Lancaster County Court Records provide public access to criminal, civil, probate, and land filings dating back to 1975. The digital system operates 24 hours a day, allowing users to search by case number, party name, offense type, or filing date. Residents can retrieve docket entries, sworn statements, and certified copies through the Clerk of Courts portal at 301 East King Street, Lancaster, PA 17602. Service counters are open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for in-person assistance. Certified copies cost $3 per page, with an optional $15 expedited fee. The system includes downloadable PDFs for the Official Records Request and Certified Copy Application, each with a detailed fee table.
How to Search Lancaster County Court Records Online
The online portal lets users filter results by offense type, filing date, and party name. After entering search terms, the system returns case numbers, judge assignments, and disposition codes. Each record includes a downloadable docket sheet that preserves original signatures and stamps. Users can also sign up for email alerts through the Trellis docket platform, which notifies them of case updates like motion filings or judgment entries. The portal supports bulk CSV downloads of case summaries for data analysis. A real-time widget tracks weekly request volumes, showing average processing times.
Required Information for a Successful Search
- Full name of a party involved in the case
- Case number (if known)
- Approximate filing date or year
- Type of case (criminal, civil, probate, or land record)
Without a case number, searches may return multiple results. Narrow the list by adding a filing year or court division. The system indexes records from 1975 to the present. Older records may require an in-person visit or written request.
Types of Records Available in Lancaster County
Lancaster County Court Records include criminal filings, civil lawsuits, probate matters, divorce decrees, marriage licenses, and property liens. The land-record database indexes every deed, mortgage, and easement recorded since 1900. Users can view parcel distributions on an interactive map updated monthly. Criminal records show charges, court dates, and final dispositions. Civil cases cover contract disputes, personal injury claims, and small-claims actions. Probate files include wills, estate administrations, and guardianship orders.
Criminal Court Records
Criminal records list charges, arrest dates, court appearances, and sentencing outcomes. Users can search by defendant name or offense type. Misdemeanors and felonies are included. Records do not show sealed or expunged cases. Certified copies require a completed application and payment.
Civil and Small Claims Records
Civil cases involve disputes over money, property, or contracts. Small-claims filings are available for amounts under $12,000. The self-help kiosks at 150 N. Queen Street allow individuals to file without an attorney. Records show plaintiff and defendant names, claim amounts, and judgment status.
Probate and Family Court Records
Probate records include wills, estate inventories, and guardianship appointments. Family court files cover divorce, child support, and custody cases. Certified copies of divorce decrees are issued by the Prothonotary’s Office at 50 N. Duke Street. Marriage licenses are also available there. Fees are $3 per page.
Land and Property Records
The land-record database contains deeds, mortgages, liens, and easements from 1900 to today. Each entry shows the property address, owner name, recording date, and document type. Users can download PDFs or request certified copies. The interactive map displays parcel locations across the county.
Fees and Payment Options for Court Records
Certified copies cost $3 per page. Expedited service adds $15. Payments can be made by cash, check, credit card, or ACH transfer. Online payments are processed through the secure portal. Receipts are emailed immediately. Bulk requests may qualify for discounted rates. Fee waivers are not available for public records.
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Certified Copy (per page) | $3.00 |
| Expedited Processing | $15.00 |
| Online Search (free access) | Free |
| Bulk CSV Download | Free |
Checks should be made payable to the Lancaster County Clerk of Courts. Credit card payments incur a 2.5% processing fee. ACH transfers take 3–5 business days to clear.
In-Person and Mail Request Procedures
To request records in person, visit the Clerk of Courts office at 301 East King Street, Lancaster, PA 17602. Bring a valid photo ID and the completed request form. Staff assist with online searches during business hours. For mail requests, send a written letter with the case number, party names, and a self-addressed stamped envelope. Include a check for the total fee. Mail to: Clerk of Courts, 301 East King Street, Lancaster, PA 17602.
Processing Times
- Standard requests: 5–7 business days
- Expedited requests: 1–2 business days
- Bulk or complex searches: up to 14 business days
Processing begins the next business day after receipt. Delays may occur during high-volume periods.
Accessing Records for Legal or Background Check Purposes
Employers, landlords, and legal professionals use Lancaster County Court Records for background checks. Criminal histories, civil judgments, and liens appear in search results. Users must verify the accuracy of names and dates. False matches can occur with common names. Always cross-check with a case number when possible. Certified copies are admissible in court and accepted by government agencies.
Restrictions and Privacy Rules
Sealed, expunged, or juvenile records are not public. Some sensitive information, like Social Security numbers, is redacted. Users cannot access records involving active investigations or protected witnesses. Violations may result in denial of future requests.
Interpreter Services and Accessibility
The Lancaster County Court of Common Pleas offers certified interpreters for over 30 languages. Interpreters are scheduled in advance for hearings. A video tutorial on the court website shows how to request one. Self-help kiosks at 150 N. Queen Street assist with small-claims filings. The building is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators. Staff provide assistance during business hours.
Recent System Upgrades and Features
In 2022, the public-records portal added a searchable land-record database and real-time reporting. The system now supports email alerts, bulk downloads, and an interactive parcel map. Users can create secure accounts to track requests and save search preferences. Every transaction is logged with a timestamp and audit trail for compliance.
New Tools for Researchers and Attorneys
Attorneys and researchers can download case summaries in CSV format. The data includes judge names, filing dates, and disposition codes. Email alerts notify subscribers of case changes. The platform integrates with Trellis Law for advanced docket tracking. Over 25,000 filings are processed each year.
Contact Information and Office Hours
The Clerk of Courts office is located at 301 East King Street, Lancaster, PA 17602. Phone: (717) 299-8282. Email: records@lancasterpaclerkofcourts.com. Service counters are open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Prothonotary’s Office at 50 N. Duke Street handles divorce and property records. Phone: (717) 299-8282. The Court of Common Pleas at 150 N. Queen Street offers self-help services. Phone: (717) 299-8282.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about how to use Lancaster County Court Records. Below are answers to the most common inquiries. These responses are based on current policies and procedures. For specific cases, contact the Clerk of Courts directly.
Can I search court records for free?
Yes, online searches are free. You can view docket entries, case numbers, and filing dates without charge. Downloading or printing documents may require a fee. Certified copies always cost $3 per page. The system does not charge for viewing records, only for official copies.
How long does it take to get a certified copy?
Standard requests take 5–7 business days. Expedited service reduces this to 1–2 business days for an extra $15. Processing starts the next business day after your request is received. Mail requests may take longer due to postal delivery times.
Are juvenile records available online?
No, juvenile records are not public. They are sealed by law and cannot be accessed without a court order. Only authorized agencies and legal representatives can view them. This protects the privacy of minors involved in court cases.
Can I get a record if I don’t have the case number?
Yes, you can search by party name, filing year, or offense type. The system will show all matching cases. You can then select the correct one and request a copy. Having the case number speeds up the process but is not required.
Do I need an appointment to visit the courthouse?
No appointment is needed for record requests. Service counters are open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Staff assist with online searches and provide forms. For hearings or legal matters, check the court calendar first.
Can I request records by email?
Yes, send your request to records@lancasterpaclerkofcourts.com. Include the case number, party names, and type of record needed. Attach a scanned copy of your ID and payment details. Responses are sent within 3 business days.
Are divorce records public in Lancaster County?
Yes, divorce decrees are public records. You can request a certified copy from the Prothonotary’s Office at 50 N. Duke Street. The fee is $3 per page. The record shows the divorce date, court, and final judgment.