About Union County

Union County is a small but distinctive county located in the heart of central Pennsylvania, nestled within the Ridge and Valley region of the Appalachian Mountains. Covering approximately 316 square miles, the county is characterized by a mix of fertile river valleys and forested ridges, with the West Branch Susquehanna River and Buffalo Creek shaping much of its landscape. The natural beauty of the area, combined with its relatively compact size, gives Union County a strong sense of place that residents and visitors alike find appealing. The county is part of the broader Susquehanna Valley corridor, making it geographically central to the state and well-connected to larger metropolitan areas without losing its rural character. With a population of approximately 41,639 residents, Union County is a close-knit community that blends small-town tradition with the influence of higher education and public institutions. The county seat, Lewisburg, is widely regarded as one of the most charming small cities in Pennsylvania, known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture, vibrant downtown, and strong community identity. Lewisburg is home to Bucknell University, a prestigious liberal arts and engineering institution that plays a central role in shaping the cultural, intellectual, and economic life of the entire county. The presence of the Federal Correctional Institution Lewisburg, a historically significant federal penitentiary, also adds a unique dimension to the county's profile. The economy of Union County is anchored by education, healthcare, government, and retail services, with Bucknell University serving as one of the largest employers in the region. The county also benefits from a stable base of small businesses, agriculture, and light manufacturing. Its proximity to Interstate 80 and US Route 15 makes it accessible for commerce and commuting, with many residents traveling to neighboring Lycoming, Snyder, and Centre counties for work. Agriculture remains an important part of the local economy, with dairy farming and crop production contributing to the rural landscape. The blend of institutional stability, natural resources, and community investment has helped Union County maintain a relatively stable and resilient local economy over the years.

Practice Areas in Union 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 Union County

Union County's court system is centered on the Union County Court of Common Pleas, which is part of Pennsylvania's 17th Judicial District and is located at the Union County Courthouse, 103 South Second Street, Lewisburg, PA 17837. The Court of Common Pleas handles a wide range of matters including felony criminal cases, civil disputes involving significant monetary amounts, family law matters such as divorce, custody, and adoption, as well as orphans' court proceedings covering estates and guardianships. Magisterial District Courts, presided over by Magisterial District Judges, handle preliminary hearings in criminal matters, minor civil claims, landlord-tenant disputes, and summary offenses such as traffic violations and minor criminal infractions at the local level. Appeals from the Magisterial District Courts are heard by the Court of Common Pleas, and further appeals may proceed to the Pennsylvania Superior Court or Commonwealth Court depending on the nature of the case.

Federal vs State Jurisdiction in Union County

In Union County, the distinction between federal and state jurisdiction is an important one for residents to understand. The vast majority of everyday legal matters — including state criminal charges, family law disputes, landlord-tenant cases, and most civil litigation — are handled by Pennsylvania state courts, primarily the Union County Court of Common Pleas. However, cases involving federal law, constitutional claims, disputes between citizens of different states involving significant sums, immigration matters, bankruptcy proceedings, and federal crimes fall under the jurisdiction of the United States District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, which serves Union County and has its primary courthouse located in Scranton, with additional facilities in Harrisburg and Williamsport. Given the presence of a federal penitentiary in Lewisburg, federal criminal and civil rights matters arise in the county with somewhat more frequency than in similarly sized rural counties, making awareness of the federal court system particularly relevant for Union County residents and their attorneys.

Common Legal Situations in Union County

Residents of Union County encounter a broad range of legal situations that reflect the county's mix of rural life, institutional presence, and university community. Traffic violations and DUI offenses are among the most common legal matters, given the county's reliance on personal vehicles and its major highway corridors. Family law issues — including divorce, child custody, child support, and protection from abuse orders — represent a significant portion of court activity, as they do throughout Pennsylvania. The proximity to a federal correctional institution means that criminal defense, civil rights claims, and inmate-related legal matters surface with regularity. Landlord-tenant disputes and property boundary disagreements are common in both Lewisburg and the county's rural areas, while employment-related issues such as workplace injuries, wrongful termination, and wage disputes arise among the county's workforce. Estate planning, probate, and guardianship matters are also frequently handled in Union County courts, particularly as the county's population includes a notable proportion of older residents.

Why Go To Court for Union County Legal Matters

Go To Court Lawyers is an excellent choice for Union County residents seeking reliable and accessible legal representation across a wide range of practice areas. The firm offers a 24/7 free legal hotline, meaning that residents can get answers to urgent legal questions at any time of day or night without waiting for a business-hours appointment. Go To Court's experienced team of attorneys understands the nuances of Pennsylvania state law and the local court system, ensuring that clients receive informed and practical guidance tailored to their specific circumstances. With fixed-fee pricing structures coming soon, Union County residents will be able to access quality legal services with greater cost transparency and financial predictability.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

If you receive a traffic citation in Union County, you generally have the option to pay the fine, which is treated as an admission of guilt, or to contest the charge before a Magisterial District Judge. Contesting the citation may help you avoid points on your driving record and potential insurance rate increases, and it is often worth consulting an attorney before deciding how to proceed.

How does child custody work in Union County if I am separating from my partner?

Child custody matters in Union County are handled by the Union County Court of Common Pleas, which applies Pennsylvania's custody statutes and considers the best interests of the child as the primary standard. Parents are often encouraged to reach a custody agreement through mediation before proceeding to a formal court hearing, and an experienced family law attorney can help you understand your rights and negotiate a workable arrangement.

Can I file for a Protection From Abuse (PFA) order in Union County?

Yes, residents of Union County can file for a Protection From Abuse order at the Union County Courthouse in Lewisburg, and emergency PFA orders can be obtained after regular court hours through the local on-call judge. A PFA order can require an abusive household or family member to vacate a shared residence, have no contact with the petitioner, and surrender firearms, among other protections. An attorney can assist you in preparing your petition and representing you at the final PFA hearing.

What are my rights if I am charged with a DUI in Union County?

If you are charged with a DUI in Union County, you have the right to legal representation and to challenge the evidence against you, including the validity of the traffic stop and the accuracy of any chemical testing. Pennsylvania has a tiered DUI system based on blood alcohol content, and the penalties can range from fines and license suspension to imprisonment depending on your BAC level and prior offenses. Consulting an attorney promptly is important, as there are strict deadlines for challenging license suspensions and pursuing diversion programs such as ARD (Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition).

How do I handle a landlord-tenant dispute in Union County?

Landlord-tenant disputes in Union County, such as security deposit disagreements, habitability issues, or eviction proceedings, are typically initiated before a Magisterial District Judge. Tenants have specific rights under Pennsylvania law, including protections against retaliatory eviction and requirements that landlords maintain rental properties in a habitable condition. Whether you are a landlord seeking to recover possession of a property or a tenant facing an unjust eviction, speaking with an attorney before your hearing can significantly improve your chances of a favorable outcome.

Neighbouring Counties

Union County is bordered by Northumberland County to the east, Snyder County to the south, Centre County to the west, and Clinton County to the north.