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1. What is a Prothonotary?

The Prothonotary is the Chief Clerk of the Civil Court. The word is of Greek origin, and it means "First Clerk." The Prothonotary's office of Luzerne County is responsible for filing, storing, and distributing official civil documents. 

2. What type of records are filed in the Prothonotary's Office?

All official civil records are filed in our office. These include but are not limited to: civil lawsuits, protection from abuse matters, divorce and custody matters, liens (including municipal, state and federal liens), mortgage foreclosures, executions and appeals from magistrate decisions.

3. Are documents filed in the Luzerne County Prothonotary's Office available online?

Many of our documents are currently available online. The Prothonotary's Office began its computerization on March 1, 2005, and all documents filed on or after that date are available for electronic searching. Some records prior to March 1, 2005 may also be found on line.

The office has several public work stations available to use.

4. Are all records filed in the Prothonotary's Office public record?

All of the records maintained by the Prothonotary are available to the public unless they are sealed by the Court, law or involve mental health matters.

5. May I obtain certified copies of documents?

We will certify documents filed in our office. For a current list of fees for certification, please refer to our current fee schedule. You may request certified copies of documents by mail or in person.

6. How can I pay for filing fees?

Our office accepts Visa, Master Card and Discover credit cards. Cash or money orders are also accepted. The office does not accept personal checks.

7. Can the staff of the Prothonotary's Office provide legal advice or help me to file documents?

No. The staff of the Prothonotary's Office is prohibited from providing legal advice or helping individuals to file documents. If you choose to represent yourself in a lawsuit, it is your responsibility to educate yourself on the appropriate rules of civil procedure and local rules.