Public Access Policy

Public Access Policy of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania:
Case Records of the Appellate and Trial Courts Update

On March 28, 2018, the new “Public Access Policy of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania:  Case Records of the Appellate and Trial Courts” adopted by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court was amended. The amendments go into effect on July 1, 2018.

How does this affect you?
1.  This amended policy affects the filings in the Orphans’ Court as follows:

The Commentary for Section 7 in regard to the Certification of   Compliance states, “…the certification is required on every document filed with a court or custodian regardless of whether the filing contains“confidential information” requiring safeguarding under this policy.”

2.  When filing items in the Orphans’ Court that have information that is considered “Confidential Information,” or a document that is a “Confidential  Document,” you must designate this on the appropriate “Confidential Information Form” or “Confidential Document Form.”

3.   Our website has information to help you determine what is considered  “Confidential Information” or a Confidential Document.” There are forms and  instructions available for you to use.  Also, for more information, you may want to visit:  http://www.pacourts.us/public-records/public-records-policies

4.  This new policy applies to filings in the Orphans’ Court only.  It does not apply to filings in the Register of Wills office.

5.   Please note, it is you the person filing in the Orphans’ Court who is responsible to comply with these new requirements.  The Orphans’ Court staff is NOT responsible, nor required, to alert you if you are not following this new policy correctly.

This information is provided to assist you, but, does not constitute legal advice. Please contact an attorney if you have any questions. If you need an attorney, the Delaware County Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service can be of assistance. Their phone number is (610)566-6625. Thank you.

Rachel Ezzell, Esquire
Register of Wills and Clerk of Orphans’ Court Division