Philadelphia County public records include a wide range of official documents kept by government offices. These records cover court cases, property details, criminal history, and vital events like births, deaths, and marriages. They are stored according to state laws to make sure the information stays correct and complete. Public records help confirm facts, support legal actions, and show what happened in past events. Each record is carefully kept to protect the truth and accuracy of public information.
Public records in Philadelphia County are used to record legal, personal, and government activities. These documents follow state rules and are kept to make sure details stay accurate over time. They include things like court decisions, land records, and other important information. Every record helps keep the system honest and easy to understand for future use.
Court Records in Philadelphia County
Public records in Philadelphia County are maintained to document legal, governmental, and personal activities in a structured and lawful manner. These records serve as official proof of actions such as property transfers, court rulings, and civil filings. At the core of this system are the Philadelphia County Court Records, which provide verified details about court proceedings, case outcomes, and judicial decisions. These records not only ensure transparency but also support accountability by preserving factual history for legal and public reference.
Types of Courts in Philadelphia County
Understanding the structure of the court system helps users locate the correct records. Philadelphia’s court system includes:
Court of Common Pleas
The Court of Common Pleas handles:
- Felony and serious misdemeanor criminal cases
- Major civil lawsuits involving large sums of money
- Family law matters, including custody, child support, and divorce
- Orphans’ Court (wills, estates, and guardianship)
- Appeals from the Municipal Court or administrative agencies
Municipal Court
Philadelphia Municipal Court oversees:
- Misdemeanor criminal cases and preliminary hearings
- Traffic violations
- Civil claims involving less than $12,000
- Landlord-tenant disputes
- Code enforcement violations
Magisterial District Courts
While Philadelphia doesn’t use Magisterial District Courts in the same way as other Pennsylvania counties, similar preliminary proceedings are handled in the Municipal Court. Users outside Philadelphia may encounter these courts for traffic, minor criminal offenses, and small claims.
How to Search Philadelphia County Court Dockets Online
Most users start their search through the Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System Web Portal (UJS Portal). This public portal offers free access to many court records, including active and closed cases.
Steps to Search Court Dockets:
- Go to the official UJS Case Search page.
- Choose a search option: by participant name, docket number, or organization name.
- Enter the required information (e.g., full name, birth year if known).
- Select Philadelphia County as the location.
- Pick the relevant court type: Common Pleas or Municipal.
- Click “Search” to generate a list of cases.
The results will show:
- Case status (open/closed)
- Filing date
- Court location
- Parties involved
- Docket activity, including motions, orders, hearings, and outcomes
Users can view or download docket sheets directly from the portal.
What You Need to Conduct a Search
Having the right details makes the search process faster and more accurate. You may need:
- Full legal name of a person or business involved in the case
- Docket number (if available)
- Approximate date of the incident or case filing
- Name of the court handling the matter
- Type of legal issue (criminal, civil, family, etc.)
Tip: Always double-check spelling and try common name variations if no results appear.
Other Ways to Access Court Records
While the online UJS Portal is the most convenient option, users may also request records in person or by mail.
In-Person Requests
You can visit one of the following Philadelphia County court offices:
- Criminal Court Records
Office of Judicial Records – Criminal Division
Address: 1301 Filbert Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Phone: (215) 683-7000 - Civil Court Records
Office of Judicial Records – Civil Division
Address: Room 296, City Hall, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Phone: (215) 686-6652
Bring valid ID and relevant case information. Copies of documents may require a fee.
Mail Requests
To request records by mail, provide:
- A written request with names, dates, and case details
- Any required forms (available from the court’s website)
- Payment (certified check or money order only)
- A self-addressed stamped envelope
Allow 7–14 business days for processing, depending on volume and case type.
Criminal Records and Arrest Reports
Philadelphia County criminal records provide detailed information about arrests, charges, court outcomes, and sentencing related to individuals involved in criminal cases. These records are maintained by local courts and law enforcement agencies and can be accessed for background checks, legal research, employment screening, or personal reference. Whether you’re looking for recent arrest reports or long-standing case histories, knowing where and how to request these records can save time and help ensure accurate results.
Accessing Philadelphia County Criminal Records
Philadelphia County criminal records include information from local courts, law enforcement agencies, and correctional facilities. These records may contain arrest details, charges filed, court decisions, sentencing, and incarceration status.
To search criminal records, residents and requesters can use the Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System (UJS) Portal. This online tool provides public access to docket sheets from Philadelphia’s Municipal and Common Pleas Courts. Users can search by name, docket number, or organization.
If the information isn’t available online, requests can be made in person through the Clerk of Courts or by contacting the appropriate law enforcement agency.
Using the PATCH System for
You can access PATCH online at epatch.state.pa.us. To start a search, you’ll need the full legal name, date of birth, and any aliases of the subject.
The system returns one of two results:
- No record: No criminal history found
- Record found: A summary of criminal history is available
If a record is found, a certified report can be requested for official use.
Fees, Processing Time, and Eligibility
Fees:
- Online PATCH search: $22
- Mailed PATCH request: $27
- Fingerprint-based search (optional): Price varies, often used when online results are inconclusive
Processing Time:
- Online: Usually instant or within minutes
- Mail requests: 2 to 4 weeks, depending on volume and completeness
Who Can Request:
- Employers (with applicant’s permission)
- Landlords
- Licensing boards
- Individuals checking their own history
All requesters must provide accurate and complete information to avoid errors or delays.
Sealed or Expunged Criminal Records
Not all criminal records are publicly available. Some may be sealed or expunged, meaning they are removed from public access.
Sealed records are hidden from the general public but may still be visible to law enforcement or the courts. Expunged records are erased and treated as if the event never occurred.
Eligibility for expungement may depend on:
- Case outcome (e.g., dismissed or not guilty)
- Time since conviction
- Type of offense (e.g., summary offenses after five years)
Expungement requests must be filed through the court and often require legal paperwork or hearings. The Clerk of Courts can provide instructions for those seeking this option.
Marriage and Divorce Records in Philadelphia County
Philadelphia County marriage and divorce records are often needed for legal matters, name changes, financial documentation, or personal records. These documents are kept by official government offices and can be requested by eligible individuals. Knowing where to request each record, what information is required, and how much it costs can help you avoid delays and complete your request smoothly.
How to Request a Marriage Certificate
Marriage certificates in Philadelphia County are handled by the Register of Wills. Records are available for marriages dating back to 1885. You can request a copy either in person or by mail.
If requesting by mail, include:
- Full names of both spouses at the time of marriage
- The date or approximate year of the marriage
- A copy of your valid photo ID
- A self-addressed, stamped envelope
- Payment made by certified check or money order
Walk-in requests are usually processed the same day, while mailed requests may take up to two to three weeks depending on office workload.
How to Access Divorce Decrees from the Civil Records Office
Divorce decrees for Philadelphia County are stored in the Office of Judicial Records – Civil Filing Unit, covering cases from the Court of Common Pleas.
To get a copy of a divorce record, provide:
- The full names of both parties
- The date or approximate year of the divorce
- The case number, if available
- A copy of your government-issued photo ID
- Full payment via certified check or money order
You can submit your request in person or by mail. In-person services are available during regular business hours, but the office stops accepting new requests after 4:30 p.m.
Required ID and Eligibility
Marriage and divorce records are public in most cases, but certified and exemplified copies require valid identification. Accepted forms of ID include:
- Driver’s license
- State ID card
- Passport
The following people may request certified copies:
- Either person named in the record
- A legal representative
- A court official or authorized agency
Incomplete applications or missing ID may result in rejection or delays.
Cost for Certified and Exemplified Copies
The cost depends on the type of document and the level of certification. For a marriage certificate, a certified copy costs $25, and an exemplified copy costs $50.
For a divorce decree, the certified copy fee is $41.58, and the exemplified copy costs $86.58.
Payments are accepted by:
- Certified check
- Money order
- Cash (only if applying in person)
Make sure your payment matches the fee exactly. All fees are non-refundable, even if no record is found.
Philadelphia Property and Deed Records
Philadelphia County property and deed records include essential documents such as land titles, mortgages, liens, and transfers. These records are managed by the Philadelphia Department of Records and can be accessed by the public. Whether you’re confirming ownership, planning a purchase, or researching a property’s background, this section explains how to find what you need.
Office of Records for Land Titles, Liens, and Mortgages
The Philadelphia Department of Records handles all official documents related to land transactions. These include property deeds, mortgage agreements, lien notices, satisfaction documents, and records of ownership changes.
All filings are organized either by the owner’s name or the property’s address. These records serve as the official source for legal ownership, outstanding debts, and changes in title. The department’s office is located at City Hall, Room 154, Philadelphia, PA 19107. For help, you can call (215) 686-2260 during business hours.
How to Search Property Ownership Online
You can search for Philadelphia property ownership details through the city’s Records Search Portal. This online system allows you to review property records from your computer or phone.
To start your search:
- Visit the official Philadelphia Department of Records website
- Enter the property address, parcel number, or the name of the owner (grantor or grantee)
- Browse through the available documents, such as deeds, transfers, and mortgage records
The portal shows scanned images of filed documents, including signatures and legal descriptions. You can view the document’s full history, from original purchase to current owner.
This online tool is useful for verifying legal ownership, checking for outstanding liens, and reviewing the chain of title before buying or selling property.
Historical Deed Records
For older property documents, especially those created before 1974, you’ll need to visit the Philadelphia City Archives. The archive holds historical records dating back to the 1600s, including handwritten deeds and microfilm copies that are not available online.
The archive is located at 548 Spring Garden Street, Philadelphia, PA 19123. You can call (215) 685-9401 for support with searching historical records.
Archivists can help you access property transfer records, early land patents, and estate-related documents.
Fees for Document Retrieval
If you need copies of property or deed records, certain fees may apply depending on the request. For example:
- A certified copy of a deed usually costs around ten dollars. This includes the official seal and certification.
- Photocopies or printed pages typically cost a few dollars, depending on the number of pages.
- If you access documents online and only need to view them, there is no charge.
Payments must be made by cash, certified check, or money order. Personal checks are not accepted for certified or official requests.
What These Records Are Used For
People search for property and deed records for many reasons:
- Confirming current ownership before buying a home
- Checking for liens or unpaid debts tied to the property
- Reviewing title transfers and legal history
- Preparing documents for probate or estate planning
- Settling disputes over property boundaries or rights
These records are legal proof of ownership and may be requested by attorneys, buyers, banks, or title companies during property-related transactions.
Probate, Wills, and Estate Records
Philadelphia probate records provide important details about the distribution of a deceased person’s estate. These documents help families, legal representatives, and researchers understand how property, finances, and final wishes were handled. Managed by the Office of the Register of Wills, these records are essential for confirming the existence of a will, settling inheritance matters, and verifying court-filed estate paperwork. Whether you’re searching for a copy of a will or need to request estate inventories, understanding how these records work can save time and avoid confusion.
What Are Philadelphia Probate Records?
Philadelphia probate records include legal documents related to the distribution of a deceased person’s estate. These may include wills, letters testamentary, estate inventories, and records of asset distribution. These records are managed by the Office of the Register of Wills.
Whether you’re trying to settle a family member’s estate or need to verify the status of a will, probate records can help answer your questions. Access is typically public unless the court seals the case.
What the Register of Wills Does
The Register of Wills in Philadelphia County handles:
- Filing and safekeeping of wills
- Issuing legal authority to executors (Letters Testamentary)
- Overseeing estate administration
- Maintaining probate court documents and indexes
This office serves as the legal entry point for all matters related to wills and estate handling in the county. If a person passes away with or without a will, this office processes the paperwork.
How to Access Probate Records in Philadelphia
To find Philadelphia probate records, you can visit the Register of Wills office in person or submit a record request by mail. Some older records may be available through local historical archives or microfilm. Online access is limited, but indexes may be available digitally for preliminary searches.
Information usually needed:
- Full name of the deceased
- Approximate date of death
- Case file number (if known)
Records available include:
- Original wills
- Estate inventories
- Executor and administrator filings
- Account settlements
How to File or Search a Will
Filing a Will
If someone has passed away, the original will should be filed promptly with the Register of Wills. This can only be done in person by the person named as the executor. Along with the will, a death certificate and valid identification are required.
Searching a Will
To search for a will that’s already on file:
- Visit the Register of Wills in Philadelphia
- Provide the full name and date of death
- Submit a record request with a small lookup fee
The staff will help locate and verify whether a will has been filed and whether copies can be provided.
Probate Record Costs and Timelines
Accessing Philadelphia probate records often involves small fees based on the number of pages requested. Certified copies cost more than regular photocopies.
Common Fees:
- Record search fee: around $10–$15
- Copy fee: $2 per page (average)
- Certification fee: $10–$25 per document
Processing Time:
- In-person: Usually same day
- Mail requests: 5 to 10 business days
- Older records: May take longer due to archive access
Payments can be made by certified check, money order, or in some cases, cash.
Philadelphia County Jail and Inmate Records
Accessing Philadelphia County jail and inmate records helps you find accurate and up-to-date information about individuals held in local correctional facilities. These records can include arrest details, charges, bail status, release dates, and where an inmate is currently housed. Whether you’re a family member, legal representative, or concerned citizen, knowing how to search jail data or request official documentation ensures you get the right details when needed. This section explains where to look, how to use inmate locator tools, and how to make formal record requests.
Philadelphia Department of Prisons (Current Facilities)
The Philadelphia Department of Prisons (PDP) operates several correctional facilities in the city. These include the Curran-Fromhold Correctional Facility (CFCF), Riverside Correctional Facility (RCF), Detention Center (DC), and Alternative and Special Detention (ASD). Together, these institutions house thousands of inmates awaiting trial or serving short sentences.
Each facility is managed by PDP and follows local and state regulations for inmate housing, safety, and visitation. If someone has been arrested in Philadelphia County, their custody status is often handled through these locations.
How to Use the Inmate Locator Tool
To find someone in Philadelphia County custody, use the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections Inmate/Parolee Locator. This tool is accessible online and helps users search for active inmates by name, inmate number, or other details.
Search Steps:
- Visit the official Inmate Locator website
- Enter the person’s first and last name
- Narrow the search by selecting Philadelphia County
- Review the results for booking details, facility location, and ID number
The locator provides real-time information about the inmate’s current status. If no result appears, the individual may have been transferred or released, or the record may be restricted.
Bail, Charges, and Release Information
After arrest, a judge may set bail depending on the charge and other factors. Bail allows temporary release while the case is pending. The amount and conditions are set during a preliminary hearing.
To find bail details or release status:
- Call the PDP facility where the person is held
- Use the inmate’s booking number or full name
- Ask about bail amount, bond options, or court dates
If an individual has been released, the Inmate Locator may show their release date. For updates, contacting the facility directly often provides the fastest response.
How to Request Official Jail Records
If you need jail documents such as booking history, incarceration details, or visitation logs, you can request them through the Philadelphia Department of Prisons or by filing a Right-to-Know Law (RTKL) request.
To request jail records:
- Write a formal request addressed to the PDP’s Open Records Officer
- Include the inmate’s name, date of birth, and details of the information needed
- Submit via mail, email, or in person
- Some records may require a small copy fee
Requests are reviewed under Pennsylvania’s public records law. Personal or sensitive details may be withheld to protect privacy or for legal reasons.
Birth and Death Certificates
If you’re looking for Philadelphia County birth and death certificates, the Pennsylvania Department of Health is the official agency that handles these records. These certificates are commonly needed for legal matters, identification, passports, school enrollment, and estate-related processes. Access depends on eligibility, and not all requests are open to the public.
Where to Get Birth and Death Certificates
Birth and death certificates for Philadelphia County are not issued by the local courthouse. Instead, all requests go through the Pennsylvania Department of Health – Division of Vital Records. This agency maintains statewide records, including those filed in Philadelphia.
There are two main ways to request a certificate:
- Online (through the official state portal or approved third-party vendors)
- By mail (sent to the Division of Vital Records in New Castle, PA)
The state does not provide walk-in services for these records in Philadelphia.
Who Can Access These Records
Pennsylvania law limits who can request certified copies of birth and death certificates.
Birth Certificates (for records 105 years old or newer):
You must be one of the following:
- The person named on the certificate (if 18 or older)
- A parent or legal guardian
- A legal representative or power of attorney
- A spouse, child, or sibling (with proof of relationship)
Death Certificates (for records 50 years old or newer):
Eligible requesters include:
- Immediate family members
- Legal representatives
- Genealogists with proper documentation
- Government agencies
Once a record becomes public (births after 105 years; deaths after 50), anyone may request a non-certified copy.
How to Apply Online or by Mail
You can submit your application in two ways:
Online
Visit the PA Department of Health’s Vital Records portal. Complete the form, upload valid ID, and pay with a credit or debit card. Most certificates are mailed within 2–3 weeks.
Official portal: www.health.pa.gov
By Mail
Download and print the application form from the PA Health website. Fill it out, attach a photocopy of your valid ID, and send it with payment to:
Division of Vital Records
P.O. Box 1528
New Castle, PA 16103
Mail requests may take up to 4–6 weeks to process.
Required Documents and Application Fees
To process your request, you’ll need the following:
Documents:
- A completed application form
- A valid, government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.)
- Proof of relationship (for non-self requests)
Fees (as of 2025):
- Birth Certificate: $20.00
- Death Certificate: $20.00
- Processing Fee (online): May include an additional service charge
- Payment Methods: Credit/debit (online), check/money order (by mail)
If you’re applying from outside the U.S., additional identification and mailing details may be required.
Eligibility and Restrictions
Philadelphia County public records access is widely available, but not every record is open to all. Understanding who can access specific types of records, and under what conditions, helps prevent delays and ensures requests are handled properly. While many court and property documents are open to the public, others—such as those involving minors or sensitive personal information—are protected by law. This section outlines who can request which records, what limits exist, and how third-party access is handled.
Who Can Access Each Type of Record
Philadelphia County public records access is open to the general public for many record types, including court filings, property transactions, and marriage licenses. You do not need to live in Philadelphia or Pennsylvania to request most records.
Some records require identity verification or proof of relationship. For instance, vital records like birth and death certificates are typically limited to immediate family members, legal representatives, or those with a direct interest in the record.
If you’re requesting a public record, be prepared to provide basic details such as full name, date, and location to help locate the correct file.
Which Records Are Restricted or Sealed
Certain records are not available for general public viewing due to privacy laws or court orders. These may include:
- Juvenile court and delinquency records
- Adoption files
- Mental health evaluations or commitment reports
- Custody proceedings
- Abuse or child welfare investigations
- Cases sealed by court order
Access to these documents is restricted to those directly involved, their attorneys, or individuals granted permission by a judge.
Rules for Third-Party Requests
If you’re trying to obtain records for another person, there are limits. Third-party access often requires:
- A signed consent form from the person whose record you’re requesting
- A copy of their valid ID
- Legal documents showing your authority to access the record (such as a power of attorney or court order)
Without the correct documentation, your request may be rejected or delayed by the records office.
Minors and Confidential Case Access
Cases involving minors are given extra protection under Pennsylvania law. Most records related to juveniles—including delinquency cases, child custody hearings, and protective services—are confidential.
These records can only be accessed by:
- A parent or legal guardian
- An attorney involved in the case
- A government agency with proper authorization
- A party granted access by court approval
The goal is to protect the privacy and safety of minors. In some situations, even parents may need court permission to access sealed records.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re looking to access Philadelphia County Public Records quickly or have questions about the process, you’re in the right place! Here’s everything you need to know about searching for court records, dockets, and other official public records in Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania.
Are Philadelphia court records public?
Yes, most Philadelphia court records are public under Pennsylvania state law, specifically governed by the Right to Know Law and the Unified Judicial System’s access policies. This means that documents related to civil, criminal, traffic, and family court cases are generally available to the public. However, access to certain details may be limited based on the nature of the case or parties involved. Users can search online databases or visit court offices in person to view available public records.
How long does it take to receive records?
The time it takes to receive court records in Philadelphia varies depending on how the request is submitted. Online searches typically provide immediate access to digital records, while in-person or mail requests may take anywhere from a few business days to over a week. Requests for archived or older records may require additional processing time, especially if retrieval from off-site storage is needed. Accuracy in the provided case details can also influence the speed of delivery.
Can I request records anonymously?
Yes, in most cases, you can request public court records in Philadelphia without providing personal identification, especially when accessing online or in-person docket information. Anonymous requests are allowed as long as the records are not restricted or sealed. However, if you are requesting certified copies or accessing sensitive information, you may be asked to present identification or explain your legal interest in the case. The method and type of request determine the anonymity level permitted.
What records are not public?
Not all court records in Philadelphia are public. Confidential records—such as juvenile court cases, mental health proceedings, sealed civil lawsuits, adoption files, and certain domestic violence matters—are restricted. These records are protected to maintain privacy and comply with legal and ethical standards. Access to such documents is limited to authorized individuals, attorneys, or parties directly involved in the case. In some instances, courts may provide redacted versions or deny access entirely based on the case’s confidentiality level.