Free Legal Resources
Pennsylvania Legal Resources
Your complete guide to free and low-cost legal help in Pennsylvania. Find legal aid organizations, court self-help centers, and pro se filing resources.
Free Legal Aid Organizations
Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network (PLAN)
Counties: Statewide (coordinates all regional programs)
Services: Civil legal aid coordination and referrals
Phone: 1-800-322-7572
Website: palegalaid.net
Philadelphia Legal Assistance (PLA)
Counties: Philadelphia
Services: Housing, family law, public benefits, consumer protection
Phone: 215-981-3700
Website: philalegal.org
Community Legal Services of Philadelphia (CLS)
Counties: Philadelphia
Services: Housing, employment, public benefits, consumer protection
Phone: 215-981-3700
Website: clsphila.org
MidPenn Legal Services
Counties: Adams, Bedford, Berks, Blair, Centre, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Lancaster, Lebanon, York
Services: Housing, family law, public benefits, consumer protection
Phone: 1-800-326-9177
Website: midpenn.org
Southwestern Pennsylvania Legal Services
Counties: Allegheny, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Washington, Westmoreland
Services: Housing, family law, public benefits
Phone: 1-800-245-4040
Website: swpls.org
Court Information by County
| County | Judicial District | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | First Judicial District | 215-686-7100 |
| Allegheny (Pittsburgh) | Fifth Judicial District | 412-350-5400 |
| Montgomery | 38th Judicial District | 610-278-3000 |
| Bucks | 7th Judicial District | 215-348-6000 |
| Delaware | 32nd Judicial District | 610-891-4000 |
| Chester | 15th Judicial District | 610-344-6000 |
| Berks | 23rd Judicial District | 610-478-6200 |
| Lancaster | 2nd Judicial District | 717-299-8000 |
Pennsylvania Court Structure
- Court of Common Pleas: Major civil cases, divorces, felonies
- Magisterial District Court: Small claims, evictions, traffic
- Philadelphia Municipal Court: City-specific small claims and landlord-tenant
Pro Se Filing Resources
"Pro se" means representing yourself in court without an attorney. In Pennsylvania, you have the right to represent yourself in most civil matters.
| Filing Type | Typical Cost | Where to File |
|---|---|---|
| Divorce (Uncontested) | $200-350 filing fee | Court of Common Pleas |
| Name Change | $150-200 filing fee | Court of Common Pleas |
| Expungement | $50-150 filing fee | Court of Common Pleas |
| Eviction Answer | $100-150 filing fee | Magisterial District Court |
| Small Claims | $50-100 filing fee | Magisterial District Court |
| Power of Attorney | No filing required | N/A |
| LLC Formation | $125 state fee | PA Department of State |
PA Court Forms & Self-Help
When Legal Aid Can't Help
Legal aid organizations have income limits and case type restrictions. If you don't qualify, jurisdiction-correct document templates provide an affordable alternative.
Document Templates from Jurist-Diction
PA-specific legal documents coming soon. Contact us for availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a court-appointed attorney for civil cases?
Generally, no. In Pennsylvania, court-appointed attorneys are primarily for criminal cases where jail is possible. For civil matters (divorce, custody, housing), you must hire an attorney or represent yourself.
What if I can't afford the filing fee?
Ask the court about filing in forma pauperis (IFP). If you qualify based on income, the court may waive your filing fees.
How long does an uncontested divorce take in Pennsylvania?
Mutual consent requires a 90-day waiting period after filing. Two-year separation has no waiting period but requires 2 years of separation. Reality: 3-6 months is typical for uncontested cases.
Can I file for expungement myself?
Yes. Pennsylvania allows pro se expungement filings. Recent changes to PA law (Clean Slate) automatically seal certain records, but you may still need to petition for expungement of others.
Additional Resources
PA State Government
Federal Courts
Bar Associations
This resource guide is provided for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice.
Last updated: March 2026