Self-Help forms and Online Resources for issues relating to Children and Families.
Click on a resource category listed below to see information related to that category.
Please set your location at the top of the page to see local forms, processes and procedures where you live.
Dauphin County: Navigating the Child Support Process
Information and instructional videos from the Dauphin County Self Help Center on navigating the child support process in Dauphin County.
How to Change Your Name - A Self-Help Guide
This guide from the Pennsylvania Institutional Law Project is intended to provide information that will allow those wishing to change their names to do so without the need for an attorney. [PDF]
Carbon Court Self Service Center - Forms
Download forms and information from the Carbon County Court of Common Pleas. The Carbon Court Self Service Center provides information and forms related to the various services offered in Carbon County.
Carbon Court Self-Service - How to File for Child Custody
Information, instructions, and forms relating to the filing of child custody proceedings in Carbon County.
Crawford County - Court Forms and Information
Forms and explanatory information from the Crawford County Court of Common Pleas regarding Court processes and procedures.
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.
Dauphin County Self Help Center
Information on the Dauphin County Pro Se Litigant Self Help Center. The Self-Help Center provides forms and instructions for various types of proceedings. The Self-Help Center was established in 2005 and is a collaborate effort between the Dauphin County Court and the Dauphin County Bar Association so that citizens of Dauphin County had access to certain forms and instructions.
Delaware County: Helpful Legal Information for the Public - Delaware County Bar Association
Information and forms to assist self-represented litigants in certain types of Court actions compiled by the Pro Se Committee of the Delaware County Bar Association. If you are trying to find help for yourself, this page lists some of the more common forms used in court and an explanation of those forms. This information is NOT intended to provide legal advice but is for informational purposes only.
Elk County Court Forms
Forms from the Court of Common Pleas of the 59th Judicial District serving Elk and Cameron Counties.
Fayette County - Child Custody Services
Information on Child Custody proceedings in the Fayette County Court of Common Pleas. The Child Custody Services Office conducts mediations and hearings regarding legal and physical custody of minor children between parents, grandparents, and third parties.
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.
Indiana County: Forms and Documents
Forms and information regarding proceedings in the Indiana County Court of Common Pleas. This provides a listing of the Court Documents and Forms that are available online from the Court.
Lehigh County Custody Information
Information on the Child Custody Office which processes cases regarding custody, partial custody or visitation of children. The Family Court Office provides court forms and intake assistance to persons seeking a court order involving custody or visitation of minor children. The Family Court staff does not provide legal advice. Forms and instructions for filing for Child Custody are available at the Self Help Section.
Lehigh County Online Self Help Center
This site provides answers to some commonly asked questions concerning legal procedures in Pennsylvania. This site does not provide legal advice. This site is designed to help you find information, work better with an attorney and represent yourself in some legal matters. The forms provided here are specific to Lehigh County. If you represent yourself, you are called a "pro se" or "self-represented" litigant.
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: Family Law Forms
Listing of Family Law forms available from the Court of Common Pleas of McKean County.
Mifflin County: Prothonotary Forms
Custody, Divorce and Expungement forms from the Prothonotary of the Mifflin County Court of Common Pleas and MidPenn Legal Services for use in Mifflin County. These forms may be viewed and downloaded here.
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)
Montgomery County: Custody Mediation Orientation Program
Information on the Montgomery County Custody Mediation Orientation Program. Generally, parties in an action for custody, partial custody or visitation are required attend a custody mediation orientation session prior to the scheduled Custody Conciliation Conference. 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 Prothonotary of 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.
Northumberland County Court Forms - Family, PFA, Custody
Court forms published on Northumberland County website.
PA Courts Public Access Policy - Filing Requirements in the Courts (Video)
Effective on January 6, 2018, a new Public Access Policy went into 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.
Carbon Court Self Service Center - Forms
Download forms and information from the Carbon County Court of Common Pleas. The Carbon Court Self Service Center provides information and forms related to the various services offered in Carbon County.
Crawford County - Court Forms and Information
Forms and explanatory information from the Crawford County Court of Common Pleas regarding Court processes and procedures.
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]
Dauphin County Self Help Center
Information on the Dauphin County Pro Se Litigant Self Help Center. The Self-Help Center provides forms and instructions for various types of proceedings. The Self-Help Center was established in 2005 and is a collaborate effort between the Dauphin County Court and the Dauphin County Bar Association so that citizens of Dauphin County had access to certain forms and instructions.
Delaware County: Helpful Legal Information for the Public - Delaware County Bar Association
Information and forms to assist self-represented litigants in certain types of Court actions compiled by the Pro Se Committee of the Delaware County Bar Association. If you are trying to find help for yourself, this page lists some of the more common forms used in court and an explanation of those forms. This information is NOT intended to provide legal advice but is for informational purposes only.
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.
Filling out an Affidavit of Service (Video)
This video from Summit Legal Aid, formerly Laurel Legal Services, explains how to complete and file an Affidavit of Service in a custody proceeding after servicing legal papers on the opposing party in your case. The video covers situations where a person is personally served by giving them a copy of the papers and when the service is done by mail. (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.
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.
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. This site does not provide legal advice. This site is designed to help you find information, work better with an attorney and represent yourself in some legal matters. The forms provided here are specific to Lehigh County. If you represent yourself, you are called a "pro se" or "self-represented" litigant.
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 of the Mifflin County Court of Common Pleas and MidPenn Legal Services for use in Mifflin County. These forms may be viewed and downloaded here.
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.
Northumberland County Court Forms - Family, PFA, Custody
Court forms published on Northumberland County website.
PA Courts Public Access Policy - Filing Requirements in the Courts (Video)
Effective on January 6, 2018, a new Public Access Policy went into 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.
Adams County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Adams County. The mission of the Domestic Relations Section is to provide timely and professional support services by working with parents, partner agencies, and the community to enhance family self-sufficiency, promote responsible parenting, and ensure that the best interests of the children are met.
Armstrong County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Armstrong County.
Beaver County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Beaver County. Domestic Relations is the branch of the Court of Common Pleas designated to handle the establishment and enforcement of Court orders relating to spousal and child support. These services are controlled by local, state and federal rules and regulations which are strictly applied in all cases.
Bedford County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Bedford County. The Domestic Relations office specializes in the establishment, modification and enforcement of Child and Spousal Support Orders.
Berks County: Domestic Relations Section of the Berks County Court of Common Pleas
The Domestic Relations Section s a part of the Berks County Court of Common Pleas. The Domestic Relations Section is mainly responsible for working with families to establish and collect support for children and spouses.
Blair County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Blair County. The mission of the Domestic Relations Section is to work for the children of Blair County and those we serve, to assist them in obtaining financial support. The Section serves as an impartial liaison to provide services through the establishment of paternity, support orders and enforcement of support orders as directed by the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure.
Bradford County Domestic Relations Office
Information on domestic relations procedures in Bradford County. The Bradford County Domestic Relations Office is supervised by the President Judge of the Bradford County Courts and is responsible for the establishment and enforcement of child support, spousal support, alimony pendente lite, and alimony orders.
Bucks County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Bucks County. Bucks County Domestic Relations Section (DRS), a department within the Family Court Division, enters, modifies, and enforces orders for child support, spousal support, and alimony pendente lite. Domestic Relations is a court office committed to promoting the health and well-being of children by establishing support orders and ensuring parents pay child support on a regular and timely basis.
Butler County Family Court: Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Butler County.
Cambria County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Cambria County. The Domestic Relations Section of the Court of Common Pleas of Cambria County is responsible for all matters involving the establishment of paternity for children born outside of marriage and in establishing and enforcing financial and medical support for minor children and, if appropriate, dependent spouses.
Carbon County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Carbon County.
Carbon Court Self Service Center - Forms
Download forms and information from the Carbon County Court of Common Pleas. The Carbon Court Self Service Center provides information and forms related to the various services offered in Carbon County.
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.
Chester County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Chester County. The Chester County DRS helps families secure the financial support children and dependents need.
Clearfield County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Clearfield County. The Clearfield County Domestic Relations Office is responsible for working with families to establish and enforce support obligations for children and spouses. Domestic Relations is part of the Clearfield County Court of Common Pleas. It helps the Court establish and enforce Court Orders for child support and spousal support.
Clinton County Domestic Relations
The Clinton County Domestic Relations Section, a branch of the Court of Common Pleas, which provides a variety of services in the support of the children of Clinton County. The office offers services necessary to establish and resolve paternity issues. Child support matters are filed through this office. The Domestic Relations Office is responsible for the establishment and enforcement of child support orders; however, the office does not deal with custody or divorce matters.
Crawford County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Crawford County. The Domestic Relations Section is an office of the Court of Common Pleas assigned with the responsibility to enforce the legal duty of parent(s) to provide financial support for their child(ren) and/or spouse. Property settlements, visitation, and custody are not functions of this office.
Cumberland County Domestic Relations
Information on the Cumberland County Domestic Relations Office. The Domestic Relations Office establishes and enforces child support orders and establishes civil paternity cases, spousal support orders, and APL (alimony pendente lite) orders.
Dauphin County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Dauphin County. The Dauphin County Domestic Relations web site is not a substitute for the Pennsylvania Child Support Enforcement System(PACSES) website, but provides useful Dauphin County specific items such as: county-specific forms and instructions, client handbook, bench warrant list, and links to support guidelines along with other child support related information.
Dauphin County: Navigating the Child Support Process
Information and instructional videos from the Dauphin County Self Help Center on navigating the child support process in Dauphin County.
Delaware County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Delaware County. The Domestic Relations Department of Delaware County serves as the County’s child support enforcement agency under the supervision of the Court of Common Pleas. The Domestic Relations Department prepares petitions for both child and spousal support; establishes paternity for children born out of wedlock; establishes and enforces support orders; and locates absent non-custodial parents.
Elk County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Elk County. The Elk County Domestic Relations Section (D.R.S.) is a court office responsible for the location of absent parents and the establishment of paternity, child, and spousal support obligations. It is also responsible for the enforcement of those obligations which are established at the D.R.S.
Erie County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Erie County. The Domestic Relations Section is the branch of the Court designated to handle the establishment and enforcement of Court Orders relating to paternity, child support and spousal support. These services are controlled by state and federal rules and regulations, which are strictly applied to all cases
Fayette County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Fayette County. The Domestic Relations Office is a division of the Fayette County Court of Common Pleas. The Domestic Relations Office is primarily responsible for working with families to establish paternity and to establish and enforce support orders.
Filling out an Affidavit of Service (Video)
This video from Summit Legal Aid, formerly Laurel Legal Services, explains how to complete and file an Affidavit of Service in a custody proceeding after servicing legal papers on the opposing party in your case. The video covers situations where a person is personally served by giving them a copy of the papers and when the service is done by mail. (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.
Forest County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Forest County. The Domestic Relations Office handles matters pertaining to child support, spousal support and alimony pendente lite. Contact the office for assistance in such matters. The office in Warren serves both Warren and Forest Counties.
Franklin County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Franklin County. Franklin County’s Domestic Relations Section is responsible for establishing and enforcing child support and spousal support orders, establishing paternity, and locating absent parents to ensure support obligations are met.
Fulton County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations/support procedures in Fulton County. The Domestic Relations Section is the agency in Fulton County responsible for all matters involving the support of children and/or spouses. For more information, visit the PA Child Support Program Website.
Greene County Domestic Relations
Information on support/domestic relations procedures in Greene County. The mission of the Domestic Relations Office is to secure financial and medical support for minor children and, where appropriate, for the custodial parents of said minor children. This is accomplished through the location of non-custodial parents, the establishment of paternity, the determination of parents' ability to pay support, provide health insurance and/or pay medical costs, and the establishment and enforcement of support orders.
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. The Domestic Relations Section (DRS) is a court appointed office of Huntingdon County Government under the Huntingdon County Court of Common Pleas. It serves as the court’s child support enforcement agency. The DRS prepares petitions for both child and spousal support orders, establishes support by the Rules of Civil Procedure, enforces support orders, establishes paternity for children born out-of-wedlock. Their services are available to anyone who has custody of a child with an absent parent or to any party seeking spousal support.
Indiana County Domestic Relations Section
Information on domestic relations and support procedures in Indiana County. The Indiana County Domestic Relations Section strives to ensure family self-sufficiency. Their goals are to ensure that children have the financial and medical support of both their parents; to foster responsible behavior towards children and to emphasize that children need both parents involved in their lives.
Jefferson County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Jefferson County. The Jefferson County Domestic Relations Section handles matters of establishing paternity, child support, spousal support, and alimony pendente lite (APL).
Juniata County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations and support procedures in Juniata County. The Domestic Relations Section is a division of the Juniata County Branch of the Court of Common Pleas of the 41st Judicial District. Domestic Relations is responsible for establishing and enforcing orders for child support, spousal support, alimony, support for children in the Court Placement, and reimbursement to the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare. Domestic Relations also assists in locating non-custodial parents and in establishing paternity.
Lackawanna County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Lackawanna County. The Lackawanna County Domestic Relations Section, a part of the Lackawanna County Court of Common Pleas, is responsible for working with families to establish and enforce support obligations for children and spouses.
Lancaster County - Office of Domestic Relations
Information on the Support process in Lancaster county. Domestic Relations (DRS) is the provider of child support services in Lancaster County under the federal child support program (Title IV-D). These services include (1) Enforcement of support orders - financial and medical provisions of support orders; (2) Filing services for child support, spousal support, and/or alimony pendente lite actions Paternity establishment and (3) Support order establishment and modification of existing support orders.
Lawrence County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations and support procedures in Lawrence County. Domestic Relations is part of the Family Court, which is a division of the Lawrence County Court of Common Pleas. Although it has other duties, the Domestic Relations Section mainly enters, modifies, and enforces orders for child support, spousal support, and alimony pendente lite, alimony and establishes paternity for children on support cases who were born out of wedlock.
Lebanon County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Lebanon County. It is the mission of the Lebanon County Domestic Relations Office to ensure families get the financial and medical support they need. This includes establishing parentage and processing requests for support.
Lehigh County Domestic Relations Section
Information on the services provided by the Domestic Relations Section. The Domestic Relations Section (DRS) is a division of the Court of Common Pleas of Lehigh County that is responsible for the establishment and enforcement of support orders under the federal Title IV-D child support enforcement program. The DRS has 60 full-time dedicated staff whose primary mission is to enhance the lives of children and families by ensuring both parents provide the necessary financial support to their children.
Local Support and Domestic Relations Office Procedures
This webpage provides links to information on support collection and Domestic Relations Office procedures in various counties in Pennsylvania.
Locate Your Local Domestic Relations Office
This site from the PA Child Support Program allows you to locate the local domestic relations office in your county.
Luzerne County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Luzerne County. The mission of the Domestic Relations Section is to improve the well-being of children, promote the self-sufficiency of families, and deliver quality child & spousal support services, with recognition that to grow and thrive chiildren require the financial, medical, and emotional support of both parents, regardless of their living situation or relationship. The department performs it's duties in accordance with federal, state and local regulations, statutes and Rules of Civil Procedure to assure that each client is treated fairly and equitably.
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. The McKean County Domestic Relations Office provides services to custodial parents seeking financial and medical support for their minor children. This is accomplished through the location of non-custodial parents, the establishment of paternity, the determination of the parent’s ability to pay support and provide health insurance and/or pay medical costs, and the establishment and enforcement of support orders, within the limits of the law.
Mercer County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations/support procedures in Mercer County. Mercer County Domestic Relations Section is a branch of the Mercer County Court of Common Pleas. This office serves Mercer County families by establishing and enforcing child and spousal support orders.
Montgomery County Domestic Relations
The Montgomery County Domestic Relations Section (MCDRS) supports families by helping ensure children and dependents receive the financial support they deserve. They work with parents, guardians, and caregivers to establish paternity and to establish, modify, and enforce 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. The Columbia/Montour Domestic Relations Office is a part of the 26th Judicial District, Court of Common Pleas. The Domestic Relations Office assists the Court in establishing and enforcing Court Orders for child and spousal support throughout Columbia and Montour Counties.
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 went into 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.
Pennsylvania Child Support Handbook
This handbook from the Bureau of Child Support Enforcement provides information about the operation of the child support system in Pennsylvania. Child support is money a parent pays to help provide food, clothing and other things for his or her child. Child support may include medical support, payment of uncovered medical bills and contributions to childcare costs. The Department of Human Services, Bureau of Child Support Enforcement (BCSE) administers the Pennsylvania Child Support Enforcement Program. BCSE manages the program’s funding and ensures that child support orders in Pennsylvania follow federal and state child support regulations.
Pennsylvania Child Support Program
Link to the Pennsylvania Child Support Program website. The site provides is an easy way to access child support program information and case details or to seek support services online.
Carbon Court Self Service Center - Forms
Download forms and information from the Carbon County Court of Common Pleas. The Carbon Court Self Service Center provides information and forms related to the various services offered in Carbon County.
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. A Protection From Abuse (PFA) is a special restraining order given by the court. In Pennsylvania, victims of domestic violence can get protection orders under a law called the Protection From Abuse Act.
Elk County Court Forms
Forms from the Court of Common Pleas of the 59th Judicial District serving Elk and Cameron Counties.
Filling out an Affidavit of Service (Video)
This video from Summit Legal Aid, formerly Laurel Legal Services, explains how to complete and file an Affidavit of Service in a custody proceeding after servicing legal papers on the opposing party in your case. The video covers situations where a person is personally served by giving them a copy of the papers and when the service is done by mail. (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.
Forms - Pennsylvania Courts
The Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania provides forms for citizens, the judiciary and law enforcement. These bilingual forms are now offered in 13 languages.
Franklin County: Civil Protection Orders for Victims of Domestic Violence
Pennsylvania has three different civil protection order options that offer victims relief from further harm from their perpetrator: Protection From Abuse (PFA), Sexual Violence Protection (SVPO) and Protection From Intimidation (PFI). Civil protection orders can be filed whether or not the incident has been reported to the police. Information on these options in Franklin County is provided here.
Fulton County: Information for Victims of Domestic Violence
Information on services available to victims of domestic violence in Fulton County 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.
Lancaster County: Protection Order Information in Lancaster County
Information on Protection Orders including the Protection From Abuse Order; Sexual Violence Protection Order; and Protection from Intimidation Order. It outlines the procedures for filing an action to obtain a protection order, including forms and instructional videos in English and Spanish/Español.
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 (PFA)
Information from the Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas on the Protection From Abuse 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.
Monroe County: Protection From Abuse
Information on how and where to File for a PFA Order in Monroe County. A Protection From Abuse (PFA) is a civil order of the Court available to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking. It prohibits the offender from abusing, stalking, harassing, threatening or attempting to use physical force that would reasonably cause bodily injury to the victim.
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.
Northumberland County Court Forms - Family, PFA, Custody
Court forms published on Northumberland County website.
PA Courts Public Access Policy - Filing Requirements in the Courts (Video)
Effective on January 6, 2018, a new Public Access Policy went into 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.
Carbon Court Self Service Center - Forms
Download forms and information from the Carbon County Court of Common Pleas. The Carbon Court Self Service Center provides information and forms related to the various services offered in Carbon County.
Dauphin County Self Help Center
Information on the Dauphin County Pro Se Litigant Self Help Center. The Self-Help Center provides forms and instructions for various types of proceedings. The Self-Help Center was established in 2005 and is a collaborate effort between the Dauphin County Court and the Dauphin County Bar Association so that citizens of Dauphin County had access to certain forms and instructions.
Erie County: Name Change Procedure
Information on Name Change procedures in Erie County. This includes links to self-help guides from the Erie County Court of Common Pleas on the procedure to change the name of both adults and minors. (March 2023)
Filling out an Affidavit of Service (Video)
This video from Summit Legal Aid, formerly Laurel Legal Services, explains how to complete and file an Affidavit of Service in a custody proceeding after servicing legal papers on the opposing party in your case. The video covers situations where a person is personally served by giving them a copy of the papers and when the service is done by mail. (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.
How to Change Your Name - A Self-Help Guide
This guide from the Pennsylvania Institutional Law Project is intended to provide information that will allow those wishing to change their names to do so without the need for an attorney. [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.
Lehigh County: Name Change - Self Help Center of the Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas
Name change in Pennsylvania is a judicial procedure which allows an individual to assume a name other than the name given at birth or adoption. If granted, the court will issue an order so the individual may prove the adoption of the new name in order to change other documents such as driver's licenses, bank accounts, and identification cards. This section explains the basic forms and steps needed to legally change your name and/or the name(s) of your minor child(ren). A person must petition the court for a name change, and the court can then decide whether or not to grant it.
Lehigh County Online Self Help Center
This site provides answers to some commonly asked questions concerning legal procedures in Pennsylvania. This site does not provide legal advice. This site is designed to help you find information, work better with an attorney and represent yourself in some legal matters. The forms provided here are specific to Lehigh County. If you represent yourself, you are called a "pro se" or "self-represented" litigant.
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: Forms
Forms provided by the Prothonotary of 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.
Northumberland County Court Forms - Family, PFA, Custody
Court forms published on Northumberland County website.
Adoption and Fostering Forms
Forms and general information from the Pennsylvania Statewide Adoption and Permanency Network about the adoption and fostering processes, post adoption information and available forms.
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.
Federal Court Finder
Find a federal court location by location or court name, including appellate, district, bankruptcy, probation and pretrial office, or federal defender organization. Each District Court has its own local forms which are generally available on the Court website.
Filing for Emergency Custody: A Walk-Through (Video)
This video from Summit Legal Aid, formerly Laurel Legal Services, provides a walk-through of completing the forms necessary to file for Emergency Custody in Armstrong, Cambria, Clarion, Indiana, Jefferson and Westmoreland Counties. (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.
Filling out an Affidavit of Service (Video)
This video from Summit Legal Aid, formerly Laurel Legal Services, explains how to complete and file an Affidavit of Service in a custody proceeding after servicing legal papers on the opposing party in your case. The video covers situations where a person is personally served by giving them a copy of the papers and when the service is done by mail. (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.
Forms - Pennsylvania Courts
The Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania provides forms for citizens, the judiciary and law enforcement. These bilingual forms are now offered in 13 languages.
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.
Pennsylvania Child Support Program
Link to the Pennsylvania Child Support Program website. The site provides is an easy way to access child support program information and case details or to seek support services online.
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]
Filing for Emergency Custody: A Walk-Through (Video)
This video from Summit Legal Aid, formerly Laurel Legal Services, provides a walk-through of completing the forms necessary to file for Emergency Custody in Armstrong, Cambria, Clarion, Indiana, Jefferson and Westmoreland Counties. (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.
Filling out an Affidavit of Service (Video)
This video from Summit Legal Aid, formerly Laurel Legal Services, explains how to complete and file an Affidavit of Service in a custody proceeding after servicing legal papers on the opposing party in your case. The video covers situations where a person is personally served by giving them a copy of the papers and when the service is done by mail. (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.
How to Change Your Name - A Self-Help Guide
This guide from the Pennsylvania Institutional Law Project is intended to provide information that will allow those wishing to change their names to do so without the need for an attorney. [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.
Lackawanna County: Child Custody Video Workshop
This video workshop, focused on Lackawanna County, provides basic information about child custody and visitation and describes how custody disputes are handled through the courts or through negotiation or mediation.
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. (2017)
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)
Delaware County: Helpful Legal Information for the Public - Delaware County Bar Association
Information and forms to assist self-represented litigants in certain types of Court actions compiled by the Pro Se Committee of the Delaware County Bar Association. If you are trying to find help for yourself, this page lists some of the more common forms used in court and an explanation of those forms. This information is NOT intended to provide legal advice but is for informational purposes only.
Erie County: How to Get a Custody Order in Erie County
Information from the Erie County Bar Association about the steps involved in getting a custody order in Erie County. (June 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)
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.
Erie County: Name Change Procedure
Information on Name Change procedures in Erie County. This includes links to self-help guides from the Erie County Court of Common Pleas on the procedure to change the name of both adults and minors. (March 2023)
Fayette County - Child Custody Services
Information on Child Custody proceedings in the Fayette County Court of Common Pleas. The Child Custody Services Office conducts mediations and hearings regarding legal and physical custody of minor children between parents, grandparents, and third parties.
Forms - Pennsylvania Courts
The Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania provides forms for citizens, the judiciary and law enforcement. These bilingual forms are now offered in 13 languages.
PA Courts Public Access Policy - Filing Requirements in the Courts (Video)
Effective on January 6, 2018, a new Public Access Policy went into 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.
Pennsylvania Child Support Handbook
This handbook from the Bureau of Child Support Enforcement provides information about the operation of the child support system in Pennsylvania. Child support is money a parent pays to help provide food, clothing and other things for his or her child. Child support may include medical support, payment of uncovered medical bills and contributions to childcare costs. The Department of Human Services, Bureau of Child Support Enforcement (BCSE) administers the Pennsylvania Child Support Enforcement Program. BCSE manages the program’s funding and ensures that child support orders in Pennsylvania follow federal and state child support regulations.
Pennsylvania Child Support Program
Link to the Pennsylvania Child Support Program website. The site provides is an easy way to access child support program information and case details or to seek support services online.
Delaware County: Self Help - DIVORCE
Information and forms on divorce procedures in the Delaware County Court of Common Pleas.
Adams County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Adams County. The mission of the Domestic Relations Section is to provide timely and professional support services by working with parents, partner agencies, and the community to enhance family self-sufficiency, promote responsible parenting, and ensure that the best interests of the children are met.
Armstrong County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Armstrong County.
Beaver County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Beaver County. Domestic Relations is the branch of the Court of Common Pleas designated to handle the establishment and enforcement of Court orders relating to spousal and child support. These services are controlled by local, state and federal rules and regulations which are strictly applied in all cases.
Bedford County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Bedford County. The Domestic Relations office specializes in the establishment, modification and enforcement of Child and Spousal Support Orders.
Berks County: Domestic Relations Section of the Berks County Court of Common Pleas
The Domestic Relations Section s a part of the Berks County Court of Common Pleas. The Domestic Relations Section is mainly responsible for working with families to establish and collect support for children and spouses.
Blair County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Blair County. The mission of the Domestic Relations Section is to work for the children of Blair County and those we serve, to assist them in obtaining financial support. The Section serves as an impartial liaison to provide services through the establishment of paternity, support orders and enforcement of support orders as directed by the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure.
Bradford County Domestic Relations Office
Information on domestic relations procedures in Bradford County. The Bradford County Domestic Relations Office is supervised by the President Judge of the Bradford County Courts and is responsible for the establishment and enforcement of child support, spousal support, alimony pendente lite, and alimony orders.
Bucks County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Bucks County. Bucks County Domestic Relations Section (DRS), a department within the Family Court Division, enters, modifies, and enforces orders for child support, spousal support, and alimony pendente lite. Domestic Relations is a court office committed to promoting the health and well-being of children by establishing support orders and ensuring parents pay child support on a regular and timely basis.
Butler County Family Court: Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Butler County.
Cambria County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Cambria County. The Domestic Relations Section of the Court of Common Pleas of Cambria County is responsible for all matters involving the establishment of paternity for children born outside of marriage and in establishing and enforcing financial and medical support for minor children and, if appropriate, dependent spouses.
Carbon County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Carbon County.
Carbon Court Self Service Center - Forms
Download forms and information from the Carbon County Court of Common Pleas. The Carbon Court Self Service Center provides information and forms related to the various services offered in Carbon County.
Carbon Court Self-Service - How to File for Child Custody
Information, instructions, and forms relating to the filing of child custody proceedings in Carbon County.
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.
Chester County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Chester County. The Chester County DRS helps families secure the financial support children and dependents need.
Clarion County: Custody Process in Clarion County
The Clarion County Court of Common Pleas provides this explanation of the custody process in Clarion County, including some links to resources and forms to assist people involved in the process.
Clearfield County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Clearfield County. The Clearfield County Domestic Relations Office is responsible for working with families to establish and enforce support obligations for children and spouses. Domestic Relations is part of the Clearfield County Court of Common Pleas. It helps the Court establish and enforce Court Orders for child support and spousal support.
Clinton County Domestic Relations
The Clinton County Domestic Relations Section, a branch of the Court of Common Pleas, which provides a variety of services in the support of the children of Clinton County. The office offers services necessary to establish and resolve paternity issues. Child support matters are filed through this office. The Domestic Relations Office is responsible for the establishment and enforcement of child support orders; however, the office does not deal with custody or divorce matters.
Crawford County - Court Forms and Information
Forms and explanatory information from the Crawford County Court of Common Pleas regarding Court processes and procedures.
Crawford County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Crawford County. The Domestic Relations Section is an office of the Court of Common Pleas assigned with the responsibility to enforce the legal duty of parent(s) to provide financial support for their child(ren) and/or spouse. Property settlements, visitation, and custody are not functions of this office.
Cumberland County Domestic Relations
Information on the Cumberland County Domestic Relations Office. The Domestic Relations Office establishes and enforces child support orders and establishes civil paternity cases, spousal support orders, and APL (alimony pendente lite) orders.
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 Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Dauphin County. The Dauphin County Domestic Relations web site is not a substitute for the Pennsylvania Child Support Enforcement System(PACSES) website, but provides useful Dauphin County specific items such as: county-specific forms and instructions, client handbook, bench warrant list, and links to support guidelines along with other child support related information.
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. A Protection From Abuse (PFA) is a special restraining order given by the court. In Pennsylvania, victims of domestic violence can get protection orders under a law called the Protection From Abuse Act.
Dauphin County: Navigating the Child Support Process
Information and instructional videos from the Dauphin County Self Help Center on navigating the child support process in Dauphin County.
Dauphin County Self Help Center
Information on the Dauphin County Pro Se Litigant Self Help Center. The Self-Help Center provides forms and instructions for various types of proceedings. The Self-Help Center was established in 2005 and is a collaborate effort between the Dauphin County Court and the Dauphin County Bar Association so that citizens of Dauphin County had access to certain forms and instructions.
Delaware County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Delaware County. The Domestic Relations Department of Delaware County serves as the County’s child support enforcement agency under the supervision of the Court of Common Pleas. The Domestic Relations Department prepares petitions for both child and spousal support; establishes paternity for children born out of wedlock; establishes and enforces support orders; and locates absent non-custodial parents.
Delaware County: Helpful Legal Information for the Public - Delaware County Bar Association
Information and forms to assist self-represented litigants in certain types of Court actions compiled by the Pro Se Committee of the Delaware County Bar Association. If you are trying to find help for yourself, this page lists some of the more common forms used in court and an explanation of those forms. This information is NOT intended to provide legal advice but is for informational purposes only.
Elk County Court Forms
Forms from the Court of Common Pleas of the 59th Judicial District serving Elk and Cameron Counties.
Elk County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Elk County. The Elk County Domestic Relations Section (D.R.S.) is a court office responsible for the location of absent parents and the establishment of paternity, child, and spousal support obligations. It is also responsible for the enforcement of those obligations which are established at the D.R.S.
Erie County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Erie County. The Domestic Relations Section is the branch of the Court designated to handle the establishment and enforcement of Court Orders relating to paternity, child support and spousal support. These services are controlled by state and federal rules and regulations, which are strictly applied to all cases
Erie County: How to Get a Custody Order in Erie County
Information from the Erie County Bar Association about the steps involved in getting a custody order in Erie County. (June 2023)
Erie County: Name Change Procedure
Information on Name Change procedures in Erie County. This includes links to self-help guides from the Erie County Court of Common Pleas on the procedure to change the name of both adults and minors. (March 2023)
Fayette County - Child Custody Services
Information on Child Custody proceedings in the Fayette County Court of Common Pleas. The Child Custody Services Office conducts mediations and hearings regarding legal and physical custody of minor children between parents, grandparents, and third parties.
Fayette County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Fayette County. The Domestic Relations Office is a division of the Fayette County Court of Common Pleas. The Domestic Relations Office is primarily responsible for working with families to establish paternity and to establish and enforce support orders.
Filing for Emergency Custody: A Walk-Through (Video)
This video from Summit Legal Aid, formerly Laurel Legal Services, provides a walk-through of completing the forms necessary to file for Emergency Custody in Armstrong, Cambria, Clarion, Indiana, Jefferson and Westmoreland Counties. (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.
Forest County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Forest County. The Domestic Relations Office handles matters pertaining to child support, spousal support and alimony pendente lite. Contact the office for assistance in such matters. The office in Warren serves both Warren and Forest Counties.
Franklin County: Civil Protection Orders for Victims of Domestic Violence
Pennsylvania has three different civil protection order options that offer victims relief from further harm from their perpetrator: Protection From Abuse (PFA), Sexual Violence Protection (SVPO) and Protection From Intimidation (PFI). Civil protection orders can be filed whether or not the incident has been reported to the police. Information on these options in Franklin County is provided here.
Franklin County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Franklin County. Franklin County’s Domestic Relations Section is responsible for establishing and enforcing child support and spousal support orders, establishing paternity, and locating absent parents to ensure support obligations are met.
Fulton County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations/support procedures in Fulton County. The Domestic Relations Section is the agency in Fulton County responsible for all matters involving the support of children and/or spouses. For more information, visit the PA Child Support Program Website.
Fulton County: Information for Victims of Domestic Violence
Information on services available to victims of domestic violence in Fulton County and on getting a Protection From Abuse order in Fulton County.
Locate Your Local Domestic Relations Office
This site from the PA Child Support Program allows you to locate the local domestic relations office in your county.
Filing for Emergency Custody: A Walk-Through (Video)
This video from Summit Legal Aid, formerly Laurel Legal Services, provides a walk-through of completing the forms necessary to file for Emergency Custody in Armstrong, Cambria, Clarion, Indiana, Jefferson and Westmoreland Counties. (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. The mission of the Domestic Relations Office is to secure financial and medical support for minor children and, where appropriate, for the custodial parents of said minor children. This is accomplished through the location of non-custodial parents, the establishment of paternity, the determination of parents' ability to pay support, provide health insurance and/or pay medical costs, and the establishment and enforcement of support orders.
Huntingdon County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Huntingdon County. The Domestic Relations Section (DRS) is a court appointed office of Huntingdon County Government under the Huntingdon County Court of Common Pleas. It serves as the court’s child support enforcement agency. The DRS prepares petitions for both child and spousal support orders, establishes support by the Rules of Civil Procedure, enforces support orders, establishes paternity for children born out-of-wedlock. Their services are available to anyone who has custody of a child with an absent parent or to any party seeking spousal support.
Indiana County Domestic Relations Section
Information on domestic relations and support procedures in Indiana County. The Indiana County Domestic Relations Section strives to ensure family self-sufficiency. Their goals are to ensure that children have the financial and medical support of both their parents; to foster responsible behavior towards children and to emphasize that children need both parents involved in their lives.
Indiana County: Forms and Documents
Forms and information regarding proceedings in the Indiana County Court of Common Pleas. This provides a listing of the Court Documents and Forms that are available online from the Court.
Jefferson County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Jefferson County. The Jefferson County Domestic Relations Section handles matters of establishing paternity, child support, spousal support, and alimony pendente lite (APL).
Juniata County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations and support procedures in Juniata County. The Domestic Relations Section is a division of the Juniata County Branch of the Court of Common Pleas of the 41st Judicial District. Domestic Relations is responsible for establishing and enforcing orders for child support, spousal support, alimony, support for children in the Court Placement, and reimbursement to the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare. Domestic Relations also assists in locating non-custodial parents and in establishing paternity.
Lackawanna County: Child Custody Video Workshop
This video workshop, focused on Lackawanna County, provides basic information about child custody and visitation and describes how custody disputes are handled through the courts or through negotiation or mediation.
Lackawanna County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Lackawanna County. The Lackawanna County Domestic Relations Section, a part of the Lackawanna County Court of Common Pleas, is responsible for working with families to establish and enforce support obligations for children and spouses.
Lancaster County - Office of Domestic Relations
Information on the Support process in Lancaster county. Domestic Relations (DRS) is the provider of child support services in Lancaster County under the federal child support program (Title IV-D). These services include (1) Enforcement of support orders - financial and medical provisions of support orders; (2) Filing services for child support, spousal support, and/or alimony pendente lite actions Paternity establishment and (3) Support order establishment and modification of existing support orders.
Lancaster County: Protection Order Information in Lancaster County
Information on Protection Orders including the Protection From Abuse Order; Sexual Violence Protection Order; and Protection from Intimidation Order. It outlines the procedures for filing an action to obtain a protection order, including forms and instructional videos in English and Spanish/Español.
Lawrence County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations and support procedures in Lawrence County. Domestic Relations is part of the Family Court, which is a division of the Lawrence County Court of Common Pleas. Although it has other duties, the Domestic Relations Section mainly enters, modifies, and enforces orders for child support, spousal support, and alimony pendente lite, alimony and establishes paternity for children on support cases who were born out of wedlock.
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. It is the mission of the Lebanon County Domestic Relations Office to ensure families get the financial and medical support they need. This includes establishing parentage and processing requests for support.
Lehigh County Custody Information
Information on the Child Custody Office which processes cases regarding custody, partial custody or visitation of children. The Family Court Office provides court forms and intake assistance to persons seeking a court order involving custody or visitation of minor children. The Family Court staff does not provide legal advice. Forms and instructions for filing for Child Custody are available at the Self Help Section.
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. The Domestic Relations Section (DRS) is a division of the Court of Common Pleas of Lehigh County that is responsible for the establishment and enforcement of support orders under the federal Title IV-D child support enforcement program. The DRS has 60 full-time dedicated staff whose primary mission is to enhance the lives of children and families by ensuring both parents provide the necessary financial support to their children.
Lehigh County: Name Change - Self Help Center of the Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas
Name change in Pennsylvania is a judicial procedure which allows an individual to assume a name other than the name given at birth or adoption. If granted, the court will issue an order so the individual may prove the adoption of the new name in order to change other documents such as driver's licenses, bank accounts, and identification cards. This section explains the basic forms and steps needed to legally change your name and/or the name(s) of your minor child(ren). A person must petition the court for a name change, and the court can then decide whether or not to grant it.
Lehigh County Online Self Help Center
This site provides answers to some commonly asked questions concerning legal procedures in Pennsylvania. This site does not provide legal advice. This site is designed to help you find information, work better with an attorney and represent yourself in some legal matters. The forms provided here are specific to Lehigh County. If you represent yourself, you are called a "pro se" or "self-represented" litigant.
Lehigh County: Protection From Abuse (PFA)
Information from the Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas on the Protection From Abuse services provided by the Family Court office in Lehigh County.
Locate Your Local Domestic Relations Office
This site from the PA Child Support Program allows you to locate the local domestic relations office in your 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. The mission of the Domestic Relations Section is to improve the well-being of children, promote the self-sufficiency of families, and deliver quality child & spousal support services, with recognition that to grow and thrive chiildren require the financial, medical, and emotional support of both parents, regardless of their living situation or relationship. The department performs it's duties in accordance with federal, state and local regulations, statutes and Rules of Civil Procedure to assure that each client is treated fairly and equitably.
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. (2017)
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. The McKean County Domestic Relations Office provides services to custodial parents seeking financial and medical support for their minor children. This is accomplished through the location of non-custodial parents, the establishment of paternity, the determination of the parent’s ability to pay support and provide health insurance and/or pay medical costs, and the establishment and enforcement of support orders, within the limits of the law.
McKean County: Family Law Forms
Listing of Family Law forms available from the Court of Common Pleas of McKean County.
Mercer County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations/support procedures in Mercer County. Mercer County Domestic Relations Section is a branch of the Mercer County Court of Common Pleas. This office serves Mercer County families by establishing and enforcing child and spousal support orders.
Mifflin County: Prothonotary Forms
Custody, Divorce and Expungement forms from the Prothonotary of the Mifflin County Court of Common Pleas and MidPenn Legal Services for use in Mifflin County. These forms may be viewed and downloaded here.
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: Protection From Abuse
Information on how and where to File for a PFA Order in Monroe County. A Protection From Abuse (PFA) is a civil order of the Court available to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking. It prohibits the offender from abusing, stalking, harassing, threatening or attempting to use physical force that would reasonably cause bodily injury to the victim.
Montgomery County: Custody Mediation Orientation Program
Information on the Montgomery County Custody Mediation Orientation Program. Generally, parties in an action for custody, partial custody or visitation are required attend a custody mediation orientation session prior to the scheduled Custody Conciliation Conference. 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 Section (MCDRS) supports families by helping ensure children and dependents receive the financial support they deserve. They work with parents, guardians, and caregivers to establish paternity and to establish, modify, and enforce 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 Prothonotary of 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. The Columbia/Montour Domestic Relations Office is a part of the 26th Judicial District, Court of Common Pleas. The Domestic Relations Office assists the Court in establishing and enforcing Court Orders for child and spousal support throughout Columbia and Montour Counties.
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.
Northumberland County Court Forms - Family, PFA, Custody
Court forms published on Northumberland County website.
Locate Your Local Domestic Relations Office
This site from the PA Child Support Program allows you to locate the local domestic relations office in your county.
Filing for Emergency Custody: A Walk-Through (Video)
This video from Summit Legal Aid, formerly Laurel Legal Services, provides a walk-through of completing the forms necessary to file for Emergency Custody in Armstrong, Cambria, Clarion, Indiana, Jefferson and Westmoreland Counties. (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.
Locate Your Local Domestic Relations Office
This site from the PA Child Support Program allows you to locate the local domestic relations office in your county.
