This section of PALawHelp.org has information and resources about Self Help or Pro Se Forms in Pennsylvania.
Click on a resource category listed below to see information related to that category.
County-specific forms, in alphabetical order, appear after some general use forms. To view only forms for your county, set your location using the link at the top of the page.
Carbon Court Self-Service - Child Custody
Information and forms relating to child custody proceedings in Carbon County.
Carbon Self Service Center - Forms
Download forms and information from the Carbon County Court of Common Pleas
Crawford County - Court Forms and Information
Forms and explanatory information from the Crawford County Court of Common Pleas.
Criminal Record and Abuse History in Custody Actions with Instructions
Beginning in September 2013 any person filing a complaint for custody, or any petition for modification for custody must also file a verification regarding any criminal or abuse history of the petitioner and anyone living in the petitioner’s household. This form, completed and filed following the included instructions, may be used to satisfy this requirement. [PDF]
Custody Proceedings - Representing Yourself: Forms and Information from the Pennsylvania Courts
Free online information is available from the Pennsylvania Courts website to assist the growing number of Pennsylvanians who want to file their own family law cases in courts across the state. Standardized court forms for child custody proceedings may be obtained on this page of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania’s website. Included are forms for both parents and third parties, including grandparents.
Dauphin County: Custody in Dauphin County
Information from the Dauphin County Courts outlining the custody process in Dauphin County. This includes the filing of documents in custody cases and the Custody Conference process.
Fayette County - Child Custody Services
Information on Child Custody proceedings in the Fayette County Court of Common Pleas
How to File a Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis (Video)
This video from Summit Legal Aid, formerly Laurel Legal Services, provides an explanation of what In Forma Pauperis is (a request to file legal papers without having to pay the filing fee because you cannot afford to pay the fees) and line-by-line instructions on completing a petition to request permission to proceed without paying filing fees. (2020) Summit Legal Aid was formed when Southwestern Pennsylvania Legal Aid and Laurel Legal Services merged into a single legal aid program on July 1, 2023.
Huntingdon County: Forms
Forms for use in the Huntingdon County Court of Common Pleas.
Indiana County: Forms and Documents
Forms and information regarding proceedings in the Indiana County Court of Common Pleas.
Lancaster County: Judge Henry S. Kenderdine Jr. Self Help Center
The Lancaster County Court Self Help Center opened in July, 2004. The main purpose of the Center is to provide one central location where self-represented litigants can obtain some of the information and forms that they may need to represent themselves in certain types of court actions.
Lehigh County Custody Office
Information on the Child Custody Office which processes cases regarding custody, partial custody or visitation of children.
Lehigh County Online Self Help Center
This site provides answers to some commonly asked questions concerning legal procedures in Pennsylvania. The forms provided here are specific to Lehigh County.
Lycoming County Forms
On this page, you will find various Lycoming County Courts legal forms. These packets can also be found in the law library. The law library staff cannot provide legal advice, but they can assist in filling out the forms. Use the forms on this page at your own risk – as they may or may not be appropriate in your particular case. It is strongly recommended you seek legal advice and obtain the services of an attorney. Litigants representing themselves are held to the same standards as attorneys admitted to the bar of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Representing yourself does not exempt you from understanding and following state-wide and local rules of court.
Mifflin County: Prothonotary Forms
Custody, Divorce and Expungement forms from the Prothonotary and MidPenn Legal Services for use in Mifflin County may be viewed and downloaded.
Monroe County: Child Custody Video Workshop
This video workshop, focused on Monroe County, provides basic information about child custody and visitation and describes how custody disputes are handled through the courts or through negotiation or mediation. (2014)
Monroe County - Forms
Forms available for use in the Monroe County Court of Common Pleas.
Montgomery County: Custody Mediation Orientation Program
Information on the Montgomery County Custody Mediation Orientation Program. An orientation session is an initial meeting between parties, and a mediator to educate the parties concerning the mediation process so that an informed choice can be made about continued participation in that process.
Montgomery County: Forms
Forms provided by the Montgomery County Court of County Pleas.
Northampton County: Child Custody Self Help
Information on Child Custody Proceedings in Northampton County.
Northampton County: Handbook for Self Represented Litigants
The purpose of this handbook is to provide self-represented litigants with a general idea of the legal process and to further provide some direction with regard to self-representation. It also provides information on websites designed to provide information, forms and other support to self represented litigants in Pennsylvania actions.
PA Courts Public Access Policy - Filing Requirements in the Courts (Video)
Effective on January 6, 2018, a new Public Access Policy is in effect in Pennsylvania Courts. This policy imposes requirements on anyone filing court documents in the trial and appellate courts to safeguard information in the documents they file. The Pennsylvania Courts have released a series of videos that explain the judiciary’s new policy for protecting confidential information and the required steps you must take to protect that information when filing documents in the courts. This video provides an overview of the new requirements. Follow the link to view the entire series of videos.
Philadelphia County: Complaint for Custody
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. This form should be used to request the court to enter an order deciding custody of children when there is no Custody Order currently in effect.
Philadelphia County: Court Forms
Forms from the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia. Forms are available for the various divisions of the Court by clicking through the listings on the page.
Philadelphia County (Custody): Criminal Record and Abuse History Form
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Please of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts.
Philadelphia County: Domestic Relations Information Sheet
Form from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia for use in domestic relations proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts.
Philadelphia County: Exceptions to Recommendation of Custody Master
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. Custody Exceptions can be filed when you disagree with the Custody Master’s Proposed Order or you think that the Custody Master made an error. Exceptions MUST be filed by the date given on the Proposed Order.
Philadelphia County: Family Law Forms - Philadelphia Bar Association
Here you will find links to printable documents relating to various areas of Family Law. These forms and instructions were prepared under the sponsorship of the Family Law Section of the Philadelphia Bar Association.
Philadelphia County: Motion Cover Sheet
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in family law proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. This is a cover sheet required by the Court when filing motions in court.
Philadelphia County: Motion for Home Investigation
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. A Motion for a Home Investigation can be filed if you believe the other party lives with or plans to live with the child(ren) in a place that is not safe. Examples of unsafe conditions include: 1) no heat; 2) holes in the floor; 3) no running water; 4) other hazardous conditions; 5) no beds or cribs for the child(ren).
Philadelphia County: Motion for Mental Health Assessment (MHA)
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Please of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts.
Philadelphia County: Motion for Protracted Custody Hearing
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. A Motion for a Protracted Hearing must be filed if you think you will need more than 2 hours for your case. You should file this motion as soon as possible after you know your case is going to be heard by a judge. If a motion is not filed, the time you have for your case will be limited.
Philadelphia County: Petition for Contempt of Custody Order
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. Use this form if the other party violates an existing Custody Order. If you also want to change the Custody Order, you MUST also file a Petition to Modify Custody in addition to a Petition for Contempt.
Philadelphia County: Petition for Emergency Relief - Custody
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. To file an Emergency custody petition, you must already have one of the following custody petitions pending: Complaint for Custody, Petition to Modify, or a Petition for Contempt. If you do not have one of these petitions pending you must file one of them at the same time that you file the Emergency Custody Petition. There may be additional fees for these filings.
Philadelphia County: Petition for Expedited Relief - Custody
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. A Petition for Expedited Relief can be filed in situations that are not emergencies but when you are in need of immediate review by the court. Expedited Relief provides a quick decision on a small part of the case. You may want to file for Expedited Relief if you are being denied access to the child(ren); there is a time sensitive situation such as medical or educational needs; or the other party has changed the custody arrangement and you are not in agreement.
Philadelphia County: Petition for Expedited Relief - Custody
A Petition for Expedited Relief can be filed in situations that are not emergencies but when you are in need of immediate review by the court. Expedited Relief provides a quick decision on a small part of the case. This form is to be used only in Philadelphia Courts.
Philadelphia County: Petition for Reconsideration of Custody Order
Form Petition for Reconsideration of Custody Order with Instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia. A Petition for Reconsideration may be filed within 30 days of the date of a custody order if you believe that an error was made or that something very important was not considered. In filing a Petition for Reconsideration you are asking the same judge who heard the case to review his/her decision. Your petition must state the reasons why you believe the Court should make a different decision.
Philadelphia County: Petition to Modify Custody
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. This form should be used to request a change or modification of an existing custody order.
Philadelphia County: Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis (IFP)
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Please of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. (2015)
Philadelphia County: Petition to Relocate With Child
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. If you wish to move with your children out of the Philadelphia area and the non-custodial parent does not agree, you must get permission from the court. This is a complicated matter and you should consult an attorney or go to 1501 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA to get help. Under Pennsylvania law, relocation is defined as "a change in a residence of the child which significantly impairs the ability of a nonrelocating party to exercise custodial rights."
Philadelphia County: Rule to Show Cause
Form from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts.
Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas Forms Center
Forms available from the Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas
Pike County: Pro Se Forms
Pro Se forms for use by unrepresented parties in the Court of Common Pleas of Pike County.
Potter County: Court Related Information and Forms
Court-related information and forms from the Judges Chamber of the Potter County Court of Common Pleas.
Schuylkill County: Prothonotary Forms
Forms for use in the Schuylkill County Court of Common Pleas.
Serving a Defendant (Video)
This video from Summit Legal Aid, formerly Laurel Legal Services, explains how to serve an opposing party (defendant) in a lawsuit with legal papers related to the lawsuit. Parties must be notified about court proceedings against them and provided with copies of legal papers filed in the proceedings. This video explains the proper and required legal way to notify them of the proceedings (2020). Summit Legal Aid was formed when Southwestern Pennsylvania Legal Aid and Laurel Legal Services merged into a single legal aid program on July 1, 2023.
Snyder County: Court Forms
Forms for use in the Court of Common Pleas in 17th Judicial District - Snyder County.
Carbon Self Service Center - Forms
Download forms and information from the Carbon County Court of Common Pleas
Crawford County - Court Forms and Information
Forms and explanatory information from the Crawford County Court of Common Pleas.
Criminal Record and Abuse History in Custody Actions with Instructions
Beginning in September 2013 any person filing a complaint for custody, or any petition for modification for custody must also file a verification regarding any criminal or abuse history of the petitioner and anyone living in the petitioner’s household. This form, completed and filed following the included instructions, may be used to satisfy this requirement. [PDF]
Divorce Proceedings - Representing Yourself: Forms and Information from the Pennsylvania Courts
Free online information is available from the Pennsylvania Courts website to assist the growing number of Pennsylvanians who want to file their own family law cases in courts across the state. Standardized court forms for divorce proceedings may be obtained on this page of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania’s website.
How to File a Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis (Video)
This video from Summit Legal Aid, formerly Laurel Legal Services, provides an explanation of what In Forma Pauperis is (a request to file legal papers without having to pay the filing fee because you cannot afford to pay the fees) and line-by-line instructions on completing a petition to request permission to proceed without paying filing fees. (2020) Summit Legal Aid was formed when Southwestern Pennsylvania Legal Aid and Laurel Legal Services merged into a single legal aid program on July 1, 2023.
Huntingdon County: Forms
Forms for use in the Huntingdon County Court of Common Pleas.
Lancaster County: Judge Henry S. Kenderdine Jr. Self Help Center
The Lancaster County Court Self Help Center opened in July, 2004. The main purpose of the Center is to provide one central location where self-represented litigants can obtain some of the information and forms that they may need to represent themselves in certain types of court actions.
Lehigh County: Divorce - Self Help Center of the Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas
This informational section is for reference and research purposes only. This section explains the basic forms needed for a plaintiff to file a simple Mutual Consent No Fault Divorce or a simple No Fault Divorce when parties have been separated for two years.
Lehigh County Online Self Help Center
This site provides answers to some commonly asked questions concerning legal procedures in Pennsylvania. The forms provided here are specific to Lehigh County.
Lycoming County Forms
On this page, you will find various Lycoming County Courts legal forms. These packets can also be found in the law library. The law library staff cannot provide legal advice, but they can assist in filling out the forms. Use the forms on this page at your own risk – as they may or may not be appropriate in your particular case. It is strongly recommended you seek legal advice and obtain the services of an attorney. Litigants representing themselves are held to the same standards as attorneys admitted to the bar of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Representing yourself does not exempt you from understanding and following state-wide and local rules of court.
Mifflin County: Prothonotary Forms
Custody, Divorce and Expungement forms from the Prothonotary and MidPenn Legal Services for use in Mifflin County may be viewed and downloaded.
Northampton County: Handbook for Self Represented Litigants
The purpose of this handbook is to provide self-represented litigants with a general idea of the legal process and to further provide some direction with regard to self-representation. It also provides information on websites designed to provide information, forms and other support to self represented litigants in Pennsylvania actions.
PA Courts Public Access Policy - Filing Requirements in the Courts (Video)
Effective on January 6, 2018, a new Public Access Policy is in effect in Pennsylvania Courts. This policy imposes requirements on anyone filing court documents in the trial and appellate courts to safeguard information in the documents they file. The Pennsylvania Courts have released a series of videos that explain the judiciary’s new policy for protecting confidential information and the required steps you must take to protect that information when filing documents in the courts. This video provides an overview of the new requirements. Follow the link to view the entire series of videos.
Philadelphia County: Court Forms
Forms from the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia. Forms are available for the various divisions of the Court by clicking through the listings on the page.
Philadelphia County: Divorce in Philadelphia County
Brochure from Family Law Section of the Philadelphia Bar Association providing information on the divorce process in Philadelphia County. (December 2021)
Philadelphia County: Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Philadelphia County.
Philadelphia County: Domestic Relations Information Sheet
Form from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia for use in domestic relations proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts.
Philadelphia County: Motion Cover Sheet
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in family law proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. This is a cover sheet required by the Court when filing motions in court.
Philadelphia County: Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis (IFP)
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Please of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. (2015)
Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas Forms Center
Forms available from the Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas
Pike County: Pro Se Forms
Pro Se forms for use by unrepresented parties in the Court of Common Pleas of Pike County.
Potter County: Court Related Information and Forms
Court-related information and forms from the Judges Chamber of the Potter County Court of Common Pleas.
Snyder County: Court Forms
Forms for use in the Court of Common Pleas in 17th Judicial District - Snyder County.
Carbon Self Service Center - Forms
Download forms and information from the Carbon County Court of Common Pleas
Centre County: Domestic Relations Section
The Domestic Relations Section is a Court-appointed office of Centre County Government under the Centre County Court of Common Pleas. The office serves as the Court's child support enforcement agency.
Crawford County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Crawford County.
Franklin County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Franklin County.
Fulton County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations/support procedures in Fulton County.
Greene County Domestic Relations
Information on support/domestic relations procedures in Greene County.
How to File a Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis (Video)
This video from Summit Legal Aid, formerly Laurel Legal Services, provides an explanation of what In Forma Pauperis is (a request to file legal papers without having to pay the filing fee because you cannot afford to pay the fees) and line-by-line instructions on completing a petition to request permission to proceed without paying filing fees. (2020) Summit Legal Aid was formed when Southwestern Pennsylvania Legal Aid and Laurel Legal Services merged into a single legal aid program on July 1, 2023.
Huntingdon County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Huntingdon County.
Indiana County Government - Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Indiana County.
Jefferson County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Jefferson County.
Juniata County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Juniata County.
Lackawanna County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Lackawanna County.
Lancaster County: Judge Henry S. Kenderdine Jr. Self Help Center
The Lancaster County Court Self Help Center opened in July, 2004. The main purpose of the Center is to provide one central location where self-represented litigants can obtain some of the information and forms that they may need to represent themselves in certain types of court actions.
Lancaster County - Office of Domestic Relations
Information on the Support process in Lancaster county.
Lawrence County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Lawrence County.
Lebanon County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Lebanon County.
Lehigh County Domestic Relations Section
Information on the services provided by the Domestic Relations Section.
Luzerne County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Luzerne County.
Lycoming County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations/support procedures in Lycoming County.
Lycoming County Forms
On this page, you will find various Lycoming County Courts legal forms. These packets can also be found in the law library. The law library staff cannot provide legal advice, but they can assist in filling out the forms. Use the forms on this page at your own risk – as they may or may not be appropriate in your particular case. It is strongly recommended you seek legal advice and obtain the services of an attorney. Litigants representing themselves are held to the same standards as attorneys admitted to the bar of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Representing yourself does not exempt you from understanding and following state-wide and local rules of court.
McKean County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations/support procedures in McKean County.
Mercer County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations/support procedures in Mercer County.
Mifflin County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Mifflin County.
Monroe County: Domestic Relations
The Domestic Relations Section (DRS) is a court office that helps parents apply for child support services, establish paternity and support orders, and enforce support orders. Child support is money a noncustodial parent pays to a custodial parent to help provide food, clothing and other necessary items for their child. Child support may include medical support, payment of uncovered medical bills and contributions to child care costs. The DRS can also help if the noncustodial parent lives in another Pennsylvania county, a different state, or another country.
Montgomery County Domestic Relations
The Montgomery County Domestic Relations Office establishes paternity and determines and enforces child and spousal support orders in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations, statutes, and rules of civil procedure.
Montour County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Montour County.
Northampton County Domestic Relations
The Domestic Relations Section is responsible for the establishment of Support Orders on behalf of children and spouses, establishment of paternity, location of absent obligors, and the enforcement of monetary Orders for Support and medical support. The Domestic Relations Section also establishes and enforces Orders for Alimony Pendente Lite and enforces alimony Orders.
Northampton County: Handbook for Self Represented Litigants
The purpose of this handbook is to provide self-represented litigants with a general idea of the legal process and to further provide some direction with regard to self-representation. It also provides information on websites designed to provide information, forms and other support to self represented litigants in Pennsylvania actions.
PA Courts Public Access Policy - Filing Requirements in the Courts (Video)
Effective on January 6, 2018, a new Public Access Policy is in effect in Pennsylvania Courts. This policy imposes requirements on anyone filing court documents in the trial and appellate courts to safeguard information in the documents they file. The Pennsylvania Courts have released a series of videos that explain the judiciary’s new policy for protecting confidential information and the required steps you must take to protect that information when filing documents in the courts. This video provides an overview of the new requirements. Follow the link to view the entire series of videos.
Perry County: Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Perry County.
Philadelphia County: Child Support in Philadelphia County
Information from the Family Law Section of the Philadelphia Bar Association on filing for child support in Philadelphia County.
Philadelphia County: Complaint for Support
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in Support proceeding taking place in Philadelphia courts. You may use this form if you want support for your children (child support) and/or if you want support from your husband (spousal support). You must file separate complaints against each father.
Philadelphia County: Court Forms
Forms from the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia. Forms are available for the various divisions of the Court by clicking through the listings on the page.
Philadelphia County: Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Philadelphia County.
Philadelphia County: Domestic Relations Information Sheet
Form from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia for use in domestic relations proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts.
Philadelphia County: Exceptions to Recommendation of Support Hearing Master
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in Support proceeding taking place in Philadelphia courts. If you do not agree with the Recommendation of the Support Hearing Officer, you can file Exceptions. THE PROPOSED ORDER WILL BE IN EFFECT UNTIL YOUR EXCEPTIONS ARE DECIDED. Exceptions MUST be filed by the date given on the Proposed Order. If you do not object by filing Exceptions, the Master’s Recommendation will become a final court order.
Philadelphia County: Family Law Forms - Philadelphia Bar Association
Here you will find links to printable documents relating to various areas of Family Law. These forms and instructions were prepared under the sponsorship of the Family Law Section of the Philadelphia Bar Association.
Philadelphia County: Motion Cover Sheet
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in family law proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. This is a cover sheet required by the Court when filing motions in court.
Philadelphia County: Petition to Modify (Change) an Existing Support Order
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in Support proceeding taking place in Philadelphia courts. You may use this form if you are party to a current support order in Philadelphia County and you want to ask for an increase, a decrease, or to stop the order altogether.
Philadelphia County: Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis (IFP)
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Please of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. (2015)
Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas Forms Center
Forms available from the Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas
Potter County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Potter County.
Schuylkill County: Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Schuylkill county.
Schuylkill County: Prothonotary Forms
Forms for use in the Schuylkill County Court of Common Pleas.
Serving a Defendant (Video)
This video from Summit Legal Aid, formerly Laurel Legal Services, explains how to serve an opposing party (defendant) in a lawsuit with legal papers related to the lawsuit. Parties must be notified about court proceedings against them and provided with copies of legal papers filed in the proceedings. This video explains the proper and required legal way to notify them of the proceedings (2020). Summit Legal Aid was formed when Southwestern Pennsylvania Legal Aid and Laurel Legal Services merged into a single legal aid program on July 1, 2023.
Carbon Self Service Center - Forms
Download forms and information from the Carbon County Court of Common Pleas
Dauphin County: How Can I Obtain a PFA
Information from the Dauphin County District Attorney on when you can get a Protection From Abuse Order and how to get one in Dauphin County.
Erie County - Protection From Abuse
Resources from the Erie County Office of Protection From Abuse on court procedures in Erie County, including Information on Protection From Abuse; Information on Protection From Intimidation; and Information on Protection From Sexual Violence.
Franklin County: Information for Victims of Domestic Violence
Information on services available and the process for obtaining a Protection From Abuse order in Fulton County.
Fulton County: Information for Victims of Domestic Violence
Information on services available to victims of domestic violence and on getting a Protection From Abuse order in Fulton County.
How to File a Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis (Video)
This video from Summit Legal Aid, formerly Laurel Legal Services, provides an explanation of what In Forma Pauperis is (a request to file legal papers without having to pay the filing fee because you cannot afford to pay the fees) and line-by-line instructions on completing a petition to request permission to proceed without paying filing fees. (2020) Summit Legal Aid was formed when Southwestern Pennsylvania Legal Aid and Laurel Legal Services merged into a single legal aid program on July 1, 2023.
Huntingdon County: Forms
Forms for use in the Huntingdon County Court of Common Pleas.
Lancaster County: Judge Henry S. Kenderdine Jr. Self Help Center
The Lancaster County Court Self Help Center opened in July, 2004. The main purpose of the Center is to provide one central location where self-represented litigants can obtain some of the information and forms that they may need to represent themselves in certain types of court actions.
Lawrence County: PFA (Protection From Abuse) Coordinator/Lawyer Referral
The PFA Coordinator/Lawyer Referral is part of the Court Administration and is responsible for the processing of all Protection From Abuse Petitions, and is also the referral service for lawyers in Lawrence County.
Lehigh County: Protection From Abuse
Information Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas on the services provided by the Family Court office in Lehigh County.
Lycoming County Forms
On this page, you will find various Lycoming County Courts legal forms. These packets can also be found in the law library. The law library staff cannot provide legal advice, but they can assist in filling out the forms. Use the forms on this page at your own risk – as they may or may not be appropriate in your particular case. It is strongly recommended you seek legal advice and obtain the services of an attorney. Litigants representing themselves are held to the same standards as attorneys admitted to the bar of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Representing yourself does not exempt you from understanding and following state-wide and local rules of court.
Montgomery County: Protection From Abuse
Information on Protection From Abuse procedures in Montgomery County. To qualify for a Protection from Abuse order, there must be either a family relationship or an intimate relationship with the person from whom you want to file for protection. The Protection from Abuse Department is located on the first floor of the Montgomery County Courthouse in Norristown.
Northampton County: Handbook for Self Represented Litigants
The purpose of this handbook is to provide self-represented litigants with a general idea of the legal process and to further provide some direction with regard to self-representation. It also provides information on websites designed to provide information, forms and other support to self represented litigants in Pennsylvania actions.
Northampton County: Protection From Abuse Information
Information on Protection From Abuse services in Northampton county. Under the Protection From Abuse Act, you may file for an order if the person who has or is trying to harm you is/was your spouse; was living with you in a common-law marriage or as your boyfriend/girlfriend; the parent of your child; your child; was a sexual or intimate partner; your parent; or related to you by blood or marriage.
PA Courts Public Access Policy - Filing Requirements in the Courts (Video)
Effective on January 6, 2018, a new Public Access Policy is in effect in Pennsylvania Courts. This policy imposes requirements on anyone filing court documents in the trial and appellate courts to safeguard information in the documents they file. The Pennsylvania Courts have released a series of videos that explain the judiciary’s new policy for protecting confidential information and the required steps you must take to protect that information when filing documents in the courts. This video provides an overview of the new requirements. Follow the link to view the entire series of videos.
Philadelphia County: Court Forms
Forms from the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia. Forms are available for the various divisions of the Court by clicking through the listings on the page.
Philadelphia County: Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Philadelphia County.
Philadelphia County: Domestic Relations Information Sheet
Form from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia for use in domestic relations proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts.
Philadelphia County: Family Law Forms - Philadelphia Bar Association
Here you will find links to printable documents relating to various areas of Family Law. These forms and instructions were prepared under the sponsorship of the Family Law Section of the Philadelphia Bar Association.
Philadelphia County: Motion Cover Sheet
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in family law proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. This is a cover sheet required by the Court when filing motions in court.
Philadelphia County: Petition for Contempt of Protection From Abuse Order
You can pursue a violation of a Protection from Abuse Order by filing a Civil Petition for Contempt of the protection order. This form from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia should be used to start a Contempt of Protection From Abuse action in Philadelphia.
Philadelphia County: Petition to Extend Protection From Abuse Order
Form from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia for use in Protection From Abuse proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. This petition requests an extension of an existing Protection From Abuse Order.
Philadelphia County: Petition to Modify Protection From Abuse Order
Form from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia for use in Protection From Abuse proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. This form is used to request a modification or change in an existing Protection From Abuse Order.
Philadelphia County: Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis (IFP)
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Please of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. (2015)
Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas Forms Center
Forms available from the Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas
Pike County: Pro Se Forms
Pro Se forms for use by unrepresented parties in the Court of Common Pleas of Pike County.
Potter County: Court Related Information and Forms
Court-related information and forms from the Judges Chamber of the Potter County Court of Common Pleas.
Protection From Abuse (PFA) FAQS
Information from Neighborhood Legal Services on how to get a PFA in Allegheny, Beaver, Butler and Lawrence Countis in Pennsylvania.
Schuylkill County: Prothonotary Forms
Forms for use in the Schuylkill County Court of Common Pleas.
Serving a Defendant (Video)
This video from Summit Legal Aid, formerly Laurel Legal Services, explains how to serve an opposing party (defendant) in a lawsuit with legal papers related to the lawsuit. Parties must be notified about court proceedings against them and provided with copies of legal papers filed in the proceedings. This video explains the proper and required legal way to notify them of the proceedings (2020). Summit Legal Aid was formed when Southwestern Pennsylvania Legal Aid and Laurel Legal Services merged into a single legal aid program on July 1, 2023.
Carbon Self Service Center - Forms
Download forms and information from the Carbon County Court of Common Pleas
How to File a Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis (Video)
This video from Summit Legal Aid, formerly Laurel Legal Services, provides an explanation of what In Forma Pauperis is (a request to file legal papers without having to pay the filing fee because you cannot afford to pay the fees) and line-by-line instructions on completing a petition to request permission to proceed without paying filing fees. (2020) Summit Legal Aid was formed when Southwestern Pennsylvania Legal Aid and Laurel Legal Services merged into a single legal aid program on July 1, 2023.
Lancaster County: Judge Henry S. Kenderdine Jr. Self Help Center
The Lancaster County Court Self Help Center opened in July, 2004. The main purpose of the Center is to provide one central location where self-represented litigants can obtain some of the information and forms that they may need to represent themselves in certain types of court actions.
Lehigh County Online Self Help Center
This site provides answers to some commonly asked questions concerning legal procedures in Pennsylvania. The forms provided here are specific to Lehigh County.
Lycoming County Forms
On this page, you will find various Lycoming County Courts legal forms. These packets can also be found in the law library. The law library staff cannot provide legal advice, but they can assist in filling out the forms. Use the forms on this page at your own risk – as they may or may not be appropriate in your particular case. It is strongly recommended you seek legal advice and obtain the services of an attorney. Litigants representing themselves are held to the same standards as attorneys admitted to the bar of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Representing yourself does not exempt you from understanding and following state-wide and local rules of court.
Monroe County - Forms
Forms available for use in the Monroe County Court of Common Pleas.
Montgomery County: Forms
Forms provided by the Montgomery County Court of County Pleas.
Northampton County: Handbook for Self Represented Litigants
The purpose of this handbook is to provide self-represented litigants with a general idea of the legal process and to further provide some direction with regard to self-representation. It also provides information on websites designed to provide information, forms and other support to self represented litigants in Pennsylvania actions.
Philadelphia County: Court Forms
Forms from the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia. Forms are available for the various divisions of the Court by clicking through the listings on the page.
Philadelphia County: Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis (IFP)
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Please of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. (2015)
Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas Forms Center
Forms available from the Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas
Serving a Defendant (Video)
This video from Summit Legal Aid, formerly Laurel Legal Services, explains how to serve an opposing party (defendant) in a lawsuit with legal papers related to the lawsuit. Parties must be notified about court proceedings against them and provided with copies of legal papers filed in the proceedings. This video explains the proper and required legal way to notify them of the proceedings (2020). Summit Legal Aid was formed when Southwestern Pennsylvania Legal Aid and Laurel Legal Services merged into a single legal aid program on July 1, 2023.
Custody Proceedings - Representing Yourself: Forms and Information from the Pennsylvania Courts
Free online information is available from the Pennsylvania Courts website to assist the growing number of Pennsylvanians who want to file their own family law cases in courts across the state. Standardized court forms for child custody proceedings may be obtained on this page of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania’s website. Included are forms for both parents and third parties, including grandparents.
Divorce Proceedings - Representing Yourself: Forms and Information from the Pennsylvania Courts
Free online information is available from the Pennsylvania Courts website to assist the growing number of Pennsylvanians who want to file their own family law cases in courts across the state. Standardized court forms for divorce proceedings may be obtained on this page of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania’s website.
How to File a Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis (Video)
This video from Summit Legal Aid, formerly Laurel Legal Services, provides an explanation of what In Forma Pauperis is (a request to file legal papers without having to pay the filing fee because you cannot afford to pay the fees) and line-by-line instructions on completing a petition to request permission to proceed without paying filing fees. (2020) Summit Legal Aid was formed when Southwestern Pennsylvania Legal Aid and Laurel Legal Services merged into a single legal aid program on July 1, 2023.
Serving a Defendant (Video)
This video from Summit Legal Aid, formerly Laurel Legal Services, explains how to serve an opposing party (defendant) in a lawsuit with legal papers related to the lawsuit. Parties must be notified about court proceedings against them and provided with copies of legal papers filed in the proceedings. This video explains the proper and required legal way to notify them of the proceedings (2020). Summit Legal Aid was formed when Southwestern Pennsylvania Legal Aid and Laurel Legal Services merged into a single legal aid program on July 1, 2023.
Criminal Record and Abuse History in Custody Actions with Instructions
Beginning in September 2013 any person filing a complaint for custody, or any petition for modification for custody must also file a verification regarding any criminal or abuse history of the petitioner and anyone living in the petitioner’s household. This form, completed and filed following the included instructions, may be used to satisfy this requirement. [PDF]
How to File a Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis (Video)
This video from Summit Legal Aid, formerly Laurel Legal Services, provides an explanation of what In Forma Pauperis is (a request to file legal papers without having to pay the filing fee because you cannot afford to pay the fees) and line-by-line instructions on completing a petition to request permission to proceed without paying filing fees. (2020) Summit Legal Aid was formed when Southwestern Pennsylvania Legal Aid and Laurel Legal Services merged into a single legal aid program on July 1, 2023.
Luzerne County: Child Custody Video Workshop
This video workshop, focused on Luzerne County, provides basic information about child custody and visitation and describes how custody disputes are handled through the courts or through negotiation or mediation. (2014)
Lycoming County: Child Custody Video Workshop
This video workshop, focused on Lycoming County, provides basic information about child custody and visitation and describes how custody disputes are handled through the courts or through negotiation or mediation
Monroe County: Child Custody Video Workshop
This video workshop, focused on Monroe County, provides basic information about child custody and visitation and describes how custody disputes are handled through the courts or through negotiation or mediation. (2014)
Protection From Abuse (PFA) FAQS
Information from Neighborhood Legal Services on how to get a PFA in Allegheny, Beaver, Butler and Lawrence Countis in Pennsylvania.
Serving a Defendant (Video)
This video from Summit Legal Aid, formerly Laurel Legal Services, explains how to serve an opposing party (defendant) in a lawsuit with legal papers related to the lawsuit. Parties must be notified about court proceedings against them and provided with copies of legal papers filed in the proceedings. This video explains the proper and required legal way to notify them of the proceedings (2020). Summit Legal Aid was formed when Southwestern Pennsylvania Legal Aid and Laurel Legal Services merged into a single legal aid program on July 1, 2023.
Montgomery County: How To File a Custody Complaint in Montgomery County, PA (Video)
A short, step-by-step instructional video on "How to File a Custody Complaint in Montgomery County, PA. This video was produced by the 38th Judicial District Court of Common Pleas in cooperation with Montgomery Bar Association. (2018)
Philadelphia County: Child Support in Philadelphia County
Information from the Family Law Section of the Philadelphia Bar Association on filing for child support in Philadelphia County.
Philadelphia County: Divorce in Philadelphia County
Brochure from Family Law Section of the Philadelphia Bar Association providing information on the divorce process in Philadelphia County. (December 2021)
Philadelphia County: Family Law Forms - Philadelphia Bar Association
Here you will find links to printable documents relating to various areas of Family Law. These forms and instructions were prepared under the sponsorship of the Family Law Section of the Philadelphia Bar Association.
Custody Proceedings - Representing Yourself: Forms and Information from the Pennsylvania Courts
Free online information is available from the Pennsylvania Courts website to assist the growing number of Pennsylvanians who want to file their own family law cases in courts across the state. Standardized court forms for child custody proceedings may be obtained on this page of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania’s website. Included are forms for both parents and third parties, including grandparents.
Dauphin County: Custody in Dauphin County
Information from the Dauphin County Courts outlining the custody process in Dauphin County. This includes the filing of documents in custody cases and the Custody Conference process.
Divorce Proceedings - Representing Yourself: Forms and Information from the Pennsylvania Courts
Free online information is available from the Pennsylvania Courts website to assist the growing number of Pennsylvanians who want to file their own family law cases in courts across the state. Standardized court forms for divorce proceedings may be obtained on this page of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania’s website.
Fayette County - Child Custody Services
Information on Child Custody proceedings in the Fayette County Court of Common Pleas
PA Courts Public Access Policy - Filing Requirements in the Courts (Video)
Effective on January 6, 2018, a new Public Access Policy is in effect in Pennsylvania Courts. This policy imposes requirements on anyone filing court documents in the trial and appellate courts to safeguard information in the documents they file. The Pennsylvania Courts have released a series of videos that explain the judiciary’s new policy for protecting confidential information and the required steps you must take to protect that information when filing documents in the courts. This video provides an overview of the new requirements. Follow the link to view the entire series of videos.
Protection From Abuse (PFA) FAQS
Information from Neighborhood Legal Services on how to get a PFA in Allegheny, Beaver, Butler and Lawrence Countis in Pennsylvania.
Allegheny County Court Family Division - Frequently Asked Questions
The Family Division of the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas offers answers to many Frequently Asked Questions in the area of Custody; Dependency & Related Services; Divorce; Juvenile Delinquency and Probation; Paternity; Protection From Abuse (PFA); and Support.
Carbon Court Self-Service - Child Custody
Information and forms relating to child custody proceedings in Carbon County.
Carbon Self Service Center - Forms
Download forms and information from the Carbon County Court of Common Pleas
Centre County: Domestic Relations Section
The Domestic Relations Section is a Court-appointed office of Centre County Government under the Centre County Court of Common Pleas. The office serves as the Court's child support enforcement agency.
Clarion County: Court Forms
Information and Forms for Self Represented Litigants in Clarion County.
Crawford County - Court Forms and Information
Forms and explanatory information from the Crawford County Court of Common Pleas.
Crawford County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Crawford County.
Dauphin County: Custody in Dauphin County
Information from the Dauphin County Courts outlining the custody process in Dauphin County. This includes the filing of documents in custody cases and the Custody Conference process.
Dauphin County: How Can I Obtain a PFA
Information from the Dauphin County District Attorney on when you can get a Protection From Abuse Order and how to get one in Dauphin County.
Erie County - Protection From Abuse
Resources from the Erie County Office of Protection From Abuse on court procedures in Erie County, including Information on Protection From Abuse; Information on Protection From Intimidation; and Information on Protection From Sexual Violence.
Fayette County - Child Custody Services
Information on Child Custody proceedings in the Fayette County Court of Common Pleas
Franklin County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Franklin County.
Franklin County: Information for Victims of Domestic Violence
Information on services available and the process for obtaining a Protection From Abuse order in Fulton County.
Fulton County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations/support procedures in Fulton County.
Fulton County: Information for Victims of Domestic Violence
Information on services available to victims of domestic violence and on getting a Protection From Abuse order in Fulton County.
Serving a Defendant (Video)
This video from Summit Legal Aid, formerly Laurel Legal Services, explains how to serve an opposing party (defendant) in a lawsuit with legal papers related to the lawsuit. Parties must be notified about court proceedings against them and provided with copies of legal papers filed in the proceedings. This video explains the proper and required legal way to notify them of the proceedings (2020). Summit Legal Aid was formed when Southwestern Pennsylvania Legal Aid and Laurel Legal Services merged into a single legal aid program on July 1, 2023.
Greene County Domestic Relations
Information on support/domestic relations procedures in Greene County.
Huntingdon County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Huntingdon County.
Huntingdon County: Forms
Forms for use in the Huntingdon County Court of Common Pleas.
Indiana County: Forms and Documents
Forms and information regarding proceedings in the Indiana County Court of Common Pleas.
Indiana County Government - Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Indiana County.
Jefferson County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Jefferson County.
Juniata County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Juniata County.
Lackawanna County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Lackawanna County.
Lancaster County: Judge Henry S. Kenderdine Jr. Self Help Center
The Lancaster County Court Self Help Center opened in July, 2004. The main purpose of the Center is to provide one central location where self-represented litigants can obtain some of the information and forms that they may need to represent themselves in certain types of court actions.
Lancaster County - Office of Domestic Relations
Information on the Support process in Lancaster county.
Lawrence County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Lawrence County.
Lawrence County: PFA (Protection From Abuse) Coordinator/Lawyer Referral
The PFA Coordinator/Lawyer Referral is part of the Court Administration and is responsible for the processing of all Protection From Abuse Petitions, and is also the referral service for lawyers in Lawrence County.
Lebanon County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Lebanon County.
Lehigh County Custody Office
Information on the Child Custody Office which processes cases regarding custody, partial custody or visitation of children.
Lehigh County: Divorce - Self Help Center of the Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas
This informational section is for reference and research purposes only. This section explains the basic forms needed for a plaintiff to file a simple Mutual Consent No Fault Divorce or a simple No Fault Divorce when parties have been separated for two years.
Lehigh County Domestic Relations Section
Information on the services provided by the Domestic Relations Section.
Lehigh County Online Self Help Center
This site provides answers to some commonly asked questions concerning legal procedures in Pennsylvania. The forms provided here are specific to Lehigh County.
Lehigh County: Protection From Abuse
Information Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas on the services provided by the Family Court office in Lehigh County.
Luzerne County: Child Custody Video Workshop
This video workshop, focused on Luzerne County, provides basic information about child custody and visitation and describes how custody disputes are handled through the courts or through negotiation or mediation. (2014)
Luzerne County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Luzerne County.
Lycoming County: Child Custody Video Workshop
This video workshop, focused on Lycoming County, provides basic information about child custody and visitation and describes how custody disputes are handled through the courts or through negotiation or mediation
Lycoming County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations/support procedures in Lycoming County.
Lycoming County Forms
On this page, you will find various Lycoming County Courts legal forms. These packets can also be found in the law library. The law library staff cannot provide legal advice, but they can assist in filling out the forms. Use the forms on this page at your own risk – as they may or may not be appropriate in your particular case. It is strongly recommended you seek legal advice and obtain the services of an attorney. Litigants representing themselves are held to the same standards as attorneys admitted to the bar of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Representing yourself does not exempt you from understanding and following state-wide and local rules of court.
McKean County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations/support procedures in McKean County.
Mercer County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations/support procedures in Mercer County.
Mifflin County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Mifflin County.
Mifflin County: Prothonotary Forms
Custody, Divorce and Expungement forms from the Prothonotary and MidPenn Legal Services for use in Mifflin County may be viewed and downloaded.
Monroe County: Child Custody Video Workshop
This video workshop, focused on Monroe County, provides basic information about child custody and visitation and describes how custody disputes are handled through the courts or through negotiation or mediation. (2014)
Monroe County: Domestic Relations
The Domestic Relations Section (DRS) is a court office that helps parents apply for child support services, establish paternity and support orders, and enforce support orders. Child support is money a noncustodial parent pays to a custodial parent to help provide food, clothing and other necessary items for their child. Child support may include medical support, payment of uncovered medical bills and contributions to child care costs. The DRS can also help if the noncustodial parent lives in another Pennsylvania county, a different state, or another country.
Monroe County - Forms
Forms available for use in the Monroe County Court of Common Pleas.
Montgomery County: Custody Mediation Orientation Program
Information on the Montgomery County Custody Mediation Orientation Program. An orientation session is an initial meeting between parties, and a mediator to educate the parties concerning the mediation process so that an informed choice can be made about continued participation in that process.
Montgomery County Domestic Relations
The Montgomery County Domestic Relations Office establishes paternity and determines and enforces child and spousal support orders in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations, statutes, and rules of civil procedure.
Montgomery County: Forms
Forms provided by the Montgomery County Court of County Pleas.
Montgomery County: How To File a Custody Complaint in Montgomery County, PA (Video)
A short, step-by-step instructional video on "How to File a Custody Complaint in Montgomery County, PA. This video was produced by the 38th Judicial District Court of Common Pleas in cooperation with Montgomery Bar Association. (2018)
Montgomery County: Protection From Abuse
Information on Protection From Abuse procedures in Montgomery County. To qualify for a Protection from Abuse order, there must be either a family relationship or an intimate relationship with the person from whom you want to file for protection. The Protection from Abuse Department is located on the first floor of the Montgomery County Courthouse in Norristown.
Montour County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Montour County.
Northampton County: Child Custody Self Help
Information on Child Custody Proceedings in Northampton County.
Northampton County Domestic Relations
The Domestic Relations Section is responsible for the establishment of Support Orders on behalf of children and spouses, establishment of paternity, location of absent obligors, and the enforcement of monetary Orders for Support and medical support. The Domestic Relations Section also establishes and enforces Orders for Alimony Pendente Lite and enforces alimony Orders.
Northampton County: Handbook for Self Represented Litigants
The purpose of this handbook is to provide self-represented litigants with a general idea of the legal process and to further provide some direction with regard to self-representation. It also provides information on websites designed to provide information, forms and other support to self represented litigants in Pennsylvania actions.
Northampton County: Protection From Abuse Information
Information on Protection From Abuse services in Northampton county. Under the Protection From Abuse Act, you may file for an order if the person who has or is trying to harm you is/was your spouse; was living with you in a common-law marriage or as your boyfriend/girlfriend; the parent of your child; your child; was a sexual or intimate partner; your parent; or related to you by blood or marriage.
Serving a Defendant (Video)
This video from Summit Legal Aid, formerly Laurel Legal Services, explains how to serve an opposing party (defendant) in a lawsuit with legal papers related to the lawsuit. Parties must be notified about court proceedings against them and provided with copies of legal papers filed in the proceedings. This video explains the proper and required legal way to notify them of the proceedings (2020). Summit Legal Aid was formed when Southwestern Pennsylvania Legal Aid and Laurel Legal Services merged into a single legal aid program on July 1, 2023.
Perry County: Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Perry County.
Philadelphia County: Child Support in Philadelphia County
Information from the Family Law Section of the Philadelphia Bar Association on filing for child support in Philadelphia County.
Philadelphia County: Complaint for Custody
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. This form should be used to request the court to enter an order deciding custody of children when there is no Custody Order currently in effect.
Philadelphia County: Complaint for Support
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in Support proceeding taking place in Philadelphia courts. You may use this form if you want support for your children (child support) and/or if you want support from your husband (spousal support). You must file separate complaints against each father.
Philadelphia County: Court Forms
Forms from the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia. Forms are available for the various divisions of the Court by clicking through the listings on the page.
Philadelphia County (Custody): Criminal Record and Abuse History Form
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Please of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts.
Philadelphia County: Divorce in Philadelphia County
Brochure from Family Law Section of the Philadelphia Bar Association providing information on the divorce process in Philadelphia County. (December 2021)
Philadelphia County: Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Philadelphia County.
Philadelphia County: Domestic Relations Information Sheet
Form from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia for use in domestic relations proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts.
Philadelphia County: Exceptions to Recommendation of Custody Master
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. Custody Exceptions can be filed when you disagree with the Custody Master’s Proposed Order or you think that the Custody Master made an error. Exceptions MUST be filed by the date given on the Proposed Order.
Philadelphia County: Exceptions to Recommendation of Support Hearing Master
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in Support proceeding taking place in Philadelphia courts. If you do not agree with the Recommendation of the Support Hearing Officer, you can file Exceptions. THE PROPOSED ORDER WILL BE IN EFFECT UNTIL YOUR EXCEPTIONS ARE DECIDED. Exceptions MUST be filed by the date given on the Proposed Order. If you do not object by filing Exceptions, the Master’s Recommendation will become a final court order.
Philadelphia County: Family Law Forms - Philadelphia Bar Association
Here you will find links to printable documents relating to various areas of Family Law. These forms and instructions were prepared under the sponsorship of the Family Law Section of the Philadelphia Bar Association.
Philadelphia County: Motion Cover Sheet
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in family law proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. This is a cover sheet required by the Court when filing motions in court.
Philadelphia County: Motion for Home Investigation
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. A Motion for a Home Investigation can be filed if you believe the other party lives with or plans to live with the child(ren) in a place that is not safe. Examples of unsafe conditions include: 1) no heat; 2) holes in the floor; 3) no running water; 4) other hazardous conditions; 5) no beds or cribs for the child(ren).
Philadelphia County: Motion for Mental Health Assessment (MHA)
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Please of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts.
Philadelphia County: Motion for Protracted Custody Hearing
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. A Motion for a Protracted Hearing must be filed if you think you will need more than 2 hours for your case. You should file this motion as soon as possible after you know your case is going to be heard by a judge. If a motion is not filed, the time you have for your case will be limited.
Philadelphia County: Petition for Contempt of Custody Order
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. Use this form if the other party violates an existing Custody Order. If you also want to change the Custody Order, you MUST also file a Petition to Modify Custody in addition to a Petition for Contempt.
Philadelphia County: Petition for Contempt of Protection From Abuse Order
You can pursue a violation of a Protection from Abuse Order by filing a Civil Petition for Contempt of the protection order. This form from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia should be used to start a Contempt of Protection From Abuse action in Philadelphia.
Philadelphia County: Petition for Emergency Relief - Custody
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. To file an Emergency custody petition, you must already have one of the following custody petitions pending: Complaint for Custody, Petition to Modify, or a Petition for Contempt. If you do not have one of these petitions pending you must file one of them at the same time that you file the Emergency Custody Petition. There may be additional fees for these filings.
Philadelphia County: Petition for Expedited Relief - Custody
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. A Petition for Expedited Relief can be filed in situations that are not emergencies but when you are in need of immediate review by the court. Expedited Relief provides a quick decision on a small part of the case. You may want to file for Expedited Relief if you are being denied access to the child(ren); there is a time sensitive situation such as medical or educational needs; or the other party has changed the custody arrangement and you are not in agreement.
Philadelphia County: Petition for Expedited Relief - Custody
A Petition for Expedited Relief can be filed in situations that are not emergencies but when you are in need of immediate review by the court. Expedited Relief provides a quick decision on a small part of the case. This form is to be used only in Philadelphia Courts.
Philadelphia County: Petition for Reconsideration of Custody Order
Form Petition for Reconsideration of Custody Order with Instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia. A Petition for Reconsideration may be filed within 30 days of the date of a custody order if you believe that an error was made or that something very important was not considered. In filing a Petition for Reconsideration you are asking the same judge who heard the case to review his/her decision. Your petition must state the reasons why you believe the Court should make a different decision.
Philadelphia County: Petition to Extend Protection From Abuse Order
Form from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia for use in Protection From Abuse proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. This petition requests an extension of an existing Protection From Abuse Order.
Philadelphia County: Petition to Modify (Change) an Existing Support Order
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in Support proceeding taking place in Philadelphia courts. You may use this form if you are party to a current support order in Philadelphia County and you want to ask for an increase, a decrease, or to stop the order altogether.
Philadelphia County: Petition to Modify Custody
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. This form should be used to request a change or modification of an existing custody order.
Philadelphia County: Petition to Modify Protection From Abuse Order
Form from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia for use in Protection From Abuse proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. This form is used to request a modification or change in an existing Protection From Abuse Order.
Philadelphia County: Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis (IFP)
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Please of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. (2015)
Philadelphia County: Petition to Relocate With Child
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts. If you wish to move with your children out of the Philadelphia area and the non-custodial parent does not agree, you must get permission from the court. This is a complicated matter and you should consult an attorney or go to 1501 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA to get help. Under Pennsylvania law, relocation is defined as "a change in a residence of the child which significantly impairs the ability of a nonrelocating party to exercise custodial rights."
Philadelphia County: Rule to Show Cause
Form from the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts.
Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas Forms Center
Forms available from the Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas
Pike County: Pro Se Forms
Pro Se forms for use by unrepresented parties in the Court of Common Pleas of Pike County.
Potter County: Court Related Information and Forms
Court-related information and forms from the Judges Chamber of the Potter County Court of Common Pleas.
Potter County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Potter County.
Schuylkill County: Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Schuylkill county.
Schuylkill County: Prothonotary Forms
Forms for use in the Schuylkill County Court of Common Pleas.
Serving a Defendant (Video)
This video from Summit Legal Aid, formerly Laurel Legal Services, explains how to serve an opposing party (defendant) in a lawsuit with legal papers related to the lawsuit. Parties must be notified about court proceedings against them and provided with copies of legal papers filed in the proceedings. This video explains the proper and required legal way to notify them of the proceedings (2020). Summit Legal Aid was formed when Southwestern Pennsylvania Legal Aid and Laurel Legal Services merged into a single legal aid program on July 1, 2023.
Snyder County: Court Forms
Forms for use in the Court of Common Pleas in 17th Judicial District - Snyder County.