SMETHPORT — Due to the spike in COVID cases in McKean County, the prothonotary/clerk of courts office is transitioning to by-appointment-only beginning today and until further notice.

As per state mandate, masks must be worn in the office, and hand sanitizer must be used regularly while at the office.

The office will be accepting filings by fax, email and mail. Filing fees can be made by cash, check or money order, as usual; the office does not accept credit/debit cards. If filings are faxed or emailed, payment must be mailed in as soon as possible.

Filings for divorce or custody, not including emergency or special relief, should be mailed in with copies and fees, with a self-addressed envelope to return copies to the sender. Emergency and special relief cases may be taken to the office with a call-in-advance appointment.

Courthouse security is aware of the changes for the office, and will only allow people in who have appointments made. The public is asked to be patient while the process is refined.

Anyone with questions should contact the office.