The cost to file a civil complaint in Pennsylvania varies by county. In Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, the fee to file a civil complaint is $165.00.
Understanding Civil Complaint Filing Fees in Pennsylvania
While the general question asks about Pennsylvania, court fees are typically set at the county level by the Prothonotary or Clerk of Courts office. This means the exact cost to file a civil complaint can differ significantly from one county to another across the Commonwealth.
Westmoreland County Civil Complaint Filing Fee
Based on available information, the specific fee for initiating a civil complaint in Westmoreland County is $165.00. This is the initial charge to open a new civil case in the county's court system.
To provide a clearer picture of various civil court-related fees in Westmoreland County, here is a breakdown:
| Fee Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Civil Complaint | $165.00 |
| Writ of Summons | $165.00 |
| Appeals | $164.75 |
| Appeals (alternate) | $164.50 |
| Appeal Arbitration Award | $385.50 |
It's important to note that these figures are specific to Westmoreland County and may not apply to other counties in Pennsylvania.
Important Considerations for Filing Fees
When preparing to file a civil complaint, keep the following in mind:
- County-Specific Fees: Always verify the current fee schedule directly with the Prothonotary or Clerk of Courts in the specific Pennsylvania county where you intend to file your complaint. Most counties publish their fee schedules on their official websites.
- Additional Costs: The filing fee is often just one component of the total expense. You might encounter other associated costs, such as:
- Service Fees: Costs for serving the complaint to the defendant(s) (e.g., sheriff service fees or certified mail).
- Jury Demand Fee: If you request a jury trial, there might be an additional fee.
- Motions and Pleadings: Subsequent filings within the case may incur minor fees.
- Fee Waivers (In Forma Pauperis): If you are unable to afford the court filing fees, you may be eligible to apply for an "In Forma Pauperis" (IFP) status. If granted by the court, this can waive some or all of the court costs.
For specific and up-to-date information regarding Westmoreland County court fees, you can visit the official Westmoreland County website's Court Fees page.
