Service guidance

Services

Not every service follows the same path. Use these categories to find an appropriate next step.

Content status: In review · Service criteria require final office and legal approval.

Services You May Request Directly

Civil standbys
Private document delivery and Notices to Quit
Initial service of civil suits where permitted
Divorce- and child-custody-related documents
Qualifying no-contact orders and third-party civil documents
Other lawful service requests

Every request is reviewed; submission does not guarantee acceptance.

Direct-request details

Services That Generally Must Come Through the Court

Court-issued civil complaints
Landlord-tenant complaints after filing
Orders for possession and subpoenas
Warrants, court security, and court-ordered transports

These processes generally cannot be started through this website.

Court-origin details

Review, legal responsibility, and fees

The office reviews service requests in good faith using applicable Pennsylvania statutes, court rules, local procedures, and the information provided by the requestor. The requesting party remains responsible for determining whether a document is legally appropriate, authorized, and sufficient for service. Acceptance of a request does not constitute legal advice or a legal determination regarding the document.

Fees vary depending on the type of service, travel, the number of persons or locations involved, applicable statutes or court rules, and other service requirements. After reviewing the request, the office will provide an estimated cost before accepting the assignment.

Service information

Civil Standbys Private Document Delivery Notices to Quit Landlord-Tenant Process Court Security Transportation Warrant Service

Unsure where to begin?

The guide is informational and does not make a legal determination.

Use the decision guide