Lehigh County Court Records

What Is Lehigh County Court Records

Lehigh County court records encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's court system. These records serve as the comprehensive documentation of judicial activities and decisions rendered by courts operating within Lehigh County, Pennsylvania. Court records are maintained pursuant to Pennsylvania Rule of Judicial Administration 509, which governs public access to court records.

Court records in Lehigh County typically include:

• Case files containing pleadings, motions, and other filed documents
• Docket sheets listing chronological case events
• Court orders and judicial decisions
• Judgments and decrees
• Hearing and trial transcripts
• Evidence and exhibits admitted during proceedings
• Sentencing information in criminal matters
• Marriage licenses and divorce decrees
• Probate documents and estate inventories

These records differ from other public records such as property deeds, vital statistics, or tax assessments, which are maintained by other county departments rather than the court system. Court records specifically document judicial proceedings and their outcomes.

The following courts maintain records within Lehigh County:

Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas
455 W. Hamilton Street
Allentown, PA 18101
610-782-3000
Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas

Magisterial District Courts
Various locations throughout Lehigh County
Lehigh County Magisterial District Courts

Orphans' Court Division
455 W. Hamilton Street
Allentown, PA 18101
610-782-3170
Lehigh County Orphans' Court

Court records in Lehigh County document proceedings across various case types including civil litigation, criminal prosecutions, family law matters, probate proceedings, traffic violations, and small claims disputes.

Are Court Records Public In Lehigh County

Court records in Lehigh County are generally accessible to the public in accordance with Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law and the common law presumption of openness in judicial proceedings. The Pennsylvania Constitution under Article V, § 10(c) grants the Pennsylvania Supreme Court authority to establish rules governing court records access.

The following court records are typically available for public inspection:

• Civil case files and docket sheets
• Criminal case records (post-arraignment)
• Judgments, orders, and decrees
• Court calendars and hearing schedules
• Property records in divorce cases
• Probate inventories and accountings

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

• Juvenile court records (with limited exceptions)
• Mental health proceedings
• Adoption records
• Records sealed by court order
• Documents containing sensitive personal information
• Grand jury materials
• Certain family court records involving minors

Access to federal court records for cases heard in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania (which includes Lehigh County) is governed by federal rules rather than state law. These records are accessible through the federal PACER system.

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court has established specific rules regarding public access to court records through the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania Public Access Policy. This policy balances the public's right to information with privacy concerns and practical limitations.

How To Find Court Records in Lehigh County in 2026

Members of the public seeking court records in Lehigh County may utilize several methods to locate and access these documents. The county maintains both in-person and electronic access options to accommodate various research needs.

For in-person requests, individuals may:

1. Visit the appropriate court office where the case was filed
2. Complete a records request form specifying the desired documents
3. Present valid photo identification
4. Pay applicable search and copying fees
5. Wait for staff to retrieve the requested records

The primary locations for in-person court record requests are:

Lehigh County Clerk of Judicial Records
455 W. Hamilton Street, Room 122
Allentown, PA 18101
610-782-3150
Lehigh County Clerk of Judicial Records
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Lehigh County Criminal/Civil Division
455 W. Hamilton Street
Allentown, PA 18101
610-782-3000
Lehigh County Courts
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

For electronic access, requesters may:

1. Access the Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System Web Portal
2. Create a user account if conducting multiple searches
3. Select the appropriate court system (Magisterial District Courts or Common Pleas)
4. Enter search criteria such as party name, case number, or filing date
5. Review search results and select specific cases for detailed information
6. Pay any required access fees for certain document types

For records not available online, written requests may be submitted to the appropriate court office by mail. Requests should include:

• Requester's full name and contact information
• Specific case information (parties, case number, filing date)
• Description of records sought
• Purpose of the request (if required)
• Payment for applicable fees

Pursuant to Pennsylvania Rule of Judicial Administration 509(c)(5), responses to record requests must be fulfilled within a reasonable time based on the request's scope.

How To Look Up Court Records in Lehigh County Online?

Lehigh County provides several online resources for accessing court records electronically. These systems allow for remote research of case information without visiting court facilities in person.

The primary online portal for Lehigh County court records is the Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System Web Portal, which provides access to multiple court record databases:

1. Common Pleas Court Case Management System (CPCMS)

   • Contains criminal, civil, family, and orphans' court records
   • Allows searches by participant name, case number, or organization
   • Provides docket sheets, court schedules, and basic case information
   • Requires payment for certain document access

2. Magisterial District Judge System (MDJS)

   • Contains records from lower courts handling minor offenses and preliminary hearings
   • Searchable by participant name, docket number, or citation number
   • Provides case status, hearing dates, and disposition information

3. Pennsylvania Appellate Court Case Management System (PACMS)

   • Contains records for cases appealed to higher courts
   • Searchable by party name, docket number, or attorney
   • Provides opinion access and case status updates

To conduct an online search:

1. Visit the UJS Web Portal
2. Select the appropriate database (CPCMS, MDJS, or PACMS)
3. Choose search type (e.g., participant name, case number)
4. Enter search criteria and any date parameters
5. Review search results and select cases for detailed information
6. Access available documents, noting that some may require fees or be unavailable online

Additionally, Lehigh County maintains a Court Records Search through the Clerk of Judicial Records office, which provides access to:

• Civil case records
• Criminal case records
• Orphans' Court records
• Judgment indices

Users should note that online systems may not contain complete case files, particularly for older cases or those with sealed or confidential components. Some documents may only be available through in-person requests.

How To Search Lehigh County Court Records for Free?

Pennsylvania law provides for public inspection of court records at no cost, though fees may apply for copies or certified documents. According to Pennsylvania Rule of Judicial Administration 509(d), "A court may not charge a fee for viewing a case record at the courthouse."

Free access options for Lehigh County court records include:

1. In-Person Inspection

   • Visit the appropriate court office during business hours
   • Request to view specific case files
   • Examine records on-site without charge
   • Take notes from records without incurring fees

   Lehigh County Clerk of Judicial Records
   455 W. Hamilton Street, Room 122
   Allentown, PA 18101
   610-782-3150
   Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

2. Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System Web Portal

   • Basic case information and docket sheets are available at no cost
   • Search by name, case number, or organization
   • Access UJS Web Portal from any internet connection
   • Create a free account for enhanced search capabilities

3. Public Access Terminals

   • Computer terminals available at the courthouse provide free access to electronic records
   • Staff assistance may be available for search guidance
   • No fees for viewing information on these dedicated terminals

4. Lehigh County Law Library
   455 W. Hamilton Street
   Allentown, PA 18101
   610-782-3114
   Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

   • Provides free access to legal research tools
   • Assistance available from law librarians
   • Contains reference materials related to court proceedings

While basic searches and viewing are free, fees may apply for:

• Printed copies (typically $0.25-$0.50 per page)
• Certified copies of documents
• Extensive research assistance from court staff
• Access to certain document images online
• Specialized searches requiring staff time

Pursuant to 65 P.S. § 67.1307, fees must be reasonable and based on prevailing rates for comparable services.

What's Included in a Lehigh County Court Record?

Lehigh County court records contain comprehensive documentation of legal proceedings, with contents varying by case type and court level. These records typically include several standard components as well as case-specific documentation.

Standard components found in most court records include:

• Docket Sheet - Chronological index of all filings and court actions
• Case Initiation Documents - Complaints, petitions, or charging documents
• Service Documentation - Proof that parties received notice of proceedings
• Motions and Responses - Requests for court action and opposing arguments
• Court Orders - Judicial directives and decisions
• Judgments - Final determinations of legal matters
• Hearing Notices - Scheduled court appearances
• Transcripts - Official record of spoken proceedings (when prepared)
• Exhibits - Evidence presented during hearings or trials
• Certificates of Service - Documentation that parties received filings

Criminal case records additionally include:

• Criminal complaints and information
• Bail and pretrial release documentation
• Preliminary hearing records
• Plea agreements
• Sentencing orders
• Probation/parole conditions
• Restitution requirements

Civil case records may contain:

• Initial complaints and answers
• Discovery documentation (in some instances)
• Settlement agreements (unless sealed)
• Monetary judgments
• Enforcement proceedings
• Appeals documentation

Family court records typically include:

• Divorce petitions and decrees
• Child custody and support orders
• Protection from abuse filings
• Adoption proceedings (often sealed)
• Name change petitions

Probate and estate records contain:

• Wills and testamentary documents
• Letters of administration
• Estate inventories
• Inheritance tax returns
• Distribution schedules
• Guardian appointments

Court records may also contain administrative documents such as scheduling orders, continuance requests, attorney appearances, and fee payments. Certain sensitive information may be redacted pursuant to Pennsylvania Rule of Judicial Administration 509(c)(2).

How Long Does Lehigh County Keep Court Records?

Lehigh County maintains court records according to retention schedules established by the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts under authority granted by Pennsylvania Rule of Judicial Administration 509. These schedules vary by record type, case category, and historical significance.

Common retention periods include:

Criminal Case Records:

• Felony cases: Permanent retention for homicide cases; 75 years for other felonies
• Misdemeanor cases: 25 years after final disposition
• Summary offenses: 7 years after final disposition
• Expunged records: Destroyed as directed by court order

Civil Case Records:

• Major civil litigation: 25 years after final disposition
• Landlord-tenant matters: 7 years after final disposition
• Small claims cases: 7 years after final disposition
• Domestic relations cases: Permanent retention for divorce decrees; 25 years for support orders

Family Court Records:

• Divorce decrees: Permanent retention
• Child custody orders: Until youngest child reaches age 25
• Protection from abuse orders: 5 years after expiration
• Adoption records: Permanent retention (with restricted access)

Probate Records:

• Wills: Permanent retention
• Estate administration: 25 years after estate closing
• Guardianship records: 25 years after termination of guardianship

Court Administrative Records:

• Docket books and indices: Permanent retention
• Court calendars: 3 years
• Financial records: 7 years
• Jury records: 3 years after jury service

After the designated retention period expires, records may be:

• Transferred to archival storage
• Converted to microfilm or digital format
• Destroyed according to approved procedures

Historical records of significant value may be preserved indefinitely regardless of standard retention schedules. The County Records Act, 16 P.S. § 13001-13006 provides additional guidance on county record retention requirements.

Researchers seeking older records should contact:

Lehigh County Historical Records Center
Lehigh County Government Center
17 South 7th Street
Allentown, PA 18101
610-782-3280
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:15 PM

Types of Courts In Lehigh County

Lehigh County's judicial system consists of several court levels, each with distinct jurisdictions and responsibilities within Pennsylvania's Unified Judicial System.

Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas
455 W. Hamilton Street
Allentown, PA 18101
610-782-3000
Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

The Court of Common Pleas is Lehigh County's primary trial court with general jurisdiction, organized into specialized divisions:

• Civil Division - Handles civil disputes exceeding $12,000, complex litigation, and appeals from lower courts
• Criminal Division - Adjudicates felonies, serious misdemeanors, and appeals from minor criminal cases
• Family Division - Oversees divorce, custody, support, protection orders, and juvenile matters
• Orphans' Court Division - Manages estates, guardianships, adoptions, and trust administration

Magisterial District Courts
Lehigh County contains multiple Magisterial District Courts serving specific geographic areas:

Magisterial District Court 31-1-01
1524 Lehigh Street
Allentown, PA 18103
610-782-3951
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Magisterial District Court 31-1-02
1601 Lehigh Street
Allentown, PA 18103
610-782-3952
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Magisterial District Court 31-1-03
1201 Sumner Avenue
Allentown, PA 18102
610-782-3953
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Magisterial District Court 31-1-04
1005 West Walnut Street
Allentown, PA 18102
610-782-3954
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Magisterial District Court 31-1-05
1216 Liberty Street
Allentown, PA 18102
610-782-3955
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Magisterial District Court 31-1-06
1302 Hamilton Street
Allentown, PA 18102
610-782-3956
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Magisterial District Court 31-1-07
4715 Hamilton Boulevard
Allentown, PA 18103
610-782-3957
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Magisterial District Court 31-1-08
3400 Brookside Road
Macungie, PA 18062
610-782-3958
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Magisterial District Court 31-2-01
106 South 5th Street
Emmaus, PA 18049
610-782-3961
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Magisterial District Court 31-2-02
3877 Lehigh Street
Whitehall, PA 18052
610-782-3962
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Magisterial District Court 31-2-03
1910 Schadt Avenue
Whitehall, PA 18052
610-782-3963
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Magisterial District Court 31-3-01
7248 Tilghman Street
Allentown, PA 18106
610-782-3971
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Magisterial District Court 31-3-02
5903 Shawnee Road
Schnecksville, PA 18078
610-782-3972
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Magisterial District Court 31-3-03
5684 Kernsville Road
Orefield, PA 18069
610-782-3973
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

For appeals from Lehigh County courts, cases proceed to:

Superior Court of Pennsylvania - Eastern District
530 Walnut Street, Suite 315
Philadelphia, PA 19106
215-560-5800
Superior Court of Pennsylvania

Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania Judicial Center
601 Commonwealth Avenue, Suite 2100
Harrisburg, PA 17106
717-255-1600
Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania

Supreme Court of Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania Judicial Center
601 Commonwealth Avenue, Suite 4500
Harrisburg, PA 17106
717-787-6181
Supreme Court of Pennsylvania

Federal cases arising in Lehigh County are heard in:

United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania - Allentown Division
504 West Hamilton Street
Allentown, PA 18101
610-434-4000
U.S. District Court - Eastern District of Pennsylvania

What Types of Cases Do Lehigh County Courts Hear?

Lehigh County courts adjudicate a wide range of legal matters according to their jurisdictional authority within Pennsylvania's judicial framework.

Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas handles:

Civil Division:

• Major civil litigation with claims exceeding $12,000
• Complex contract disputes
• Personal injury and tort claims
• Property litigation
• Medical malpractice cases
• Product liability suits
• Appeals from Magisterial District Court civil judgments
• Equity actions seeking injunctive relief

Criminal Division:

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

Family Division:

• Divorce proceedings
• Child custody determinations
• Child and spousal support cases
• Protection from abuse orders
• Paternity establishment
• Juvenile delinquency matters
• Dependency proceedings for at-risk children
• Name change petitions

Orphans' Court Division:

• Probate of wills
• Estate administration
• Trust management
• Guardianships for incapacitated persons
• Adoptions
• Termination of parental rights
• Marriage license issuance
• Nonprofit organization oversight

Magisterial District Courts adjudicate:

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

Cases originating in Lehigh County may reach appellate courts when parties seek review of lower court decisions:

Superior Court of Pennsylvania reviews:

• Appeals in civil and criminal matters from the Court of Common Pleas
• Family court appeals
• Post-conviction relief appeals

Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania handles:

• Appeals involving government agencies
• Election law disputes
• Land use and zoning appeals
• Tax assessment challenges

Supreme Court of Pennsylvania considers:

• Discretionary appeals from lower appellate courts
• Cases of significant public importance
• Constitutional challenges
• Judicial discipline matters
• Attorney discipline cases

Federal cases arising in Lehigh County are heard in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania when they involve:

• Federal constitutional questions
• Federal statutory claims
• Diversity jurisdiction cases (parties from different states with claims exceeding $75,000)
• Federal criminal prosecutions
• Bankruptcy proceedings
• Patent, trademark, and copyright disputes

How To Find a Court Docket In Lehigh County

Court dockets in Lehigh County provide chronological listings of all filings, proceedings, and actions in a case. These official records are accessible through several methods depending on the court level and case type.

The primary methods for accessing Lehigh County court dockets include:

1. Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System Web Portal

   • Visit the UJS Web Portal
   • Select the appropriate court system (Common Pleas or Magisterial District)
   • Choose "Docket Sheets" from the available options
   • Search by docket number, participant name, organization, or case filed/postmark date
   • Select the specific case from search results to view the docket
   • Download or print the docket sheet as needed

2. In-Person Requests at Clerk's Office

   • Visit the appropriate office based on case type:

   Lehigh County Clerk of Judicial Records - Civil Division
   Lehigh County Courthouse
   455 W. Hamilton Street, Room 122
   Allentown, PA 18101
   610-782-3150
   Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

   Lehigh County Clerk of Judicial Records - Criminal Division
   Lehigh County Courthouse
   455 W. Hamilton Street, Room 122
   Allentown, PA 18101
   610-782-3150
   Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

   • Provide case number or party names to staff
   • Request to view or obtain copies of docket sheets
   • Pay applicable fees for printed copies

3. Public Access Terminals

   • Use computer terminals available at the courthouse
   • Access the same information available through the UJS Portal
   • Obtain assistance from court staff if needed
   • Print dockets for a nominal fee

4. Written Requests

   • Submit a written request to the appropriate clerk's office
   • Include case information, contact details, and specific docket needed
   • Enclose payment for search and copy fees
   • Provide a self-addressed stamped envelope for return delivery

For specialized dockets:

• Criminal Case Dockets: Available through the PA UJS Portal Criminal Case Search
• Civil Case Dockets: Accessible via the PA UJS Portal Civil Case Search
• Family Court Dockets: May require in-person requests due to confidentiality restrictions
• Orphans' Court Dockets: Available through the Clerk of Orphans' Court office

Docket information typically includes:

• Case caption and number
• Party names and attorney information
• Filing dates for all documents
• Hearing and trial dates
• Court orders and judgments
• Financial assessments and payments
• Case status and disposition

Pursuant to Pennsylvania Rule of Judicial Administration 509(a), docket sheets are considered public records unless specifically sealed or restricted by court order.

Which Courts in Lehigh County Are Not Courts of Record?

In Pennsylvania's judicial system, courts are classified as either "courts of record" or "not of record" based on their procedural formalities and record-keeping requirements. This distinction affects appeal processes and the official documentation of proceedings.

A "court not of record" typically does not maintain verbatim transcripts of proceedings, conducts less formal hearings, and allows de novo (completely new) trials on appeal to higher courts. According to 42 Pa.C.S. § 321, courts of record must maintain comprehensive documentation of all proceedings.

In Lehigh County, the following courts are not courts of record:

Magisterial District Courts These limited jurisdiction courts handle minor matters and preliminary proceedings:

• All fourteen Magisterial District Courts in Lehigh County
• Proceedings are summary in nature
• No official court reporters present
• No verbatim transcripts created
• Appeals result in completely new trials in the Court of Common Pleas

Traffic Court Proceedings When conducted at the Magisterial District Court level:

• Summary traffic violations
• Parking citations
• Vehicle code infractions

Municipal Code Enforcement Hearings

• Local ordinance violations
• Code compliance matters
• Nuisance abatement proceedings

The practical implications of a court not being "of record" include:

1. Appeals are heard de novo (completely new) rather than based on review of the lower court record
2. The burden of proof must be met again at the higher court level
3. New evidence and testimony may be presented on appeal
4. The higher court is not bound by the lower court's factual findings
5. Parties must preserve their own documentation of proceedings

By contrast, the following Lehigh County courts are courts of record:

Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas
455 W. Hamilton Street
Allentown, PA 18101
610-782-3000
Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas

• All divisions (Civil, Criminal, Family, Orphans' Court)
• Proceedings recorded by official court reporters
• Verbatim transcripts available upon request
• Appeals based on review of the official record
• Formal Rules of Evidence and Procedure apply

The distinction between courts of record and those not of record is established by Pennsylvania Rule of Judicial Administration 4001, which governs court reporting and transcripts.

Lookup Court Records in Lehigh County