Divorce records in Adams County, Pennsylvania, can be accessed through several channels. AdamsPACourt.us can help you find publicly available divorce record information for the county. You can also obtain records directly from the Adams County Court of Common Pleas, the Adams County Prothonotary's Office, or the Pennsylvania Division of Vital Records. Whether you need a certified copy of a divorce decree or want to verify that a divorce was finalized, these offices each serve a different role in maintaining and providing access to divorce-related documents.
Adams County Divorce Records Search
In Pennsylvania, divorce is a civil matter handled by the Court of Common Pleas. In Adams County, the Prothonotary's Office serves as the clerk of the civil court and is responsible for maintaining divorce case files, including divorce decrees, complaints, settlement agreements, custody orders, and related filings. The Prothonotary records, maintains, and preserves all civil court documents for the Adams County Court of Common Pleas.
The Pennsylvania Division of Vital Records also maintains divorce certificates — shorter, summary-style documents that confirm a divorce occurred. These are distinct from the full divorce decree on file at the county level.
The Prothonotary's Office is located at the Adams County Courthouse:
Office hours are generally Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Contact the office directly to confirm current hours before visiting.
Where Divorce Records Are Filed in Adams County
Divorce cases in Adams County are filed in and decided by the Adams County Court of Common Pleas. The Adams County Court Administration divorce page provides forms and guidance for individuals representing themselves in divorce proceedings. Once a divorce decree is entered by the court, it is filed and maintained by the Prothonotary's Office.
Depending on what you need, you should contact one of two offices:
- For the full divorce decree, complaint, settlement agreement, or other court filings: Contact the Adams County Prothonotary.
- For a divorce certificate (a summary vital record confirming the divorce): Contact the Pennsylvania Division of Vital Records.
Adams County Prothonotary
According to the Prothonotary's FAQ page, you can visit the office in person to obtain a certified copy of your divorce decree. You may also contact the office by phone to ask about mail-in requests.
Pennsylvania Division of Vital Records
The state office issues divorce certificates for divorces granted in Pennsylvania. These are not the same as the full court file — they verify that a divorce was granted, listing the parties, date, and county.
You can also search for docket information through the Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System Web Portal, which provides public access to civil case docket sheets statewide, including Adams County Court of Common Pleas cases.
Divorce Record Search Fees, Copy Costs, and Processing Times in Adams County
| Service | Fee | Typical Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Certified copy of divorce decree (Prothonotary) | Contact office for current fee | Same day if requested in person |
| Divorce certificate (PA Division of Vital Records) | $20.00 | 4–6 weeks by mail |
| UJS Web Portal docket search | Free | Immediate (online) |