Schuylkill County

Schuylkill County is located in the heart of east-central Pennsylvania, located in the anthracite coal region that powered America's Industrial Revolution. Schuylkill County seat is Pottsville, a city of approximately 143,000 residents situated along the Schuylkill River. Schuylkill County includes 782 square miles and has a total population of approximately 143,000 residents as of recent estimates. Schuylkill County was established on March 1, 1811, from parts of Berks and Northampton counties, and its name derives from Schuylkill River, which flows through Schuylkill County. Major landmarks include the Yuengling Brewery in Pottsville, America's oldest operating brewery founded in 1829, and Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, one of the world's premier raptor migration sites. Schuylkill County is characterized by mountainous terrain, including portions of the Appalachian Mountains, and historic coal mining towns that reflect its industrial heritage. Schuylkill County Courthouse, located at 401 North Second Street in Pottsville, houses the Recorder of Deeds office and Prothonotary's office. Schuylkill County Assessment Office is located at 401 North Second Street as well, providing property assessment and tax information. Schuylkill County Clerk of Courts maintains criminal and civil court records. What makes Schuylkill County unique is its rich anthracite coal mining heritage, Pennsylvania Dutch cultural influence, and outdoor recreation opportunities spanning from the Appalachian Trail to numerous state parks and gamelands.

The Schuylkill County Court serves Schuylkill County and is located at 401 North 2nd Street in Pottsville. The court handles civil, criminal, family, and probate cases for this county. Court records and case filings can be requested in person or through the Pennsylvania online court portal.

The Schuylkill County Court of Common Pleas is the trial court of general jurisdiction in Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania. It has jurisdiction over civil and criminal cases, including appeals from lower courts. The court also has jurisdiction over family law matters, including divorce, child custody, and adoption. The court also has jurisdiction over probate matters, including wills and estates.

Law Enforcement & Arrests

• Pennsylvania State Police Troop L provides coverage for townships and areas without municipal police, with barracks in Pottsville area Haven and Frackville.
• To obtain certified arrest records, requesters should submit written requests to the specific law enforcement agency or the County Clerk of Courts at the courthouse.

Arrest Records

• The process for obtaining these records may vary, with some agencies offering online access while others require in-person requests.

Jail & Inmate Records

• The bond and bail process follows Pennsylvania state guidelines, allowing for the posting of bail through cash, property, or bail bondsmen.

• Magisterial District Courts handle summary criminal offenses, preliminary hearings for felonies, civil cases under $12,000, and landlord-tenant matters.
• Certified copies of court documents cost $10.75 for the first page and $2.00 for each additional page.

• The office provides a free online search portal through Schuylkill County website at www.co.schuylkill.pa.us where users can search and view recorded documents by grantor, grantee, document type, or book and page number.
• Certified copies of recorded documents can be requested in person or by mail for a fee of $5.00 for the first page and $2.00 for each additional page.

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

• Requesters must provide valid photo identification and proof of relationship or eligibility to obtain certified copies.
• The fee is $50.00 and there is a three-day waiting period after application.
• § 450.101 et seq, which establishes confidentiality requirements and eligible requesters for certified copies.

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

• Most formal business entities must register with the state rather than Schuylkill County.
• Schuylkill County Planning and Zoning office at provides coordination and information.