Distict Court 44-3-03

Magisterial District Judges have the authority to:

• Conduct non-jury trials in summary traffic, criminal, ordinance cases, landlord/tenant actions, and civil cases involving amounts of $12,000 or less
• Conduct preliminary arraignments and set bail
• Preside over preliminary hearings
• Issue criminal warrants and search warrants
• Issue Emergency Protection From Abuse Orders
• Perform weddings

Responding to a Citation

Defendants have 10 days after receiving a citation from an officer or summons from the court to enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. Failure to respond will result in the issuance of an arrest warrant.

Credit card payments are accepted. However, there is a 3 ½ % user fee charge for this office to process credit card payments.

Case payments may also be made online through the Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System web portal. Visit the portal at http://ujsportal.pacourts.us. This service charges $2.75 per transaction.

Court Proceedings

A Magisterial District Judge or staff cannot provide any guidance or legal advice to a plaintiff or defendant in a case. The Judge's role is to maintain a neutral and detached position. It is the responsibility of each litigant to present to the court the information to be considered in rendering a fair decision. If you are coming to court to attend or participate in a hearing, proper attire is recommended, and respectful conduct is expected.

Contact the Department

Jennifer Y. Vandine - Magisterial District Judge
Fay Pardoe - Administrative Assistant

245 Muncy Street, Suite 150

PO Box 259

Laporte, PA 18626

Phone: (570) 946-4413
Fax: (570) 946-4436
Email