Q. Where is the Prothonotary's Office located?
A. On the first floor of the main courthouse to the left after you pass through security.
Q. Do we have forms for all the filings?
A. No, there are not forms for everything. Please see Prothonotary Forms on our homepage Navigational list to the left to see what's available.
Q. What do I need to bring to obtain a passport?
A. See Passports on our list to the left on our homepage.
Q. What do I need to renew my notary?
A. This process has moved to the Recorder of Deeds office. Please contact that office at 717-240-6370.
Q. How do I file for a Divorce or Annulment?
A. Annulments are treated the same as a Divorce. Please reference the divorce procedure manual under Prothonotary Forms.
Q. How do I obtain a certified copy of my Divorce Decree?
A. For a certified copy of your divorce decree, you will need to request a copy. You can so do by visiting our office, or requesting a copy via mail or email sent to Prothonotary@cumberlandcountypa.gov. If you choose to do this by mail, please include as much information as you can in your cover letter, as well as a postage-paid, self-addressed envelope, and a money order for $20. If you choose to request via email, please include your address in your request and complete payment online here. Your decree will be mailed to you at the referenced address upon receipt of payment.
Q. How do I find an attorney for my case?
A. Contact the Cumberland County Bar Association at 717.249.3166, MidPenn Legal Services at 717.243.9400, or the Dickinson Community Law Clinic at 717.240.5204
Q. Do I obtain a marriage license in your office?
A. No, you must contact the Register of Wills.
Q. How do I appeal a Magisterial District Judge Judgment?
A. Defendants can typically appeal an MDJ judgment within 30 days from the date of the judgment. Writeable appeal forms can be found in Prothonotary Forms. You will need to bring in a copy of your "Notice of Judgment/Transcript" with the participant list.
Q. How do I enter a Magisterial District Judge Judgment?
A. After 30 days from the date of your judgment, you may submit the original judgment signed twice and sealed by the MDJ.
Q. What is the difference between a "Notice to Resume Prior Surname" after a divorce and an "Official Name Change?"
A. A Notice to Resume Prior Surname can be completed here after a divorce complaint is filed in our office. This must be completed in the county where the divorce action is filed.
An Official Name Change must follow the PA Rules of Civil Procedure. Forms are available here. An Official Name Change for anyone over the age of 13 requires fingerprints to be taken. The Cumberland County Sheriff's Office offers this service by appointment.