About Lehigh County

Lehigh County is located in the eastern portion of Pennsylvania, nestled within the broader Lehigh Valley region and covering approximately 348 square miles of varied terrain. The county is characterized by a mix of urban centers, suburban neighborhoods, and fertile agricultural land, with the Blue Mountain ridge marking its northern boundary and the Lehigh River winding through its landscape. This geographic diversity gives the county a distinctive character that blends Rust Belt industrial heritage with modern suburban growth, making it one of the more dynamic counties in the Commonwealth. With a population of approximately 374,557 residents, Lehigh County is one of Pennsylvania's more populous counties, reflecting decades of steady growth driven by its strategic location between Philadelphia and New York City. The county seat, Allentown, is Pennsylvania's third-largest city and serves as the economic and cultural heart of the region. Allentown and the surrounding communities have undergone significant revitalization in recent years, with new businesses, residential developments, and cultural institutions breathing new life into areas that once struggled following the decline of the steel industry. The economy of Lehigh County is broad and increasingly diversified. While manufacturing remains an important sector, the county has evolved into a hub for healthcare, retail, logistics, and professional services. Major employers include large hospital systems, distribution centers benefiting from the county's excellent highway access via Interstates 78 and 476, and a growing technology and innovation sector. Cedar Crest College, Muhlenberg College, and other educational institutions contribute to a skilled workforce and a vibrant community culture. The region's relatively affordable cost of living compared to nearby metropolitan areas continues to attract new residents and businesses, sustaining Lehigh County's reputation as one of Pennsylvania's most economically resilient communities.

Practice Areas in Lehigh County

Criminal Law
Criminal Law
Charges, arrests, bail and criminal trials.
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DUI
DUI
DUI charges, licence suspension and reinstatement.
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Family Law
Family Law
Divorce, custody, property and support.
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Immigration Law
Immigration
Visas, green cards, deportation and citizenship.
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Traffic Law
Traffic Law
Traffic violations, licence matters and offences.
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Employment Law
Employment Law
Wrongful termination, discrimination, disputes.
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Courts in Lehigh County

Lehigh County is served by several courts operating at different levels of the Pennsylvania judicial system. The Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas, located at 455 West Hamilton Street in Allentown, is the primary trial court handling serious criminal cases, civil litigation, family law matters including divorce and custody, orphans' court, and appeals from lower courts. Magisterial District Courts, spread across the county in various communities, handle preliminary hearings in criminal matters, minor civil disputes involving amounts up to $12,000, landlord-tenant disputes, and summary traffic offenses. These local magistrate courts serve as the first point of contact for many residents encountering the legal system. The Pennsylvania Superior Court and Supreme Court, while not physically located in Lehigh County, hear appeals originating from Lehigh County cases and play an important role in shaping the law applied within the county.

Federal vs State Jurisdiction in Lehigh County

Residents of Lehigh County are subject to both Pennsylvania state law and federal law, and understanding which court system applies to a given situation is essential. The vast majority of legal matters — including traffic violations, family disputes, most criminal charges, landlord-tenant conflicts, and personal injury claims — are handled in Pennsylvania state courts such as the Court of Common Pleas. However, when a legal matter involves a federal law, a constitutional question, disputes between parties from different states involving significant sums, bankruptcy, immigration, or federal crimes, the case will be heard in federal court. Lehigh County falls within the jurisdiction of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, which is headquartered in Philadelphia at 601 Market Street. Federal cases originating in Lehigh County are typically filed and heard there, making it important for residents to understand whether their legal matter falls under state or federal jurisdiction before determining which court system and procedures apply to them.

Common Legal Situations in Lehigh County

Lehigh County residents encounter a wide range of legal issues that reflect the county's urban, suburban, and industrial character. Traffic and DUI matters are among the most frequent, given the heavy commuter traffic on major highways and interstates running through the region. Family law issues including divorce, child custody, child support, and protection from abuse orders are consistently in demand, particularly as the county's growing and diverse population navigates complex family dynamics. Criminal defense matters ranging from drug offenses to assault charges arise regularly in Allentown and surrounding municipalities. Employment disputes, including wage theft, wrongful termination, and workplace discrimination claims, are common given the county's large workforce in manufacturing, healthcare, and retail sectors. Landlord-tenant conflicts have increased alongside the region's growing rental market, and personal injury claims arising from workplace accidents, car crashes, and premises liability situations are also a frequent legal need for county residents.

Why Go To Court for Lehigh County Legal Matters

Go To Court offers Lehigh County residents dependable, accessible legal support from an experienced team that understands the local courts and the specific legal landscape of the Lehigh Valley. Whether you are facing a criminal charge, a family law matter, or a civil dispute, Go To Court connects you with knowledgeable legal professionals who are ready to help. Residents can reach the Go To Court team any time of day or night through a free 24/7 hotline, ensuring that urgent legal questions never go unanswered. With fixed-fee service options coming soon, Go To Court is committed to making quality legal representation transparent and affordable for every Lehigh County resident.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I receive a traffic citation in Lehigh County?

If you receive a traffic citation in Lehigh County, you generally have the option to pay the fine, plead not guilty and request a hearing before a Magisterial District Judge, or in some cases appeal further. It is worth consulting a lawyer before paying, since admitting guilt can result in points on your license, increased insurance premiums, or other consequences depending on the severity of the offense.

How does the child custody process work in Lehigh County?

Child custody matters in Lehigh County are handled by the Court of Common Pleas Family Division, located in Allentown. Parents are generally encouraged to attend mediation before appearing before a judge, and the court's decisions are guided by the best interests of the child standard under Pennsylvania law. An experienced family law attorney can help you navigate the process, prepare a parenting plan, and advocate effectively on your behalf.

Can I expunge a criminal record in Pennsylvania if I live in Lehigh County?

Pennsylvania law allows for the expungement or sealing of certain criminal records, and Lehigh County residents can petition the Court of Common Pleas to have eligible records cleared. Eligibility depends on factors such as the nature of the offense, the outcome of the case, and how much time has passed since the conviction or arrest. Speaking with a criminal defense attorney is the best way to determine whether your record qualifies and to guide you through the petition process.

What are my rights if my landlord tries to evict me in Lehigh County?

In Lehigh County, landlords must follow Pennsylvania's eviction process, which requires providing proper written notice and filing with the Magisterial District Court before a tenant can be removed. Tenants have the right to attend a hearing and present a defense, and a landlord cannot legally change locks, remove belongings, or shut off utilities as a means of forcing a tenant out. If you are facing eviction, contacting a lawyer promptly is important because deadlines in the eviction process are short.

What is the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, most personal injury claims must be filed within two years from the date of the injury, or the right to sue may be permanently lost. This applies to common situations such as car accidents, slip-and-fall incidents, and workplace injuries that occur in Lehigh County. Because gathering evidence and building a strong case takes time, it is advisable to consult a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after an accident rather than waiting until the deadline approaches.

Neighbouring Counties

Lehigh County is bordered by Northampton County to the east, Carbon County to the north, Schuylkill County to the northwest, Berks County to the west, and Bucks County to the south.