Philadelphia County Court Records are a vital source of information for residents, researchers, and legal professionals throughout Pennsylvania. These records cover a wide range of cases—criminal, civil, probate, family, and more—helping the public stay informed and providing access to the history of legal actions within the county.
This website serves as an informational hub where you can learn how to search, access, and request court records. We are not the official Philadelphia County court system, but we provide practical information to help you find what you need.
People often look for court records to verify legal details, trace family history, check background information, or simply understand how the local justice system works. Public access supports transparency, strengthens accountability, and allows citizens to better participate in their community.
How to Search Philadelphia Court Records
Finding information through a Philadelphia County Court Records search can feel challenging at first, but the process is straightforward once you know the steps. Whether you prefer searching online or visiting a courthouse, having the right details will help you locate the record you need. This section outlines each step to help you access records efficiently and understand what is available.
Step 1: Online Access Overview
The easiest way to find PA court records is through online portals. Many records are available electronically, which saves time compared to in-person visits. Online searches work best if you already know some details about the case, such as the name of a party or a docket number.
Philadelphia County often makes criminal, civil, and certain family cases accessible online. You can search by name, case type, or court location. Online access is especially helpful for quick lookups, background research, or checking the status of recent filings.
Keep in mind that not every record is available through public portals. Some sensitive cases, including sealed or juvenile matters, will not appear online.
Step 2: In-Person at Courthouses
If online results are limited or if you need certified copies, visiting a courthouse may be the better choice. In-person searches give you direct access to the official Clerk of Courts or other court divisions that maintain case files.
In Philadelphia County, you can visit the following locations:
- Clerk of Courts – Handles criminal cases and related filings.
- Civil Court – Manages lawsuits, disputes, and civil records.
- Family Court – Covers divorce, custody, and support cases.
- Orphans’ Court/Register of Wills – Handles probate and estate matters.
When visiting, you may need to fill out a request form, show identification, or pay a small fee for copies. In-person visits are recommended for older records, certified documents, or cases that are not yet digitized.
Step 3: What Information Do You Need
Before starting a Philadelphia County Court Records search, gather as much information as possible. This will save you time and improve accuracy. The most useful details include:
- Case number – The fastest way to locate a record.
- Party name – Plaintiff, defendant, or any involved party.
- Filing date – Even an approximate year can narrow results.
- Court division – Knowing if the case is civil, criminal, or probate helps direct your search.
If you do not have a case number, searching by full name and date of birth (for criminal cases) often produces the best results. The more details you provide, the more accurate the search will be.
Step 4: What Records Are Public vs Restricted
Not every court record in Philadelphia is open to the public. Pennsylvania law makes many records accessible, but some are restricted to protect privacy or sensitive information.
Publicly available records may include:
- Civil filings, such as lawsuits or judgments
- Criminal case dockets and outcomes
- Probate and estate filings
- Divorce decrees (without sealed financial details)
Restricted or confidential records may include:
- Juvenile cases
- Adoption and termination of parental rights
- Certain mental health commitments
- Records sealed by a judge
- Expunged criminal records
Knowing what is public and what is restricted helps set clear expectations before you begin. If a record is restricted, you may need court approval or legal authorization to view it.
Bringing It All Together
Conducting a Philadelphia County Court Records search is about choosing the right method, whether online or in person, and preparing the right information before you start. Online searches are faster for the most recent cases, while courthouse visits give you full access to official files and certified copies. By understanding what details you need and which records are public, you’ll be able to find the information you need with less effort.
Why Records May Not Be Available
Searching Philadelphia County court records does not always guarantee results. Some files are legally restricted, while others may still be under review. Knowing why records are unavailable can help set the right expectations and guide you toward the proper steps.
Sealed Records
Certain cases are sealed by court order to protect sensitive information. This often applies to cases involving minors, victims of specific crimes, or sensitive financial matters. Sealed records are hidden from public searches and cannot be accessed without special permission from the court. Only those directly involved in the case, or their attorneys, can request access through a formal petition.
Expunged Records
When a case is expunged, it is permanently removed from public access. Expungement is often granted after charges are dismissed, a case is resolved without conviction, or when state law allows a clean record. Once expunged, these records are erased from both online portals and courthouse archives, meaning they cannot be retrieved for public use.
Ongoing Cases
Records linked to active cases may have delays in availability. Courts may restrict access to protect fair trial rights or to comply with state procedures. In many situations, only basic docket information is visible until the case is closed. After the final decision, full access becomes available unless the file is sealed or restricted for another reason.
Types of Records You Can Find in Philadelphia County
When conducting a Philadelphia County court records search, it helps to understand the different types of records available. Court systems in Pennsylvania handle a wide range of matters, each recorded in its own division. Knowing the category that fits your needs makes it easier to locate the right file.
This section explains the main types of Philadelphia court records — civil, criminal, probate, and family — with a quick overview of what each contains. For deeper information, you can visit the dedicated pages linked below.
Civil Court Records
Civil cases involve disputes between people, businesses, or organizations. These are non-criminal matters that often deal with money, contracts, or property.
Examples of civil records include:
- Lawsuits for personal injury or property damage
- Contract disputes between parties
- Landlord and tenant filings
- Debt collection and judgments
Civil records in Philadelphia County can provide details about case filings, court decisions, and final outcomes. These records are often used for background research or to verify whether someone has been involved in a lawsuit.
Criminal Court Records
Criminal records document cases where someone is accused of breaking the law. These can range from minor offenses to serious felonies.
Examples of criminal records include:
- Arrest details and charges filed
- Court hearings and trial results
- Sentencing information
- Expungement requests (if approved)
Criminal case records are often used for legal research, background checks, or verifying case outcomes. Philadelphia County’s Clerk of Courts maintains most criminal dockets, which may include case numbers, charges, and status updates.
Probate Court Records
Probate records focus on estates, wills, and guardianships. These records are managed by the Register of Wills and Orphans’ Court in Philadelphia County.
Examples of probate records include:
- Wills and estate filings
- Petitions for guardianship
- Trust and inheritance disputes
- Adoption-related filings (some may be restricted)
Probate files can be especially useful for family history research, inheritance claims, or confirming the distribution of an estate. While some probate cases are open to the public, adoption and certain guardianship matters may be sealed.
Family Court Records
Family court records deal with personal matters between spouses, parents, and children. These are often sensitive cases, and while some information is public, other details may be restricted.
Examples of family records include:
- Divorce filings and decrees
- Custody and child support orders
- Protection from abuse (PFA) cases
- Paternity and adoption cases (restricted access)
Family records can play an important role in resolving disputes or verifying past orders. Many are open for public access, but sensitive information, such as financial records or minor details, may not be available.
Why Knowing Record Types Matters
Understanding the types of Philadelphia court records available helps narrow your search. If you know whether your case involves a civil dispute, criminal charge, probate matter, or family issue, you’ll spend less time searching through unrelated files.
Each category has its own process, access rules, and possible restrictions. By starting with the right type, you can decide whether to search online, request copies, or visit the courthouse in person.
Bringing It All Together
Philadelphia County provides access to a wide range of civil, criminal, probate, and family records. Each type serves a different purpose, from lawsuits and criminal cases to estate filings and divorce records. While many files are open to the public, some — such as juvenile or adoption cases — are restricted.
Where to Access Records in Philadelphia County
Finding the right location for Philadelphia County court records depends on the type of case and how you want to search. Some records are available through PA courts online, while others require visiting specific offices in person. This section explains both options and provides courthouse locations for easier access.
Online Access: PA Courts and Philadelphia County Portals
Many users prefer starting with online search tools, which provide quick access to basic case details. While not all files are available digitally, online portals are a useful first step.
Common online options include:
- Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System (UJS) Portal – Provides statewide dockets for civil, criminal, and traffic cases.
- Philadelphia County Clerk of Courts portal – Access criminal case records filed in the county.
- Register of Wills e-filing system – Some probate documents are searchable online.
- Family Court services portal – Limited case information, mostly related to custody and support.
These tools help you check docket numbers, case status, and hearing dates before deciding whether you need to request full records at the courthouse.
Philadelphia County Courthouse Locations
For certified copies, detailed case files, or probate matters, visiting the courthouse in person is often required. Below are the main offices where records are stored.
Clerk of Courts – Criminal Records
Handles all felony, misdemeanor, and other criminal filings.
- Location: Juanita Kidd Stout Center for Criminal Justice, 1301 Filbert St., Philadelphia, PA 19107
- Records available: Arrest records, criminal dockets, trial results, expungements
Court of Common Pleas – Civil Division
Responsible for civil lawsuits, landlord-tenant cases, and judgments.
- Location: City Hall, Broad & Market Streets, Philadelphia, PA 19107
- Records available: Civil complaints, judgments, landlord-tenant disputes
Family Court Division
Manages family-related disputes and protective orders.
- Location: Family Court Building, 1501 Arch St., Philadelphia, PA 19102
- Records available: Divorce filings, custody orders, child support, PFAs
Register of Wills & Orphans’ Court
Oversees probate cases, wills, and guardianship filings.
- Location: City Hall, Room 180, Philadelphia, PA 19107
- Records available: Wills, estate filings, guardianships, probate disputes
Tips for Visiting in Person
- Bring a valid photo ID for record requests.
- Have case details ready (such as docket number or party name).
- Be prepared to pay small fees for certified copies.
- Some offices have security screening at entry, so allow extra time.
Choosing Between Online and In-Person Searches
If you only need basic information, the PA courts’ online portal is a good starting point. For certified documents or complete files, you will need to visit the courthouse offices listed above. Knowing whether your case involves civil, criminal, probate, or family law will help you go directly to the right location.
Costs, Fees, and Restrictions for Philadelphia Court Records
Accessing Philadelphia court records can involve different costs depending on the type of request. While some resources are free, certified documents and certain detailed files often come with fees. Understanding these charges and restrictions helps users plan their search and avoid delays.
Typical Costs for Copies and Certifications
The cost of accessing records depends on whether you need a simple copy or an official certified version.
- Standard copies: Usually a small fee per page, often around 25 to 50 cents.
- Certified copies: Generally $10–$15 per document, depending on the office.
- Docket printouts: Often available for a flat fee, usually a few dollars.
Payment methods vary by office, but most accept cash, money orders, or credit cards.
Free vs Paid Access
Not all court record access requires payment. Users searching online through the PA courts portal or reviewing dockets on public terminals at the courthouse can often do so for free. Fees typically apply when requesting physical copies, certified documents, or archival records that require staff assistance.
Restrictions on Access
While many records are public, certain files are restricted by Pennsylvania law. These restrictions protect privacy or sensitive case details.
- Sealed records: Some cases, including certain juvenile matters or sensitive family disputes, are not open to the public.
- Expunged records: Once a record is formally expunged, it is removed from public access entirely.
- Protected information: Social Security numbers, financial account details, and similar data are redacted from public files.
These restrictions mean that even with a valid request, some documents will remain unavailable.
Why Philadelphia Court Records Are Important
Philadelphia court records serve more than one purpose—they provide transparency, support research, and assist with personal and professional needs. These records serve as a bridge between the justice system and the public, enabling individuals to verify facts, trace their history, or fulfill legal requirements.
Transparency in the Justice System
Public access to court records keeps the legal process open and accountable. By making decisions and case details available, the courts allow residents to see how justice is applied. This transparency builds trust between the community and the judicial system, showing that cases are handled fairly and consistently.
Legal and Academic Research
Researchers and legal professionals in Philadelphia rely on these records for case studies, precedents, and statistical insights. Attorneys often use past judgments to build arguments, while scholars examine records to study local legal trends. This type of access strengthens both legal practice and academic work, offering a reliable source of documented history.
Genealogy and Family History
For those tracing family roots, Philadelphia records are a valuable resource. Marriage records, probate files, and old court proceedings can provide missing pieces of a family tree. Genealogists often turn to these documents to confirm relationships, uncover stories, or locate relatives across generations. Without these archives, much of the city’s personal and cultural history would be lost.
Personal Documentation
Residents often need certified copies of records for practical purposes. Marriage and divorce records may be required for government applications, while probate files may be needed during estate settlements. Having clear access to these documents helps people complete important processes without unnecessary delays.
Employment and Background Checks
Employers sometimes use court records as part of background checks. While these searches are limited to what is legally accessible, they help confirm information about a candidate’s past. This type of use highlights how court records connect directly to community trust and workplace safety.
Common Issues & Troubleshooting Access
Searching for court records in Philadelphia County can sometimes bring challenges. Whether it’s a delay in updates, restricted files, or online access problems, knowing where to turn can save time and frustration. This section addresses the most frequent problems people face and offers clear solutions.
Delays in Record Availability
Court records do not always appear immediately. In many cases, it takes days or even weeks for documents to be processed and entered into the system. Criminal cases, probate filings, or family court matters may take longer depending on the workload of the Clerk of Courts or other departments. Patience is often required, but if a delay seems unusual, contacting the courthouse directly can provide clarity on the status of a request.
Technical Issues with Online Access
The Pennsylvania courts’ online portal is convenient, but technical glitches may sometimes prevent users from retrieving records. These issues may involve slow loading pages, system errors, or incomplete search results. Clearing browser cache, trying a different device, or accessing the system during non-peak hours can often solve the problem. If difficulties continue, the court’s IT support team can help users regain access.
Restricted or Sealed Files
Some records in Philadelphia County are restricted by law. Sealed, expunged, or juvenile files cannot be accessed by the general public. These restrictions protect privacy and sensitive information. In cases where access is legally permitted, such as by a party directly involved in the case, a formal request to the court may be required. Court staff can explain the process and the documents needed to move forward.
Getting Help at the Courthouse
When online searches or document requests do not provide answers, visiting the courthouse is often the best solution. Clerks at the filing counters can explain record availability, fees, or technical concerns. Bringing a case number, full names, and other details makes the process faster. The staff cannot provide legal advice, but can direct visitors to the right office or resource for assistance.
Philadelphia court records are a valuable resource, and while problems accessing them can occur, knowing how to troubleshoot saves time. From delays in updates to restricted files, the key is knowing which office or system can help resolve the issue quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Finding answers about Philadelphia County Court Records can feel confusing without a clear source. This section brings together the most common questions people ask about public records in Philadelphia and provides direct, simple answers. Whether you are researching family history, checking case status, or requesting older files, these FAQs are designed to make the process clearer.
Are Philadelphia Court Records Public?
Yes, most court records in Philadelphia County are public. Civil, family, probate, and many criminal cases can be searched through the Clerk of Courts or related offices. Some documents may be limited by privacy rules, such as juvenile records, sealed files, or expunged cases. Anyone can request open records, but copies may require a small fee.
How Do I Request Old Records?
Older court records are usually stored in the archives maintained by the Clerk of Courts or the Philadelphia City Archives. Requests may need to be made in person or by written application. Providing details like the case number, names of parties, and filing year speeds up the process. Some historic records may not be available online, but clerks can explain the retrieval process.
Can I Access Sealed Records?
No, sealed or expunged records are not available to the public. These files are restricted to protect sensitive information. Only parties directly involved in the case or their legal representatives can request access through a formal court petition. The court must approve the request before any information is released.
What if I cannot find a Case Online?
If a case does not appear in the online system, it may still be pending entry, archived, or restricted. In these situations, visiting the courthouse or contacting the Clerk of Courts can help. Staff can confirm whether the record exists, explain access limits, and guide you on the next steps.
Where Do I Go for Help With Philadelphia Court Records?
The Clerk of Courts’ office is the primary resource for record-related questions. Staff can explain fees, availability, and submission requirements, though they cannot provide legal advice. For older or historic cases, the Philadelphia City Archives may be the right place. Online portals are also available, but in-person visits often resolve issues faster.