District Attorney

F. Clay Merris IV, District Attorney

Telephone: 717-582-2131
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 305, New Bloomfield PA 17068
Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

The District Attorney is the Chief Law Enforcement officer in the County. The District Attorney initiates all criminal complaints and conducts all criminal and other prosecution before the Court in the name of the Commonwealth. Other duties include the review and approval of all private criminal complaints.

The Office operates a Victim Witness program. Some of the services of this program are: notifying victims when defendants are to appear in Court, assisting victims in understanding the judicial system, encouraging victims to ask questions and voice their thoughts and concerns, assist with victim compensation claims, keep victims informed of the status of cases, refer victims to appropriate Social Service agencies and prepare victims for Court appearances.

The District Attorney is elected for a four-year term of office.

Legal Assistance

Free Legal Assistance for OIF/OEF Veterans

Through a network of volunteer attorneys, Lawyers Serving Warriors provides free legal services to U.S. military personnel and veterans who have served in OIF or OEF.

The Application or “Intake” form includes mailing address and Phone Number for this program, as well as information about you they will need to have.

For additional information, visit the National Veterans Legal Services website:
www.nvlsp.org