FAQs • Lancaster County, PA • CivicEngage

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A Day at the Courthouse

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1. How should I dress?: Wear something you would choose if you were going out for dinner or going to church. Women and girls can wear dresses, skirts, dress slacks, and tops. Men and boys can wear dress pants and shirts. Clean jeans that aren't ripped are fine. Do not wear shorts, hats, a top with spaghetti straps, or a top that shows your stomach. You may want a jacket or sweater. The courtrooms can be chilly.

2. How can I get to the courthouse and where should I park?

You may park in the city parking garages:

Duke Street

Penn Square

East King Street

Prince Street

If you park in any of these garages, we can give you a voucher to pay for your parking. There is also on-street metered parking. We do not have tokens for the meters. If you need to make special arrangements for transportation to the courthouse, please call 717-299-8048 ahead of time so that we can assist you.

3. Where do I meet my victim advocate?: Come into the courthouse through the doors at 50 North Duke Street. After you go through security, take the elevator to Victim / Witness Services on the fifth floor unless you have been asked to meet the victim advocate at the courtroom.

4. Where can I get a drink or snack?: There is a coffee shop in the courthouse on the second floor. They have soup, sandwiches, a salad bar, snacks, and drinks. There are also vending machines on the second and fifth floors of the courthouse where you can buy snacks and drinks. Food and drink may not be brought into the courtrooms.

5. Where can I make phone calls?: You may always use a phone at the Victim / Witness Services office on the fifth floor. In addition, there are pay phones on the third floor and on the first floor in the Orange Street lobby. You may bring your cell phone and pager, but you will need to turn them off when you are in the courtrooms.

6. Where can I smoke?: There are no indoor locations where you can smoke in the courthouse. You must go outside through the main exit.

7. Should I bring anything with me?: Often you will have to wait to testify, so you may want to bring something along to help you pass the time. You may choose to bring your own games or reading material. You may want to bring a comfort object that can help you with nervousness or stress.

8. How long can I expect to be there?: Court begins at 9 a.m. There is a break for lunch at noon. Court resumes at 1:30 p.m. Court ends for the day at 5 p.m. The victim advocates will give you more information about the amount of time you need to be here.

9. Will anyone stay with me?: A victim advocate will answer questions, show you a courtroom, and go with you to court. You may also bring another person with you for support.

10. Who is permitted in the courtroom?: A trial is a public event and anyone may sit in the courtroom unless they have been subpoenaed. Each courtroom has benches (generally one or two) for the public. People who are going to testify are sequestered. This means that they are not permitted in the courtroom until they are called as witnesses.

11. Where can I get an excuse for missing work or school?: You can show your subpoena to your employer or school official. The victim advocate can give you a letter to say you were at court.

12. Do I get paid for being a witness?: Anyone subpoenaed for the commonwealth (District Attorney’s Office) can get witness fees. An advocate will have a witness check request form for you. You will receive $5 a day and 7 cents a mile for your travel.

13. What about security?: The courthouse has a metal detector system and x-ray at the main entrance on Duke Street and the Historic Courthouse entrance on Lenox Lane. All pocket books, briefcases, and packages will be scanned. You may not bring weapons, pocket knives, box cutters, or mace into the courthouse. If you do, the sheriffs will take them, give you a receipt, and keep them for you until you are ready to leave. There are also sheriffs in each courtroom to provide security and keep order.

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ARD / DUI

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1. What is ARD?: ARD is an acronym for accelerated rehabilitative disposition. While it can be used for other crimes, it is most often considered for first offense DUI defendants. Information in this section pertains to ARD as it relates to DUI offenders. In essence, ARD is a one-time alternative to a trial, conviction, and possible mandatory jail sentence for the offense of driving under the influence of alcohol or controlled substance.

2. How do I know if ARD is the best disposition for me?: The decision to apply for ARD is a personal decision you must make. There are advantages to ARD that you should consider. Consulting with an attorney will insure that you understand the charges filed against you, your rights, ARD, and any other legal alternatives you might have.

3. Who is not eligible for ARD?

An offender will not be considered for ARD if any of the following apply:

The offender has been convicted of DUI or accepted into the ARD program within 10 years of the date of the current offense
An accident occurred in connection with the offense where a person, other than the offender, was killed or suffered serious bodily injury
There was a passenger under 14 years of age in the motor vehicle the offender was operating
The offender did not have a valid driver's license, and/or was suspended, and/or did not have insurance, regardless of whether charged with those specific offenses
The offender has an extensive driving and/or criminal record as determined by the District Attorney
An offender with a BAC of .30%+, Heroin, and/or Fentanyl will be considered on a case by case basis and may be required to attend the ARD Panel.

Exceptions may be made in extraordinary circumstances.

4. Are there time limits within which I can apply for ARD?: Yes. To be eligible for ARD, an offender must apply within 30 days from the date the magisterial district judge signs the criminal complaint. Your application must be in before your first status conference hearing for you to be eligible for the program.

5. How do I apply for ARD?

To apply for ARD, an offender must complete the following four steps within 30 days of the filing of a criminal complaint:

Waive the preliminary hearing
Complete an ARD APPLICATION and submit to the District Attorney's Office along with a copy of the criminal complaint and affidavit
Sign a continuance form provided by the District Attorney's Office

6. Do I need an attorney to apply for ARD?: No, but there is no substitute for competent legal advice and the Office of the District Attorney cannot give you legal advice. Consulting with an attorney will insure that you understand the charges filed against you, your rights, ARD, and any other legal alternatives available to you. If you cannot afford an attorney, contact the Lancaster County Bail Administration Office to see if you qualify for the legal services of a public defender.

7. What is a CRN evaluation?: CRN is an acronym for court reporting network. A CRN evaluation involves completing a questionnaire that assesses your drug and alcohol use. A certified CRN evaluator will ask you a series of questions and your responses scored. The results of the evaluation are sent to the Office of the District Attorney and provided to the judge at the time of an ARD hearing.

8. How do I schedule a CRN evaluation?: You schedule a CRN evaluation at DUI Central Court. The results of the evaluation will be sent to the Office of the District Attorney.

9. What will the fines and costs be?: There is a processing fee of $600. You can also expect to pay a fine, court costs, a fee for the alcohol safe driving class, and a probation supervision fee. While the fine, court costs, and fees are standardized, they are subject to change at the discretion of the court or the district attorney.

10. Will I lose my driver’s license if I enter into the ARD program?: Please refer to the drivers license suspension guidelines.

11. Will my application guarantee my acceptance into the ARD program?: No. The Office of the District Attorney has the discretion to disapprove ARD for any defendant, because the facts and circumstances of each offense are different. The Office of the District Attorney evaluates each arrest on a case-by-case basis to determine if ARD is appropriate.

12. Where do I obtain an application for ARD?: You may download the ARD Application or get one from the Office of the District Attorney, or from any of the district justice offices. This is a two-page application. Because there are separate applications for DUI and non-DUI offenses, you must be certain that you complete the correct application.

13. Where do I obtain a continuance form?: You can download a Continuance Form or get one at the Office of the District Attorney.

14. What happens after I waive the preliminary hearing, schedule a CRN, and file my ARD application?

Within six months of the filing of a criminal complaint, the offender must:

Complete the CRN assessment, as well as a full assessment for alcohol and drug addiction if the CRN indicates there is a need for counseling or treatment, or the blood alcohol content at the time of the offense was at least 0.16%

Schedule any required drug and alcohol treatment with a licensed treatment program

Schedule and successfully complete the Alcohol Highway Safety School

Successfully complete community service hours

Pay $600 in initial charges to the Treasurer's Office. Additional charges will be collected after admittance into the program

15. When am I actually admitted into the ARD program?: Once an offender has complied with all the requirements as identified, the District Attorney's Office will receive a memo from Adult Parole and Probation Services, at which time the offender will be scheduled by the district attorney for a date for formal admittance by a judge into the ARD program.

16. What happens after I appear in court and I am accepted into the ARD program?

After formal acceptance into the ARD program, the offender must remain under supervision for 12 months, and must complete the following within the first five months of supervision:

Successfully complete any remaining community service requirements

Successfully complete any required drug and alcohol treatment

Pay any remaining restitution, fines, costs, fees, surcharges, and/or evaluation charges

17. What happens if I fail to comply with the ARD conditions?: Failure to comply with any condition or provision of the ARD program will be deemed an unsuccessful completion of the program. In such a case, the district attorney may proceed to prosecution on the DUI and the underlying record shall not be expunged.

18. What happens if I do successfully complete the ARD program?: Upon successful completion of the program, the DUI charge is dismissed. You will not serve a jail sentence. Furthermore, under the law, an offender's record for DUI may be expunged.

19. What are the penalties if I choose not to apply for ARD?: As previously stated, you may wish to consult with an attorney in relation to this charge and your options. The penalties for conviction vary depend upon your blood alcohol level and prior record.

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ARD Non-DUI

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1. Is there a time limit within which I must apply for accelerate rehabilitative disposition?: No, you may apply for accelerate rehabilitative disposition at any time.

2. How do I apply for accelerated rehabilitative disposition?

To apply for accelerated rehabilitative disposition, an offender must complete the following:

Complete an Non-DUI Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition Application and submit to the District Attorney's Office along with a copy of the criminal complaint and affidavit

Sign a Motion for Trial Continuance and Waiver Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition Form

3. Do I need an attorney to apply for accelerated rehabilitative disposition?: No, but there is no substitute for competent legal advice, and the Office of the District Attorney cannot give you legal advice. Consulting with an attorney will insure that you understand the charges filed against you, your rights, accelerated rehabilitative disposition, and any other legal alternatives available to you. If you cannot afford an attorney, contact the Lancaster County Bail Administration Office to see if you qualify for the legal services of a public defender.

4. What will the fines and costs be?: There is a processing fee of $650. You can also expect to pay a fine, court costs, and a probation supervision fee. While the fine, court costs, and fees are standardized, they are subject to change at the discretion of the court or the district attorney.

5. Will my application guarantee my acceptance into the accelerated rehabilitative disposition program?: No. The Office of the District Attorney has the discretion to disapprove accelerated rehabilitative disposition for any defendant. Because the facts and circumstances of each offense are different, the Office of the District Attorney evaluates each arrest on a case-by-case basis to determine if accelerated rehabilitative disposition is appropriate.

6. Where do I obtain an application for accelerated rehabilitative disposition?: Applications are available on this web site from the Office of the District Attorney. Because there are separate applications for DUI and non-DUI offenses, you must be certain that you complete the correct application.

7. Where do I obtain a continuance form?: The Continuance Form is available for download, or at the Office of the District Attorney.

8. What happens if I fail to comply with the accelerated rehabilitative disposition conditions?: Failure to comply with any condition or provision of the accelerated rehabilitative disposition program will be deemed an unsuccessful completion of the program. In such a case, the district attorney may proceed with prosecution of your criminal charges and the underlying record shall not be expunged.

9. What are the penalties if I choose not to apply for accelerated rehabilitative disposition?: As previously stated, you may wish to consult with an attorney in relation to this charge and your options. The penalties for conviction vary upon your criminal charges and prior record.

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Campaign Finance Reporting & Filing

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1. What is required to open a Campaign Committee?

Political Committee Registration Form
Authorization Form signed by the Candidate
A Chairperson
A Treasurer
A Bank Account

2. Must a committee always have a chairperson and treasurer?: Yes. No contributions can be received or expenditures made unless both positions are filled.

3. Is there a limit on the amount of money that an individual can contribute?: There is no limit, however, if the aggregate amount is in excess of $100, it cannot be cash.

4. If a candidate runs an advertisement on radio/television, a billboard or printed sign, does a candidate need to disclose who paid for the advertisement?: Yes, the “disclaimer” notice applies to all general public political advertising.

5. Are there any exceptions to the disclaimer rule?: Yes, the disclaimer requirement does not apply to bumper stickers, pins, buttons, pens, and similar items upon which the statement cannot be conveniently printed.

6. Is a candidate and/or committee required to file an Expense Report or Statement in every reporting period?: Yes, if you are an active candidate on the ballot for the existing election year and did not complete the Waiver of Expense Affidavit or are a committee supporting such candidate. However, committees or candidates which remain active but are dormant, such as when an incumbent is not a candidate in a given year, may fulfill their obligations by filing only an Annual Report.

7. When can I terminate my candidate or committee accounts?: When you are no longer on the ballot or considered a candidate and have achieved a zero cash balance. If a cash balance exists that you wish to dispose of, you may do so by contributing same to any other political committee.

8. Must Campaign Finance Reports and Statements be notarized?: Yes, signatures of both the candidate and treasurer must be notarized.

9. Are Campaign Finance Reports public records upon filing?: Yes, they become public information and are available for inspection or copying in our office during normal business hours.

10. Are there penalties for filing a late report?: Yes, the fee is $10 for each day or part of a day excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays that a report is overdue. An additional fee of $10 is due for each of the first six days that a report is overdue. The maximum fee payable for a single report is $250.

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Coroner

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1. What are the duties of the coroner?: The Lancaster County Coroner’s Office investigates the facts and circumstances of deaths which occur within the county, regardless of where the cause of death may have occurred. The purpose of such investigations shall be to determine the cause and manner of any such death. As a part of this investigation, the coroner shall determine the identity of the deceased and notify the next of kin of the deceased.

2. Where is the jurisdiction of the coroner?: The jurisdiction of the Lancaster County Coroner encompasses the entire County of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Both east and west shores of the Susquehanna River are in Lancaster County.

3. Who notifies the coroner of a death?: Emergency Medical Service providers, fire / rescue personnel, police officers, physicians, or healthcare facility personnel typically notify Lancaster County-Wide Communications (LCWC) of a case for the Coroner’s Office. The LCWC will then contact the on-call deputy coroner regarding the case.

The general public should call 911 to report a death, not the coroners’ office.

4. Are all deaths reported to the coroner?

Not all deaths that occur in Lancaster County are reportable to the Coroner.

Individuals who die from natural causes in a hospital, residents of skilled nursing homes, and those under hospice care are not always reportable. Individuals who die at home from natural causes and are currently under the care of a physician are not always reportable.

The following deaths are reportable to the Coroner in Lancaster County:

Any death in which trauma, falls or fractures, chemical injury, asphyxia, exposure, fire, drug overdose, or reaction to drugs or medical treatment was a primary, secondary, direct or indirect, contributory, aggravating, or precipitating cause of death

Any death wherein the body is unidentified or unclaimed

Any sudden infant death

Deaths known or suspected as due to contagious disease and constituting a public health hazard

Deaths occurring as a result of violence or trauma, whether apparently homicidal, suicidal, or accidental

Deaths occurring in a prison, penal institution, or in the custody of police

Deaths occurring under suspicious circumstances including those where alcohol, drugs, or other toxic substances may have a direct bearing on the death

Operative and peri-operative death in which the death is not readily explainable on the basis of prior disease

Stillbirth

Sudden deaths not caused by readily recognizable disease, or wherein a physician on the basis of prior medical attendance cannot properly certify the cause of death

5. Are all coroner records available to the public?

No. The coroner report, autopsy, and toxicology reports are not public record. These reports contain information that is protected by federal and state laws.

State law requires that only the following information be made available for public view:

Age of decedent

Cause and manner of death

Coroner's name

Date and time of death

Name of decedent

6. How do I obtain an Autopsy, Toxicology and/or Inquisition or Coroner Report?

The next of kin may request a copy of the Autopsy, Toxicology and/or Inquisition or Coroner Report. This request must include:

The name of the deceased
Date of death

The report should be mailed to and signed by the legal next of kin. The fees associated with these reports are listed under the next question.

Insurance or legal requests for reports may be made in writing, or by using the report request form, and must accompany a written authorization release from the legal next of kin. A check or money order made payable to the Lancaster County Coroner for requested reports must be made prior to release of any reports.

Please verify which reports are available before sending a check. Cash is not accepted).

7. What is the cost of those reports?

A fee is charged for copies of autopsy reports and toxicology reports at the following rates:

Autopsy report: $500
Toxicology report: $100
Inquisition or Coroner Report: $100

8. Who performs the autopsy?: All autopsies are performed by board certified forensic pathologists.

9. Why are autopsies performed?: Autopsies are performed for the purpose of determining cause and manner of death in cases where the cause and/or manner cannot be determined based on the coroner’s investigation.

10. If an autopsy is performed, will the decedent still be able to be viewed at the funeral home?: The funeral director will discuss appropriate funeral service option with family at the initial meeting following death. The autopsy alone will not affect the ability to view the deceased person. However, there are other factors that may prohibit the deceased from being viewable, such as severe trauma.

11. Will an autopsy delay the funeral?: Not normally. Autopsies are typically performed within 24 to 48 hours after death and released to the funeral home immediately thereafter.

12. Does the coroner need approval from the next of kin to order an autopsy?: No; Pennsylvania State law authorizes the coroner to order autopsies, when necessary, to determine the cause and manner of death.

13. Can the family request an autopsy?: If the coroner does not order an autopsy, the family always has the right to have one done at their own expense through a private pathologist.

14. Who can retrieve the personal effects recovered from a decedent?: Personal effects are typically released to the funeral director along with the body.

The legal next of kin, or legal designee, may pick up items not released to the funeral director during normal office hours and by appointment only. Recipients must present valid government issued photo identification and sign a release form.

15. When will i know the cause of death?: If determined after a preliminary coroner’s investigation, forensic examination, and review of medical records, the cause of death will generally be available to the legal next-of-kin within 24 to 48 hours after the death is reported to the Coroner’s Office. If further testing is required, it may take several weeks before a cause of death can be determined.

16. The cause of death listed is pending. What does this mean? When will the final cause of death be determined?

Often when an autopsy is performed additional information may be required to obtain a final determination. As a result, the actual cause of death is not initially listed on the death certificate. The cause of death may be listed as pending.

The additional information required routinely takes between six and eight weeks, occasionally longer, and includes:

Culture growth

Forensic entomology examinations (insects)

Forensic neuropathology examination

Microscopic examination

Toxicology

17. How do I obtain a death certificate?: Certified copies of the death certificate are available from the funeral director for a period of time. After that period of time, copies may be purchased from the Pennsylvania Department of Vital Records. Our office does not have additional death certificates.

18. Where will my loved one be taken?: If an autopsy is required, your loved one will be transported to the Lancaster County Forensic Center for further evaluation. Your funeral director will be notified upon completion, and your loved one will then be released into their care.

19. What do I do now?: If your loved one is brought to the Lancaster County Forensic Center, your next step is to contact a funeral home. Advise the funeral home that the Lancaster County Coroner’s Office is handling the death. Next, contact the Coroner’s Office at 717-735-2123 and advise them as to which funeral home you have chosen.

20. What funeral home should I choose?: The Lancaster County Coroners’ Office does not endorse any particular funeral home.

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County Services during COVID-19 Emergency

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1. What can I use at the County parks and what isn't available right now?: County Parks are open! Please follow social distancing etiquette when visiting our parks. Programs and facilities rentals are however subject to closures and cancellations. Visit the Parks and Recreation page below for those updates.
Parks and Recreation page

2. I need to send in subdivision and land development plans. How can I do that?

LCPC is now accepting electronic submissions of subdivision and land development plans. Applications Coordinator Farah Eustace will review each application for completeness and ensure the submittal fee is calculated correctly. She will then contact the applicant about submitting payment for the review fee.

For instructions on electronic submissions, please click here. Questions? Please contact Farah (feustace@co.lancaster.pa.us) or Dean Severson, Director for Community Planning (seversod@co.lancaster.pa.us).

3. I had an Assessment appeal scheduled. What should I do?: Click on the link for the Property Assessment page to stay up-to-date on assessment appeals scheduling.
Property Assessment page

4. I am a notary and my notary commission is about to expire. What should I do?: The Recorder of Deeds office is providing regular updates on notary information. Click the link below for the latest information.
Notary Info

5. How do I record a deed?: The Recorder of Deeds office is providing information on how to continue recording deeds. Please see link below.
Record a deed

6. Will I get an extension on paying my property taxes?: The Treasurer’s Office is providing updates on property tax payments. Please follow the link below for current information.
Treasurer's office

7. Can I buy a dog license online?: You can! Padoglicense.com
PA Dog License

8. Can I still get copies of records from Archives?: You can, although please expect a delay as staff is working on a modified schedule. Please see information below on how to obtain records.
IT/Archives division

9. I know of someone having mental health issues. Who can I contact?: If you are experiencing a mental health emergency that requires immediate attention, please contact Crisis Intervention at 717-394-2631. Or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. More information on the mental health services provided by BHDS can be found by following the link below.
BHDS Mental Health

10. I'm concerned about my elderly parents. What services are available to them?: Lancaster County Office of Aging can help! Please see the link below for a list of their services.
Office of Aging services

11. Someone I know is having a substance abuse issue. Who can I contact?: The Lancaster County Drug & Alcohol Commission can provide those resources for you. Please see link below.
Drug and Alcohol help

12. I suspect child abuse or neglect occurring. What can I do?: Lancaster County Children and Youth Agency is here to help. To report suspected child abuse or neglect go to www.compass.state.pa.us/cwis or call Childline at 1-800-932-0313 or the Communication Center at 717-293-7724. You can also follow the link below to see information on child abuse or neglect, plus other services including in-home protection, foster care, and adoption.
Children and Youth Agency

13. Does the County have any current job openings?: A current list of job openings can be found at the link below.
Employment Opportunities

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Court Services during COVID-19 Emergency

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1. I need to make a child support payment in cash.: Services are available through Moneygram. See below.
Cash payments

2. What's happening with Domestic Relations services?: Following the Domestic Relations page for updated information.
Domestic Relations Office

3. Will I be asked to serve on a jury?: Jury Services is updated their page with the latest information available. Take a look by following the link below.
Jury Services

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Facilities Management

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1. Who is the County Engineer?: The County of Lancaster now uses the third party appointed engineering company Rettew Associates. You may find their link below. Rettew Associates

2. How do I contact Weights & Measures?: Weights & Measures is now controlled by the State of Pennsylvania. Please see their website below for more information. PA Weights & Measures

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Footer FAQs

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1. Where can I renew my licenses?: go to: Treasurer's Office

2. Where can I apply for a job?: go to: Human Resources

3. How do I register my will?: go to: Register of Wills

4. Where do I register to vote?: go to:
Voter Registration

5. How do I find information on jury duty?: go to:
Jury Services

6. How do I search for prison inmates?: go to: Prison Inmate Search

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GIS

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1. I’m having trouble with my Parcel Viewer.: 1. If your using RETTEW.s “GIS Locator” program please direct your
questions to the Lancaster County Association of Realtors (LCAR) at (717)
569-4652. As of April 15, 2007 RETTEW no longer supports the “GIS
Locator.” This application uses our data, but we also do not support the
product.
2. If you are having trouble loading the Parcel Viewer CD; try the help
section on the disc: LCPVHELP.EXE
3. For specific questions or problems, call the GIS Division at 717-391-7550
and someone will assist you.

2. The Parcel Viewer help document will not open.: If you are running Windows 7 - 64 bit, the help document will not open properly. Please call the office if you need further assistance.

3. Will Parcel Viewer data work with Parcel Locator GIS?: The GIS Data on the Parcel Viewer CD no longer works with the Parcel Locator GIS application developed for the Lancaster County Association of Realtors. Parcel Locator was not developed by the county and is no longer supported by the developer. Based on the status of Parcel Locator, we will not be able to provide Parcel Viewer data in a format that supports Parcel Locator. Parcel Viewer does, however, include a GIS data viewing application which can be used to view and query the data on that CD.

4. I have a question about flood plain lines.: Lancaster County GIS staff cannot resolve issues related to flood plain boundaries or determinations about whether a specific property is in a flood plain. Your first stop should be the office for the municipality which a property is located in. For all other questions about flood insurance or the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), please contact the NFIP Help Center at 1-800-621-3362 or visit www.FloodSmart.gov
To view Flood Insurance Rate Maps or an interactive map showing Flood Hazard Areas for that location, use the FEMA Flood Map Service Center. FEMA Flood Map Service Center

5. How do I get to the GIS Office?: For driving directions to 150 N. Queen Street, see Google Maps below. To get to
the GIS office, enter 150 N Queen St at the Binn's Park stage entrance and
follow the corridor to the right, to the elevators. Go to the third floor, and the IT
Help Desk will be on your right. Driving Directions

6. When is the Parcel Viewer released and how much is it? What does it contain?: The Parcel Viewer is released quarterly in March, June, September, and December (usually mid-month). It costs $37.50 + tax ($39.75 total). It contains parcel data (lines, owner info, acreage, and assessment values), roads, zoning, ADC index, tile index, school districts, and municipality boundaries. It also contains an application to view the data if you do not have ESRI products, the data is in shapefile format and can be used with ESRI products.
GIS Request Forms

7. What kind of maps do you sell and what is the cost?: We sell Production maps which are available in three sizes at standard and non-profit rates. Prod maps have set layers and a fixed layout. Any request beyond a Prod map would become a Custom Map; they are available at a rate of $75.00/hr + tax or $15.00/hr for nonprofits.
Product List

8. Do you sell a countywide map?: We do not. However, the Lancaster County Visitors Bureau offers a fold up countywide map at no charge. Another option is to purchase an ADC Map at a convenience store or book store.
Lancaster County Visitors Bureau

9. What kinds of payments do you take for GIS maps and services?: We take cash, checks and Visa, MasterCard and Discover credit cards. Checks can be made payable to Lancaster County GIS.

10. Where do I get a ‘plot plan’ of my property (in order to get a permit for an addition or new construction)?: You can get a plot plan or tax map of your property through either the GIS
or the Property Assessment Office, both on the 3rd floor of 150 N. Queen St.
They are $10 + tax for an 8.5”x11” size map, if you need anything larger, GIS will
make it.

11. I looked at your website and my neighbor’s building is on my property, can I take any action?: If there is a question about the GIS positioning of a parcel boundary, a GIS
mapping technician will use a recorded deed and/or subdivision plan to
determine if any corrections need to be made in the GIS data.
The GIS parcel lines are merely representations of the legal description found in
the respective deed, and are shown for illustrative purposes only. The actual
position and location of property lines on the ground should be determined by a
Professional Land Surveyor licensed in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

12. I don’t want to pay $100 for a map of my house with a photo; do you have anything less expensive?: Yes, 8.5"x11" Prod maps with the aerial photo are $10 plus tax, 11"x17" Prod maps are $25 plus tax.

13. Can you fix errors on my GPS or internet map (Bing, Google, Mapquest, ect.)?: We can look at the error to see if it is correct in our data. However, you will
need to report it directly to the company that maintains the data for your GPS unit
or for the mapping website. Most of these companies have a way to report errors
through their websites. The two main companies are Navtaq and Tele Atlas.

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Information for Funeral Directors

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1. What is the location of the Lancaster County Coroner’s Office?: The Lancaster County Coroner’s Office is located at:
The Lancaster County Forensic Center
2080 Spring Valley Road
Lancaster PA 17601

2. What are the mailing address and phone and fax information?: Lancaster County Coroner’s Office
2080 Spring Valley Road
Lancaster, PA 17601

Ph: 717-735-2123
Fx: 717-735-2138

3. How do I obtain a cremation authorization?: You must download the Cremation Authorization Form. Print the form, complete it, and fax it to the Coroner's office.

4. What is the fee for cremation authorization?: The fee for cremation authorization is $50.

5. What is the removal process from your facility?: Funeral directors must verify with our office at 717-735-2123 that the decedent is ready for release before arriving at the facility. Remains will be released directly to the funeral home authorized by the legal next-of-kin.

Transfer is available between the hours of noon and 4 p.m., unless other arrangements have been made in advance.

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LanCo View

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1. How can I zoom in/out and pan the map?: Use the magnifying glasses and multidirectional arrow in the Toolbar Menu. You can also use the slider navigation bar or your mouse scroll wheel.

2. How can I turn layers on and off?: The Sidebar Menu displays the Table of Contents. Check on/off the layers you wish to display. Use the radio buttons to toggle between the base maps.

3. How can I search for a property?: Expand the Queries panel in the Sidebar menu. Enter a 13 digit account number with no spaces or characters (3315292100000) OR the house number, street direction, street name, and suffix in their individual boxes.

4. What is my property’s account number?: Property account numbers are unique 13 digit numbers that the Lancaster County GIS department assigns to each property for identification. Property owners may be able to determine their property’s account number by referring to their deed. If the deed does not contain an account number, then an individual can refer to the Property Assessment Search site to help determine an account number. It is also possible to use LanCo View’s map and selection tools to acquire a property’s account number.
Property Assessment Search

5. Why do I get 'no records found' when I search for an address?: First, ensure you have entered the House Number, Direction, Street Name, and Street Suffix in their separate boxes. If no results are returned, try leaving the Direction and Street Suffix boxes blank.

Please keep in mind that often times an individual’s mailing address may not be the same as the property address. This most commonly occurs when there are multiple dwellings on a single property (ex. apartment complexes, commercial strip malls, industrial parks, and more). Generally, a property’s address will be the lowest numerical mailing address contained in that property. If you are unable to determine the correct property address, then it may be necessary to manually search for the parcel using the map and selection tools.

6. Why does the address search return more than one result?

The address search function queries all the properties in Lancaster County to determine matches based on the house number and street name provided by the user. Therefore, it is possible, and often likely, that an address search will return multiple results. This is due to a couple of factors:

To start, identical street addresses may exist throughout the county, provided they are in different municipalities. For example, enter 102 for the house number and Sunrise for the street name; you will see in the results that there is a 102 Sunrise Ave. in both Elizabeth Township and Manheim Township.
Another circumstance that may lead to multiple search results would be when a house number and street name occur with a variety of street prefixes, types, and suffixes. An example would be to search for a house number of 200 and a street name of Second. The search results for this query would be 200 S Second St. and 200 E Second Ave. two very different addresses that share a common house number and street name.

When multiple results are returned, the user will then have the ability to scroll through the matches in the search result window. By examining the address and municipality fields, users can quickly identify their desired property from the list.

7. Why can I not view owner names?: In order to comply with the Right to Know law relating to law enforcement officers home addresses, owner name information is not available on LanCo View.

8. Why am I unable to view property dimensions?: The property dimensions are scale dependent. The check box for property dimensions will only activate if the scale bar has a value of 200 feet or less in the map view. If you do check the box and then zoom out past 200 feet the dimensions will disappear.

9. How can I print a map?: From the Toolbar menu along the top of the page, click on the printer icon. You can add a title, select the layers to include in the legend and add comments. Three types of output formats exist; HTML, PDF, and Flash Paper. Use the HTML format to quickly generate a map for printing. Use the PDF option if you want to save the map to a file.

10. How do I measure things on the map?: Both distance and area can be measured on the map using the Measure Line or Measure Area tools within the Query/Info dropdown.

To measure distance select the Measure Line tool from the Tools menu and then click two points on the map. Additional mouse clicks will continue the measurement line. Both the segment and total distance will be displayed in a separate window. Double click to stop the measurement. The linear measurement units can be changed during measurement and there are many to choose from.

The Measure Area tool will report both area and perimeter. Similar to linear measure, click the Measure Area tool and then click on the map. Each click will define a measure area. A minimum of 3 points will be needed to define the area. You will see the polygon take shape with each click. The measure results window will update with each click. Similar to line measurement, units can be changed for reporting the perimeter and area.

11. Where is the survey monuments layer?: The monuments have been moved to a separate map.

12. Who can I contact with questions pertaining to the flood plain line?: Your first stop should be your municipality or FEMA. We can not handle discrepancies about the flood plain line decisions. The FEMA public affairs office should get any calls at 215-931-5614. You can also get information on the FEMA website. The flood plain lines in LanCo View are representations; they are not survey grade, nor can they be used for legal purposes FEMA

13. My neighbor’s building is on my property, can I take any action?: If there is a question about the GIS positioning of a parcel boundary, a GIS mapping technician will use a recorded deed and/or subdivision plan to determine if any corrections need to be made in the GIS data.

The GIS parcel lines are merely representations of the legal description found in the respective deed, and are shown for illustrative purposes only. The actual position and location of property lines on the ground should be determined by a Professional Land Surveyor licensed in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

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Main

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1. How do I contact a city/county department?: Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

2. Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?: Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.

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Office of Aging - Volunteering

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1. What is the goal of the volunteer program?: To provide the needed assistance so the older person can remain in his/her own home and enhance the older person's quality of life.

2. What commitment must I make as a volunteer?: You will be assigned to an individual client. This offers flexibility and minimal time commitment (an average of 4 hours a month) for you. You may choose to assist with seasonal events (chicken barbecue delivery in May and holiday box delivery in December) or with one-time volunteer requests, such as home chores / repairs or escorting a client to a medical appointment.

3. What commitment does the Office of Aging make to volunteers?: You will be asked to serve a client only in the geographic areas in which you've indicated you're willing to travel. You may also be asked to help a client only with the task(s) that you've indicated you're willing to perform.

Orientation and ongoing support is provided to ensure your assignment is meaningful and satisfying for you and the older person you're helping. If you're assigned to an older person, the match will be monitored and continue only if both you and the client are satisfied.

4. How will I be given an assignment?: You will list your volunteer preferences when you complete the Volunteer Registration form; assignments will be made according to those preferences. Any phone assignments will be given within your calling area.
Any match is on a trial basis; both you and the client must be satisfied with the match for it to continue.

5. How do I become an Office of Aging Volunteer?: View our volunteer registration page for information on volunteering.

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Open Records and Right To Know

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1. How can I obtain a copy of my divorce decree?: Divorce decrees can be obtained by contacting the Prothonotary’s Office which is located at 50 North Duke Street, Lancaster, PA. They can be reached by telephone at 717-299-8282. You can also conduct a search for civil court records which includes divorce decrees. Civil Court Record Search

2. Where can I obtain a copy of the Commissioners’ Meeting Minutes?: Go to the Agendas and Minutes section of the website Agendas and Minutes

3. How can I search for criminal court records?: The Clerk of Courts, which is located at 50 North Duke Street, Lancaster, PA, maintains criminal records for the courts. Records can be obtained by contacting their office at 717-299-8275 or by searching the criminal court records website. Crimilan Court Records Website

4. Where can I find a list of surplus tax sales?: The Treasurer’s Office is responsible for the receipt of County taxes. They are located at 150 N. Queen Street, Lancaster, PA and can be reached at 717-299-8222. A record of Tax Sales Surplus can be found on their section of our website. Treasurer's Office

5. Where can I find election results?: Historic election results can be found by visiting the Board of Elections and Registration Commission website Voter Registration and Board of Elections

6. How can I obtain a copy of a birth certificate?: Birth certificates can be obtained through the Pennsylvania Department of Health, Division of Vital Records, P.O. Box 1528, New Castle, PA 16103. You may reach them via telephone at (724) 656-3100 or via information on their website at the following link:
PA Dept. of Health, Birth & Death Certificates

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Prothonotary

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1. Where is the Prothonotary's Office located?: On the second floor of the Lancaster County Courthouse:
50 N. Duke St.
Lancaster, PA 17602

2. Do you have forms for all the filings?: No, not all forms are available. See the Prothonotary Forms page for a list of forms in PDF format available for download. There are forms in the Self-Help Center, too. That is located on the first floor of the courthouse.

3. Can you help me fill out my forms?: No. Please contact a private attorney, the Lawyer Referral Services or go to the Law Library on the 4th floor of the Courthouse to seek assistance.

4. How do I appeal a magisterial district judge judgment for money?

Individuals and businesses have 30 days from the date the judgment is entered to file an appeal. If the required filing fee cannot be paid, and financial requirements are met, seek legal counsel through MidPenn Legal Services. Only the initial form with basic instructions is provided.

Once the appeal is filed, seek legal counsel.

5. How do I appeal a magisterial district judge judgment for a landlord / tenant judgment for possession?: Individuals have ten days from the date the judgment is entered to file an appeal if they wish to stay in the property. A bond is required at the time of filing the appeal, which consists of the money amount in arrears or three months rent, whichever is less. A low income tenant filing an appeal will need to determine what type of tenant they are (A, B, C, or D) at the time of filing the appeal to determine what, if any, bond needs to be paid.

6. How do I appeal a license suspension or registration suspension?: Individuals have 30 days from the date of the letter from PennDot to appeal. The Prothonotary’s Office does not have forms for this appeal. Consult legal counsel or research the Pennsylvania rules of civil procedures in the law library which is located on the fourth floor of the new courthouse.

7. How do I file for custody / visitation?: If the required filing fee cannot be paid and financial requirements are met, contact MidPenn Legal Services. The custody clinic will assist the individual through setting up the first custody conference. Then legal counsel should be sought through your attorney or lawyer referral service.

8. How do I file for divorce or annulment?: Annulments are treated the same as a divorce. If financial requirements are met, contact MidPenn Legal Services. The divorce project through MidPenn will file the divorce for the individual. Otherwise, seek legal counsel through your attorney or lawyer referral service, or research the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure in the law library, located on the fourth floor of the new courthouse.

9. How do I get a satisfied lien off of my credit report?: Obtain a copy of the satisfaction from our office and take it to the reporting agency. Check with the reporting agency as to what type of identification you will need.

10. How do I get a lien off of my credit report that is not mine?: Obtain a copy of the lien from our office and take it to the reporting agency, along with any documentation that they may require to prove that you are not that person.

11. What types of liens and judgments are filed in the Prothonotary's Office?: See the Liens & Judgements List.

12. How do I resume my maiden name after a divorce?: A) If the name change is being done as a result of a divorce in Lancaster County, please bring your birth certificate with your maiden name appearing on it, along with cash, check or money order for $22.50. There is an Election to Resume Maiden Name form available on the Prothonotary Forms page that can be prepared ahead of time.

B) If the name change is being done as a result of a divorce that has been FINALIZED outside of Lancaster County, please bring your birth certificate with your maiden name appearing on it, a certified copy of your divorce decree from the issuing county/parish, and cash, check or money order for $45.75. Our staff will prepare the form here.

13. How do I change my child's last name?: If the biological father’s name is not on the birth certificate and he is marrying the mother, and the child has not started school, you can complete the information on the back of the birth certificate and send it to the Office of Vital Statistics Division of Vital Records:
101 S. Mercer St.
P.O. Box 1528
New Castle, PA 16101

They can be called at 724-656-3100. In all other circumstances, you must petition the court.

14. How do I change my name?: To change your name, you must petition the court. Contact legal counsel or research the Pennsylvania rules of civil procedure in the law library, located on the fourth floor of the new courthouse.

15. How do I apply for a motor vehicle registration for an abandoned vehicle?: Prepare a petition and order to be presented to court. Contact legal counsel. Cost is listed on our fee bill as “petition for return of property.” For more detailed information, research the Pennsylvania rules of civil procedure in the law library, located on the fourth floor of the new courthouse.

16. How do I apply for U.S. citizenship?: Individuals may come into the office for the application for citizenship. The fee is $675.00, which you must send along with the application to INS. All other forms may be obtained by calling INS at 800-870-3676, they may be downloaded. Naturalization ceremonies are scheduled five times a year at the Lancaster County Court of Common Pleas.

17. How do I get a passport?: See the Passport Information for further answers.

18. Where do I send motions and petitions for the business judge?: Motions and petitions are filed in the Prothonotary's Office and forwarded to the business judge. Once the order for rule is signed, they are conformed by our staff and sent to the attorney that filed it. Unusual motions and petitions or special circumstances should be presented in person to the business judge (call to make an appointment).

19. Are motions to compel discovery filed in the Prothonotary's Office?: No. Local Rule 208.3(c) should be followed.

20. How do I find an attorney for my case?: Contact the Lancaster County Bar Association at 717-393-0737.

21. What do I do if I want to represent myself in a case?: You may do this by visiting the Self-Help Center, located on the first floor of the courthouse. You may also visit the Law Library, located on the 4th floor of the courthouse.

22. What is the difference between a notice to resume prior surname after a divorce and an official name change?: A notice to resume prior surname can be completed at the Prothonotary's Office after a divorce complaint is entered in our office. This must be completed in the county where the divorce action is filed.

An official name change must follow the Pennsylvania rules of civil procedure. There is no form for this. You must research what needs to be filed or contact an attorney.

23. What are your hours?: Office Hours M-F: 8:30am to 5:00pm
Filing Hours M-F: 8:30am to 4:30pm
Passport Hours M-F: 8:30am to 4:00pm

24. Where can I get a copy of a transcript from a hearing?: You can get a copy of a transcript from the Court Reporters located on the Mezzanine level of the historic courthouse.

25. Where can I file for guardianship?: This can be done by speaking with the Register of Wills Office.

26. How do I withdrawal/drop my PFA?: If the PFA has been finalized all fees must be paid (usually imposed on the Defendant), a copy of the receipt needs to be taken to the Court Administration Office to request a hearing be scheduled to ask for the case to be withdrawn/dropped.
If the PFA has not been finalized, show up at your next scheduled hearing date and ask the judge for it to be withdrawn/dropped. She/he will review your case and make a decision.

27. How do I file a PFA?: You may file a PFA through a private attorney, DVLC or Bail Administration. The process can take all day and an ex parte hearing will be held at 3pm with one of our judges.

28. Where can I get information about a Children & Youth case?: You may only get information from Children and Youth, as these documents contain information related to minors and they are not available to the public. They are filed either in the Clerk of Courts Office (Criminal) or Orphan’s Court, in either case these offices will not disclose any information or disseminate any copies of pleadings or orders without court approval. Children and Youth Agency may provide information and copies to those related to the action.

29. What is the date for my naturalization ceremony?: You may check our Court Calendar or contact your Naturalization Officer to confirm what date you are scheduled for.

30. How do I get a duplicate of my naturalization certificate?: Please contact the U.S. Cititzenship & Immigration Services.

31. Why am I receiving a Criminal Judgment?: Please read the 'Frequently Asked Questions' which is included in the mailing of each Criminal Judgment. Also, at the bottom of are phone numbers for the Collections Enforcement Unit and the Clerk of Courts

32. How long until I receive my order from a custody conference/hearing?: You can expect to receive your order about 20 days from the date of your conference or hearing.

33. I did not receive notice or was not served with custody paperwork, but I received an order, what do I do next?: If you are unsure of what to do next, you should seek an attorney for assistant, as our office is unable to answer that because it is a legal question.

34. How do I know when my divorce has been finalized?: You know your divorce has been finalized when a divorce decree has been signed by a judge. Copies are then sent out in the mail to all parties involved. Alternatively, you may track the status of your case on the Civil Court Records Search.

35. What do I need to get a certified copy of my divorce decree?: For a certified copy of your divorce decree, we need the case number and the names of both parties involved. The case number can be found online using the Civil Court Records Search and searching by the last name. If the divorce occurred before 1996, the search will likely have to take place using the Index Book Search for the case number. Please refer to the most current Prothonotary Fee Bill for the current pricing. If using the mail system for a certified copy, we need a short letter stating what you are requesting, a check for the decree, and a self-addressed, stamped envelope for the receipt and certified copy to be sent back.

36. Where do I register my notary?: Everything can be done in the Recorder of Deeds Office, located at 150 North Queen Street, Lancaster, PA.

37. How can I follow the status of my case?: You may follow your case status by going to our Civil Court Records Search and searching for your case by using the case number or searching your name.

38. How can I e-file?: Electronic filing for Lancaster County Prothonotary Office is provided by: File & ServeXpress (formally known as LexisNexis).

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Purchasing

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1. How do I become a vendor?: There s a link on the Purchasing home page that takes you to a form that must be completed and submitted.

2. How do I find the Purchasing Department?: The County of Lancaster Purchasing Department is located on the seventh floor at 150 North Queen Street, Lancaster, Suite 712.

3. How do I find the delivery dock and what are the delivery hours?: The delivery dock for the County of Lancaster is located off W. Marion Street under the parking garage. Directions: Walnut (Rt.23) to Market St. (alley) crossover Chestnut. Market turns into W. Marion St. (alley). The entrance to the dock will be on your left.Deliveries are accepted between 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM Monday - Friday.

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Purchasing Co-op

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1. How do I become a Co-op member?: Keep in mind, each case must be evaluated based on the circumstances.

Eligibility is open to any public purchasing entity (local governments and authorities), non-profit human service agencies which receive public funds, and schools, both public and private, located within Lancaster County.

How each organization relates to another public purchasing entity also has to be evaluated. For example, fire companies which are affiliated with municipalities typically come under the umbrella of the municipality.

2. Co-Op pick-up location and hours?: Co-Op members may pick-up items from the County of Lancaster at the warehouse dock Monday, Wednesday and Friday between the hours of 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. The dock is located off W. Marion Street under the parking garage. Directions: Walnut (Rt.23) to Market St. (alley) crossover Chestnut. Market turns into W. Marion St. (alley). The entrance to the dock will be on your left.

3. Where does the County post information for bids?: The County of Lancaster posts IFB’s and RFP's on the Public Purchase website. Registration is free for vendors and is a two-step process explained in the step-by-step document found on the Vendor Registration page.

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Register of Wills

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1. Must all wills be probated? Can money distribution be made to heirs without probate?

If there are no assets in the decedent’s name alone, the will does not need to be probated. There are cases where distribution can occur without a will being probated. Any bank or other savings organization may release up to $10,000 to family members when:

The decedent’s accounts do not exceed $10,000
The funeral bill has been paid, and the receipt is presented

Life insurance companies may release certain monies under $11,000 to named family members, rather than to the estate. Certain patient accounts (not exceeding $10,000), which have been kept by various health care institutions, may be paid to the funeral director and/or to the family without probate.

Stocks and bonds physically noted T.O.D. ( transferable on death) or P.O.D. (payable on death) may pass to heirs without probate. Unclaimed funds under $11,000 held by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania may be applied for without probate.

2. If someone dies, where will I find the will?: Wills for living persons are not registered and stored at the Register of Wills office. Wills are
typically filed in the office of the attorney who prepared the will, in the vault of a trust
department, or in a private safety deposit box belonging to the person who wrote the will.

3. What happens if I can’t find the will?: Keep looking, it is very important to find it. In rare cases, a copy of the will can be admitted to
probate, but all interested parties must sign affidavits, which must be filed with the Register of
Wills.

4. What if I know there is no will?

If the decedent died without a will (intestate), then the Register of Wills will grant letters to the
following ( in the prescribed order):

Surviving spouse

Intestate heirs

Principal creditors of the decedent

Other fit persons

5. What must be legally done with the will?

The executors must report to the court house of the county where the decedent was legally
domiciled at the time of death with the following items:

A completed petition for probate and grant of letters (the form is included in this packet)

The original will, all codicils, and/or any related documents giving direction as to how property should by disposed upon death

A death certificate

Appearance of executor(s)

Witnesses to will (unnecessary if will is self-proven)

Sworn English translation if will is written in a foreign language

A Check or Cash to Cover Probate Fees
Probate fees are due to the Register of Wills at the time of probate. The costs, based on the value
of the estate, are documented on the enclosed fee schedule (a current fee scheduled can be
obtained at the Register’s office).

If a notarized self proving affidavit is attached to the original will, the will is considered self-proven. If the will is not self-proving, two subscribing witnesses (witnesses who signed the will) must prove the signature of the decedent. If the witnesses to the will are available, they must sign an Oath of Subscribing Witness Form. If they cannot be located, then two persons familiar with the signature of the decedent must sign an oath of non-subscribing witness, stating that they believe the signature on the will to be that of the decedent.

6. I have been named executor, but I do not want to serve. Can I get out of it?: Yes. You need to file a document with the Register of Wills called a renunciation. That basically means you are turning down the job of executor. The contingent executor named in the will takes over at this point.

7. What must I do if I am named executor?: Responsibilities of executors vary greatly from estate to estate, depending on the particular
circumstances of the decedent. However, there are certain forms that are required to be filed in
all estates.

Notice must be given to all beneficiaries named in the will, and spouse and children if there is no
will, of the death of the decedent and the appointment of the personal representative. A copy of
the probated will may be sent to those named in the will.

Certification of notice must be filed with the Register of Wills verifying that the personal
representative has sent these notices. One of the major responsibilities of the personal representative is to determine what assets the decedent had in his name alone (probate assets) and are, therefore, under the control of the personal representative and subject to distribution under the terms of the will.

These assets may be cash, bank accounts, stocks and bonds, investment accounts, personal
property, business interest, real estate, life insurance, and/or retirement benefits. These assets may be subject to Pennsylvania inheritance tax and possible federal estate tax, if the gross estate is over $1,000,000 (2003). Therefore, these assets must be valued as of date of death and reported as such on the death tax returns.

Outstanding debts of the decedent, along with funeral expenses and estate administration
expenses, must be determined and paid out of the estate assets before any distributions to beneficiaries. These debts and expenses are allowable deductions for Pennsylvania inheritance tax and federal estate tax purposes. If the estate is insolvent (debts exceed assets), then the personal representative is responsible to
pay claims based on a schedule of priority of payments.

8. Can the Register of Wills guide me through estate administration, or must I seek legal counsel?: There are two concerns that every personal representative shares. One is that the estate is administered properly according to law, and the second is that the amount of taxes paid is minimized and the amount of assets passing to beneficiaries is maximized.

The Register of Wills is only a record keeping office, and the clerks are not trained or licensed to give legal advice. Estate administration is typically conducted more effectively and efficiently with the assistance of legal counsel. Estate administration is an orderly process that is designed to insure that the will of the decedent is carried out and the interest of all parties to the process are protected.

It is the duty and obligation of the personal representative (executor or administrator) to protect
estate assets and pay all proper taxes and claims. A personal representative is personally
responsible for improper distributions. It is often necessary to review and interpret many documents and legal contracts, such as insurance policies, employee benefit information, income tax returns, stocks, bonds, and business agreements.

9. What is a short certificate?

A short certificate is a document issued by the Register of Wills after the will has been probated. It evidences the appointment of the personal representative to administer the estate. This document allows the personal representative to act on behalf of the estate to close bank accounts, file final income tax returns, process pension benefits, and close brokerage accounts.

The current charge is $10 per certificate, and each bank will require an original. It is called a short certificate because it is a one-half page form.

10. How do I know how much I have to pay in taxes? When do I have to pay them?

There are three types of taxes to be considered:

Pennsylvania inheritance tax

Federal estate tax

Income tax

Pennsylvania inheritance and federal estate tax returns are due nine months after the date of death, unless an extension is obtained. The personal income tax return of the decedent is due the April following the death.

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Small Games of Chance

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1. What law governs the conduct of small games of chance?: The Pennsylvania Local Option Small Games of Chance Act (the act), 1988 P.L 1262, No. 156, as amended. The act allows certain nonprofit organizations, known as “eligible organizations,” to conduct specific small games of chance for the purpose of raising funds for the promotion of public interest purposes.

2. Does a local option small games of chance license permit all forms of gambling?

No, most definitely not! The Pennsylvania Crimes Code provides that all forms of gambling are illegal unless the activity is specifically authorized by the Pennsylvania Legislature. Only those specific types of small games of chance as defined by the act are permitted by virtue of being licensed under the act. Currently permitted by the act are:

Daily drawings

Pull tabs

Punch boards

Raffles (includes lotteries)

Weekly drawings

Unless otherwise authorized by law all other forms of gambling are prohibited criminal offenses under the Pennsylvania Crimes Code. For example, none of the games played at a typical Monte Carlo Night event are sanctioned by the act. Some organizations may use play money for such events, but if at any point the play money won while playing any game of chance takes on value, that gambling is in violation of the Pennsylvania Crimes Code.

3. Are quarter auctions permitted?: No. As previously stated, the Pennsylvania Crimes Code provides that all forms of gambling are illegal unless the activity is specifically authorized by the Pennsylvania Legislature. While they may be called quarter auctions, that is where any similarity to a true auction ends.

Quarter auctions are best classified as a form of progressive raffle or drawing. While they are legal in some states, quarter auctions are illegal in Pennsylvania.

4. Who can apply for and be granted a local option small games of chance license?: A license cannot be granted to an individual. Only an eligible organization as defined in Pennsylvania Local Option Small Games of Chance Act (the act), 1988 P.L 1262, No. 156 as amended, can apply. Members of interested organizations should refer to §103 of the act, or to the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue Small Games of Chance Overview prepared by the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue (both of which can be viewed or downloaded from this site) to see if their organization is eligible for licensing.

5. Are there different types of licenses?: Most organizations would be required to apply for a regular license. Those organizations that do not own, lease, or rent a property as their regular place of business are eligible for a limited occasion license. A limited occasion license permits the eligible organization to conduct two raffles per license year and to conduct the other permitted small games of chance on not more than three occasions covering a total of seven days during a license year. Finally, a special permit is required for any raffle with a prize in excess of $1,000.

Only the holder of a regular license may apply for and be granted a special permit. The holder of a regular license is permitted to apply for and be granted no more than eight special permits per license year, except that a fire, ambulance, or rescue organization (not a club) may apply for and be granted no more than 10 special permits per license year.

6. What is the fee for the various licenses?: The fee for a regular license is $100. The fee for a limited occasion license is $10. The fee for a special permit is $25.

7. How long is a license valid?: A regular and limited occasion license is valid for one year from date of issue. A special permit is valid only for the specific raffle it applies to.

8. Can an eligible organization permit its license to be used by another organization to play small games of chance?: No. Only the organization in whose name the license is issued may conduct small games of chance.

9. Can an auxiliary to an eligible organization use the license of the eligible organization to conduct small games of chance?: Yes. Auxiliary groups within eligible organizations shall be eligible to conduct small games of chance using the license issued to the eligible organization provided that the auxiliary group or groups are listed on the application for license and the license of the eligible organization. Auxiliary groups shall not include branches of lodges or chapters of a statewide organization.

10. Can an auxiliary to an eligible organization apply for and obtain its own license to conduct small games of chance?: No. While this was previously an issue in question; the amendments made to the act in 2012 now specifically prohibit an auxiliary to an eligible organization from apply for and being issued its own license.

11. How does an organization establish that it is an eligible organization?: The organization must meet the definition of an eligible organization found in §103 of the act. The organization must be able to prove that it has been in existence for one year prior to making application for a license.

Upon making application for a Local Option Small Games of Chance License, the organization’s articles of incorporation and/or bylaws must accompany the application. If the organization is not incorporated, it must provide its bylaws and any other documentation that sets forth the organization’s executive structure and purpose, most importantly providing for a president and secretary. The documentation that must accompany the license application can be found at the bottom of page two of the application.

12. Where is a criminal history check (background check) obtained?: From the Pennsylvania State Police. The act states, “Each application for a license shall include the results of a criminal history record information check obtained from the Pennsylvania State Police, as defined in 18 Pa.C.S. § 9102 (relating to definitions) and permitted by 18 Pa.C.S. § 9121(b) (relating to general regulations), for the executive officer and secretary of the eligible organization making the application for a license or any other person required by the department.”

An application for a criminal history check can be obtained from and submitted on-line through the Pennsylvania State Police. The form can be mailed to the address appearing on the form.

13. Are school districts eligible for licensing under the act?: No, public school districts, nor any political subdivision are eligible for licensing. Parochial schools are eligible for licensing if they otherwise meet the requirements for an eligible organization.

14. Are political parties eligible for licensing under the act?: No. An organization whose purpose is non-partisan, such as devoted to non-partisan voter registration efforts, would be eligible if they otherwise meet the requirements for an eligible organization.

15. What does the eligible organization do once it has completed its application for a license and prepared the necessary accompanying documentation?: The application and required documentation must be brought to the Office of the District Attorney where it will be reviewed by a county detective. If the application and documentation complies with the requirements of the act, authorization will be given to take the application and documentation to the Lancaster County Treasurer’s Office where the license will be issued upon payment of the applicable fee.

16. Can anyone from the organization bring the application and documentation to the District Attorney’s Office?: Yes as long as they are a bona fide member of the organization as defined by the act, and the application has been completed in its entirety, is signed by the president or secretary of the eligible organization, and the application is notarized.

17. Will documentation that must accompany a license application be returned?: No, it will be filed by the treasurer with the application and become public information.

18. Must the association provide the documentation listed on page two of the application each time application is made for a license?: Under the current procedure followed by the Office of the District Attorney and the Lancaster County Treasurer’s Office, unless specifically asked for by a county detective, the documentation listed on page two does not have to be provided again where no changes to the documentation have been made and no lapse in the license has occurred.

At present, how often a criminal history check must be completed has not been specified. The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue is charged with promulgating rules and regulations for the operation of small games of chance. They have not yet provided amended rules and regulations reflecting the changes made to the law.

An application must be prepared each time a license is renewed. At present, the completed, signed, and notarized application, along with those records that the association is required to keep concerning its conduct of small games of chance, and a copy of its previous year’s annual report to the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue must be brought to the Office of the District Attorney for a license renewal.

19. Once issued, can the license be revoked?: Yes. The Lancaster County Treasurer can revoke a license upon recommendation of the district attorney if it is found that grounds for revocation listed in §701 of the act exist.

20. Who investigates violations of the act?: The district attorney is charged with investigating violations of the act; however, any state, county, or local law enforcement official is empowered to investigate violations of the act.

21. Do some municipalities prohibit small games of chance?: Yes. Small games of chance may only be played and eligible organizations licensed in those municipalities that have approved the licensing and conduct of small games of chance by voter referendum. A list of those municipalities that have and have not passed the referendum question can be viewed or downloaded from this site.

22. Where can small games of chance be played?: Small games of chance, with certain exceptions, may only be played at the eligible organization’s licensed premises (regular place of business or other location specifically listed on the eligible organization’s application for license). Each eligible organization must list its licensed premises on its license application.

Members of the eligible organization may sell raffle tickets in any municipality in Lancaster County where small games of chance have been approved by voter referendum. An eligible organization may also conduct small games of chance off its licensed premises at an annual carnival, fair, picnic, or banquet held by the organization on an historic basis, but it is required to provide written notice to the district attorney and treasurer of its intent to do so.

23. Are there age restrictions on who can play small games of chance?: Yes. No one under 18 years of age may play small games of chance.

24. Can an eligible organization sell raffle tickets in another county?: Yes. An eligible organization may sell tickets in a county other than the county in which they are licensed, but must give written notice to the district attorney and treasurer of each county in which they intend to sell tickets of their intent to do so.

The notice must clearly set forth the location(s) and date(s) sales will take place. It is also suggested that the notice contain the eligible organization’s license number. Remember, the act applies to all counties, so sales of raffle tickets can only take place in municipalities that have approved the small games of chance question by voter referendum.

25. Can anyone conduct small games of chance for an eligible organization?: No. Only a bona fide member of the eligible organization who is at least 18 years of age, as defined by the act, may conduct small games of chance on behalf of the eligible organization.

26. Can members of an eligible organization be paid or otherwise compensated for conducting small games of chance on behalf of an eligible organization?: No. The act specifically prohibits anyone from being paid or compensated in any manner for conducting small games of chance.

27. Where does an eligible organization obtain small games of chance?: Other than raffle tickets, an eligible organization must purchase small games of chance from a licensed distributor.

28. Are there restrictions on advertising small games of chance?: Yes. §704 of the act states: “It shall be unlawful for any eligible organization or person to advertise the prizes or their dollar value to be awarded in games of chance, provided that prizes may be identified on raffle tickets. Notwithstanding the prohibition of advertising contained within this section, an eligible organization may advertise prizes and values thereof in periodic publications which are limited in their circulation to members of the eligible organization”.

29. Must an eligible organization maintain records concerning its conduct of small games of chance?: Yes. Specific records concerning types of games played, prizes awarded, and other information must be maintained and an annual report filed with the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue. Members of eligible organizations should review the Small Games of Chance Overview prepared by the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue for an explanation of required records. The overview can be viewed or downloaded from this site.

30. Must the activity of a licensed organization be reported?

Yes, beginning February 1, 2013, eligible organizations must electronically file an annual report with the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue for the preceding calendar year. Eligible organizations will be required to report the following with respect to small games of chance:

Amount of proceeds used for public interest purposes

Gross revenue collected from small games of chance

Number of W-2G forms issued

Proceeds

Total expenses associated with small games of chance

Total gross winnings reported on W-2G forms

Total prizes paid

There are additional reporting requirements for those organizations who have been issued a club license.

31. Are there limitations on what an eligible organization my use the proceeds of small games of chance for?: Yes. The act permits the proceeds to be used for only public interest purposes, as defined in §103.

32. Are there limits on prizes?: Yes there are very specific prize limits. Prize limits can be found in §302 of the act. Members of eligible organizations should review the act and the Small Games of Chance Overview prepared by the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue for an explanation of prize limits. The Local Option Small Games of Chance Act and the overview can be viewed or downloaded from this site.

33. May animals be awarded as prizes?: No. Under 18 P.A. C.S.A. §5511.1, no animal, except goldfish, may be given away as a prize in any game of chance. This prohibition does not apply to domestic animals given away or sold in connection with any agricultural, educational, or vocational program sponsored or sanctioned by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.

34. Are there specific guidelines for what information must be contained on a raffle ticket?

Yes. The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue is charged with promulgating rules and regulations for the operation of small games of chance. They have not yet provided amended rules and regulations reflecting the changes made to the law. The current regulations are applicable.

The following section of the Pennsylvania Administrative Code, Title 61 (Revenue) addresses this question:
§ 901.745. Printing Requirements
The following information shall be printed upon each raffle ticket sold:

The date and time of the drawing

The location of the drawing

The name of the club conducting the raffle

The price of the ticket

The prize or prizes to be awarded

The small games of chance license number of the club

The special permit number, if applicable

35. Must raffle tickets be accounted for in a certain manner?: Yes. The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue is charged with promulgating rules and regulations for the operation of small games of chance. They have not yet provided amended rules and regulations reflecting the changes made to the law. The current regulations are applicable. The following section of the Pennsylvania Administrative Code, Title 61 (Revenue) addresses this question.

36. How many raffles can my organization hold?: The number of raffles held would be dictated by monthly prize limits as set forth in §302 of the act.

37. Can the price of a raffle ticket include more than the price of the ticket?: No. For instance, the price charged cannot include a raffle ticket and food product. The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue is charged with promulgating rules and regulations for the operation of small games of chance. They have not yet provided amended rules and regulations reflecting the changes made to the law. The current regulations are applicable.

The following section of the Pennsylvania Administrative Code, Title 61 (Revenue) addresses this question.

§ 901.743. Raffle Tickets
(a) Tickets for entry into a raffle shall be sold or issued separately and each ticket shall constitute a separate and equal chance to win with other tickets sold or issued. A person may not be required to obtain more than one ticket, or to pay for anything other than the ticket, to enter a raffle.

38. Can the advertised date for a raffle drawing be postponed?: Yes, but only for two reasons. The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue is charged with promulgating rules and regulations for the operation of small games of chance. They have not yet provided amended rules and regulations reflecting the changes made to the law. The current regulations are applicable.

The section of the Pennsylvania Administrative Code, Title 61 (Revenue), addresses this question.

39. What procedure must a licensed organization follow if a raffle prize goes unclaimed?: The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue is charged with promulgating rules and regulations for the operation of small games of chance. They have not yet provided amended rules and regulations reflecting the changes made to the law. The current regulations are applicable.

The section of the Pennsylvania Administrative Code, Title 61 (Revenue) addresses this question.

This series of frequently asked questions is not meant to, nor could it ever address every conceivable question concerning raffles. Responsibility for insuring that raffles are conducted consistent with the provisions of the Pennsylvania Local Option Small Games of Chance Act (the Act), 1988 P.L 1262, No. 156, as amended, rests with the licensed organization.

40. Are raffles and drawings the same?: No. A drawing is defined by the act as a game in which a bona fide member of an eligible organization selects or is assigned a number for a chance at a prize with the winner determined by a random drawing to take place at the licensed organization’s premises during the same operating day. Daily drawing winners may be determined with the aid of a passive selection device or reference to the state lottery drawings.

Daily drawing chances may not be sold for an amount in excess of $1, and no more than one chance per individual may be sold per drawing. Nothing in this definition shall restrict an eligible organization from conducting more than one drawing per day.

41. May drawing tickets be sold to the public?: No, only a bona fide member of an eligible organization may participate in a drawing. This includes 50/50 drawings. See the preceding question for more details.

42. May strip tickets and punch board chances be sold to the public?: Yes, but only on the licensed premise.

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Victim / Witness Services

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1. Where is your office?: Our office is located on the fifth floor of the courthouse. When exiting the elevator, follow the sign to the end of the hallway in the northeast corner of the building. Parking is available at any of the city parking garages or at meters on the street. Duke Street Garage is one block north of the courthouse. Penn Square Garage is one block south of the courthouse. East King Street Garage is two blocks east of the courthouse.

2. What is a subpoena?: A subpoena is a court order for you to appear as a witness. If your child is a victim or witness and receives a subpoena, you must bring your child to court with you. You may not ignore this court order. You are required to appear at the time and place stated on the subpoena. You may receive a subpoena by mail or in person.

If you are a victim or witness to a crime, or the parent or caretaker of a child victim, you may receive a subpoena.

3. What is the purpose of bail?: Bail is used to make sure the defendant will come to court. The seriousness of the offense is only one of the factors the judge considers when setting the amount of bail. The judge also considers the defendant’s employment status, family ties in the community, age, past history of court appearances, and any other factor that may indicate whether or not the defendant is likely to leave the area.

4. Do I need to get an attorney?: No. The assistant district attorney (ADA) represents the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in prosecuting the defendant at no cost to you throughout the entire criminal process.

5. What if I move or change my phone number?: It is very important that you tell the District Attorney’s Office about any changes in your address or phone number. Please call Victim / Witness Services at 717-299-8048.

6. What if the defendant’s attorney contacts me?: The defendant’s lawyer or an investigator may contact you. You may refuse to speak with them; the decision is completely up to you. We suggest that you always know the identity of the person to whom you are speaking. If you are not sure with whom you are speaking, ask for their name and phone number and call the Victim / Witness Services at 717-299-8048 for assistance.

7. What if the defendant, his/her family, or friends contacts me?: It is a crime for a defendant to harass, threaten, or intimidate a victim or witness in a case. It is also a crime for the defendant or another person acting on behalf of the defendant to offer you money or some other benefit to alter your testimony or drop charges. Please call the police department who brought the charges or the Victim / Witness Services at 717-299-8048 for assistance.

8. Will there be a jury at trial?: Yes, generally there is a jury. However, the defendant may waive (give up) his/her right to a jury trial. The defendant and his/her attorney may ask for a bench trial. If the commonwealth / assistant district attorney agrees, the judge assigned to the trial will hear all of the testimony and evidence presented and will give the verdict.

9. How long do I have to wait at court?: The assistant district attorney will let you know when you are excused. Although this is usually when you have completed testifying, there may be reasons why you may need to stay.

10. Can my case be continued?: Yes, both the defense attorney and assistant district attorney can request a continuance (postponement). It will be up to the judge to decide if case should be postponed.

11. Will the defendant be in the courtroom?: Yes. The defendant will be in the courtroom the entire time because he/she has the right to face the person who has accused them of a crime.

12. Can I be in the courtroom when my child testifies?: It depends; if you are going to be called as a witness, you may not be permitted to be in the courtroom when your child testifies because witnesses are not allowed to hear testimony of other witnesses. If you will not be called as a witness, it is best to talk to your child how he/she feels about you being in the courtroom. Some children want their parents to be there, others may be more comfortable if their parents wait outside.

13. What is a plea agreement?: Many times a plea agreement (disposition) is made between the assistant district attorney and the defense attorney. A plea agreement can be made anytime up to the time of trial. A plea agreement can be made for the charges to which a defendant will plead, the sentence he/she will receive, or both. The plea agreement is presented to a judge. The judge can accept or reject the plea. If the judge rejects the plea agreement, the case is still open. If the judge accepts the plea, there will not be a trial. The judge will give the defendant the sentence that is agreed to in the plea agreement.

14. What is a victim impact statement?: As the victim of a crime, you have a right to give a victim impact statement to the sentencing judge. This includes giving a written or oral victim impact statement. A victim impact statement gives you an opportunity to tell about the physical, psychological, and financial effects this crime has had on you and your family.

It may be helpful to fill out a victim impact form, although you do not have to complete this form. It is up to you. However, it will help the sentencing judge to have a clear understanding of the effect this crime has had on you and your family. A copy of this form will also be given to the prosecuting attorney and the defense attorney. The defendant may also read it. If you need help with this form, please call Victim / Witness Services at 717-299-8048.

15. What is restitution?: View the restitution page for information on this.

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