for the purpose of issuing any of the following:

(a) An ex parte order.

(b) A restraining order due to the obstruction of an investigation.

(c) A protective services order or emergency protective services order.

(d) A guardianship order.

(3) Law enforcement when investigating a criminal case.

(4) The coroner, to assist in the evaluation of an adult's death due to alleged abuse or neglect.

(5) To agencies authorized by the CDJFS for the purpose of assessing or investigating an adult maltreatment report.

(E) What are the restrictions on accessing or using information contained in the APS case record?

No person is to knowingly:

(1) Access or use information contained in ODAPS or the case record for any purpose except as authorized by this rule.

(2) Disclose information obtained from the APS case record to any entity not authorized by this rule.

(F) What can the information in the case record not be used to do?

(1) Screen for employment.

(2) Screen for volunteerism.

(3) Screen for any other background search that would limit an individual's opportunities that would otherwise be afforded to them without this information.

Last updated October 17, 2026 at 12:00 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5101.61
Amplifies: 5101.63
Five Year Review Date: 10/17/2031
Prior Effective Dates: 8/1/2016

Rule 5101:2-20-06 | The county adult protective services memorandum of understanding.

• Effective: December 1, 2019
• Promulgated Under: 111.15

(A) The county adult protective services memorandum of understanding, hereinafter referred to as the memorandum, is a document that sets forth the normal operating procedures to be employed by all concerned officials in the execution of their respective responsibilities pursuant to section 5101.621 of the Revised Code when conducting elder abuse, neglect or exploitation assessments or investigations. The purpose of the memorandum is to delineate clearly the role and responsibilities of each official or agency in assessing or investigating elder abuse, neglect or exploitation in the county. The respective duties and requirements of all involved shall be addressed in the memorandum.

(B) Each county department of job and family services (CDJFS) shall prepare a memorandum described in paragraph (A) of this rule to be signed by all of the following:

(1) The director of the CDJFS.

(2) The director of the designated agency if the county department has entered into an agreement or contract with another entity pursuant to section 5101.652 of the Revised Code.

(3) The county peace officer.

(4) The chief peace officer of the largest municipality within the county.

(5) Other law enforcement officers handling adult abuse, neglect, and exploitation cases in the county.

(6) The prosecuting attorney of the county.

(7) The coroner of the county.

(C) The memorandum shall set forth the procedures to be followed by the persons listed in paragraph (B) of this rule in the execution of their respective responsibilities related to cases of adult abuse, neglect, and exploitation. The memorandum shall establish all of the following:

(1) An interdisciplinary team to coordinate efforts related to the prevention, reporting, and treatment of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of adults.

(2) The roles and responsibilities for handling cases that have been referred by the CDJFS or designated agency to another agency pursuant to section 5101.64 of the Revised Code.

(3) The roles and responsibilities for filing criminal charges against persons alleged to have abused, neglected, or exploited adults.

(D) The memorandum may, in addition, be signed by any of the following persons who are also members of the interdisciplinary team described in paragraph (C)(1) of this rule:

(1) A representative of the area agency on aging, as defined in section 173.14 of the Revised Code.

(2) A representative of the regional long-term care ombudsman program.

(3) A representative of the board of alcohol, drug addiction, and mental health services.

(4) A representative of the board of health of a city or general health district.

(5) A representative of the county board of developmental disabilities.

(6) A representative of a victim assistance program.

(7) A representative of a local housing authority.

(8) Any other person whose participation furthers the goals of the memorandum.

(E) The memorandum shall include all of the following:

(1) Signatures from participating agencies which must include, at a minimum, the individuals listed in paragraph (B) of this rule.

(2) A confidentiality statement to address how information is to be shared while protecting the privacy of the client and his/her family. The confidentiality statement shall also clearly identify the individual to be notified in the event of a breach or suspected breach of confidentiality and a provision that the terms of confidentiality remain after the termination or expiration of the agreement.

(3) A terms and conditions section that identifies the time period of the agreement and how to address modifications to the agreement.

(F) The memorandum may, in addition, include the screening procedure to be followed, in accordance with paragraph (B) of rule 5101:2-20-11 of the Administrative Code, when a written and/or oral referral is received on a day that is not a working day and after business hours on working days.

(G) Each CDJFS shall complete the memorandum no later than July 1, 2016.

(H) If an amendment to an existing memorandum is necessary for any reason, the CDJFS shall complete the amendment within ninety days of the identified need and do both of the following:

(1) Have the amendment signed by all parties affected by the amendment.

(2) Provide a written copy of the signed amendment to all signors of the memorandum.

(I) Failure to follow the guidelines set forth in the memorandum required by this rule is not grounds for, and shall not result in, the dismissal of any charge or complaint arising from any report of abuse, neglect, or exploitation or the suppression of any evidence obtained as a result of a report of abuse, neglect, or exploitation and does not give any rights or grounds for appeal or post-conviction relief to any person.

Last updated March 18, 2026 at 2:31 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5101.61
Amplifies: 5101.621
Five Year Review Date: 6/22/2026
Prior Effective Dates: 9/29/2018

Rule 5101:2-20-07 | Education and in-service training requirements for APS caseworkers and supervisors.

• Effective: October 1, 2021
• Promulgated Under: 111.15

(A) Adult protective services (APS) caseworkers hired on or after September 29, 2015 shall complete APS core training:

(1) At a minimum, the following APS core training courses shall be completed within the first year of continuous employment:

(a) APS laws and regulations.

(b) Dynamics of elder abuse.

(c) The aging process.

(2) The following APS core training courses shall be completed at any time during the first two years of continuous employment:

(a) APS risk assessment.

(b) APS values and ethics.

(c) Case planning.

(d) Collaboration in APS.

(e) Initial investigation.

(f) Professional communication.

(B) A minimum of eighteen hours of the training required in paragraph (A) of this rule shall be completed through instructor led courses. The remaining core requirements shall be completed through either instructor led or online courses.

(C) Caseworkers considered backup or on-call APS caseworkers may attend core training at the discretion of their supervisor.

(D) The training requirements identified in this rule shall be met by participating in the Ohio human services training system's (OHSTS) adult protective caseworker core training program.

(E) The county department of job and family services (CDJFS) director or his or her designee may waive certain training course requirements if within the last two years the APS caseworker was previously employed by another agency or the same CDJFS, and completed one or more of the OHSTS adult protective services caseworker core training courses. However, any core courses not completed by the caseworker during the previous two years cannot be waived.

(F) All APS caseworkers shall complete eighteen hours of ongoing training annually in areas relevant to the caseworker's assigned APS duties. APS caseworkers who fall under paragraph (A) of this rule, would begin their annual training hours after the first two years of continuous employment with the agency as a caseworker.

(1) For caseworkers subject to the provisions of rule 5101:2-33-55 of the Administrative Code, at least six hours of the required thirty-six hours of ongoing training must be courses related to APS.

(2) Training courses shall be selected to address the caseworker's training needs as determined by the caseworker and supervisor. Training needs shall be determined based upon all of the following:

(a) Prior background and experience of the caseworker.

(b) Job duties and responsibilities of the caseworker.

(c) Competencies the caseworker and supervisor identify as needs.

(G) A caseworker's ongoing training requirements may be fulfilled by participating in instructor led or online training activities, including but not limited to training offered through:

(1) OHSTS.

(2) The Ohio child welfare training program (OCWTP).

(3) Accredited colleges or universities if the course work is relevant to the caseworker's assigned duties. If calculating training hours through completion of courses offered by colleges or universities, the agency shall use the number of semester/quarter hours awarded by the college or university.

(4) Seminars, conferences, webinars, and workshops relevant to the caseworker's assigned duties.

(H) The CDJFS or its designee shall be responsible for all of the following:

(1) Notifying its designated regional training center of new caseworkers hired by the agency in order for the regional training center to create an account for the employee in the learning management system (LMS).

(2) Maintaining employees' education and training records, including documentation of compliance with all provisions of this rule.

(I) APS supervisors hired on or after September 29, 2015 shall complete the APS core courses as outlined in paragraphs (A) to (C) of this rule, within the first two years of continuous employment.

(J) The CDJFS director or his or her designee may waive completion of one or more training requirements if within the last two years the APS supervisor was previously employed by another agency or the same CDJFS and completed one or more of the OHSTS APS caseworker core courses. However, any core courses not completed by the supervisor during the previous two years cannot be waived.

(K) All APS supervisors shall complete fifteen hours of ongoing training annually in areas relevant to the supervisor's assigned APS duties. APS supervisors who fall under paragraph (J) of this rule, would begin their annual training hours after the first two years of continuous employment with the agency as a supervisor.

(1) For supervisors subject to rule 5101:2-33-56 of the Administrative Code, at least six hours of the required thirty hours of ongoing training must be courses related to APS.

(2) Training courses shall be selected to address the supervisor's training needs as determined by the supervisor and director. Training needs shall be determined based upon all of the following:

(a) Prior background and experience of the supervisor.

(b) Relevant assigned job duties and responsibilities of the supervisor.

(c) Competencies the supervisor and director identify as needs.

(L) The supervisor's ongoing training requirements may be fulfilled by participating in instructor led or online training activities. These training activities may include trainings offered by any of the following:

(1) OHSTS.

(2) OCWTP.

(3) Accredited colleges or universities if the course work is relevant to the supervisor's assigned APS duties. If calculating training hours through completion of courses offered by colleges or universities, the agency shall use the number of semester/quarter hours awarded by the college or university.

(4) Seminars, conferences, webinars, and workshops relevant to the supervisor's assigned APS duties.

(M) The CDJFS or its designee shall be responsible for all of the following:

(1) Notifying its designated regional training center of new supervisors hired by the agency in order for the regional training center to create an account for the employee in the LMS.

(2) Maintaining employees' education and training records, including documentation of compliance with all provisions of this rule.

(N) The CDJFS or its designee may elect to offer initial orientation training about the agency and the community to newly hired caseworkers or supervisors. Initial orientation training does not count toward fulfilling the mandatory training requirements outlined in this rule.

Last updated October 1, 2021 at 8:34 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5101.61
Amplifies: 5101.61, 5101.62
Five Year Review Date: 12/30/2026

Rule 5101:2-20-11 | Adult protective services screening.

• Effective: October 1, 2021
• Promulgated Under: 111.15

(A) The county department of job and family services (CDJFS) or its designee shall have the ability to receive and screen the written and/or oral referrals of adult abuse, neglect and/or exploitation twenty-four hours a day seven days a week.

(B) The screening decision protocol for referrals received on a day that is not a working day as defined in section 5101.60 of the Revised Code and after business hours on working days may be outlined within the county's memorandum of understanding established pursuant to rule 5101:2-20-06 of the Administrative Code.

(C) The CDJFS or its designee shall attempt to obtain, at a minimum, the following information from a referent making a referral regarding alleged adult abuse, neglect and/or exploitation and arrive at a screening decision. Receipt of all of the following information is not required in order to screen in a report:

(1) The name(s) and address(es) of the adult and the adult's caregiver or guardian and all household members.

(2) The adult's age.

(3) The adult's race and ethnicity.

(4) Circumstances regarding the abuse, neglect, and/or exploitation.

(5) Alleged perpetrator's access to the adult, if applicable.

(6) The adult's current condition.

(7) The adult's current location.

(8) Information regarding any evidence of previous abuse, neglect and/or exploitation.

(9) Any other information that might be helpful in establishing the cause of the known or suspected abuse, neglect and/or exploitation.

(D) The CDJFS or its designee will complete the screening decision and determine the priority for an agency response within twenty-four hours from receipt of the information from the referent.

(E) The report shall be deemed an emergency if an adult is reported to be living in a condition which presents substantial risk of immediate physical harm or death. The risk can be the result of the adult's own action or inflicted on the adult by another person.

(1) Emergency reports shall be initiated within twenty-four hours from receipt of the report.

(2) Non-emergency reports shall be initiated within three working days from the receipt of the report.

(F) The CDJFS or its designee will do each of the following to initiate a report:

(1) Attempt face-to-face contact with the adult and ensure the adult is not at imminent risk of harm;

(2) At the time of the initial interview, give written notice of the intent to investigate and explain the notice in language reasonably understandable to the adult who is the subject of the investigation. The CDJFS or its designee will arrange for translator/interpreter services if needed.

(G) The initiation activities outlined in paragraph (F) of this rule may be completed by another entity if the activities required by this rule are included in the memorandum of understanding established pursuant to rule 5101:2-20-06 of the Administrative Code.

(H) If the initial attempt for face-to-face contact is unsuccessful, the CDJFS or its designee will complete a minimum of two additional face-to-face attempts.

(I) The CDJFS or its designee will enter the screening decision and documentation of the initiation activities in the Ohio database for adult protective services (ODAPS) no later than three working days after the occurrence of the event pursuant to rule 5101:2-20-02 of the Administrative Code.

(J) The CDJFS or its designee may upon request of the referent, inform the referent of the screening decision. The CDJFS or its designee shall not share any additional case information with the referent.

Last updated October 1, 2021 at 8:34 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5101.61
Amplifies: 5101.63, 5101.652
Five Year Review Date: 12/30/2026
Prior Effective Dates: 3/17/2003, 1/1/2004, 8/1/2016

Rule 5101:2-20-12 | Adult protective services assessment and investigation.

• Effective: October 1, 2021
• Promulgated Under: 111.15

(A) The county department of job and family services (CDJFS) or its designee shall be responsible for conducting an assessment/investigation on all reports of abuse, neglect, or exploitation for adults age sixty and older, and shall evaluate the need for adult protective services.

(B) The CDJFS or its designee shall do all of the following:

(1) Attempt a face-to-face visit with the alleged adult victim, preferably in the alleged adult victim's own home without the interference of others. If face-to-face contact is not possible, the reason(s) must be documented in the case record.

(2) Provide written notice of the intent to investigate and explain the notice in language reasonably understandable to the adult who is the subject of the investigation at the time of the initial interview, if notice was not given at the time of initiation of the report pursuant to rule 5101:2-20-11 of the Administrative Code. The CDJFS or its designee shall arrange for translator/interpreter services if needed.

(3) Assess the risk to the adult who is subject of a report, by considering the following factual information:

(a) The specific danger (abuse, neglect or exploitation) and the degree of danger (physical or sexual harm, mental anguish or mental illness) in the adult's living conditions.

(b) The personal vulnerability of the adult which may include one or more of the following conditions:

(i) Handicap due to infirmities of aging.

(ii) Physical or mental impairments preventing the adult from providing for his or her own care without the assistance of a caretaker.

(iii) The adult's understanding of his or her current situation.

(iv) The adult's feelings about his or her current living situation.

(c) The social vulnerability of the adult, which may include one or more of the following conditions:

(i) The absence of a guardian, caretaker, spouse, adult children, next of kin or friends.

(ii) The unlawful or improper act of a caretaker using an adult or his or her resources for monetary or personal benefit, profit or gain.

(iii) The failure or inability of a caretaker or the adult to provide goods or services necessary to avoid physical harm, mental anguish or mental illness.

(4) Interview other known persons and/or agencies who may have knowledge of the abuse, neglect or exploitation.

(5) Investigate additional concerns regarding the adult victim that are discovered during the initial investigation of suspected abuse, neglect and/or exploitation while the CDJFS or its designee is actively involved with the adult.

(C) The CDJFS or its designee may request an ex parte emergency protective services order under the following circumstances:

(1) An emergency exists.

(2) There is reasonable cause to believe that the adult is incapacitated.

(3) There is reasonable cause to believe that there is a substantial risk to the adult of immediate and irreparable physical harm, immediate and irreparable financial harm or death.

(D) The CDJFS or its designee may request an emergency protective services order under the following circumstances:

(1) The adult is an incapacitated person.

(2) An emergency exists.

(3) No person authorized by law or court order to give consent for the adult is available or willing to consent to emergency services.

(4) There is reasonable cause to believe that there is a substantial risk to the adult of immediate and irreparable physical harm, immediate and irreparable financial harm, or death.

(E) The CDJFS or its designee may request a temporary protective services order at the ex parte order hearing or the emergency protective services order hearing.

(F) The CDJFS or its designee may request the following services through a court order for adult protective services:

(1) Evaluations.

(2) Emergency services order.

(3) The freezing of the adult's financial assets.

(4) Orders requiring a party to vacate the adult's place of residence or legal settlement.

(5) Restraining orders. If a restraining order is issued due to the obstruction of or interference with the investigation by any person, including the resident, the CDJFS or its designee may request accompaniment to the residence by a peace officer.

(G) The investigation shall be completed no later than thirty calendar days from the receipt of the report or no later than forty-five days when additional information is needed to determine a case disposition and the information could not be obtained within the thirty day time frame.

(H) The CDJFS or its designee shall request an extension of the time frame for completing the case disposition if the CDJFS or its designee is unable to complete specific assessment/investigative activities within thirty calendar days. The justification for the extension shall:

(1) Contain written justification for not meeting the established time frame.

(2) Contain supervisory approval of the written justification prior to the expiration of the established time frame.

(3) Be maintained in the case record.

(I) The investigation shall not be considered complete until all additional concerns that contribute to the risk of the adult are investigated and found to be validated or not validated.

(J) An investigative report containing the following information shall be placed in the case record in accordance with the time frames outlined in paragraph (G) of this rule. The report shall include:

(1) A summary of the investigation/assessment activities, dispositions and case opening disposition as specified in paragraphs (B) to (F) of this rule.

(2) A determination as to whether the report of abuse, neglect and/or exploitation is validated or not validated and the reason for this conclusion.

(3) Documentation of the service needs that were identified and the referrals made to other social service agencies, if applicable.

(4) Case opening decision.

(5) Court filings if required to complete investigation.

Last updated October 1, 2021 at 8:35 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5101.61
Amplifies: 5101.63, 5101.65, 5101.651, 5101.68
Five Year Review Date: 12/30/2026
Prior Effective Dates: 12/1/2007

Rule 5101:2-20-13 | Adult protective services third-party investigation.

• Effective: October 17, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 111.15

The purpose of this rule is to outline the procedures for third-party investigations of adult maltreatment cases when a potential conflict of interest exists.

(A) When is the county department of job and family services (CDJFS) to request a third-party investigation?

A third-party investigation is to be requested for reports of adult maltreatment when a potential conflict of interest exists due to one or more of the following parties being a principal of the report:

(1) Any employee or agent of the Ohio department of job and family services (ODJFS) or the CDJFS.

(2) Any authorized person representing ODJFS or the CDJFS who provides services for payment or as a volunteer.

(3) Any time a CDJFS determines a conflict of interest exists.

(B) Does the involvement of a third party relieve the CDJFS of its responsibilities?

The involvement of a third party does not relieve the lead CDJFS of its responsibility to ensure assessment and investigation activities are completed.

(C) What agencies may conduct third-party assessments and investigations of adult maltreatment?

A law enforcement agency or another CDJFS may serve as the third party to assessments or investigations of adult maltreatment.

(1) The CDJFS is to request the assistance of law enforcement as the third party if the adult maltreatment report alleges a criminal offense.

(2) The CDJFS may request the assistance of another CDJFS as the third party if the adult maltreatment report does not allege a criminal offense and both agencies agree to participate in the assessment and investigation.

(D) Can the CDJFS operate an in-house unit for third-party assessments and investigations?

In lieu of law enforcement or another CDJFS, the CDJFS may operate an in-house unit to assess and investigate reports of adult maltreatment requiring a third party if all of the following apply:

(1) An agency employee is not named as a principal in the report.

(2) The report does not allege a criminal offense.

(3) The CDJFS maintains written internal policies and procedures for the review and approval of assessments and investigations conducted by the in-house unit.

(4) The in-house unit works independently of all other units within the CDJFS.

(E) What is the CDJFS to do when a conflict of interest is identified?

Within twenty-four hours of identifying a conflict of interest, the CDJFS is to request and document the assistance of a third party.

(F) What are the responsibilities of the non-lead CDJFS upon accepting the request for assistance?

Upon accepting the request from the lead CDJFS, the non-lead CDJFS is to complete the assessment and investigation.

(G) What is the CDJFS to do if the requested agency declines to assist?

If the requested agency declines to assist as a third party to the assessment and investigation, the CDJFS is responsible for conducting the assessment and investigation. The CDJFS is responsible for having procedures in place to address the conflict of interest and ensure the completion of the assessment and investigation.

(H) Is a dual relationship considered a conflict of interest?

The CDJFS should not permit dual relationships and ensure safeguards are established should a dual relationship be unavoidable. In the case of the CDJFS petitioning for or serving as guardian, it is an unavoidable dual relationship only if all less restrictive alternatives to guardianship have been considered and either:

(1) The court has instructed the APS program to petition for or serve as guardian.

(2) There is no other qualified individual or entity available to petition for or serve as a guardian.

(I) How is the documentation of third-party assessments and investigations to be maintained?

All documentation obtained as a result of the third-party assessment and investigation is to be maintained in the case record. For all dual relationships, the CDJFS is to indicate the mitigation strategies taken to address the conflict of interest.

Last updated October 17, 2026 at 12:00 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5101.61
Amplifies: 5101.61, 5101.65
Five Year Review Date: 10/17/2031
Prior Effective Dates: 11/1/2016

Rule 5101:2-20-14 | Requirement for cross-referring reports of elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation.

• Effective: September 29, 2018
• Promulgated Under: 111.15

(A) The provisions of rule 5101:2-20-05 of the Administrative Code regarding confidentiality apply to all cross-referrals of elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation required by this rule.

(B) The county department of job and family services (CDJFS) or its designated agency shall make a referral to the following agencies, as necessary, upon review of a report made under section 5101.63 of the Revised Code or an investigation conducted under section 5101.65 of the Revised Code:

(1) The local county board of developmental disabilities if the CDJFS or its designated agency knows or has reasonable cause to believe that the subject is an individual with a developmental disability as defined in section 5126.01 of the Revised Code. The CDJFS or its designated agency shall proceed with a case in accordance with sections 5101.60 to 5101.71 of the Revised Code when a referral is received from the local county board of developmental disabilities in accordance with section 5126.31 of the Revised Code.

(2) The office of the state long-term care ombudsman program if the subject is a resident of a long-term care facility, as defined in section 173.14 of the Revised Code. The CDJFS or its designated agency shall proceed with a case in accordance with sections 5101.60 to 5101.71 of the Revised Code when a referral is received from a state or regional long-term care ombudsman program in accordance with section 173.20 of the Revised Code.

(3) The department of health if the subject is a resident of a nursing home, as defined in section 3721.01 of the Revised Code, and has allegedly been abused, neglected, or exploited by an employee of the nursing home.

(4) The public children services agency of that county if the subject is a child, as defined in section 5153.01 of the Revised Code.

(5) The local law enforcement agency with jurisdiction over the area where the subject resides if the subject is being or has been criminally exploited.

Last updated March 18, 2026 at 2:31 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5101.61
Amplifies: 5101.64
Five Year Review Date: 6/22/2026
Prior Effective Dates: 8/1/2012

Rule 5101:2-20-16 | Adult protective services case plan and case review.

• Effective: October 17, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 111.15

The purpose of this rule is to outline the procedures for developing adult protective services (APS) case plans and case reviews.

(A) When is the county department of job and family services (CDJFS) to develop a case plan for a client receiving protective services?

A case plan is to be developed by the CDJFS no later than thirty calendar days after whichever of the following occurs first:

(1) The case decision indicates the need for services and the client agrees to the provision of protective services.

(2) The client requests services and the CDJFS determines the requested services are needed and can be provided.

(B) What information is to be included in each case plan?

Each case plan is to include, but is not limited to, the following:

(1) The identified concerns.

(2) The protective services objectives.

(3) Input from the client and other principals of the case.

(4) The services to be provided and the service provider(s). The case plan is to be based on the least restrictive services available to meet the needs of the client.

(5) Signature of the client. If the client refuses to sign the case plan, the caseworker is to document the reason in the case record. The CDJFS may petition the court if the client is incapacitated.

(6) The effective date. The case plan is to be effective once the client signs the case plan or when the court orders the provision of protective services for a client that is incapacitated.

(C) How often is contact to be made with the client to monitor the progress of the case plan?

The CDJFS is to make face-to-face contact with the client a minimum of one time per calendar month in order to monitor progress of the case plan objectives. The caseworker is to document the following information in the case record after each contact:

(1) Date and time caseworker met with the client.

(2) Status of services currently in place and whether the services are addressing the concern.

(3) Any new services that are needed due to the client's current level of risk.

(D) What actions are to be taken when an attempt for monthly face-to-face contact is unsuccessful?

When face-to-face contact is unsuccessful, the CDJFS is to complete a minimum of two additional face-to-face attempts. Additional attempts should occur at different times of day, on different days, within the calendar month of the initial attempt. These attempts are to be documented in the case record.

(E) How often is the case plan reassessed?

No later than ninety days after services have been put in place, the CDJFS is to reassess the need to continue providing protective services. The caseworker is to determine if services should be maintained, amended, or terminated. When the client continues to be in need of protective services, the CDJFS is to continue the case plan for the next ninety days and every ninety days thereafter until the case can be closed.

(F) When is the case plan amended?

The CDJFS is to amend the case plan within five working days if there is a change in any of the following:

(1) The concerns warranting the need for protective services.

(2) Principals of the case.

(3) Services being provided.

(G) When is protective services terminated?

The CDJFS is to terminate protective services in the following circumstances:

(1) If requested by the client who is the recipient of protective services. However, if the CDJFS determines that the client is in need of protective services and the client is incapacitated, the CDJFS is to petition the court for an order authorizing the provision of protective services.

(2) If the client is no longer in need of protective services based on the reassessment of risk.

(3) The client leaves the CDJFS area of jurisdiction. In such an instance, the CDJFS is to make a referral to the new county or state of residence, if known, and upon request of the authorized receiving agency, provide appropriate information to facilitate determination of need for protective services.

(4) The client has been placed in an institution, unless the institutionalization is court ordered.

(5) Death of the adult.

Last updated October 17, 2026 at 12:00 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5101.61
Amplifies: 5101.60, 5101.61, 5101.65, 5101.652
Five Year Review Date: 10/17/2031
Prior Effective Dates: 12/1/2007

Rule 5101:2-20-17 | Adult protective services disaster preparedness plan.

• Effective: October 17, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 111.15

The purpose of this rule is to ensure each county department of job and family services (CDJFS) has a written disaster preparedness plan that outlines how essential adult protective services (APS) functions will be maintained during emergencies or disasters.

(A) Can an existing emergency preparedness plan be used in place of creating a new APS specific plan?

The CDJFS may use or modify an existing plan in lieu of creating an emergency preparedness plan specific to APS if all components of this rule are addressed.

(B) What is to be included in the disaster preparedness plan?

(1) Identification of essential personnel needed for the operation of the agency.

(2) Alternative physical work locations including provisions for temporary work sites.

(3) Communication plan for agency staff, designated agency staff, and other critical team members when e-mail, internet, Ohio database for adult protective services (ODAPS) or telephone access is not available.

(4) Identification of essential work activities that are to continue in order to ensure the safety of clients being served.

(5) Procedures for handling referrals.

(6) Procedures for tracking clients with or without ODAPS or other technical systems in place.

(7) Continuity of services to clients receiving in-home supportive services.

(8) Maintenance and security of agency records not included in ODAPS, including hard copies and soft copies stored in other software applications.

(9) Maintenance and security of court records for APS cases.

(10) Coordination of services with law enforcement, medical providers, and other disaster response agencies for clients with court orders of protective services.

(C) Can the emergency preparedness plan be included in other county agreements?

The emergency preparedness plan may be outlined within the county's memorandum of understanding established pursuant to section 5101.621 of the Revised Code.

Last updated October 17, 2026 at 12:00 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5101.61
Amplifies: 5101.61
Five Year Review Date: 10/17/2031