Pennsylvania Public Records Key Terms

Searching for public records basic terms

With advances in technology, public records are now easy to search for by accessing one of the many government databases available to public. Most of this type of public information can be found for free or for a nominal fee through many government websites.

Public records are a very valuable source for finding vital information about an individual including criminal records, unpaid bills, professional licenses, birth and death records and unclaimed property.

 

Criminal records

The central repository for all criminal records is the Department of Corrections' Agency Open Records Officer who maintains information on offender convictions, felonies, status of offenders and dates of convictions.
Try: US Legal Definitions offers more information about criminal records.

Unclaimed property

Unclaimed property is an asset that has been left unclaimed, abandoned or inactive by its owner. These can include dormant bank accounts, insurance proceeds, stocks, deposits, dividends, uncashed checks and credit refunds.
Try: The Pennsylvania Treasury Department maintains custody of unclaimed property until claimed by the owner.

Attorney search

A search can be done to find information regarding an attorney, including whether an attorney has been the subject to any public discipline. This information can help consumers when making a choice about the type of representation they require.
Try: The Disciplinary Board of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania maintains a database of attorney information accessible by the public.

Jail and inmate records

PA SAVIN is a service for Victim Notification for which gives crime victims free, accurate and confidential notification and information about a specific county inmate's release, escape or transfer. These jail and inmate records are available via phone, email or Internet inquiry.
Try: To access the search option for inmate information in the state of Pennsylvania, visit VINELink.

Court records

The Pennsylvania court system consists of Magisterial District Courts, Courts of Common Pleas, traffic courts and municipal courts. The Courts of Common Pleas has jurisdiction over criminal and civil cases including felonies and lesser-included offenses, while the other courts (Magisterial District Courts, traffic and municipal courts) have a more limited jurisdiction. Records for each court are available to the public.
Try: The Guide to Pennsylvania Courts provides a search engine for court records.

State Civil Service Commission

The Pennsylvania State Civil Service Commission manages all of the civil services job openings in Pennsylvania. Those who elect to work within the State system will have to consider the individual regulations and collective bargaining systems associated with the job selected to make the best employment choice.
Try: The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry explains the role of the Pennsylvania State Civil Service Commission.

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