The minor courts, also called the "special courts," are the first level of Pennsylvania's Unified Judicial System. Except in Philadelphia, these courts are presided over by magisterial district judges who decide small claims, landlord-tenant disputes, traffic cases and minor criminal matters. There are 546 magisterial district judges based in community courts throughout the Commonwealth. These judges are not required to be lawyers, but they must undergo legal training and attend continuing legal education programs.
In Philadelphia the minor courts are made up of a Municipal Court and a separate Traffic Court, each with its own elected judges. In Allegheny County the Pittsburgh Municipal Court is staffed by magisterial district judges based in the city and the county.
For more information, please visit The Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania - Minor Courts
To access forms, public docket info, or to pay a citation electronically, visit the UJS Web Portal
Magisterial District Reestablishment Plan - Revised Plan - 39th Judicial District
Devin C. Horne, Magisterial District Judge
PO BOX 369
27952 Great Cove Road
Hustontown,PA 17229
Phone: (717) 987-3221
Email: mdj4-1@co.fulton.pa.us
David A. (Drew) Washabaugh V, Magisterial District Judge
208 North Second Street
McConnellsburg, PA 17233
Phone: (717) 485-4842
Email: mdj4-2@co.fulton.pa.us
Tamela Mellott Heming, Magisterial District Judge
P O Box 171
8328 Great Cove Road
Needmore, PA 17238
Phone: (717) 573-2225
Fax: (717) 573-4401
Email: mdj4-3@co.fulton.pa.us