Lycoming County Court Records

What Is Lycoming County Court Records

Lycoming County court records encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's court system. These records serve as the comprehensive documentation of judicial activities and are maintained pursuant to Pennsylvania Rule of Judicial Administration 509. Court records typically include:

• Case files containing pleadings, motions, and responses
• Docket sheets chronicling case events and filings
• Court orders and judicial decisions
• Judgments and decrees
• Hearing and trial transcripts
• Evidence and exhibits admitted during proceedings
• Sentencing information in criminal matters
• Marriage licenses and divorce decrees
• Probate and estate documentation

Court records differ from other public records such as property deeds, vital statistics (birth/death certificates), and tax assessments, which are maintained by separate county departments. The Lycoming County Court of Common Pleas maintains the majority of judicial records within the county, operating under the authority of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania.

Records are categorized according to the court and case type in which they originate, including:

• Court of Common Pleas (civil, criminal, family, orphans' court)
• Magisterial District Courts (minor criminal, traffic, small claims)
• Orphans' Court (estates, guardianships, adoptions)
• Juvenile Court (delinquency and dependency matters)

Under 42 Pa.C.S. § 4301, Pennsylvania law establishes the framework for court record creation and maintenance, defining these documents as official public records subject to specific access provisions.

Are Court Records Public In Lycoming County

Court records in Lycoming County are generally accessible to the public in accordance with the Pennsylvania Right-to-Know Law and the common law right of access to judicial records. However, access is governed by specific provisions outlined in Pennsylvania Rule of Judicial Administration 509, which establishes the framework for public access to court records.

The following court records are typically available for public inspection:

• Civil case files (with certain exceptions for sealed matters)
• Criminal case files (post-charging, with exceptions for sealed or expunged records)
• Docket sheets and case indices
• Court orders, opinions, and judgments
• Hearing schedules and calendars
• Property records related to judgments and liens

It is important to note that certain records may be restricted from public access, including:

• Juvenile records (pursuant to 42 Pa.C.S. § 6307)
• Mental health proceedings
• Adoption records
• Records sealed by court order
• Documents containing confidential information as defined by court rules
• Grand jury materials

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court has established specific policies regarding electronic case record access through the Public Access Policy of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania, which governs how court records may be accessed electronically versus in person.

Federal court records for cases heard in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, which includes Lycoming County, are governed by federal access rules and are available through the federal PACER system.

How To Find Court Records in Lycoming County in 2026

Members of the public seeking court records in Lycoming County may utilize several methods to locate and access these documents. The county maintains both in-person and electronic access options for most court records.

For in-person requests, individuals may visit:

Lycoming County Prothonotary and Clerk of Courts
48 West Third Street
Williamsport, PA 17701
570-327-2251
Lycoming County Prothonotary

Office hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM

The process for obtaining court records typically involves:

1. Identifying the specific case or document needed (case number, party names, filing date)
2. Completing a records request form, available at the courthouse or on the county website
3. Submitting the request to the appropriate office (Prothonotary for civil cases, Clerk of Courts for criminal matters)
4. Paying applicable fees for searches, copies, or certifications
5. Waiting for processing, which may be immediate for simple requests or several days for complex or archived records

For remote access, requesters may:

• Use the Lycoming County Public Access Portal for available online records
• Submit requests via mail with appropriate forms and payment
• Contact the relevant office by telephone to inquire about record availability and request procedures

Pursuant to Pennsylvania Rule of Judicial Administration 509(c)(5), requests may be denied if they are not sufficiently specific or if the records are exempt from public access. Requesters should be prepared to provide as much identifying information as possible to facilitate record location.

How To Look Up Court Records in Lycoming County Online?

Lycoming County provides several digital platforms for accessing court records electronically. These systems vary in scope and functionality based on the type of records sought.

The primary online resources include:

1. Lycoming County Public Access Portal

   • Accessible through the Lycoming County Courts website
   • Provides access to docket information, case status, and some document images
   • Requires registration for full access
   • Search by case number, party name, or filing date
   • Updated daily with new filings and case actions

2. Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System Web Portal

   • Available through the Pennsylvania Courts website
   • Offers statewide case search capabilities
   • Includes criminal, civil, and traffic case information
   • Provides docket sheets but limited document access
   • Requires acceptance of terms and conditions before searching

3. Magisterial District Court System

   • Access through the Pennsylvania MDJ Web Portal
   • Contains records from minor courts handling traffic, small claims, and preliminary hearings
   • Searchable by defendant name, case number, or citation number
   • Limited to docket information without document images

To conduct an effective online search:

1. Determine which court system contains the desired records
2. Select the appropriate portal based on case type
3. Enter known search parameters (names, dates, case numbers)
4. Review search results to identify the correct case
5. Access available documents or note case information for further in-person requests
6. Pay any applicable fees for document access or downloads

Users should note that pursuant to 204 Pa. Code § 213.81, certain sensitive information may be redacted from online records, and some documents may only be available through in-person requests at the courthouse.

How To Search Lycoming County Court Records for Free?

Pennsylvania law provides for public inspection of court records at no cost, though fees may apply for copies, certifications, or extensive searches. Pursuant to Pennsylvania Rule of Judicial Administration 509(d), the public has the right to inspect public judicial records during regular business hours.

Free access options in Lycoming County include:

• In-person inspection at the courthouse public terminals:

  Lycoming County Courthouse
  48 West Third Street
  Williamsport, PA 17701
  570-327-2240
  Lycoming County Courts

  Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM

• Basic online searches through:

  • Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System Web Portal (free docket sheet access)
  • Lycoming County Public Access Portal (limited free searches)

• Public law libraries offering computer access:

  Lycoming Law Association Law Library
  33 West Third Street, Suite 400
  Williamsport, PA 17701
  570-323-8287
  Lycoming Law Association

  Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM

When utilizing free search options, members of the public should note:

1. Some online systems may limit the number of free searches per day
2. Document images typically require payment, even if docket information is free
3. Complex searches may require staff assistance, which could incur fees
4. Archived or older records may not be available through free electronic systems
5. Printed copies, even from free searches, generally incur per-page fees

The Pennsylvania Right to Know Law establishes that while inspection is free, agencies may charge reasonable fees for duplication and specialized services.

What's Included in a Lycoming County Court Record?

Lycoming County court records contain comprehensive documentation of legal proceedings, with content varying by case type and court level. Pursuant to Pennsylvania Rule of Judicial Administration 513, these records typically include:

For Civil Cases:

• Complaint or petition initiating the action
• Proof of service documentation
• Responsive pleadings (answers, preliminary objections)
• Motions and supporting briefs
• Court orders and opinions
• Exhibits admitted into evidence
• Transcripts of hearings and trials
• Final judgment or decree
• Post-trial motions and appeals documentation
• Financial information regarding costs and fees

For Criminal Cases:

• Criminal complaint and affidavit of probable cause
• Charging documents (information or indictment)
• Bail and pretrial release documentation
• Discovery motions and responses
• Suppression and other pretrial motions
• Plea agreements or trial information
• Sentencing orders and recommendations
• Probation/parole conditions
• Restitution and fine information
• Post-conviction relief petitions

For Family Court Matters:

• Divorce complaints and property settlement agreements
• Child custody petitions and evaluations
• Support calculations and orders
• Protection from abuse petitions and orders
• Adoption and termination of parental rights documentation
• Guardianship applications and reports

For Orphans' Court:

• Wills and codicils
• Estate inventories and accountings
• Guardianship petitions and reports
• Trust documents and accountings
• Adoption records (with restricted access)

Each court record also typically contains:

• Case caption identifying parties
• Docket number and filing date
• Judge assignment information
• Chronological docket entries documenting all filings and proceedings
• Certificate of service for documents
• Attorney or self-represented litigant information

Certain sensitive information may be redacted or filed under seal pursuant to the Public Access Policy of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania, including social security numbers, financial account numbers, minors' names, and confidential medical information.

How Long Does Lycoming County Keep Court Records?

Lycoming County maintains court records according to retention schedules established by the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts under the authority of Pennsylvania Rule of Judicial Administration 507. These schedules vary by record type and significance.

Common retention periods include:

Civil Court Records:

• Active civil case files: Maintained until case conclusion plus 7 years
• Judgments: 20 years from entry date (renewable)
• Discontinued cases: 2 years after discontinuance
• Civil dockets and indices: Permanent retention
• Divorce decrees: Permanent retention
• Property disputes with land title implications: Permanent retention

Criminal Court Records:

• Felony cases: 75 years from final disposition
• Misdemeanor cases: 25 years from final disposition
• Summary offenses: 7 years after final disposition
• Expunged records: Destroyed pursuant to court order under 18 Pa.C.S. § 9122
• Criminal dockets and indices: Permanent retention
• Homicide cases: Permanent retention

Family Court Records:

• Custody orders: Until youngest child reaches age 25
• Support orders: 1 year after youngest child reaches majority
• Protection from abuse files: 5 years after expiration of order
• Adoption records: Permanent retention (with restricted access)

Orphans' Court Records:

• Estate administration: 7 years after estate closing
• Guardianship: 7 years after termination of guardianship
• Wills: Permanent retention
• Trust accountings: 7 years after trust termination

Magisterial District Court Records:

• Traffic citations: 3 years after final disposition
• Summary cases: 3 years after final disposition
• Civil claims: 7 years after final disposition
• Landlord-tenant: 7 years after final disposition

The County Records Manual published by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission provides additional guidance on local government records retention, including court records. Historically significant cases may be preserved permanently regardless of standard retention schedules.

After the retention period expires, records may be:

• Transferred to archival storage
• Microfilmed or digitized for permanent retention
• Destroyed according to secure destruction protocols

Types of Courts In Lycoming County

Lycoming County's judicial system operates as part of Pennsylvania's Unified Judicial System, with courts organized in a hierarchical structure to handle various case types and jurisdictional levels.

Lycoming County Court of Common Pleas
48 West Third Street
Williamsport, PA 17701
570-327-2330
Lycoming County Court of Common Pleas
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM

The Court of Common Pleas serves as the county's primary trial court with general jurisdiction, divided into specialized divisions:

• Civil Division (personal injury, contract disputes, property matters)
• Criminal Division (felonies, misdemeanors, appeals from MDJ courts)
• Family Court Division (divorce, custody, support, protection orders)
• Orphans' Court Division (estates, guardianships, adoptions)
• Juvenile Division (delinquency and dependency matters)

Magisterial District Courts
Lycoming County contains multiple Magisterial District Courts serving different geographic areas:

Magisterial District Court 29-1-01
1500 Pine Street
Williamsport, PA 17701
570-327-2340
Magisterial District Courts
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM

Magisterial District Court 29-3-02
106 Market Street
Williamsport, PA 17701
570-327-2345
Magisterial District Courts
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM

Magisterial District Court 29-3-03
440 Main Street
South Williamsport, PA 17702
570-327-2350
Magisterial District Courts
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM

Appeals from Lycoming County courts are heard by:

Pennsylvania Superior Court (criminal and most civil appeals)
Pennsylvania Judicial Center
601 Commonwealth Avenue, Suite 1600
Harrisburg, PA 17120
717-772-1295
Pennsylvania Superior Court

Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court (government-related cases)
Pennsylvania Judicial Center
601 Commonwealth Avenue, Suite 2100
Harrisburg, PA 17120
717-255-1650
Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court

Pennsylvania Supreme Court (discretionary appeals, constitutional issues)
Pennsylvania Judicial Center
601 Commonwealth Avenue, Suite 4500
Harrisburg, PA 17120
717-787-6181
Pennsylvania Supreme Court

Federal cases arising in Lycoming County are heard in:

U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania
Herman T. Schneebeli Federal Building
240 West Third Street, Suite 218
Williamsport, PA 17701
570-323-6380
U.S. District Court - Middle District of Pennsylvania
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM

What Types of Cases Do Lycoming County Courts Hear?

Lycoming County's court system adjudicates a diverse range of legal matters, with jurisdiction divided among various courts based on case type, monetary value, and severity of charges.

The Court of Common Pleas handles:

Civil Division:

• Major civil litigation (claims exceeding $12,000)
• Complex contract disputes
• Real property and land use cases
• Medical malpractice and personal injury claims
• Mortgage foreclosures
• Civil appeals from Magisterial District Courts
• Equity actions (injunctions, specific performance)

Criminal Division:

• Felony prosecutions
• Serious misdemeanor cases
• Criminal appeals from Magisterial District Courts
• Post-conviction relief petitions
• Probation and parole violations
• Expungement proceedings

Family Division:

• Divorce proceedings and property distribution
• Child custody determinations
• Child and spousal support calculations
• Protection from abuse orders
• Paternity establishment
• Name change petitions

Orphans' Court Division:

• Probate of wills and estate administration
• Trust oversight and accounting
• Guardianships for incapacitated persons
• Adoptions and termination of parental rights
• Marriage license issuance

Juvenile Division:

• Delinquency proceedings for minors
• Dependency cases for neglected/abused children
• Juvenile probation supervision
• Consent decrees and informal adjustments

Magisterial District Courts preside over:

• Summary criminal offenses
• Traffic violations
• Preliminary hearings and arraignments in criminal cases
• Civil claims up to $12,000
• Landlord-tenant disputes and eviction proceedings
• Small claims matters
• Municipal code violations
• Issuance of search and arrest warrants

The jurisdiction of these courts is established by 42 Pa.C.S. § 931 for the Court of Common Pleas and 42 Pa.C.S. § 1515 for Magisterial District Courts.

Cases involving federal law, constitutional questions, or diversity of citizenship may be heard in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, which maintains a courthouse in Williamsport.

Specialized treatment courts in Lycoming County include:

• Drug Treatment Court
• Veterans Treatment Court
• Mental Health Court
• DUI Court

These problem-solving courts focus on rehabilitation and treatment rather than traditional punishment for qualifying offenders.

How To Find a Court Docket In Lycoming County

Court dockets in Lycoming County provide chronological listings of all actions taken in a case and are accessible through multiple channels. These official records document filings, hearings, orders, and other procedural events.

To locate a court docket, members of the public may utilize:

1. Online Access Systems:

   • Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System Web Portal - Provides docket sheets for criminal, civil, and family court cases
   • Lycoming County Public Access Portal - Offers local case information

   Search steps:

   • Select appropriate case type (criminal, civil, family)
   • Enter known information (party names, case number, filing date)
   • Review search results and select the relevant case
   • View or download available docket information

2. In-Person Requests:

   Lycoming County Prothonotary (civil cases)
   48 West Third Street, First Floor
   Williamsport, PA 17701
   570-327-2251
   Lycoming County Prothonotary

   Lycoming County Clerk of Courts (criminal cases)
   48 West Third Street, First Floor
   Williamsport, PA 17701
   570-327-2260
   Lycoming County Clerk of Courts

   Process:

   • Complete a docket request form
   • Provide case identifying information
   • Pay applicable search or copy fees
   • Receive printed docket sheet

3. Telephone Inquiries:

   • Contact the appropriate office with case information
   • Staff can verify basic docket information
   • Detailed searches may require in-person visits or written requests

4. Written Requests:

   • Submit a letter or email to the relevant court office
   • Include all known case information
   • Enclose payment for any applicable fees
   • Provide return address for mailed responses

For Magisterial District Court dockets:

• Use the Minor Judiciary Case Information Portal
• Contact the specific Magisterial District Court office directly

For federal court cases in the Middle District of Pennsylvania:

• Access the PACER system (requires registration and fees)
• Visit the federal courthouse in Williamsport for public terminal access

Pursuant to Pennsylvania Rule of Judicial Administration 509, docket information is generally public record, though certain sensitive cases may have restricted access. Fees for docket searches and copies are established by the county fee schedule and state law.

Which Courts in Lycoming County Are Not Courts of Record?

In Pennsylvania's judicial system, "courts of record" maintain complete, verbatim transcripts of proceedings and have the authority to establish legal precedent. Conversely, "courts not of record" do not maintain official transcripts and their decisions do not create binding precedent. This distinction is established under 42 Pa.C.S. § 321.

In Lycoming County, the following are courts not of record:

Magisterial District Courts These limited jurisdiction courts handle:

• Summary criminal offenses
• Traffic violations
• Preliminary hearings in criminal cases
• Civil claims up to $12,000
• Landlord-tenant disputes

Lycoming County has several Magisterial District Courts:

Magisterial District Court 29-1-01
1500 Pine Street
Williamsport, PA 17701
570-327-2340
Magisterial District Courts

Magisterial District Court 29-3-02
106 Market Street
Williamsport, PA 17701
570-327-2345
Magisterial District Courts

Magisterial District Court 29-3-03
440 Main Street
South Williamsport, PA 17702
570-327-2350
Magisterial District Courts

Key characteristics of these courts not of record include:

1. Proceedings are not automatically transcribed by court reporters
2. Decisions may be appealed "de novo" (completely new trial) to the Court of Common Pleas
3. Hearings are typically less formal than those in courts of record
4. Magisterial District Judges need not be attorneys but must complete certification training
5. Rules of evidence are applied less strictly than in courts of record

By contrast, the Lycoming County Court of Common Pleas is a court of record, as established by Article V, Section 5 of the Pennsylvania Constitution. All proceedings in the Court of Common Pleas are recorded verbatim, and decisions may establish precedent within the jurisdiction.

When cases originate in courts not of record and are appealed to the Court of Common Pleas, they receive a completely new hearing rather than a review of the lower court proceedings. This "de novo" review process is outlined in Pennsylvania Rule of Civil Procedure 1007.1.

Lookup Court Records in Lycoming County