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Luzerne County Court Records

What Is Luzerne County Court Records

Court records in Luzerne County encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's judicial system. These records are maintained pursuant to Pennsylvania Rule of Judicial Administration 509, which establishes standards for public access to court records throughout the Commonwealth. Court records typically include case files, dockets, pleadings, motions, orders, judgments, transcripts, exhibits, and sentencing records.

Luzerne County court records are distinct from other public records such as:

  • Property records (deeds, mortgages, liens)
  • Vital records (birth, death, marriage certificates)
  • Tax records
  • Voter registration information

The following courts within Luzerne County maintain official records:

  • Court of Common Pleas (civil, criminal, family, orphans' court divisions)
  • Magisterial District Courts
  • Domestic Relations Section

According to the Luzerne County Rules of Judicial Administration, court records include documentation from civil proceedings, criminal cases, family matters (divorce, custody, support), probate and estate cases, and traffic violations. These records are maintained by the Luzerne County Clerk of Judicial Records as mandated by § 2795 of the Pennsylvania Judicial Code.

Are Court Records Public In Luzerne County

Court records in Luzerne County are generally accessible to the public in accordance with Article V, § 10 of the Pennsylvania Constitution and the Case Records Public Access Policy of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania. This policy, which took effect January 6, 2018, establishes uniform standards for public access to case records across all courts within the Commonwealth.

The following court records are typically available for public inspection:

  • Most civil case files
  • Criminal case files (post-charging)
  • Judgments and orders
  • Docket sheets
  • Hearing schedules

However, certain records may be restricted from public access, including:

  • Documents filed in family court matters
  • Juvenile records
  • Mental health proceedings
  • Records sealed by court order
  • Confidential information as defined in § 213.81 of the Pennsylvania Code

It is important to note that federal court records for cases heard in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, which includes Luzerne County, are governed by federal access rules rather than state regulations. These records are accessible through the federal PACER system.

The Pennsylvania Right-to-Know Law (65 P.S. §§ 67.101-67.3104) explicitly exempts judicial records from its provisions, as court records are governed by rules adopted by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court.

How To Find Court Records in Luzerne County in 2026

Members of the public seeking court records in Luzerne County may utilize several methods to locate and access these documents. The following procedures are currently in effect:

In-Person Requests:

  1. Visit the appropriate office based on the type of record needed:

Luzerne County Clerk of Judicial Records - Civil Division
Luzerne County Courthouse
200 North River Street
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711
(570) 825-1500
Luzerne County Clerk of Judicial Records
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Luzerne County Clerk of Judicial Records - Criminal Division
Luzerne County Courthouse
200 North River Street
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711
(570) 825-1500
Luzerne County Clerk of Judicial Records
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

  1. Complete a records request form specifying the case number, party names, or other identifying information.
  2. Present valid photo identification.
  3. Pay applicable fees for copies (currently $0.25 per page for standard copies).

Mail Requests:

  1. Submit a written request to the appropriate division of the Clerk of Judicial Records.
  2. Include case information, specific documents requested, and contact information.
  3. Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope and payment for applicable fees.

Electronic Requests:

  1. Access the Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System Web Portal.
  2. Register for an account if accessing non-public information.
  3. Select the appropriate court type and search by case number, party name, or filing date.
  4. Pay any required fees for document access or copies.

Pursuant to Luzerne County Court Rules, certain records may require a court order for access. In such instances, individuals must file a petition with the appropriate court explaining the basis for their request.

How To Look Up Court Records in Luzerne County Online?

Luzerne County court records can be accessed through several online portals, each providing access to different types of court documents. The following online resources are currently available:

Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System Web Portal:

  1. Navigate to the Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System Web Portal.
  2. Select "Public Web Docket Sheets" from the available options.
  3. Choose the appropriate court type:
    • Common Pleas Courts (civil, criminal, family)
    • Magisterial District Courts
    • Appellate Courts
  4. Enter search criteria such as:
    • Docket number
    • Participant name
    • Organization name
    • Date range
  5. Review search results and select specific cases to view docket information.

PAePay System:

  1. Access the PAePay portal through the UJS Web Portal.
  2. This system allows users to search for cases with outstanding financial obligations.
  3. Users may make payments for fines, costs, and restitution through this system.

Luzerne County Court Calendar:

  1. Visit the Luzerne County Court website.
  2. Navigate to the court calendar section.
  3. Search for upcoming hearings by date, judge, or case type.

Public Access to Criminal Electronic Records (PACER):

  1. For federal cases in the Middle District of Pennsylvania that include Luzerne County.
  2. Register for a PACER account at pacer.uscourts.gov.
  3. Search by case number, party name, or filing date.
  4. Pay applicable fees ($0.10 per page viewed, with a maximum of $3.00 per document).

Users should note that while docket information is generally available online, full document images may require in-person requests or additional fees. Additionally, certain confidential information is redacted from online records in accordance with the Case Records Public Access Policy.

How To Search Luzerne County Court Records for Free?

Pennsylvania law guarantees the right to inspect public court records without charge, as established in § 213.77 of the Pennsylvania Code. While obtaining copies typically involves fees, several options exist for free access to Luzerne County court records:

Free In-Person Inspection:

  1. Visit the appropriate division of the Luzerne County Clerk of Judicial Records during regular business hours.
  2. Request to view specific case files.
  3. Present identification and complete any required request forms.
  4. Records will be provided for on-site inspection at no charge.

Free Online Resources:

  1. The Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System Web Portal provides free access to:

    • Docket sheets for criminal, civil, and family court cases
    • Case status information
    • Party information
    • Scheduling information
    • Court calendars

  2. Luzerne County Court website offers free access to:

    • Court calendars
    • Local rules
    • Forms
    • Contact information

Public Access Terminals:

  1. Computer terminals are available at the Luzerne County Law Library located in the courthouse.
  2. These terminals provide free access to court records databases.
  3. Staff assistance may be available for research questions.

Luzerne County Law Library:
Luzerne County Courthouse
200 North River Street
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711
(570) 825-1500
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

While basic record searches are free, users should be aware that:

  • Printing or copying documents incurs fees (typically $0.25 per page)
  • Certified copies have additional charges
  • Complex searches may require staff assistance, which could involve fees
  • Some specialized databases may have subscription requirements

What's Included in a Luzerne County Court Record?

Luzerne County court records contain various documents depending on the case type and court of jurisdiction. The content of these records is governed by the Luzerne County Rules of Judicial Administration and state regulations. Typical components include:

Civil Case Records:

  • Complaint or petition initiating the case
  • Summons and proof of service
  • Answers and responsive pleadings
  • Motions and supporting briefs
  • Court orders and opinions
  • Exhibits admitted into evidence
  • Transcripts of proceedings
  • Final judgment or decree
  • Post-trial motions
  • Appeal documentation

Criminal Case Records:

  • Criminal complaint
  • Affidavit of probable cause
  • Bail information
  • Preliminary hearing documentation
  • Criminal information or indictment
  • Motions and responses
  • Discovery materials (with restrictions)
  • Plea agreements
  • Trial exhibits
  • Verdict forms
  • Sentencing orders
  • Post-conviction relief petitions

Family Court Records:

  • Divorce complaints and decrees
  • Child custody petitions and orders
  • Support calculations and orders
  • Protection from abuse petitions and orders
  • Financial disclosure statements
  • Parenting plans
  • Guardian ad litem reports (often confidential)

Orphans' Court Records:

  • Wills and codicils
  • Estate inventories
  • Accounting statements
  • Guardianship petitions and reports
  • Adoption records (typically sealed)
  • Name change petitions

Magisterial District Court Records:

  • Citations and complaints
  • Hearing notices
  • Disposition records
  • Payment records for fines and costs

Each record contains identifying information including docket numbers, party names, attorney information, and chronological listings of all filings and proceedings. Pursuant to § 213.81 of the Pennsylvania Code, certain confidential information is redacted from publicly accessible versions, including:

  • Social Security numbers
  • Financial account numbers
  • Driver's license numbers
  • Minor children's names and dates of birth
  • Victim information in certain cases

How Long Does Luzerne County Keep Court Records?

Luzerne County maintains court records according to retention schedules established by the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts under Pennsylvania Rule of Judicial Administration 509. These schedules vary by record type and case disposition:

Criminal Case Records:

  • Capital cases: Permanent retention
  • Homicide cases: 75 years after final disposition
  • Felony cases: 25 years after final disposition
  • Misdemeanor cases: 10 years after final disposition
  • Summary offenses: 3 years after final disposition

Civil Case Records:

  • Cases involving real property: 25 years after final disposition
  • Other civil cases: 7 years after final disposition
  • Domestic relations cases: 25 years after final disposition
  • Protection from abuse orders: 5 years after expiration of order

Orphans' Court Records:

  • Estate administration: 25 years after estate closing
  • Guardianship records: 25 years after termination of guardianship
  • Adoption records: Permanent retention (sealed)

Magisterial District Court Records:

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

Administrative Records:

  • Court calendars and schedules: 3 years
  • Exhibits: Returned to parties after appeal period or maintained with case file
  • Stenographic notes and recordings: 7 years for most cases

Certain historically significant cases may be designated for permanent retention regardless of case type. After the retention period expires, records may be:

  • Transferred to the Pennsylvania State Archives
  • Microfilmed or digitized for permanent storage
  • Destroyed according to approved procedures

The County Records Committee, established under § 9-1941 of the Pennsylvania County Records Act, oversees the implementation of these retention policies in coordination with the Luzerne County Clerk of Judicial Records.

Types of Courts In Luzerne County

Luzerne County's judicial system consists of several courts operating within Pennsylvania's Unified Judicial System. Each court has specific jurisdiction and functions:

Luzerne County Court of Common Pleas
Luzerne County Courthouse
200 North River Street
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711
(570) 825-1500
Luzerne County Courts
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

The Court of Common Pleas is divided into specialized divisions:

  • Civil Division (personal injury, contract disputes, property matters)
  • Criminal Division (felonies, misdemeanors)
  • Family Division (divorce, custody, support)
  • Orphans' Court Division (estates, guardianships, adoptions)

Magisterial District Courts
Luzerne County contains 17 Magisterial District Courts, including:

Magisterial District Court 11-1-01
300 Wyoming Avenue
Kingston, PA 18704
(570) 283-1834
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Magisterial District Court 11-3-01
1 North Main Street
Pittston, PA 18640
(570) 655-3011
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Domestic Relations Section
Luzerne County Domestic Relations Section
113 West North Street
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711
(570) 822-0600
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Federal Court (serving Luzerne County)
United States District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania
William J. Nealon Federal Building & U.S. Courthouse
235 North Washington Avenue
Scranton, PA 18503
(570) 207-5600
Middle District of Pennsylvania
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

The court hierarchy for cases originating in Luzerne County follows this progression:

  1. Magisterial District Courts (limited jurisdiction)
  2. Luzerne County Court of Common Pleas
  3. Pennsylvania Superior Court (appellate jurisdiction)
  4. Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court (for cases involving government entities)
  5. Pennsylvania Supreme Court (final state appellate authority)

For federal matters, cases proceed from:

  1. U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania
  2. U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit
  3. U.S. Supreme Court

What Types of Cases Do Luzerne County Courts Hear?

Luzerne County's courts adjudicate a wide range of legal matters, with each court having specific jurisdictional authority as established by Pennsylvania law:

Luzerne County Court of Common Pleas - Civil Division:

  • Civil lawsuits with claims exceeding $12,000
  • Real estate disputes
  • Contract controversies
  • Personal injury claims
  • Professional malpractice cases
  • Complex commercial litigation
  • Appeals from Magisterial District Court decisions

Luzerne County Court of Common Pleas - Criminal Division:

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

Luzerne County Court of Common Pleas - Family Division:

  • Divorce proceedings
  • Child custody determinations
  • Child and spousal support cases
  • Protection from abuse matters
  • Paternity establishment
  • Name change petitions
  • Juvenile delinquency proceedings
  • Dependency cases (child welfare)

Luzerne County Court of Common Pleas - Orphans' Court Division:

  • Probate of wills
  • Estate administration
  • Trust management
  • Guardianships for incapacitated persons
  • Adoption proceedings
  • Termination of parental rights
  • Marriage license disputes

Magisterial District Courts:

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

Domestic Relations Section:

  • Child support establishment and enforcement
  • Spousal support matters
  • Paternity determinations
  • Income withholding orders
  • Interstate support cases

Federal Court (Middle District of Pennsylvania):

  • Federal criminal prosecutions
  • Civil cases involving federal questions
  • Diversity jurisdiction cases
  • Bankruptcy proceedings
  • Patent and copyright disputes
  • Constitutional challenges
  • Cases involving federal agencies

Case assignment within the Court of Common Pleas is governed by the Luzerne County Court Rules, which establish procedures for case management, judicial assignments, and specialized treatment courts such as Drug Court, Veterans Court, and Mental Health Court.

How To Find a Court Docket In Luzerne County

Court dockets in Luzerne County provide chronological listings of all filings, proceedings, and actions in a case. Members of the public may access these records through several methods:

Online Docket Search:

  1. Visit the Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System Web Portal
  2. Select "Public Web Docket Sheets"
  3. Choose the appropriate court type:
    • Common Pleas Courts (for major civil and criminal cases)
    • Magisterial District Courts (for minor cases)
  4. Enter search criteria:
    • Docket number (if known)
    • Participant name
    • Organization name
    • Date range
  5. Review search results and select specific cases to view docket information

In-Person Docket Access:

  1. Visit the appropriate office based on case type:

Luzerne County Clerk of Judicial Records - Civil Division
Luzerne County Courthouse
200 North River Street
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711
(570) 825-1500
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Luzerne County Clerk of Judicial Records - Criminal Division
Luzerne County Courthouse
200 North River Street
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711
(570) 825-1500
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

  1. Complete a docket search request form
  2. Provide case information (names, approximate dates, case type)
  3. Staff will assist in locating the appropriate docket

Court Calendar Access:

  1. For upcoming hearings, visit the Luzerne County Court website
  2. Navigate to the court calendar section
  3. Search by date, judge, or courtroom
  4. Calendars typically show scheduled cases with docket numbers

Federal Court Dockets:

  1. For federal cases, access the PACER system at pacer.uscourts.gov
  2. Register for an account
  3. Search for cases in the Middle District of Pennsylvania
  4. Pay applicable fees ($0.10 per page viewed)

Pursuant to Pennsylvania Rule of Judicial Administration 509, docket information must be made available for public inspection during regular business hours. While basic docket information is generally accessible, certain cases may have restricted access due to confidentiality concerns or court orders.

Which Courts in Luzerne County Are Not Courts of Record?

In Pennsylvania's judicial system, a "court of record" is defined by § 321 of the Pennsylvania Judicial Code (42 Pa.C.S. § 321) as a court whose proceedings are permanently recorded, with the authority to fine or imprison for contempt. Courts not of record typically do not maintain official transcripts of proceedings and have limited sentencing authority.

Within Luzerne County, the following courts are classified as courts not of record:

Magisterial District Courts:

  • All 17 Magisterial District Courts throughout Luzerne County
  • These courts handle minor civil disputes, preliminary criminal proceedings, and summary offenses
  • While these courts maintain dockets and case files, they do not typically create verbatim transcripts of proceedings
  • Decisions from these courts are subject to de novo appeal to the Court of Common Pleas

Municipal Courts:

  • Local municipal courts handling code violations and ordinances
  • These proceedings are typically summary in nature
  • Records consist primarily of citations and disposition information rather than full transcripts

The distinction between courts of record and courts not of record is significant because:

  1. Appeals from courts not of record are heard de novo (completely new proceedings) rather than based on review of a transcript
  2. Precedential value of decisions from courts not of record is limited
  3. Evidentiary rules may be applied less formally in courts not of record
  4. Representation by counsel is less common in proceedings before courts not of record

The Luzerne County Court of Common Pleas, by contrast, is a court of record where proceedings are recorded verbatim, either by court reporters or electronic means. These records form the basis for appellate review by higher courts.

When a case is appealed from a Magisterial District Court to the Court of Common Pleas, the matter is heard anew, with no deference given to the findings or conclusions of the lower court, as established in Rule 1007 of the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure for Magisterial District Judges.

Lookup Court Records in Luzerne County

Luzerne County Court Rules

Luzerne County Rules of Judicial Administration

Pennsylvania Judiciary Web Portal

Case Records Public Access Policy

Middle District of Pennsylvania Federal Court

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