District Courts

Since the first Monday of January, 1970, there are 19 Magisterial  District Judges in York County who will do the work previously done by the former Justices of the Peace and Aldermen. Their terms of office are for six years.

Unlike the former Justices of the Peace and Aldermen, they are compensated by salary paid by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and retain no fees. All fees and costs formerly collected and retained by them are now paid over to the County.

The Jurisdiction of Magisterial District Judges includes suits involving as much as $12,000 in civil matters, such as suits for breach of contract and actions of trespass, in which matters they have the authority to hear the cases and render judgments. Their decisions are, of course, subject to appeal to the Court of Common Pleas. They have additional civil jurisdiction over such matters as landlord and tenant cases.

The Magisterial District Judges have criminal jurisdiction over felonies and misdemeanors in that Magisterial District Judges hear the complaints and determine whether a prima facie case has been shown by the prosecutor. If it has, the Judge orders the defendant held for court. If a prima facie case has not been proven to his/her satisfaction, the Judge will discharge the defendant. As to summary convictions under the criminal code, violations of City, Borough and Township ordinances, violations of the fish, game and dog laws, the Judge has the power to hear and determine the defendants guilt or innocence, subject to appeal to the Court of Common Pleas.

Please click here to access a map showing the municipalities within the jurisdiction of each magisterial district judge.

Click here to check magisterial district court records. 

 * All phone numbers are within the (717) area code unless otherwise noted.