Northumberland County Court Records Search
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Northumberland County is situated in central Pennsylvania along the Susquehanna River, with the county seat in the borough of Sunbury. The county’s court system operates through a Court of Common Pleas, an Orphans’ Court division, and four Magisterial District Courts spread across the region. Several county offices — including the Prothonotary, the Clerk of Courts, and the Register and Recorder — serve as custodians of different types of court records. Understanding which office holds the records you need, and the procedures for accessing them, is key to a successful search.
For anyone beginning a court records search in Pennsylvania, PennsylvaniaCourts.us offers a centralized starting point. The website connects users to individual county court pages, statewide forms, and the Unified Judicial System’s public docket search tools. Beyond the state portal, court records in Northumberland County can also be obtained by contacting local clerk offices directly, visiting public access terminals at the courthouse, or submitting written requests by mail.
How to Look Up a Court Case in Northumberland County?
The fastest way to search for a Northumberland County court case is through the Unified Judicial System (UJS) Case Search portal. This free public tool lets users look up docket sheets and court summaries for cases across all Pennsylvania courts, including the Northumberland County Court of Common Pleas and its Magisterial District Courts.
Searching on the UJS Portal
The portal supports multiple search methods:
- Participant Name — Enter the party’s first and last name, select Northumberland County, and optionally add a date of birth or estimated filing date to narrow results.
- Docket Number — Enter the full docket number if known for an exact match.
- Citation or Complaint Number — Useful for traffic and summary offense cases.
- OTN (Offense Tracking Number) — Commonly referenced in criminal proceedings.
- Filing Date — Browse cases filed within a specific date range.
- SID (State Identification Number) — Used for individuals with prior criminal system involvement.
Each result includes a case summary and downloadable docket sheet.
Requesting Records Directly from the Court
When records are not available online, or when certified copies are needed, requests should go to the appropriate custodian:
- Court of Common Pleas records (civil and criminal): Contact the Prothonotary/Clerk of Courts
- Orphans’ Court records (probate, estates, adoptions): Contact the Register and Recorder / Clerk of Orphans’ Court
- Magisterial District Court records: Contact the specific district court where the case was filed
Requests may be submitted in person, by mail, or by fax. Include the case docket number, party names, filing dates, and a description of the specific documents needed. Payment of applicable fees is required before copies are released.
Key Prothonotary Copy Fees (Effective January 1, 2026)
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Certified copy — first page | $6.00 |
| Certified copy — each additional page | $1.25 |
| Mailed copy — first page | $25.00 |
| Criminal record check | $11.00 |
The full Prothonotary fee schedule is published on the county website.
Court Locations and Contact Information
| Court | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Court of Common Pleas (Civil) | 201 Market Street, Sunbury, PA 17801 | (570) 988-4151 |
| Court of Common Pleas (Criminal/Clerk of Courts) | 201 Market Street, Sunbury, PA 17801 | (570) 988-4148 |
| Orphans’ Court (Register & Recorder) | 201 Market Street, 1st Floor, Sunbury, PA 17801 | (570) 988-4143 |
| Court Administration | 201 Market Street, 2nd Floor, Sunbury, PA 17801 | (570) 988-4167 |
General Office Hours:
Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday through Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
The Register and Recorder office closes daily from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM and closes at 4:15 PM Tuesday through Friday (4:45 PM on Mondays).
Are Court Records Public in Northumberland County?
Most court records in Northumberland County are open to the public. Pennsylvania’s Right-to-Know Law (65 P.S. § 67.101 et seq.) establishes a broad right of access to records maintained by government agencies, including county courts. Any United States citizen or legal resident may submit a records request to the appropriate custodian, and the agency must respond within five business days.
Records Generally Open to the Public
Court filings, docket entries, judgments, decrees, motions, and orders in civil and criminal cases are ordinarily public. Docket sheets for cases filed in the Court of Common Pleas and Magisterial District Courts are available through the UJS Case Search at no cost.
Records That May Be Restricted
The Right-to-Know Law contains 30 enumerated exemptions. In the court records context, the most relevant restrictions cover:
- Records containing Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers, or personal financial information
- Health and medical records
- Confidential criminal investigation files
- DNA and RNA records
- Information identifying minors under 18
- Adoption records and sealed case files
- Autopsy reports prepared by a coroner or medical examiner
- Records whose disclosure could jeopardize personal security or public safety
- Personnel records
When a record contains both public and exempt information, the custodian must redact the confidential portions and release the remainder. Agencies retain discretion to release certain exempt records on a case-by-case basis, provided no other confidentiality statute prohibits disclosure.
If a request is denied, the requester may appeal to the Pennsylvania Office of Open Records within 15 business days.
Northumberland County Criminal Court Records
Criminal cases in Northumberland County are handled by the Court of Common Pleas for felonies and misdemeanors, and by the Magisterial District Courts for summary offenses and preliminary hearings. The Prothonotary / Clerk of Courts maintains records for the Court of Common Pleas, while each district court retains its own case files.
Searching Criminal Cases Online
The UJS portal is the primary online tool for locating criminal case records. Users can search by defendant name, docket number, OTN, complaint number, or SID. Search results display case summaries, charges, disposition details, and downloadable docket sheets.
Criminal Record Checks Through the Prothonotary
The Prothonotary’s office performs local criminal record checks for $11.00 per request. This check covers cases filed within the Northumberland County Court of Common Pleas. Requests can be directed to:
Northumberland County Prothonotary / Clerk of Courts
Address: 201 Market Street, Sunbury, PA 17801
Phone: (570) 988-4148
Fax: (570) 988-4153
Statewide Criminal Background Checks
For a comprehensive criminal history search covering all Pennsylvania jurisdictions, the Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History (PATCH) system administered by the Pennsylvania State Police is the standard resource. PATCH fees are:
- Online request: $22.00 (plus a 2% credit card transaction fee)
- Mailed request for personal review: $20.00
- Notarized copy for employers/organizations: $27.00
- Volunteer background check: Free
Mailed PATCH requests should be sent with completed forms, fees, and identification to:
Pennsylvania State Police
Central Repository – 164
1800 Elmerton Avenue
Harrisburg, PA 17110-9758
Arrest Records
The Northumberland County Sheriff’s Office serves court orders, enforces bench warrants, and transports prisoners. Arrest records are maintained by the arresting law enforcement agency, and requests should be directed to the specific police department or agency that made the arrest. Some arrest information may also appear in court filings and inmate records.
Magisterial District Courts Handling Criminal Matters
| Court | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| MDJ William Cole (08-2-01) | 150 S. Market Street, Mount Carmel, PA 17851 | (570) 339-2140 |
| MDJ Michael Diehl (08-3-02) | 45 Locust Street, Milton, PA 17847 | (570) 742-7446 |
| MDJ William Zalinski (08-3-03) | 2 East Arch Street, Shamokin, PA 17872 | (570) 644-0736 |
| MDJ Racheal Weist-Benner (08-3-04) | 399 Stadium Drive, Sunbury, PA 17801 | (570) 988-4485 |
Summary offenses, DUI charges (under certain conditions), and preliminary arraignments for more serious offenses begin in these courts. Criminal court forms, including ARD application materials, continuance requests, and expungement petitions, are available on the county website.
Northumberland County Civil Court Records
Civil litigation in Northumberland County is divided between the Court of Common Pleas and the Magisterial District Courts based on the amount in controversy and subject matter.
Court of Common Pleas — Civil Division
The Court of Common Pleas has general jurisdiction over all civil matters. The Prothonotary maintains all civil case files, including complaints, answers, motions, orders, judgments, and transcripts. To obtain copies of civil records, submit a request containing the docket number (or party names and filing dates) along with applicable fees.
Civil copy fees from the Prothonotary include $6.00 for the first certified page and $1.25 for each additional page. Original transcript copies cost $2.25 per page. Expedited requests and mailed copies carry higher charges.
Requests can be made:
- In person at the Prothonotary’s office, 201 Market Street, Sunbury
- By mail with completed request forms and payment
- By fax to (570) 988-4153
Downloadable court forms for civil matters — including name change petitions, civil contempt filings, and continuance applications — are available through the county website.
Magisterial District Courts — Small Claims and Landlord-Tenant
The four Magisterial District Courts handle civil claims not exceeding $12,000 and disputes under the Landlord and Tenant Act. Dispossessory actions (evictions) also begin in these courts. Records from these proceedings are maintained by the individual district court where the case was filed. The UJS portal provides online access to civil docket sheets from Magisterial District Courts as well. Standard statewide forms for civil actions in magisterial courts are available on the UJS forms page.
Property-Related Records
Civil judgments that result in liens against real property are recorded by the Register and Recorder. Deeds, mortgages, satisfactions, and UCC filings are also maintained in that office. The Register and Recorder offers a free Record Alert System that notifies property owners by email whenever a document is recorded against their name.
As of November 1, 2019, the Register and Recorder’s office no longer accepts personal checks; accepted payment methods include cash, money orders, and certified bank checks (checks from law firms, title companies, and corporations are still accepted).
Northumberland County Family Court Records
Family law matters — including divorce, custody, child support, protection from abuse, and paternity — are heard by the Northumberland County Court of Common Pleas. Records from these proceedings are maintained by the Prothonotary, although the Domestic Relations Section handles support-related filings independently.
Divorce Records
Divorce decrees and related filings (property settlement agreements, equitable distribution orders, alimony determinations) are available through the Prothonotary’s office. The UJS Case Search may provide docket information for divorce cases, though the underlying documents themselves must be obtained from the court. Certified copies of divorce decrees can be requested for $6.00 for the first page and $1.25 for each additional page.
Child Custody
Custody petitions, modification requests, and orders are filed with the Prothonotary. Family court forms for custody matters, including petitions to intervene and modify, are posted on the county website. Confidential information forms must accompany custody filings to protect sensitive personal data.
Child Support and Spousal Support
The Northumberland County Domestic Relations Section handles all support matters as a division of the Court of Common Pleas. The office is responsible for establishing and enforcing child support and spousal support orders, as well as determining paternity.
Filing for support requires an in-person visit between 9:00 AM and 3:30 PM (appointments preferred). Clients must bring birth certificates for children, Social Security cards, and a marriage certificate if applicable. When both parties reside in Northumberland County, filings can also be initiated online through Pennsylvania’s Child Support website.
Key Domestic Relations fees:
- Annual user fee: $35.00 (waived if the recipient has received cash assistance or collects less than $2,000 per year)
- Judicial computer fee (one-time, assessed to defendant): $40.25
- Genetic testing (in-person): $22.00 per person
- Genetic testing (out-of-state vendor): $45.60 per person
All support payments are processed through PA SCDU, P.O. Box 69110, Harrisburg, PA 17106-9110.
Protection from Abuse (PFA)
Petitions for protection from abuse are filed through the Court of Common Pleas. PFA forms are available on the family court forms page. Survivors of domestic violence in Northumberland County can contact Transitions of PA at their 24-hour hotline: (800) 850-7948.
Marriage Licenses
Marriage licenses are issued by the Register and Recorder’s office at 201 Market Street, 1st Floor, Sunbury. Appointments are required and can be scheduled for Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays by calling (570) 988-4143. Both the bride and groom must appear at the appointment. The marriage license fee is $60.00.
Birth and Death Records
Birth certificates and death records for events occurring in Pennsylvania since 1906 are maintained by the Pennsylvania Department of Health, Division of Vital Records. These records are not public; eligibility to obtain them is limited to the subject, parents, spouses, direct descendants, siblings, legal representatives, and certain other qualifying individuals. Eligible persons may apply in person or mail completed application forms with the $20.00 fee and a copy of identification to:
Division of Vital Records
Birth Certificate Processing Unit
P.O. Box 1528
New Castle, PA 16103
The Northumberland County Register and Recorder also accepts genealogy requests at a cost of $25.00 per name and $0.50 per copy.
Northumberland County Probate Court Records
Probate matters in Northumberland County are handled by the Orphans’ Court division of the Court of Common Pleas. Christina Mertz serves as the Register of Wills and Clerk of the Orphans’ Court, operating out of the Register and Recorder’s office on the first floor of the county courthouse.
Types of Probate Records
The Orphans’ Court and Register of Wills maintain records related to:
- Probate of wills and codicils
- Letters testamentary and letters of administration
- Estate inventories and First and Final Accounts
- Inheritance tax returns
- Guardianship petitions and guardian reports (estate and person)
- Adoption petitions and orders
- Creditor claims against estates
- Receipts and releases
How to Access Probate Records
Public probate records — including docket entries, decrees, and accountings — can be searched through the UJS Case Search for Orphans’ Court filings. For certified copies or records not available online, contact the Register and Recorder’s office directly.
Northumberland County Register & Recorder / Clerk of Orphans’ Court
Address: 201 Market Street, 1st Floor, Sunbury, PA 17801
Phone: (570) 988-4143 or (570) 988-4985
Fax: (570) 988-4141
In-person probate appointments are available on Tuesdays and Thursdays by appointment only. Zoom probates are also accepted.
Selected Probate Fees (Register and Recorder)
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Letters of Administration/Testamentary (estate under $1,000) | $141.75 |
| Letters (estate $10,001–$20,000) | $181.75 |
| Letters (estate $50,001–$100,000) | $266.75 |
| Each additional $100,001 or fraction | $100.00 |
| Short certificate | $10.00 |
| Certified copy of instrument (first page) | $50.00 |
| Certified copy — additional pages | $5.00 |
| First and Final Account (first page) | $320.00 |
| Adoption (including intent to adopt) | $316.75 |
| Marriage license | $60.00 |
| Genealogy request (per name) | $25.00 |
| General petitions/orders/motions | $116.75 |
| Probate inquiry | $10.00 |
| Guardian report (paper filing) | $25.00 |
The complete Register and Recorder fee schedule is available as a PDF on the county website. First and Final Accounts must be filed by the 10th of the month to be confirmed by the fourth Monday of the following month.
Certain probate records — particularly adoption files, medical evaluations of incapacitated persons, and financial records of wards — are restricted from public access. Autopsy reports and information identifying minors are also exempt from disclosure. Individuals seeking restricted records may need to demonstrate a legal basis for access and provide valid identification.
Orphans’ Court forms for Pennsylvania filings are available through the UJS forms page, and additional Northumberland County-specific information is posted on the county’s Orphans’ Court Requirements page.