Accessing Allegheny County Court Records has never been easier. This official provides accurate, transparent, and user-friendly information to help you find and understand court cases, dockets, and public records maintained by the Allegheny County Court system. Whether you’re looking for criminal, civil, family, probate, marriage, divorce, or inmate records, this page outlines how to locate them safely and legally through authorized public sources.
Users can explore available online search tools, learn how digital court record systems work, and understand what details are typically included in public case files. This supports public transparency and convenience by explaining how to access official court data — not for employment, credit, or tenant screening purposes — but for personal reference and informational use only. The Allegheny County Courthouse is located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where both in-person and digital access options are available.
About the Allegheny County Court System
The Allegheny County Court System operates as part of Pennsylvania’s unified judicial structure. It serves the residents of Allegheny County by ensuring fair legal proceedings, efficient case management, and public accessibility to court-related information. The system is organized into several levels of jurisdiction, with each division handling specific types of legal matters.
Overview of the Court of Common Pleas
The Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County functions as the main trial court for both civil and criminal cases. It has general jurisdiction, meaning it hears a broad range of matters including serious criminal offenses, significant civil disputes, family law issues, and estate cases.
Judges within this court are responsible for presiding over trials, issuing rulings, and maintaining judicial integrity across proceedings. The Administrative Offices of the Court oversee filing procedures, manage court dockets, and maintain access to case information for public reference.
Summary of District Courts and Magisterial Judges
The Magisterial District Courts serve as the community-level courts within Allegheny County. These courts handle preliminary hearings, small civil claims, traffic cases, landlord–tenant disputes, and minor criminal matters.
Each Magisterial District Judge (MDJ) plays an important role in the early stages of the judicial process—conducting hearings, issuing warrants, setting bail, and determining whether cases should proceed to higher courts. Their role ensures that the county’s justice system remains accessible and responsive to local needs.
Administrative Offices and Record Responsibilities
Administrative departments within the Allegheny County Court System are tasked with maintaining official court documents, case files, and judicial records. Their functions include:
- Managing court dockets and filings for all divisions
- Providing certified copies of legal records when permitted by law
- Assisting the public with case lookup resources and procedural information
- Overseeing record storage, updates, and digital access systems
All data provided through official county resources is based on publicly available information managed by authorized court offices.
Divisions of the Court
The Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County is organized into several divisions, each focusing on specific legal categories to promote efficiency and clarity.
Criminal Division
Handles prosecutions for felony and misdemeanor offenses, post-sentence motions, and appeals from Magisterial District Courts.
Civil Division
Resolves disputes involving contracts, property, personal injury, and other non-criminal matters. It also manages appeals related to civil proceedings from lower courts.
Family Division
Deals with domestic matters such as divorce, custody, child support, and juvenile issues. This division emphasizes fair resolutions and confidentiality in sensitive cases.
Orphans’ Court Division
Handles matters involving estates, trusts, guardianships, and adoptions. The division ensures that estate and family-related issues are legally processed and documented.
Jurisdiction and Coverage
The Court of Common Pleas manages cases involving serious criminal charges, major civil disputes, and family law proceedings. The Magisterial District Courts oversee smaller matters such as summary offenses, traffic violations, and minor civil claims.
This structure helps distribute caseloads efficiently, ensuring each case is handled at the appropriate judicial level. The county’s unified approach allows residents to access the correct court services based on the nature and complexity of their legal issue.
Allegheny County Court Records Search
Residents, researchers, and legal professionals can explore official court information from Allegheny County using verified online and in-person options. These tools allow users to review case details, docket updates, and filing summaries directly from county or state-maintained databases. All data comes from publicly available government sources and is offered for general informational purposes only.
How to Search Court Records Online
You can find court case details in Allegheny County through authorized online search systems. Follow these steps for an efficient lookup:
- Visit the official Allegheny County Courts or Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System website.
- Choose the Case Search or Docket Sheets option.
- Enter case details such as name, case number, or filing date.
- Apply filters by court division—Criminal, Civil, Family, or Orphans’ Court.
- Review the search results to see filing updates, court locations, and case status.
Records Available for Public Access
Allegheny County offers a variety of court records available to the public. Depending on the case type and court, users can view:
- Civil and Criminal Records – including filings, motions, and judgments.
- Traffic and Municipal Violations – covering tickets, citations, and resolutions.
- Probate and Family Records – such as estate cases, wills, and guardianship filings.
- Archived or Closed Cases – for historical and administrative reference.
Some information may be restricted when privacy laws or court orders apply. The available data is intended for general reference, legal research, or record verification.
Fees and Certified Copies
To obtain certified or official copies of Allegheny County court documents, requests can be made online (if available) or in person at the Clerk of Courts or Prothonotary’s Office.
- Request Options: Submit online or visit the relevant county office.
- Typical Fees: Costs may vary depending on document length and certification type.
- Payment Methods: Commonly accepted payments include credit cards, money orders, or in-person cash payments.
Certified copies serve as authentic proof of court filings and are suitable for recordkeeping, legal submission, or general verification needs.
Criminal & Civil Court Cases
In Allegheny County, public court records provide access to both criminal and civil cases filed within the local court system. These records are maintained by the Clerk of Courts and other related offices to ensure public transparency and allow residents, attorneys, and researchers to review case information and procedural updates. All data available through the county’s resources is for personal and informational reference only.
Criminal Court Records
Criminal court records document legal proceedings involving felony and misdemeanor cases handled in Allegheny County. These records may contain essential information such as the defendant’s name, case number, filed charges, court dates, and sentencing details.
Residents who wish to review Allegheny County criminal court information can do so through the county’s official portals or by visiting the courthouse. The online search system allows you to check case filings, docket history, and court outcomes. These records are updated periodically based on official court actions. In some cases, older or sealed records may not appear online due to privacy or data retention rules. Anyone seeking certified copies or official transcripts can request them directly through the Clerk of Courts office.
Access Steps:
To locate a criminal record, visit the county’s online database and enter the case number or name of the involved party. The system provides summaries of available documents, upcoming hearings, and any disposition entered by the court.
Criminal records serve an important role in public accountability, but it’s essential to remember that these records should never be used to determine someone’s eligibility for housing, employment, credit, or other private purposes.
Civil Court Records
Civil court cases in Allegheny County include a wide range of non-criminal disputes. These may involve small claims, personal injury actions, contract disagreements, property ownership issues, or debt collection matters. The civil docket lookup system allows users to search ongoing or closed cases using a party name, case number, or filing date. The results typically include information about the claim type, judgment, and the current status of the case.
If you need to review older case documents or obtain a certified copy of a court order, it’s best to contact the Prothonotary’s Office in person. Some records may require a formal request depending on their storage status or sensitivity. Civil case information helps residents better understand court decisions and procedural requirements without needing to consult external databases.
How to File or Track a Case
The Allegheny County court system offers both electronic and in-person filing options for new cases.
Electronic Filing (E-Filing):
Through the county’s e-filing portal, users can submit new case documents online. The process involves creating an account, uploading required forms, and paying any applicable filing fees. Once submitted, the filer receives an electronic confirmation indicating the case has been entered into the system.
Manual Filing (In-Person):
Those who prefer traditional filing can visit the courthouse during business hours. At the filing window, paper documents are submitted to the appropriate office — typically the Clerk of Courts or Prothonotary — and a receipt is issued. This process ensures the case is officially recorded in the docket.
Tracking Your Case:
After a case is filed, it receives a docket number that serves as a unique identifier. This number allows easy access to case updates through the online docket lookup system. Users can monitor hearing dates, motions, and final judgments in real time as new updates are posted by the court.
Family Court & Juvenile Records
Family court in Allegheny County handles sensitive cases involving domestic relations, child custody, divorce, and juvenile matters. These records are part of the county’s official public record system, but access to them depends on the nature of the case and the privacy laws protecting the individuals involved. Understanding the structure and accessibility of family and juvenile court records helps residents navigate legal matters with transparency and awareness.
Types of Family Court Records
Family court documents provide insight into personal and domestic legal matters handled within the judicial system. In Allegheny County, these may include:
Divorce Filings
Divorce filings contain details about the dissolution of marriage, including property division, alimony, and final judgments. While most divorce decrees are public, some records may be sealed to protect confidential financial or personal information.
Child Custody and Support Orders
Custody and support records outline parental responsibilities, visitation schedules, and financial support obligations. These documents are often restricted to parents, guardians, or authorized representatives due to privacy protections involving minors.
Protection-from-Abuse (PFA) Records
A PFA order, often known as a restraining order, protects individuals from domestic violence or harassment. Access to PFA records is limited to protect the victim’s identity and safety, though the existence of an order may be part of the public docket.
Juvenile Court Matters
Juvenile court in Allegheny County focuses on cases involving minors, including delinquency, dependency, and child welfare issues. Because these matters involve children, privacy is a primary concern.
Privacy Limitations
Juvenile records are generally confidential to protect the privacy and rehabilitation of minors. Only authorized individuals—such as parents, guardians, or attorneys—may access these records. Certain exceptions exist when a case involves a serious offense and is transferred to adult court.
Access Rights and Record Sealing
Once a juvenile reaches adulthood, they may be eligible to have certain records sealed or expunged, meaning the information will no longer be publicly accessible. This process promotes rehabilitation and allows individuals to move forward without long-term legal stigma.
Marriage and Divorce Records
Marriage and divorce records in Allegheny County serve as important legal and historical documents. They confirm marital status, record vital family events, and are often used for purposes such as name changes, inheritance matters, or updating personal identification. These records are maintained by county offices and can be accessed through official channels for lawful, personal reference.
How to Obtain a Marriage License
Applying for a marriage license in Allegheny County is a straightforward process handled by the Orphans’ Court Division. Both applicants must appear together to complete the application and provide valid identification such as a driver’s license or passport. Some offices may allow online pre-filing, but final approval is always done in person.
A small fee is required, and the license is typically valid for 60 days once issued. Couples must ensure the ceremony is performed within this period and that the officiant properly returns the signed license for official recording. All application forms, fees, and submission instructions are available through the county’s official website or by visiting the Orphans’ Court Division in person. It’s recommended to confirm office hours and requirements before attending, as procedures can vary slightly.
Accessing Marriage & Divorce Certificates
Those searching for Allegheny County marriage or divorce records can do so by name, record number, or approximate date of the event. Marriage certificates are recorded and stored by the Orphans’ Court Division, while divorce decrees are handled by the Clerk of Courts. Certified copies can be requested for legal verification, name updates, or other authorized personal needs. Requests can be submitted online through the official portal or by mail, depending on the county’s current procedures. Proof of identity and payment of a small processing fee are generally required before certified copies are issued.
When conducting a divorce records lookup, be prepared to provide details such as the full names of both parties and the approximate year of the divorce. This helps the office locate the correct case file efficiently. All records are provided directly by county authorities to ensure authenticity and accuracy. This page serves as an informational guide to help residents understand where and how to obtain official documentation.
Probate & Orphans’ Court Records
The Allegheny County Probate and Orphans’ Court Division oversees matters related to estate administration, wills, guardianships, and inheritance proceedings. This division ensures that property, assets, and other legal responsibilities are transferred or settled according to Pennsylvania law. It plays a vital role in protecting the rights of heirs, beneficiaries, and individuals who may need guardianship or estate management support.
Probate court records are part of the public record system, allowing individuals to review legal filings connected to a deceased person’s estate or a guardianship case. These records help confirm the validity of wills, identify appointed executors, and document the distribution of property.
What Probate Records Include
Probate records in Allegheny County typically contain detailed documents related to estate settlement and inheritance. Common materials may include:
- Wills and Testaments: Legal documents outlining how a person’s property and assets should be distributed after death.
- Estate Records: Filings about executors, asset inventories, debts, and the final settlement of the estate.
- Guardianships: Court orders appointing legal guardians for minors or incapacitated individuals.
- Inheritance and Distribution Records: Legal proof of how assets were transferred among heirs or beneficiaries.
These records serve as valuable historical and legal documentation, often used by family members, researchers, or genealogists to trace family assets or confirm inheritance details.
Accessing Orphans’ Court Information
You can access Allegheny County Orphans’ Court information by visiting the Department of Court Records in person or through its official online portal (when available). Depending on the case type, certain sensitive documents may be restricted or sealed under Pennsylvania law.
Here’s how to request probate or Orphans’ Court documents properly:
- Locate the Record: Identify the case number, decedent’s name, or estate file number through the county’s public docket or onsite assistance.
- Submit a Request: File an official request either online or at the courthouse. Identification or payment for copies may be required.
- Observe Access Rules: Some information (like social security numbers, financial details, or confidential filings) is not publicly available due to privacy protections.
Jail & Inmate Search
The Jail and Inmate Search feature provides convenient access to official public information about persons currently held in Allegheny County Jail. This section serves as a reliable resource for those wishing to review booking details, custody status, and visitation policies through authorized public databases.
All details are drawn from verified county sources and updated on a regular basis. The information is intended for personal reference and general knowledge, not for credit checks, housing applications, job screening, or any decision-making process involving another person’s eligibility for services or opportunities.
Allegheny County Jail Roster
The Allegheny County Jail Roster displays the names of people currently confined in the local detention facility. You can search by name, booking number, or other identifying details to view available public data about custody status.
The roster typically includes the booking date, list of charges, bond information, housing unit, and release details when applicable. These listings are maintained by the Allegheny County Jail Administration, which works to ensure accuracy and timely updates. This database supports openness within the local correctional system by allowing lawful public access to inmate records. It should not be used to draw conclusions about guilt or innocence, as all persons listed are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Visitation Rules & Inmate Contact
Visitation and communication guidelines help maintain order and safety within the Allegheny County Jail. Family members and approved visitors can stay in touch through permitted mail, calls, and scheduled visits in accordance with facility rules.
Mail Contact:
Letters must include the inmate’s full name, booking number, and housing information. All mail is reviewed before delivery. Do not include restricted items such as cash, photos, or unapproved materials.
Phone Calls:
Inmates are allowed to place outgoing calls using the facility’s authorized phone system. These calls are monitored for security reasons. Incoming calls to inmates are not permitted.
Video and In-Person Visits:
Visits must be arranged in advance through the official Allegheny County visitation portal. A valid government-issued photo ID is required for all visitors. The facility enforces a dress code and behavior standards to ensure a respectful environment. Video visitation is also available through an approved service provider for those unable to visit in person.
Public Records and Background Checks
Public records offer transparency by allowing residents to view official information maintained by local and county offices. In Allegheny County, various types of data — such as court filings, property judgments, and business licenses — are publicly available for lawful personal reference, research, or verification. Access may vary depending on the nature of the document and privacy laws that protect certain details.
What Counts as a Public Record
Public records are documents or data created and preserved by government departments that can be accessed by the public. Common examples include:
- Court filings and case records: Civil, criminal, and probate filings managed by the county court system.
- Property judgments and deeds: Information on property ownership, transfers, and liens recorded by the county recorder.
- Licenses and permits: Marriage licenses, professional permits, and similar documentation issued by local offices.
- Arrest and inmate information: Basic arrest reports and booking data from law enforcement agencies.
Certain records may have access restrictions due to privacy, juvenile protection, or ongoing investigations, meaning not every file is open to general viewing.
How to Request Public Documents
Residents can obtain official documents through online databases or by submitting in-person requests at the appropriate county department.
Online Access:
Many agencies maintain searchable online portals for non-confidential records. Examples include:
- The Recorder of Deeds for property information
- The Licensing Department for permit and business verification
In-Person Requests:
When records are not available online, request forms can be filed at the department’s public counter. Some offices may charge small fees for document copies or certifications.
Contact Details for Record Custodian:
Each county department designates a Records Custodian who oversees data access and ensures compliance with public access laws. Contact information is typically available on the department’s official website or by phone.
How to Request Certified Court Documents
Obtaining certified court documents is a straightforward process, but it’s important to follow official procedures to ensure your request is valid and secure. Certified copies serve as legally recognized records, often used for verification, appeals, or official personal use. Please note that these records are public documents and must be requested for personal and informational purposes only, not for employment, tenant screening, or credit evaluation.
Step-by-Step Process
Requesting certified court documents involves a few key steps to ensure your request is properly handled and legally valid. Follow this process carefully to avoid delays or rejections.
1. Verify Record Type
Begin by identifying the specific record you need—such as a judgment, case disposition, or filing. Confirm whether it is eligible for certification through the court’s official database or clerk’s office. Only public records can be requested for certification.
2. Fill Out the Request Form
Complete the official request form available on the court’s website or at the clerk’s office. Be sure to include details like the case number, parties involved, and type of document requested. Providing accurate information helps avoid processing delays.
3. Pay the Required Fee
A small fee is typically charged for certified copies. The amount may vary based on the type of document or number of pages requested. Ensure payment is made through one of the accepted payment methods listed below.
4. Pick Up or Receive Digitally
Once processed, you can either collect the certified document in person or receive a digital version via the court’s secure online system, depending on availability. Always verify authenticity by checking for the court’s raised seal or digital certification stamp.
Accepted Payment Methods
Most courts accept multiple payment options for convenience:
- Online Payment: Secure credit or debit card payment through the court’s official online portal.
- Money Order: Payable to the Clerk of Court; must include the case reference number.
- Cash (In-Person): Accepted only at designated courthouse cashier counters.
For online requests, ensure you use the official court website to prevent unauthorized access or third-party charges.
Court Schedules, Dockets & Hearings
Accessing court schedules and dockets helps residents, attorneys, and the general public review hearing dates, case progress, and upcoming court activities. Allegheny County offers an official online system where users can look up court appearances and docket details through verified public sources. This ensures transparency and convenience for anyone tracking a case or verifying upcoming sessions.
Daily and Weekly Dockets
The daily and weekly dockets for Allegheny County include listings of upcoming hearings across various case types — such as civil, criminal, traffic, and family matters. These schedules are regularly updated on the official county court portal.
How to Check Your Case’s Hearing Date:
- Visit the Allegheny County Court Docket Search or the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania website.
- Search using your case number, party name, or docket ID.
- Review the posted hearing date, assigned courtroom, and presiding judge.
- Always confirm the latest updates by contacting the court clerk if any detail appears outdated or unclear.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Allegheny County public records can be confusing. Below are common questions to help residents and researchers access records responsibly and within legal limits.
How long are court records kept in Allegheny County?
Court records in Allegheny County are kept for different durations depending on the case type. Most criminal and civil records are preserved permanently as public records, while minor or administrative cases may have shorter retention periods. The Department of Court Records follows Pennsylvania’s official recordkeeping schedule to ensure that information remains accurate and available for lawful public access.
Can I access sealed or juvenile records in Allegheny County?
No, sealed and juvenile records are not open to public access. These files are protected by law and can only be viewed by authorized parties such as the involved individuals, their legal counsel, or by order of the court. Anyone seeking to view such records must go through an official verification and approval process through the court’s administrative offices.
How can I confirm if my court transcript has been filed?
You can confirm the status of a court transcript by contacting the Allegheny County Court Reporter’s Office or by checking your case docket through the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania’s online portal. The docket will indicate whether a transcript has been requested, filed, or is pending. Certified copies can also be obtained through the Clerk of Courts for personal or legal documentation.
Can I view case details without visiting the courthouse?
Yes, Allegheny County provides online access to many public case records through the Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System’s website. Users can search by case number, participant name, or docket type to view case summaries, filing dates, and outcomes. However, sealed, expunged, or juvenile cases will not appear in public searches due to privacy restrictions.
How do I get certified court transcripts online?
Certified transcripts can be requested from the Department of Court Records or through the Court Reporter’s Office. Requesters must provide identifying case details, including the case number and court division. Fees for certification and processing may apply. Transcripts are issued for personal, legal, or research use only and cannot be used for employment, tenant, or credit screening purposes.