The Burgh County Clerk of Court serves as the official custodian of court records and ensures the smooth operation of judicial services across the county. The office manages a wide range of responsibilities, including handling civil and criminal filings, maintaining probate and estate documents, issuing marriage licenses, processing appeals, overseeing jury duty coordination, and collecting court fines or fees. For residents, legal professionals, and researchers, the Clerk’s office provides structured access to essential public records and guidance on procedural requirements. Many people also use this office to request certified copies of court orders, file motions, or obtain documentation for personal and legal matters, making it an indispensable part of the local justice system.

This website is an independent informational resource and is not affiliated with any government agency or the official Burgh County Clerk of Court. While every effort is made to provide accurate, timely, and easy-to-understand details about available services, users should always verify information directly through the official Clerk of Court’s office or government portal. For broader reference, related jurisdictions such as the Bucks County Court also maintain similar offices that manage filings, licenses, and public records. Relying on official sources ensures accuracy when dealing with court procedures, case updates, and legal documentation.

What Does the Clerk of Court Do?

The Clerk of Court plays a central role in the functioning of the county judiciary. Within Bucks County Court, this office acts as the official custodian of court records and ensures that all legal documents are properly filed, maintained, and made accessible to the public. The position exists under state law, which requires that court proceedings be documented accurately and transparently for both current cases and historical reference.

Core Responsibilities and Duties

One of the primary responsibilities of the Clerk is recordkeeping. This includes maintaining dockets, processing filings, issuing summonses, and keeping an accurate record of judgments, motions, and rulings. Beyond paperwork, the Clerk also has the authority to administer oaths, handle the collection of court fees and fines, and provide certified copies of legal documents when requested. These functions ensure that the judicial process remains orderly and accessible.

Supporting Judges, Attorneys, and the Public

The office is not limited to administrative duties alone—it is an essential support system for judges, attorneys, and the public. Judges rely on the Clerk to ensure case files are complete and accurate before hearings. Attorneys depend on the timely processing of filings to move cases forward efficiently. Members of the community can approach the Clerk’s office for assistance with accessing records, understanding filing procedures, or obtaining court forms.

Clerk of Court vs. Court Administrator

It is important to note the distinction between the Clerk of Court and the Court Administrator. While both offices contribute to the smooth operation of the judiciary, their functions differ. The Clerk focuses on legal documents, filings, and official records, whereas the Court Administrator oversees broader operational matters such as scheduling, staffing, and administrative management of the court system.

Services Provided by the Clerk’s Office

The Clerk’s Office of Bucks County Court serves as the central point of contact for managing legal filings, maintaining court records, and assisting the public with a wide range of essential judicial services. Whether you are filing a new case, applying for a marriage license, paying a traffic fine, or responding to a jury summons, the Clerk’s Office ensures that all processes are carried out in accordance with Pennsylvania law. Below is a detailed overview of the main services available.

Court Filings & Case Management

One of the core responsibilities of the Clerk’s Office at Bucks County Court is handling case filings and record management. When a person initiates a legal matter—whether civil, criminal, probate, or family-related—the first step is filing paperwork with the Clerk.

Types of Cases Filed: Criminal complaints, divorce petitions, custody filings, probate cases, civil lawsuits, small claims, and protective orders.
Case Number Assignment: Each new case is assigned a unique number, which is used for tracking proceedings and retrieving records.
Accessing Court Dockets: The Clerk maintains dockets, which provide a chronological record of all filings, hearings, and judgments. Parties to a case can search these dockets either online (when available) or in person at the courthouse.

These functions are critical in ensuring transparency, efficiency, and proper documentation of the judicial process in Bucks County Court.

Marriage Licenses & Probate Services

The Clerk’s Office is also responsible for issuing marriage licenses and processing probate records.

Marriage License Application: Couples must apply in person at the Clerk’s Office, provide valid identification, and complete the necessary forms. A waiting period may apply before the license is valid.
Fees: Marriage license fees vary depending on the county’s requirements, but payment is typically accepted by cash, card, or money order. Applicants should confirm current rates before visiting Bucks County Court.
Probate & Estate Filings: When a person passes away, their estate must go through probate. The Clerk’s Office processes wills, estate inventories, and other related documents. Guardianships and conservatorships are also filed here, ensuring proper oversight of legal responsibilities.

This branch of the Clerk’s Office helps residents with important life milestones while safeguarding the integrity of probate and estate records.

Traffic Tickets & Fine Payments

Traffic-related cases are a common matter handled by the Clerk’s Office of Bucks County Court.

Payment Options: Traffic fines can typically be paid online through the court’s secure payment portal, in person at the Clerk’s Office, or by mailing a check or money order.
Contesting Tickets: If a driver wishes to dispute a citation, they must notify the Clerk’s Office before the deadline listed on the ticket. A hearing date will then be scheduled where the judge reviews the case.
Court Appearance Requirements: Some traffic violations may require mandatory court appearances. The Clerk provides clear instructions regarding when personal attendance is necessary.

By offering multiple payment and dispute options, the Clerk’s Office ensures that residents can resolve traffic matters quickly and fairly.

Jury Duty Information

Jury service is an important civic duty, and the Clerk’s Office of Bucks County Court plays a vital role in coordinating jurors.

Summons Process: Residents are randomly selected from official lists and mailed a jury summons. The notice contains instructions for confirming attendance, requesting deferrals, or reporting disqualifications.
Jury Duty FAQs: Common concerns include length of service, compensation, and how to handle conflicts with employment. The Clerk’s Office provides guidance on these matters to ensure jurors are fully informed.
What to Bring: Jurors should bring their summons, valid identification, and any approved documentation for hardship requests. Electronic devices may have restrictions, so it is best to review the court’s rules beforehand.

This service ensures that Bucks County Court can maintain a fair jury system while respecting the time and obligations of its citizens.

Other Clerk Functions

In addition to the core services, the Clerk’s Office also assists with several other legal processes.

Child Support Payments: Payments ordered by the court may be processed through the Clerk’s Office to ensure accurate recordkeeping and distribution.
Guardianship & Adoption Filings: Families seeking guardianship of minors or adults, as well as those completing adoption procedures, file necessary documents with the Clerk for judicial review.
Notary Public Services: The Clerk may also provide notary services for verifying signatures and authenticating documents, an important step in many legal transactions.

These services highlight the Clerk’s role as a vital community resource, helping residents navigate both routine and sensitive legal matters.

How to Contact the Clerk of Court

Reaching the Clerk of Court is one of the most important steps when dealing with case filings, record requests, or general court-related questions. For anyone navigating the Bucks County Court, knowing where to go, who to call, and what hours the office operates can save time and reduce confusion. Below is a complete guide to contacting the Clerk’s Office through in-person visits, phone calls, and online channels.

Clerk’s Office Address & Directions

The Clerk of Court’s main office is located inside the Bucks County Justice Center. This central location makes it easier for residents to handle official filings, pay fees, and request certified copies of records. Visitors can use mapping tools like Google Maps to quickly find the address and generate step-by-step driving directions from their current location.

When planning your visit, keep in mind parking availability. A public parking garage is located within walking distance of the Justice Center, with accessible spaces reserved near entrances. Elevators and ramps are available for visitors who need them, ensuring the office can be reached conveniently by all members of the community.

Office Hours

The Clerk of Court office follows regular weekday hours, typically opening in the morning and closing by late afternoon. While exact hours may vary slightly, most business is conducted Monday through Friday. It’s important to plan ahead for federal or county holidays, as the office will be closed on those dates. Updated schedules are usually posted on the official Bucks County Court website to help residents avoid wasted trips.

Phone Numbers & Email Directory

Sometimes an in-person visit isn’t necessary. The Clerk’s Office provides several phone lines and email addresses so that residents can reach the correct department directly.

General Inquiries: A main phone line is available for routine questions about court services, filing procedures, or office hours.
Criminal Division: Handles questions related to criminal case filings, dockets, and fee payments.
Civil Division: Provides assistance with civil lawsuits, judgments, and appeals.
Probate and Estates: For matters involving wills, estates, or guardianships.
Traffic and Minor Offenses: Answers questions regarding fines, citations, and payment options.

These department-specific numbers ensure that callers can reach the right staff without long delays. Email contacts are also available for those who prefer written communication.

Online Contact Options

For residents who cannot visit in person, the Clerk of Court’s online resources provide convenient alternatives. The Bucks County Court website often includes secure online forms for submitting requests, paying certain fees, or asking questions. Email support is another efficient way to get assistance, especially for non-urgent matters.

Clerk of Court Online Services

The Bucks County Court Clerk’s office provides a variety of online services that make it easier for residents to manage court-related responsibilities without needing to visit the courthouse in person. These tools are designed to improve efficiency, save time, and ensure convenient access to official resources. Below are some of the most commonly used online services available through the Clerk of Court.

eFiling Portal

The eFiling portal allows attorneys, parties involved in cases, and approved users to submit legal documents electronically. Instead of mailing or delivering paperwork by hand, filings can be completed securely online.

Who can use it:

Licensed attorneys filing on behalf of clients.
Self-represented parties with active cases.
Agencies or approved entities authorized by the Clerk.

Registration & login steps:

Visit the official Bucks County Court eFiling system webpage.
Create an account by providing your name, contact details, and email verification.
Once approved, log in using your credentials.
Upload required documents in PDF format and pay any associated fees online.

This system ensures that case filings are processed faster and that all submissions are tracked electronically.

Online Payment Systems

The Clerk of Court also offers secure online payment options for resolving certain obligations. These include:

Traffic tickets issued within Bucks County.
Court fines assessed in civil or criminal cases.
Probation fees where applicable.

Accepted payment methods:

Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express).
Debit cards.
Electronic checks (ACH transfer).

Receipts are automatically generated, and users are encouraged to keep confirmation numbers for their records.

Record Request Forms

Residents and parties to cases may request records online using digital request forms. Available options include:

Civil records such as case filings, judgments, and motions.
Criminal records including case histories, docket entries, and sentencing details.
Certified copies for use in official proceedings or government purposes.

Each request typically requires case numbers or party names for accuracy. Fees may apply, especially when certified copies are needed.

Jury Duty Online Response

For those summoned to jury service in Bucks County Court, the Clerk provides an online response system that makes it easier to manage obligations.

Confirming availability: Prospective jurors can log in using their juror ID to confirm attendance on the assigned date.

Requesting deferrals: In cases of hardship, a deferral or rescheduling may be requested online. Supporting documentation may be required depending on the reason.

This system helps streamline jury management and ensures clear communication between the Clerk’s office and county residents.

Rights & Responsibilities When Dealing with Clerk of Court

When engaging with the Clerk of Court in Bucks County Court, it is important to recognize your right to review many types of court records. Public filings such as Court Dockets, schedules, and judgments are accessible to ensure openness in the judicial process. This availability supports accountability and allows community members, journalists, and legal professionals to follow proceedings with clarity.

Confidential or Sealed Record Limitations

Not all records are open for public view. Certain matters—such as juvenile cases, sealed files, and documents involving sensitive victim information—are protected by confidentiality rules. The Clerk’s office enforces these restrictions to safeguard privacy and uphold legal requirements. Attempting to gain access to such records without authorization is not permitted and may carry consequences.

Importance of Accurate Filings

When submitting documents to the Clerk of Court in Bucks County Court, accuracy is a crucial responsibility. Filings must be complete, truthful, and properly formatted. Errors in case numbers, names, or supporting information can cause delays, increase costs, or even result in penalties. Careful preparation ensures that proceedings move forward smoothly and fairly.

Balancing Rights and Responsibilities

Access to court records is balanced by the duty to respect confidentiality and submit correct filings. While the public benefits from transparency, all users share the responsibility of following court rules. By observing these principles, community members contribute to maintaining trust and fairness in the legal system.

Frequently Asked Questions – Clerk of Court

Here are some of the most common questions people ask about the Clerk of Court in Bucks County Court, along with clear and straightforward answers.

How do I file a case with the Clerk of Court?

To file a case, you need to prepare the required paperwork, such as a petition, complaint, or motion, and submit it to the Clerk of Court either in person or through the approved electronic filing system. Once filed, the Clerk assigns a case number, records it officially, and provides confirmation, though the office cannot offer legal advice or prepare documents for you.

Can I search court records online?

Yes, Bucks County Court provides online access to certain public records, including docket entries, case summaries, and hearing dates. Keep in mind that some sensitive records are not accessible online, and updates may not appear immediately, so it’s wise to confirm critical details directly with the Clerk’s office if accuracy is essential.

How do I request a certified copy of a judgment?

Certified copies can be requested by providing the case number and parties’ names to the Clerk of Court, either in person, by mail, or through available request forms. A small fee applies, and certified copies carry the Clerk’s official seal, making them legally recognized for court, financial, or official purposes.

Are marriage licenses issued the same day?

Marriage license applications in Bucks County Court are usually processed on the same day, provided both applicants meet the requirements and submit valid identification with the required fee, but Pennsylvania law imposes a mandatory waiting period before the license becomes valid for use in a marriage ceremony.

Can I pay my traffic fines online?

Yes, most traffic fines in Bucks County Court can be paid online using a secure payment portal with your citation number or case reference, and payments are accepted by credit or debit card, though small processing fees may apply and timely payment is essential to avoid penalties or license suspension.