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
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
Carbon Court Self-Service - Child Custody
Information and forms relating to child custody proceedings in Carbon County.
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.
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.
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.
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.
McKean County: Family Law Forms
Listing of Family Law forms available from the 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.
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 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.
Carbon Court 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]
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.
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.
Huntingdon County: Forms
Forms for use in the Huntingdon County Court of Common Pleas.
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.
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 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.
Adams County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Adams County.
Armstrong County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Armstrong County.
Beaver County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Beaver County.
Bedford County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Bedford County.
Berks County: Domestic Relations Section of the Berks County Court of Common Pleas
Domestic Relations is a part of the Berks County Court of Common Pleas. It helps the Court establish and enforce Court Orders for child support and spousal support.
Blair County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Blair County.
Bradford County Domestic Relations Office
Information on domestic relations procedures in Bradford County.
Bucks County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Bucks County.
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.
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
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.
Clinton County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Clinton County.
Crawford County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Crawford County.
Cumberland County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Cumberland County.
Dauphin County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Dauphin County.
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.
Fayette County Domestic Relations
Information on support porcedures in Fayette County.
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.
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 - 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.
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 allows you to locate the local domestic relations office in your county.
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.
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.
Pennsylvania Child Support Handbook
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 website. The site prvides is an easy way to access child support program information and case details or to seek support services online.
Perry County: Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Perry County.
Carbon Court 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.
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.
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 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: Protection From Abuse in Lancaster County
Information on Protection Orders including Protection From Abuse Order; Sexual Violence Protection Order; and Protection from Intimidation Order. It outlines the procedures for filing an action including forms.
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.
Monroe County: Protection From Abuse
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. Information on how and where to File for a PFA Order in Monroe County.
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 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.
Carbon Court Self Service Center - Forms
Download forms and information from the Carbon County Court of Common Pleas
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
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. 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.
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.
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.
Local Forms and Self-Help Information
For local forms and information for your county, click the category listing that apply to your case to see the SELF-HELP FORMS AND INFORMATION. Counties are listed alphabetically after some generally applicable forms or you can set your location on the page to see only forms applicable for that location.
Pennsylvania Child Support Program
Link to the Pennsylvania Child Support website. The site prvides 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
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.
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
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.
Pennsylvania Child Support Handbook
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 website. The site prvides is an easy way to access child support program information and case details or to seek support services online.
Local Forms and Self-Help Information
For local forms and information for your county, click the category listing that apply to your case to see the SELF-HELP FORMS AND INFORMATION. Counties are listed alphabetically after some generally applicable forms or you can set your location on the page to see only forms applicable for that location.
Adams County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Adams County.
Armstrong County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Armstrong County.
Beaver County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Beaver County.
Bedford County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Bedford County.
Berks County: Domestic Relations Section of the Berks County Court of Common Pleas
Domestic Relations is a part of the Berks County Court of Common Pleas. It helps the Court establish and enforce Court Orders for child support and spousal support.
Blair County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Blair County.
Bradford County Domestic Relations Office
Information on domestic relations procedures in Bradford County.
Bucks County Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Bucks County.
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.
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
Carbon Court Self-Service - Child Custody
Information and forms relating to 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
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.
Clinton County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Clinton 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.
Cumberland County Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Cumberland 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 Domestic Relations
Information on support procedures in Dauphin 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.
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.
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.
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
Fayette County Domestic Relations
Information on support porcedures in Fayette 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.
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.
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.
Locate Your Local Domestic Relations Office
This site 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.
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: 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.
Lancaster County - Office of Domestic Relations
Information on the Support process in Lancaster county.
Lancaster County: Protection From Abuse in Lancaster County
Information on Protection Orders including Protection From Abuse Order; Sexual Violence Protection Order; and Protection from Intimidation Order. It outlines the procedures for filing an action including forms.
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: 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. 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.
Locate Your Local Domestic Relations Office
This site 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.
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.
McKean County: Family Law Forms
Listing of Family Law forms available from the Court.
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 - Forms
Forms available for use in the Monroe County Court of Common Pleas.
Monroe County: Protection From Abuse
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. Information on how and where to File for a PFA Order in Monroe County.
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.
Northumberland County Court Forms - Family, PFA, Custody
Court forms published on Northumberland County website.
Locate Your Local Domestic Relations Office
This site allows you to locate the local domestic relations office in your county.
Perry County: Domestic Relations
Information on domestic relations procedures in Perry 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 allows you to locate the local domestic relations office in your county.