Prothonotary

Overview

The Prothonotary’s Office is the office for filing civil cases, including civil complaints, divorces, custody, judgments/liens, district magistrate appeals such as money judgment/landlord tenant cases), and protection from abuse (PFA).

All filing fees for pro se/self-represented parties must be paid with cash or money order only. No personal checks are accepted. We are unable to process debit/credit cards at this time.

EFFECTIVE JULY 22, 2024: The Franklin County Prothonotary’s Office no longer accepts faxed/facsimile pleadings from parties. For details, click here.

This office is not permitted to issue legal advice or procedures. Please consult your attorney with any legal questions.

Glasses and a pen on top of a legal petition

Representing Yourself

The Prothonotary’s Office does not have a self-help center and/or packets for divorce and custody matters. Please refer to the links below for forms.

Click here for information on representing yourself.

Custody Proceedings

PFAs & Civil Protection Orders

Check out information on civil protection orders, including Protection From Abuse orders (PFAs).

Passports

The Franklin County Prothonotary’s Office no longer issues passports. To find out more check out information on obtaining a passport, or visit the Lilian S. Besore Memorial Library.