Franklin County

Franklin County is located in south-central Pennsylvania, bordered by Maryland to the south and the Appalachian Mountains to the west. Franklin County seat is Chambersburg, a historic community founded in 1730 and rebuilt after Confederate forces burned it during the Civil War in 1864. Franklin County includes approximately 772 square miles and has a population of roughly 155,000 residents according to recent census estimates. Franklin County was formed in 1784 and named after Benjamin Franklin. Major landmarks include the Appalachian Trail, which crosses through Franklin County, Caledonia State Park, and Cowans Gap State Park. Franklin County is predominantly rural with agriculture playing a significant economic role, particularly fruit orchards and dairy farming. Franklin County is home to Franklin County Courthouse at 157 Lincoln Way East in Chambersburg, where many county offices are located. Franklin County Recorder of Deeds office maintains property records at 218 North Second Street, Chambersburg. Franklin County Clerk functions are handled through the Prothonotary office. Franklin County Assessment Office, responsible for property valuations, is located at 218 North Second Street. Franklin County's strategic location along Interstate 81 and proximity to Harrisburg, the state capital, has made it an important transportation and distribution hub. Franklin County is also known for its role in Civil War history, with several significant sites and museums documenting the Confederate invasion of Pennsylvania.

The Franklin County Court serves Franklin County, Pennsylvania and handles civil, criminal, family, and probate cases. The courthouse is located in the county seat of the region. Court records and case filings can be requested in person or through the Pennsylvania online court portal.

The Franklin County Court of Common Pleas, located in Chambersburg, helps with civil, criminal, family, and probate cases, ensuring a legal framework for residents.

Law Enforcement & Arrests

• Mugshots and booking photos are typically available through Franklin County jail roster system, which is updated regularly and accessible online.
• Walk-in requests for arrest records can be made at the Sheriff's Office during business hours, Monday through Friday.
• Processing fees may apply for copies of records.

Jail & Inmate Records

• The bond and bail process in Pennsylvania allows for the release of inmates under certain conditions, and information on recently arrested individuals can be accessed through the Sheriff's Office.

Mugshots & Booking Photos

• The Register of Wills and Orphans' Court, located at 157 Lincoln Way East, handles probate matters, estates, and guardianships
• Fees for certified copies are established by statute, typically $7.00 for the first page and $2.00 for each additional page.
• Online access through the UJS portal is free for docket searches, though documents may require in-person or mail requests with appropriate fees.

• Certified copies of recorded documents cost $2.00 for the first page and $1.00 for each additional page.

Vital records for this county include birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates issued under state vital statistics law.

• Processing time is typically 4-6 weeks for mail requests.
• Online ordering is available through VitalChek at www.health.pa.gov/vital records with expedited service for additional fees.
• The marriage license fee is $40, and applicants must appear in person with valid identification.

Business records, licenses, and permits for this county are processed by the County Clerk and local government offices.

• The database is searchable by business name, entity number, or officer names and provides information on business status, registration date, and registered agent.
• Franklin County Area Development Corporation (FCADC) at www.fcadc.com provides economic development assistance and information for businesses locating or expanding in Franklin County.