Criminal record pennsylvania. Learn how Attorney Mark D. Ch. The pardon process involves an application to the Pennsylvania Board of Pardons, which reviews the case and makes a recommendation to the Governor. Jun 24, 2025 · Pennsylvania Employment Background Check Laws Pennsylvania law sets clear limits on how employers can use background checks and criminal records in hiring, ensuring a fair and transparent process for applicants. Our guide covers everything from types to laws. The process involves petitioning courts to destroy or seal criminal records, effectively erasing evidence of arrests, charges, or convictions from official databases and making them inaccessible to employers, landlords In Pennsylvania, the expungement of criminal records means that such records are made unavailable to the general public. Criminal justice agencies can access all of an individual's criminal history record information (CHRI). Mar 8, 2025 · Understand the key rules of Pennsylvania’s Criminal History Record Information Act, including access, disclosure limits, and individual rights. If your request is complex, you may be asked by the magisterial district court to fill out a request form. Links are grouped by those that cover courts statewide, for multiple counties, and then by individual county. U. The good news is that Pennsylvania law provides options to expunge, or clear, your criminal record in certain situations. org A form listing an individual's criminal charges, the court dispositions of those charges, and any court sentences received as a consequence of those charges within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Weis, Jr. Pennsylvania criminal court records comprise all records pertaining to criminal court proceedings maintained by the state’s judicial system. Airy Street, 2nd Floor, Norristown, PA 19404-0311. Whether you are an employer or an individual, conducting a background check helps ensure the safety and security of your workplace, community, and personal life. Pardon: While almost anyone with a criminal record can apply, some records can only be cleared by pardon. Pennsylvania's Unified Judicial System provides comprehensive public access to court records online and upon request. Records may also be researched and viewed during regular business hours. S. Search arrest records and find latests mugshots and bookings for Misdemeanors and Felonies. Feb 29, 2024 · What You Need To Know About Expungement in Pennsylvania When a past mistake threatens your future prospects, understanding expungement procedures in Pennsylvania can offer a fresh start that you may not even know existed. Criminal justice agencies can access all of an individual's criminal history record information (CHRI). -- Criminal history record information in a specific criminal proceeding shall be expunged when: (1) no disposition has been received or, upon request for criminal history record information, no disposition has been recorded in the repository within 18 months after the date of arrest and the court of proper jurisdiction certifies to the director This information is for reference and research purposes. Michael McGeever Director Department of Court Records, Criminal Division Allegheny County Courthouse 436 Grant Street, Room 114 Pittsburgh, PA 15219-2469 412-350-5323 Fee Schedule One-sided copies 25 cents per page Two-sided copies 25 cents per side Record certification $1 United States District Court Western District of Pennsylvania Joseph F. GUIDE FOR COMPLETING THE ACT 34 PENNSYLVANIA STATE POLICE BACKGROUND CHECK Visit the Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History website at https://epatch. All-Inclusive Online Source for Pennsylvania Criminal Records Search On The Net. 91, includes information regarding the expungement of a criminal record. Largest Database of Pennsylvania Mugshots. Obtaining Records Directly from the Court Lastly, Pennsylvania citizens are able to request copies of criminal records by going to the individual courts where those records were initiated. This applies to records that did NOT result in a conviction or, in specific cases, to misdemeanor or felony convictions that have been pardoned by the Governor. The First Judicial District (FJD) of Pennsylvania is composed of two courts which make up the Philadelphia County Court System: the Court of Common Pleas and Municipal Court. The Pennsylvania State Police is designated by law as the central repository for the collection, compilation, maintenance and dissemination of criminal history record information. In addition to the public information available on this site, specialized eServices are available to users with a Pennsylvania Arrest Records Access comprehensive arrest records for counties across Pennsylvania. This can include traffic violations, misdemeanors, mugshots, date of arrest, and a description of what happened in the crime. Send the REQUEST FOR CRIMINAL RECORD CHECK with payment to the following address: Pennsylvania State Police Central Repository-164,1800 Elmerton Avenue, Harrisburg, PA 17110-9758 For status of the Criminal Record Check, call 1-888-QUERYPA (1-888-783-7972). The Pennsylvania Judiciary Web Portal provides the public with access to various aspects of court information, including appellate courts, common pleas courts and magisterial district court docket sheets; common pleas courts and magisterial district court calendars; and PAePay. 47, effective January 1, 1980), codified at 18 Pa. Can you be fired (or not hired) for a criminal record in Pennsylvania? Pennsylvania law provides employment protections for certain types of criminal records, including specifically those that resulted in acquittals. Utilize our resources to find federal, state, and local arrest records. See full list on countyoffice. Expungement is controlled by 18 Pa. Mar 17, 2025 · The Pennsylvania Criminal History Information Act (July 16, 1979, P. REQUEST FOR CRIMINAL RECORD CHECK 1-888-QUERYPA (1-888-783-7972) WARNING: 18 Pa. If a pardon is granted, the record will be This Act also directs the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) to disseminate criminal history data to criminal justice agencies, non-criminal justice agencies and individuals on request. The response document will open on a new tab in your browser. Hauser helps clients clear their records and protect their future. Constantly updated. In Pennsylvania, criminal records are available to the general public through the Pennsylvania State Police. This Act also directs the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) to disseminate criminal history data to criminal justice agencies, non-criminal justice agencies and individuals on request. Courthouse Attn: Records 700 Grant Feb 8, 2025 · If a background check leads to an adverse employment decision, employers must provide applicants with a pre-adverse action disclosure. If you have a criminal record in Pennsylvania, you might feel like it’s a cloud that follows you everywhere. Pennsylvania criminal records contain the full criminal background and conviction history of persons resident within the state's jurisdiction. A person earns a criminal record in Pennsylvania the first time they are arrested and fingerprinted in the state. pa. Learn about whether your criminal record in Pennsylvania can be automatically sealed under Clean Slate. Print the clearance for your files. Employers commonly use the Pennsylvania State Police Criminal History Record Information (CHRI) to access criminal records. The Clerk of Courts prepares and maintains the records for the Criminal Division of the Court of Common Pleas. us to complete a “Criminal History Record Check. Apr 14, 2023 · Learn what criminal records may be eligible for expungement or sealing in PA and whether your felony, misdemeanor, or summary offense record might qualify. As a result, Pennsylvania allows you to use the legal process to clear some criminal convictions and arrests. Civil Division Local Rules of the Court of Common Pleas; No. Stay informed about criminal activities and legal proceedings in your area. This report was supported by a grant from the Open Society Institute. In addition, secure Court Summary Information, Case Accounting and Pre-Sentence Summary reports are available for Access Pennsylvania's criminal history records for employment, volunteering, or personal use through the state's online system. AOPC docket sheet information is prohibited from being used in place of a criminal history background checks, which can only be provided by the Pennsylvania State Police. AD-23-000251-PJ Rules Docket New requirements for Attorneys to maintain full access to the Department of Court Records e-filing site FAQ The Department of Court Records Civil/Family Division e-filing video tutorials Aug 16, 2024 · In Pennsylvania, having a criminal record can severely impact various aspects of your life, including employment, housing, education, and civil rights. . Magisterial district court case information includes civil cases criminal cases, traffic, cases, non-traffic cases, and landlord/tenant cases. It can impact your ability to get a job, rent an apartment, or even apply for certain licenses. A. Expungement. Criminal records are available publicly on the internet via the UJS Portal. Pennsylvania records can be cleared through pardons, sealing, expungement, or vacatur. Electronic filing allows the filer to send documents 24/7 from any location with Internet access up until 11:59 A record requested in this manner will be identical to one provided with the PATCH system and the same options for notarization are available. Learn how to request records from PSP. Feb 23, 2025 · Getting your record expunged in PA is a legal process that removes certain criminal records from public access. (a) Specific proceedings. Jun 3, 2024 · What Does a Pennsylvania Background Check for Employment Entail? A Pennsylvania background check for employment typically involves verifying a candidate's criminal history, employment history, and sometimes education or professional licenses. Docket sheet information should not be used in place of a criminal history background check, which can only be provided by the Pennsylvania State Police. Lori Schreiber is the current Clerk of Court at Court House, 2 E. Learn the function and limitations of criminal record repositories and how to access these records according to the provisions of the Pennsylvania Open Records Act. Requests made by noncriminal justice agencies and individuals are subject to edit criteria contained in the law. P. Pennsylvania statute defines "expunge" as " (1) To remove information so that there is no trace or indication that such information existed; (2) to eliminate all identifiers which may be Feb 24, 2021 · Petition for Expungement Pursuant to Pa. Pennsylvania arrest records are documents containing the details of an arrest following the arrestee's alleged involvment in criminal activity. Record-sealing helps people get better opportunities for jobs, housing & education. L. state. Court Records Department of Court Records The Department of Court Records is made up of three divisions. View Pennsylvania arrest statistical information, and learn features of an arrest record, it's significance, how to view or copy these record from state repositories and the eligibility requirements for sealing or expunging these records per state law. Purchase a copy of a crash report online or submit a request by mail. This section explains the basic forms needed for Expungement of record on a step by step basis. Check the status of your Pennsylvania criminal history record through this platform. Mar 31, 2022 · Pennsylvania background checks often include criminal records searches using the Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History (PATCH) online database, but also may rely on national records searches or even an FBI criminal history clearance. Find public records in Pennsylvania. However, not all criminal Feb 2, 2025 · In Pennsylvania, eligibility for felony expungement is limited. Explore Pennsylvania Criminal Records: Discover insights into criminal records, arrest details, warrants, probation, parole, misdemeanors, felonies, juvenile records, and the Pennsylvania Sex Offender Registry. Learn about public access, criminal trespass charges, and more. 116, No. Nothing will come to you in the mail or in an email. Jul 30, 2010 · § 9123. Apr 13, 2025 · Learn how to access Pennsylvania criminal records online through official portals with easy, step-by-step instructions. All documents pertinent to a criminal court case must be filed with the Clerk of Courts. Despite Ban the Box laws, an estimated 87% of employers and 80% of landlords check criminal records. The individuals listed below have been charged with criminal offenses according to the latest records filed with Pennsylvania's Magisterial District Courts. Pennsylvania’s Criminal History Record Information Act (CHRIA) limits the use of criminal records in hiring decisions. The York County Clerk of Courts' office is primarily responsible for processing, maintaining, and recording criminal case records for the York County Court of Common Pleas. Criminal Offenses. Any criminal matters that had a balance in 1986 are also included. It is vital that the use of criminal history record information be nondiscriminatory and lawful. Access aggregate numerical data from all courts including caseload statistics, collections information and interactive data dashboards. However, it's crucial to Feb 24, 2021 · 2. CRIMINAL Delaware County Court of Common Pleas and other Pennsylvania Court Criminal Dockets Legal Rights, Remedies & Limitations: Employment of People with Criminal Records in Pennsylvania Rights, Remedies & Limitations: Prepared by: The Employment Unit at Community Legal Services, Inc. The steps outlined here will only affect your criminal record for arrests and convictions in Pennsylvania, not out-of-state or federal records. The Clerk signs and affixes the Seal of the Courts to all writs and processes, administers oaths and affirmations, and assumes custody of the seal and records of the Court. (2) An individual who is the subject of the information has been dead for three years. 4904(b) UNDER PENALTY OF LAW - MISIDENTIFICATION OR FALSE STATEMENTS OF IDENTITY TO OBTAIN CRIMINAL HISTORY INFORMATION OF ANOTHER IS PUNISHABLE AS AUTHORIZED BY LAW. Sep 24, 2024 · Federal and Pennsylvania Laws provide some protections for job applicants with criminal records. Search through Totally Free, State Official, and Privately Owned History / Case Tools. You can clean up your record in Pennsylvania in one of three ways: an expungement, a pardon, or a limited access order. From this page, you can find links to: Search land records Search civil and criminal court records Download forms and applications Interactive reporting Resources Application for Absentee Ballot Application for Absentee Ballot (via Jul 18, 2025 · Guide to restoration of rights, pardon, and criminal record sealing & expungement following a Pennsylvania criminal conviction. Know Pennsylvania laws affecting ex-felons facing discrimination. Understanding what situations are Dec 7, 2024 · Discover how to conduct efficient and cost-effective background checks in PA. Records may be researched and viewed during the hours of regular operation. Your clearance also needs to be given to your church(es) and for clergy, your District Office, either via mail, email or hand carry. Access Right to Know page The County of Lancaster continually strives to improve your access to government services. Clerk of Courts The Lancaster County Clerk of Courts office is the chief filing office for the Court of Common Pleas of Lancaster County in both criminal and juvenile matters. There are also Limits on Public Access to Judicial Records Maintained by the York County Clerk of Courts Docket sheets containing case information and events for filings for York County and all Pennsylvania counties can be obtained through a Case Search. Criminal history record information may be expunged when: (1) An individual who is the subject of the information reaches 70 years of age and has been free of arrest or prosecution for ten years following final release from confinement or supervision. Court Records - Civil & CriminalElectronic Filing The Montgomery County Prothonotary Office has developed an electronic case filing system (e-filing) allowing attorneys and parties to electronically file civil documents and receive a response regarding the status of their filing (s). As to the following listed Pennsylvania crimes or offenses, or another jurisdiction’s substantially equivalent crimes or offenses, check the box next to any applicable crime or offense in which you or a household member: Access docket lookup information for Bucks County, PA, including court case details and online search tools. Civil/Family Division Criminal Division Wills/Orphans’ Court Division These divisions file and maintain court documents for the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas. Learn about their rights, protections, and how to navigate employment challenges. 12, 2024, Pennsylvania residents with criminal records will have more chances for a fresh start. Pennsylvania has the fifth largest prison population in the United States, and the third largest population of people on supervision – both probation and parole. If you want specific criminal court case information, you will need to go to the Pennsylvania State police. Pennsylvania courts and their system and roles in ensuring justice and transparency. Search police logs, crime maps, court records, and more. Legal Remedies and Limitations: Employment of People with Criminal Records in Pennsylvania Records in Pennsylvania Prepared by: The Employment Unit at Community Legal Services, Inc. Requesting paper case records from Pennsylvania's Magisterial District Courts If you would like to request paper case records maintained by a magisterial district court office, please contact the appropriate magisterial district court office directly. Two public computers are available in the Clerk of Courts Office for researching and viewing criminal records dating back to 1986. The new law expands record-sealing, and shortens the timeframe . Computer docket entries are viewable for records from 1993 forward. Generally, expungement is the process to "remove from general review" the records pertaining to an arrest, citation, or adjudication of summary or criminal charges. Request a Criminal History Background Check online or by mail. A pardon is a long process that can take 6 or more years, and the final decision is made by the governor. Simply put, expungement is the legal process of clearing conviction records or arrest information from one’s public criminal record. The Clerk of Court can retain public access to criminal records. Jul 28, 2025 · Criminal record expungement offers a powerful legal remedy for Pennsylvania residents seeking to remove past mistakes from public view and reclaim control over their futures. Crim. Services Criminal Record Search & Services All criminal records are open to the public. Sealing of records is known as an Order for Limited Access in the state of Pennsylvania and while it also prevents the records from the public's access, they may still exist on the government database systems. This encompasses legal documentation of indictments, affidavit, testimonies, and judgments relating to criminal court cases within the jurisdiction of the state. An online account is not needed. Learn about accessing criminal history records, police reports, inmate records, and more within the state law enforcement and judicial systems. Navigate the complexities of public records laws in Pennsylvania. Felony convictions generally cannot be expunged unless the individual has been pardoned by the Governor of Pennsylvania. Records are available online for Philadelphia County, and the county has an open records policy. What does a Pennsylvania background check show? There are minor differences in what a background check will show depending on where it was retrieved, however, most of them provide a criminal record, personal information, and any related photos or fingerprints. UCR Repository SystemIncident Date From: Incident Date To: Report By: Agency Agencies: Municipalities: Generate Report Return Overview The Clerk of Courts is the official record keeper for all matters relating to the criminal division of the Court of Common Pleas. After you apply and pay, you MUST follow the directions on page 3 of these instructions to download/print your Criminal Record Check. Both processes offer a pathway to reduce the collateral consequences of a criminal conviction, but they are distinct in their application, scope § 9122. Explore and search criminal case filings across Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania Access To Criminal History (PATCH) is the online system that allows users to request criminal background checks. Use the Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History (PATCH) site for the fastest response, but mail-in service is also available. Simplified access for the public. 790 AND NOW, the petitioner avers the following and requests that this petition for expungement pursuant to Pa. Learn more about how to lookup and obtain Pennsylvania inmate records, criminal records, arrest records, court records, bankruptcy records, sex offender information, vital records and more. Jun 25, 2025 · A criminal record in Pennsylvania can impact jobs, licenses, and background checks—even without a conviction. Often termed as “rap sheets,” Pennsylvania’s criminal history records offer a comprehensive overview of an individual’s criminal past, encompassing arrests, charges, convictions, and dispositions. One way is through online forms and services. To request audio or video, file an audio-visual record request, not a Right-to-Know request. In terms The Secure Web Docket Sheet option provides access to search, view and print docket sheets that contain additional content not accessible for public viewing, for Pennsylvania’s Criminal Courts of Common Pleas, Magisterial District Courts and the Philadelphia Municipal Court. After the Pennsylvania State Police receives the court order for expungement from the Clerk of Courts signed by a Commonwealth Court judge, the record will be expunged. Click on the “Control #” link and download/print your Criminal Record Check. --Notwithstanding the provisions of section 9105 (relating to other criminal justice information) and except upon cause shown, expungement of records of juvenile delinquency cases wherever kept or retained shall occur after 30 days' notice to the district attorney, whenever the court upon its motion or upon the motion of a child or In Pennsylvania, we do understand the importance of second chances. By doing so, you… READ MORE Pennsylvania Court Records Search This page provides information about Court Records Search resources in Pennsylvania. If you have questions about the Pennsylvania State Police Request for Criminal History Record Check form for employment (SP4 164) or to volunteer (SP4-164A), please call: Toll-free 1-888-783-7972. Learn which records employers can use when hiring. Local law enforcement agencies and courts forward all criminal history data to the Pennsylvania State Police, which maintains the state’s … Understand the latest updates to Pennsylvania’s background check laws (PA HB 689), including changes in record sealing timeframes and employer immunity for expunged records. Jun 3, 2025 · (updated June 3, 2025) Starting Feb. Homeland Security is Everyone’s Responsibility - Pennsylvania Terrorism Tip Line 1-888 PSP established the Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History, or PATCH, for agencies, companies, and others to request criminal background checks on individuals. Pennsylvania requires certain individuals to get FBI criminal history background clearance to be employed, adopt or foster a child, or volunteer while having contact with children. §9122. Lookup civil, family law, probate, small claims, labour, personal injury and other types of Pennsylvania State Court cases by name, case number, party, attorney, judge, docket entry & more. Need more information? Check out our guides to Pennsylvania arrest records and Pennsylvania background checks. There is a computer available for public use to research criminal records dating back more than 30 years. All records are available to the public unless specifically precluded by law. The Importance of Criminal Background Checks Before we delve into the details of obtaining a criminal background check in Pennsylvania, let’s first understand why this process is so crucial. The Clerk certifies and distributes orders of the Court. ” Click on ‘Submit a New Record Check’ on the home page. View the Quick reference guide to Web Docket Sheets (PDF) (Adobe Reader Required). If you are searching for appellate court cases, you must choose the ‘Appellate’ or ‘Docket Number’ option. C. The Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General enforces state and federal laws governing the use of criminal history record information. However, Pennsylvania law provides mechanisms to mitigate these impacts: expungement and pardons. Juvenile records (a) Expungement of juvenile records. Search online court records from Pennsylvania Superior Courts, Justice Courts, and Circuit Courts for free. Learn about court types, cases statistics and public access to court records. 790 be granted for the reasons set forth below. Discover how to access criminal records in Philadelphia County, including free search options, what's included in a criminal record, and how long they're kept. R. joivp bjjn czdtzhp dwjz zgjghg xurz vsgx pqhtl psfe hyud