For statewide Custody and Divorce forms and instructions that can be used by someone who chooses not to hire a Lawyer, click on http://www.pacourts.us/learn/representing-yourself to go to the Administrative Office of PA Courts (AOPC) web page.

In addition to the forms on the AOPC website, below is some local Berks County information to assist you if you choose to represent yourself:

Local Legal Services Provider:

LAWYER REFERRAL SERVICE OF THE BERKS COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION
544 Court Street
Reading, Pennsylvania 19601
(610) 375-4591

Method of Filing: Custody and Divorce documents can be filed by mail or in person at the Prothonotary's Office. Lawyers can also electronically file those documents. Self-represented litigants may be permitted or required to electronically file those documents in the future. Notice will be posted on the Prothonotary's website when electronic filing from self-represented litigants is either permitted or is mandatory.

Filing Fees: For the current Prothonotary Fee Bill click Fee Bill.

Where to File: You should file your completed documents in the Prothonotary's Office.

Additional Forms: In addition to the statewide forms, please also file the Berks County Family Court Cover Sheet with all Custody and Divorce filings and file the Scheduling Order with all Custody Complaints or Petitions to Modify. Include one or more of the Appendixes below as appropriate with Custody Orders.

Appendix A

Appendix B

Appendix C

Berks County Family Court Cover Sheet

Certificate of Address

Custody Agreement Forms and Instructions

Custody Emergency Petition Forms and Instructions

Custody Exceptions Forms and Instructions

IFP Forms and Instructions CIVIL

IFP Forms and Instructions FAMILY

Praecipe to Withdraw Action Forms and Instructions

Scheduling Order

LINKS:

Local Rules

Directions to the Courthouse/Services Center