How to File in Philadelphia CourtsComplete Step-by-Step Filing Guide
Complete guide to filing your case in Philadelphia Municipal Court or Court of Common Pleas. Find all courthouse locations, required forms, step-by-step instructions, and what to expect throughout the filing process.
$29 service fee + court filing fees
Complete Filing Process in Philadelphia Courts
Determine the Correct Court
The first critical step is choosing the right court based on your claim amount:
Simpler procedures, no jury trials, faster resolution
More formal procedures, jury trials available, longer timeline
⏱ Time required: 5-10 minutes to determine jurisdiction
Gather Required Information
Collect all necessary information before filing:
- Defendant's Information: Full legal name, current address, phone number
- Case Details: Date of incident, description of dispute, amount owed
- Evidence: Contracts, receipts, photos, emails, text messages
- Witnesses: Names and contact information of anyone who saw what happened
⏱ Time required: 30-60 minutes to gather documents
Complete Court Forms
Fill out the appropriate complaint form:
Form MC-01
Municipal Court Complaint
For claims up to $12,000
Form CV-01
Common Pleas Complaint
For claims over $12,000
⏱ Time required: 20-30 minutes to complete forms
File at Courthouse
Visit one of 5 Philadelphia courthouse locations:
- • Bring original and 3 copies of all documents
- • Present forms to the clerk at filing window
- • Pay filing fee ($98-273 depending on amount)
- • Receive case number and stamped copies
- • Get receipt for payment
⏱ Time required: 30-60 minutes at courthouse
Serve the Defendant
Legal notification must be provided to defendant:
Sheriff Service
$70 - Most reliable
Certified Mail
$8 - If address verified
Private Server
$50-150 - For difficult service
⚠️ Service must occur within 30 days of filing
⏱ Time required: 5-15 days for service completion
Attend Your Hearing
Prepare for and attend your court date:
Before Hearing:
- • Organize all evidence
- • Practice your presentation
- • Prepare witness list
- • Plan to arrive 30 minutes early
- • Dress professionally
During Hearing:
- • Address judge as "Your Honor"
- • Present facts clearly
- • Show evidence when relevant
- • Answer questions directly
- • Stay calm and respectful
⏱ Hearing typically scheduled 30-45 days after filing
Typical Timeline
Skip the Courthouse Trip - File Online
Avoid the complexity of filing in person. We handle all paperwork, court requirements, and filing procedures for you. File from home in minutes, not hours at the courthouse.
$29 service fee + court filing fees. Professional assistance included.