If you have a criminal record in Pennsylvania and want to apply for a pardon or expungement, knowing exactly what’s on your record is the first step in your journey. Many people assume they know their full criminal history, but missing details or errors can delay the process.
This guide walks you through how to find and review your Pennsylvania criminal record, where to look, and what to do if you can’t find it, because things like pardons and expungements need an understanding of the current status of the case and knowing how to navigate the UJS Portal is the most important step.
Why Checking Your Criminal Record Matters
Before applying for a pardon or expungement, it’s crucial to verify what’s officially listed. Many clients are surprised to find old or minor charges they forgot about—or worse, mistakes that could impact their case.
✅ Confirm accuracy – Ensure all charges and dispositions are correct.
✅ Identify eligibility – Know which offenses qualify for expungement, clean slate, or a pardon.
✅ Prepare for the process – Avoid surprises when submitting your application.
Key Concepts
The Unified Judicial System uses a number of terms and systems throughout that platform to describe certain common ideas and concepts. The following will be important in understanding and reading criminal history record information.
Grading
In Pennsylvania, criminal grades refer to the maximum amount possible for fines and jail time. Even if you got probation and a $100 fine, the grading could be high. The higher the grade, the maximum jail time and fines increase. You’ll find the gradings of offenses on the UJS portal records. You will find the list of maximum fines and jail time in the PowerPoint presentation.
Summary Tickets
Summary tickets are similar to traffic or speeding tickets as they are usually minor offenses. They usually don’t have any jail time behind them, only fines and fees. Some examples include retail theft and disorderly conduct
The Two Courts
All criminal charges start at the district judge level. The judge will handle all preliminary hearings and then pass misdemeanor and felony cases on to another court (Court of Common Pleas) for a final disposition. As long as the MDJ deems the charges are appropriate and the evidence sufficient, the case can move forward. There are two places where criminal cases are finalized:
- Magisterial District Court (MDJ): The Magisterial District Judge can accept pleas of guilt if the case is an M3 or a summary. The magisterial district courts are the lower courts, passing more serious cases to the Court of Common Pleas.
- Court of Common Pleas (CP): The common pleas court handles all misdemeanor and felony cases graded above an M3.
Both of these courts have their abbreviation at the UJS portal.
How To Use the UJS Portal To View Your Criminal Record
By learning how to read a criminal record, you’ll know the case’s status before you act. You’ll know whether to pursue a pardon or expungement once you get the information. You’ll also understand the case’s current situation and any outstanding payments. Knowing what to look for will make searching the USJ platform easier for both professionals and those involved in the case.
Are you ready to have your PA criminal record erased? With our experience and services, we’ve helped thousands of people just like you get their criminal records cleared.
Where To Find Your Pennsylvania Criminal Record
There are three main ways to access your criminal history in Pennsylvania:
#1. The UJS Portal – Free & Public Case Lookup
🔗 Pennsylvania’s Unified Judicial System (UJS) Web Portal
The UJS Portal allows you to search Pennsylvania court records for free. This is a great starting point, but it does not always show full criminal records, just court case dockets.
What You’ll Find:
- Charges, case numbers, and court dispositions
- Hearing dates and case outcomes
- Public access to most criminal and traffic cases
Limitations:
- May not show arrest records
- Some dismissed or old cases might be missing
- Does not include sealed, expunged, or non-public records
#2. Pennsylvania State Police – Full Access Criminal History Report
🔗 Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History (PATCH)
For an official criminal record, you can request a background check from the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP). This report is commonly used by employers—such as schools and government agencies—during their hiring process, and is required to prepare a pardon application.
What You’ll Find:
- All reported arrests and charges in Pennsylvania
- Case outcomes (convictions, dismissals, etc.)
- Sentencing and probation details
- Sealed and Limited Access Records
Limitations:
- Paid service
- May not include federal charges or out-of-state offenses
- Tip: If you need an official certified copy, you may need to mail a request or visit your local State Police Barracks.
Take the First Step Toward a Fresh Start
Researching your criminal record might feel overwhelming, but it’s one of the most empowering things you can do—because knowledge is the first step toward freedom. Whether you’re trying to get a better job, secure housing, or simply move forward without the weight of your past, understanding your record is the key to unlocking new opportunities.
If you’re not sure where to start or feel stuck, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Our team at Record Eraser is here to help you every step of the way—from tracking down your criminal history to preparing a strong pardon or expungement application.
📞 Call us at 717-925-7820
📩 Or schedule your free consultation today
Let’s take that first step together, part with your past and pursue your future.
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