Court of Common Pleas of Butler County, Pennsylvania
Court-Level Rules, Filing Procedures & Policies
- Rules last changed:
Limits & Logistics
Courtesy Copies
Exhibits
- 3 copies • At Time of Hearing
Pretrial Narrative
Communication
Fax
Document Format Requirements45 rules
The cover page of the Real Estate Tax Assessment Appeal shall be substantially in the following form:
The hearing notice shall be in the following format:
- Hearing notice
Formatting
- •Use the format provided in the following Order of Court
The Real Estate Tax Assessment Appeal status report shall be in the format set forth below:
Formatting
- •Use the format set forth below
shall be filed in the following format:
Formatting
- •Use the appeal format shown in the rule
The praecipe for Arbitration shall be in the following format:
The arbitration time scheduling order must use the prescribed format, including the hearing details, notice, continuance-fee statement, and court signature block.
Court's wording
(f) Arbitration Time Scheduling Order. The scheduling order for the arbitration time shall be in the following format: Caption ARBITRATION TIME SCHEDULING ORDER And now, ________________, the Arbitration hearing for the above case is scheduled for ___________________ at _o’clock _ M in Room___________ of the Butler County Courthouse. hour(s) or day(s) has/have been allotted for this case to be presented and concluded. This matter will be heard by a board of arbitrators at the time, date and place specified. But if one or more of the parties is not present at the hearing, the matter may be heard at the same time and date before a judge of the court without the absent party or parties. There is no right to trial de novo on appeal from a decision entered by a judge in such circumstance. Any continuance requested after this date WILL require the payment of the arbitrators’ fees. BY THE COURT,
When the order-production system is operational, only system-produced orders may be presented for review and signature; orders created outside the system during an outage must be integrated into it as soon as possible.
Court's wording
At any time that the Court of Common Pleas of Butler County is participating in any program to develop a data base for protection from abuse orders, only orders produced by that system shall be presented to the court for review and signature, if the system is operational. If the system used to produce orders is temporarily non-operational, orders created outside the system shall be integrated therein as soon as possible.
A petition’s proposed order must follow Pa.R.C.P. 206.5 and include the alternative provisions in paragraphs (d)(4) and (5).
Court's wording
Said proposed order shall follow the provision of Pa.R.C.P. 206.5, with alternative provisions in paragraph(d)(4) and (5), so that the Court may determine whether to proceed with depositions or an evidentiary hearing on disputed issues of material fact.
Parties and their attorneys shall place the Confidential Information Form(s) into an unsealed, letter-sized, No. 10 envelope.
Parties and their attorneys shall place the Confidential Documents into an unsealed, letter-sized manila (or equivalent) envelope.
Four (4) 8½ x 11-inch copies of the reduced documentary exhibits and photographs of tangible objects must be produced during the court proceeding: one (1) copy for the presiding judge, one (1) copy for the judge’s law clerk, one (1) copy for opposing counsel/unrepresented parties, and one (1) copy for the Court Reporter for inclusion in the documentary record.
The proponent who provides a reduced copy of an oversized exhibit shall ensure the reproduced document is clear and capable of further reproduction.
Each party shall prepare a tabbed exhibit book, in advance of trial, containing each exhibit the party plans to show to a witness, to introduce through a witness, or to otherwise proffer as evidence.
Formatting
- •The exhibit book must be tabbed
Documentary exhibits larger than 8½ x 11 inches that are part of the record shall be reduced to 8½ x 11 inches, and all tangible objects that are part of the record shall be photographed in color by the by the proponent, the photograph converted to 8½ x 11 inches, and the photograph appropriately marked.
During the court proceeding, three USB flash drives with identical content must be produced for the presiding judge, opposing counsel or unrepresented parties, and Court Reporter.
Court's wording
Three (3) Universal Serial Bus (USB) flash drives replicating the exact content shall be produced during the court proceeding: one (1) copy for the presiding judge, one (1) copy for opposing counsel/unrepresented parties, and one (1) copy for the Court Reporter for inclusion in the evidentiary record.
Any digital exhibit that cannot be printed (i.e., audio or video recording) shall be entered into the record on a Universal Serial Bus (USB) flash drive (or other format if expressly approved by the court).
If a proponent offers into evidence a photograph, the proponent shall ensure that the original or a copy of the photograph in lieu of the original (no larger in size than 8- ½ x 11 inches) is entered into the record.
A proponent who provides a copy of a photograph shall ensure that the reproduced document is clear and capable of further reproduction or transfer to digital media.
The exhibits and standardized Exhibit Index Form set forth in Appendix I shall be typewritten and filed with the appropriate records office within five (5) business days from the conclusion of the proceeding.
Four letter-size copies of reduced documentary exhibits and photographs of tangible objects must be produced during the proceeding for the listed recipients.
- Paper size
- Letter
- Exhibits
Court's wording
Four (4) 8½ x 11-inch copies of the reduced documentary exhibits and photographs of tangible objects must be produced during the court proceeding: one (1) copy for the presiding judge, one (1) copy for the judge's law clerk, one (1) copy for opposing counsel/unrepresented parties, and one (1) copy for the Court Reporter for inclusion in the documentary record.
A proponent offering a photograph must enter the original or a copy no larger than 8½ by 11 inches into the record.
- Paper size
- Letter
Court's wording
If a proponent offers into evidence a photograph, the proponent shall ensure that the original or a copy of the photograph in lieu of the original (no larger in size than 8- ½ x 11 inches) is entered into the record.
Any digital exhibit that cannot be printed (i.e., audio or video recording) shall be entered into the record on a Universal Serial Bus (USB) flash drive (or other format if expressly approved by the court).
Three identical USB flash drives must be produced during the proceeding for the listed recipients.
Court's wording
Three (3) Universal Serial Bus (USB) flash drives replicating the exact content shall be produced during the court proceeding: one (1) copy for the presiding judge, one (1) copy for opposing counsel/unrepresented parties, and one (1) copy for the Court Reporter for inclusion in the evidentiary record.
The required envelope for a confidential exhibit must be 9 by 12 inches and unsealed when submitted for sealing by the record office.
Court's wording
Any exhibit containing confidential information or the equivalent to any of the categories enumerated in Pa. Access Policy § 8.0 must be prepared by the proponent and include a Confidential Document Form attached to a 9 x 12 unsealed envelope, in accordance with Local Rule L100 so that the document can be properly sealed by the record office.
All requests for transcripts shall be set forth on a standardized form provided by the District Court Administrator.
The custodian at the conclusion of the proceeding must file the typewritten Exhibit Index Form and exhibits with the appropriate records office within five business days.
Court's wording
The custodian at the conclusion of the proceeding shall file with the appropriate records office a typewritten Exhibit Index Form. The exhibits and standardized Exhibit Index Form set forth in Appendix I shall be typewritten and filed with the appropriate records office within five (5) business days from the conclusion of the proceeding.
The exhibits and standardized Exhibit Index Form must be typewritten.
Court's wording
The exhibits and standardized Exhibit Index Form set forth in Appendix I shall be typewritten and filed with the appropriate records office within five (5) business days from the conclusion of the proceeding.
(A) All requests for transcripts shall be set forth on a standardized form provided by the Court Administrator.
Daily, expedited, and same-day transcript requests must be written and filed in the District Court Administrator’s office, except that an emergency request may be made by oral motion and requires the trial judge’s approval, subject to reporter availability.
Court's wording
(C) Requests for daily, expedited or same day requests for these transcripts shall be filed in writing in the Butler County District Court Administrator's office at least 10 days prior to the proceeding. Copies of the written request shall be delivered as required by subsection (B) above. In the event of an emergency, a party may request by oral motion a daily, expedited or same day transcript. These requests must be approved by the trial Judge and are subject to the availability of the Court Reporter.
All transcripts under this section will be delivered to the requester in electronic format only.
(b) Oversized exhibits must be submitted to the court reporter in 8” x 10” form to be included with the transcript.
These transcript requests generally must be written, but an emergency request may be made by oral motion and requires the trial judge’s approval; it is subject to reporter availability.
Court's wording
Requests for daily, expedited or same day requests for these transcripts shall be filed in writing in the Butler County District Court Administrator's office at least 10 days prior to the proceeding. In the event of an emergency, a party may request by oral motion a daily, expedited or same day transcript. These requests must be approved by the trial Judge and are subject to the availability of the Court Reporter.
All requests for transcripts shall be set forth on a standardized form provided by the Court Administrator.
All transcripts under this section will be delivered to the requester in electronic format only.
Copies of exhibits shall not be included in the original pre-trial narrative filed with the Prothonotary’s Office.
Document Filing Requirements156 rules
A caption designating the named party taking the appeal as the Appellant, the Butler County Board of Assessment Appeal and the Tax Identification Number of the subject property.
- Document
- Real estate tax assessment appeal petition
- Placement
- Caption
The petition and all subsequent filings must include a cover page with the caption and the listed interested-party and property information.
- Document
- Petition and subsequent filings
Must include
- •Caption
Court's wording
The Petition and all subsequent filings shall include the cover page which includes the caption and identifies the following: (i) a listing of all interested parties, including but not limited to the municipality and the school district wherein the property is located; (ii) The name of the property owner if different than the Appellant; (iii) The address of the property; (iv) Intervenors, who have filed a Notice of Intervention, pursuant to Rule L5000(e).
All filing pertaining to a Real Estate Tax Assessment Appeal shall contain a coversheet and a caption as set forth in accordance with these rules.
- Document
- Real estate tax assessment appeal filing
Must include
- •Caption
The Notice of Intervention shall contain the name of the interested party, to be designated as intervenor in the cover page, and shall set forth that such identified party is intervening.
(iv) Said filing shall contain a certification that the official court docket has been reviewed and that all parties and intervenors of record are listed (where indicated) and have been served.
The proof of service must include a verified statement that service was made by regular mail.
Court's wording
(iii) Intervenor shall file with the Prothonotary, within five days of the filing of the Notice of Intervention, proof of service of copies thereof including a verified statement, as defined in Pa. R.C.P. 76, that service was made by regular mail.
Each party must have a completed written appraisal for the subject property at the Conciliation Conference.
Court's wording
(c) At the time of the Conciliation Conference, all parties and/or their counsel shall be present, with full authority to effectuate settlement of the appeal. Each party must have a completed written appraisal(s) for the subject property, which has been previously exchanged with Appellant, County Solicitor, the governing board of the municipality in which the tax parcel is located, the board of school directors of the school district wherein the real estate is located, the property owner and any other intervening parties of record.
Counsel must complete a written property appraisal and exchange it with the listed recipients at least five business days before the Conciliation Conference.
Court's wording
Counsel is directed to have a written appraisal of the property completed and exchanged with Appellant, County Solicitor, the governing board of the municipality in which the tax parcel is located, the board of school directors of the school district wherein the real estate is located, the property owner and any other intervening parties of record, a minimum of five (5) business days prior to the Conciliation Conference date listed above.
If the parties reach a tentative agreement at the Conciliation Conference but taxing-body approval is required, counsel must provide the Court a status report by the specified date.
Court's wording
In the event the parties reach a tentative agreement at the time of the Conciliation Conference and formal approval of the taxing bodies is required prior to settlement, the Court will enter an order in the following format: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS, BUTLER COUNTY PENNSYLVANIA IN RE Appeal of: _________________________________ ) (NAME OF APPELLANT) ) ) Case No.:_________________ From the Butler County Board of ) Assessment Appeal ) ) Tax ID No. ____________________ ) School District: __________ Municipality: __________________ Property of: ____________________ Property Address: ________________ Intervenor ______________________ ORDER AND NOW, this ____ day of __________, at the time scheduled for a Status Conference in the above matter, Counsel have arrived at terms for tentative comprehensive settlement of this tax assessment appeal. However, approval of various governing boards is necessary. Counsel shall provide this Court with a status report on or before . Thereafter, a further Order will issue.
You will be required to file a Praecipe to Settle and Discontinue within 10 days.
Orders scheduling the hearing must notify parties that the status report is due to Court Administration 10 days before the hearing.
Court's wording
(b) Real Estate Tax Assessment Appeal Status Report. All orders of court scheduling the Real Estate Tax Assessment Appeal hearing shall provide for notification that a Real Estate Tax Assessment Appeal status report shall be filed with Court Administration ten (10) days prior to the scheduled hearing date.
When counsel agree upon terms for settlement, they shall notify the Court, in writing, in the following format, as soon as possible such that the case can be removed from the hearing list:
Thereafter, Court Administration shall schedule a re-hearing for the new panel, which shall thereafter file an award.
In the specified post-hearing vacancy or member-failure circumstances, the remaining panel members must sign and file the award.
Court's wording
Should a vacancy on the Assessment Appeal Panel occur after the hearing takes place, but before an award is signed by all panel members, or should a member of the panel fail to or refuse to perform his or her duties, the award shall be signed and filed by the remaining members of the panel.
An appeal must attach the Panel award, certify that the Panel's compensation has been paid, and attach the court order regarding payment.
Court's wording
A copy of the award is attached hereto. I hereby certify that the compensation of the Assessment Appeal Panel has been paid. A copy of the court order regarding payment of the Assessment Appeal panel is attached hereto.
The order scheduling arbitration must include the specified notice about an absent party, possible hearing before a judge, and the lack of a right to trial de novo in that circumstance.
Court's wording
(e) The Order of Court scheduling the arbitration time shall also contain a notice that will include the following statement: This matter will be heard by a board of arbitrators at the time, date and place specified. But if one or more of the parties is not present at the hearing, the matter may be heard at the same time and date before a judge of the court without the absent party or parties. There is no right to trial de novo on appeal from a decision entered by a judge in such circumstance.
Each petition filed with the Court shall contain a proposed order for the Court’s consideration.
- Document
- Petition
Must include
- •Proposed order
Status Conferences may also be ordered upon written motion of a party, setting forth reasons in support of the request for status conference.
The parties must strike mediator names from the list, with an additional proposed mediator and strike for each additional party.
Court's wording
(5) The Court and Prothonotary will prepare a list of three (3) proposed mediator names, which shall be transmitted to the parties. The plaintiff and defendant shall each strike one name. The remaining named proposed mediator shall be appointed to serve as the mediator. In the case of additional parties, one additional proposed mediator shall be added to the list for each additional party who shall likewise strike one proposed mediator’s name. The listing of mediators with strikes shall be returned to the Prothonotary within thirty (30) days from the date when the list of proposed mediators was served on the parties.
A previously filed pre-trial statement may serve as the mediation statement, but any needed update or additional information must be filed at least 10 days before the conference.
Court's wording
In the event a pre-trial statement has been previously filed, said pre-trial statement shall serve to provide the information required for a mediation statement. In the event any prior pre-trial statement requires updating or additional information to provide all categories for a mediation statement, said supplementation to the pre-trial statement shall be filed at least (10) days prior to the mediation conference.
The mediator must file a sealed report with the Prothonotary within 20 days after the conference, containing the listed information.
Court's wording
Within twenty (20) days from the date of mediation conference, the mediator shall file with the Prothonotary a sealed mediation conference report which shall set forth the following: (a) Plaintiff’s final settlement demand (b) Defendant’s final settlement offer (c) Mediator’s assessment of liability (d) Mediator’s assessment of damages (e) Mediator’s opinion regarding potential range of verdict and settlement
Each party must file a mediation statement containing the listed information.
Court's wording
days prior to the mediation conference, each party shall file a mediation statement which must include the following: (a) party’s succinct statement of position regarding liability and damages (b) significant legal issues involved, with citation of legal authority (c) medical reports (d) expert reports (e) itemized list of damages (f) last settlement posture and rationale
Any such delay damages shall be added to the principal amount awarded, but shall be separately stated on the report and award.
Each year by January 5, proposed guardians ad litem must provide Domestic Relations with the listed updated documents.
Court's wording
Each year, no later than January 5, proposed Guardians Ad Litem shall provide the following updated documents to Domestic Relations: —Professional liability statement (Rider); —Evidence of having earned three (3) substantive CLE or CE credits in an area relevant to custody during the prior year; —Current clearances (if prior has expired); —Letter setting forth their standard hourly rate;
4. Has completed the Pre-Service Training for Guardians Ad Litem video and filed the accompanying Affidavit with Domestic Relations.
Each Guardian Ad Litem must provide Domestic Relations a letter stating the standard hourly rate, which must be listed and made available for review before appointment.
Court's wording
As set forth above, each Guardian Ad Litem shall provide to Domestic Relations a letter setting forth his/her standard hourly rate. That rate shall be noted on the list of Guardians Ad Litem kept by Domestic Relations, and shall be made available to counsel for the parties or the parties (if self-represented) for review prior to the appointment of the Guardian Ad Litem.
As a condition precedent to the scheduling of a motion for summary judgment for court action in a consumer credit or residential mortgage foreclosure action, the plaintiff/lender must file an Affidavit of Service indicating the manner and date of service of said notice upon the defendant/borrower.(form follows local rule L-1143(e))
Any agreement reached at the Pretrial Conference shall be reduced to writing and entered as an order of Court.
The Request for Custody Pretrial Conference must substantially follow the provided form, including a caption, issues to be considered, verification, signature, and date.
- Document
- Request for custody pretrial conference
Must include
- •Caption
Court's wording
The Request for Custody Pretrial Conference shall be substantially as follows: (Caption) REQUEST FOR CUSTODY PRETRIAL CONFERENCE I, , hereby request a pretrial conference before the Court of Common Pleas. This Request is being filed within 30 days of the date of Service of the Custody Order. The issues to be considered are: ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ Verification I verify that the statements made in this request are true and correct. I understand that false statements herein are made subject to the penalties of 18 Pa.C.S.A. §4904 relating to unsworn falsifications to authorities. _____________________________ _________________ Signature of Petitioner or Counsel Date
The Pretrial Narrative must list witnesses and addresses, summarize anticipated testimony, list exhibits, include a proposed parenting plan, state requested factual stipulations, and offer proof for each of the 16 custody factors.
- Document
- Pretrial narrative
Must include
- •Exhibit list
Court's wording
The Pretrial Narrative shall include: (1) Names and addresses of all witnesses, including experts; (2) A brief summary of each witness's anticipated testimony; (3) Lists of all exhibits1; (4) Proposed parenting plan, pursuant to 23 Pa CSA §5331; (5) Requested stipulation of facts; (6) Offer of proof for each of the 16 custody factors.
Each civil complaint filed with the Butler County Prothonotary must be accompanied by a substantially similar cover sheet containing the specified case, arbitration, complaint-type, filing-party, and counsel information.
Court's wording
All complaints in civil action filed at the office of the Butler County Prothonotary shall be accompanied with a cover sheet which in substance similar to the following: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF BUTLER COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA CIVIL ACTION Plaintiff, Case No. v. Defendant. Type of Document: Complaint in Civil Action If this is a Complaint, designate whether the case is subject to Compulsory Arbitration (jurisdictional amount $35,000) or not. amount in controversy does not exceed $35,000 amount in controversy exceeds $35,000 issues in case are not subject to Compulsory Arbitration Does this complaint involve consumer credit card collection Y N Does this complaint involve residential mortgage foreclosure proceedings Y N Filed on behalf of ______________________ (Plaintiff / Defendant) Counsel of record for this party_________________ (Name of attorney primarily responsible) Supreme Court I.D. No. _______________________ ____________________ (Firm Name, if any) ____________________ (Address) ____________________ (Phone) ____________________ (Fax Number) ____________________ (E-Mail Address)
A transcript requestor must deliver the filed Notice of Appeal to the District Court Administrator with the Request for Transcript.
Court's wording
As evidence that an appeal has been filed, the requestor of the transcript shall deliver the Notice of Appeal as filed with the appropriate recording office to the District Court Administrator along with the Request for Transcript.
Pursuant to Section 8, Confidential Document Forms, as provided by the AOPC, shall accompany any confidential document filed as delineated in section 8.0 of the UJS's public access policy.
Pursuant to Section 7, Confidential Information Forms, as provided by the AOPC, shall accompany any document filed containing confidential information as delineated in section 7.0 of the UJS's public access policy.
A proposed consent order must have a motion attached to it, explaining the reason for the proposed order.
Filing & Service rules
Electronic Filing Rules
The District Court Administrator must file one paper copy by mail and one electronic copy by email with the Legislative Reference Bureau.
- 2. File one (1) paper copy, via mail, of this Administrative Order of Court with the Legislative Reference Bureau for publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin. File one (1) electronic copy, via E-mail, of this Administrative Order of Court with the Legislative Reference Bureau.
Page 1 | Administrative Filing, Publication, and Distribution
The District Court Administrator must file one email copy of the Administrative Order with the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts.
- 1. File one (1) copy, via E-mail, of this Administrative Order of Court with the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts.
Page 1 | Administrative Filing, Publication, and Distribution
The status report may be filed in person, by fax to the Court Administrator, or by email.
This form may be filed in person or by FAX to the office of the Court Administrator. FAX # 724-284-5185 or via e-mail.
Civil cases
Page 14 | RULE L5002
The arbitration status report may be filed in person or by fax with the Court Administrator.
This form may be filed in person or by FAX to the office of the Court Administrator. FAX # 724-284-5185
Civil cases
Page 3 | ARBITRATION STATUS REPORT
The civil trial status form may be filed in person or by fax to the Office of Court Administration.
The civil trial status form may be filed in person, or by facsimile transmission to the Office of Court Administration at 724-284-5185.
Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE L212.3 PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURES (b) Civil Trial Status Reports
Filing Timing and Cure Windows
The Intervenor must file proof of service with the Prothonotary within five days after filing the Notice of Intervention.
(iii) Intervenor shall file with the Prothonotary, within five days of the filing of the Notice of Intervention, proof of service of copies thereof including a verified statement, as defined in Pa. R.C.P. 76, that service was made by regular mail.
Civil cases
Page 3 | RULE L5000 REAL ESTATE TAX ASSESSMENT APPEALS
After a Real Estate Tax Assessment Appeal is filed, Court Administration must schedule the Conciliation Conference for a date at least 60 days after the last day to file an appeal.
(a) Upon the filing of a Real Estate Tax Assessment Appeal, a Conciliation Conference date shall be scheduled by Court Administration for a time not less than sixty days after the last date for the filing of an Appeal.
Civil cases
Page 6 | RULE L5001 CONCILIATION CONFERENCE
Counsel must provide the Court with a status report on or before the specified date.
Counsel shall provide this Court with a status report on or before .
Civil cases
Page 8 | RULE L 5001(e) Post Status Conference Order
The status report must be filed with Court Administration no later than 10 days before the hearing.
A Real Estate Tax Assessment Appeal status report, in the form set forth as attached hereto, shall be filed with Court Administration on or before _____________, no later than 10 days prior to the hearing. A copy of the Real Estate Tax Assessment Appeal status report form is available on the Butler County Website, www.co.butler.pa.us.
Civil cases
Page 11 | RULE L5000 REAL ESTATE TAX ASSESSMENT APPEALS
The Praecipe to Settle and Discontinue must be filed within 10 days of settlement.
You will be required to file a Praecipe to Settle and Discontinue within 10 days.
Civil cases
Page 11 | RULE L5000 REAL ESTATE TAX ASSESSMENT APPEALS
The status report must be filed with Court Administration 10 days before the scheduled hearing.
(b) Real Estate Tax Assessment Appeal Status Report. All orders of court scheduling the Real Estate Tax Assessment Appeal hearing shall provide for notification that a Real Estate Tax Assessment Appeal status report shall be filed with Court Administration ten (10) days prior to the scheduled hearing date.
Civil cases
Page 12 | RULE L5000 REAL ESTATE TAX ASSESSMENT APPEALS
If the docket is not settled within ten days of the settlement date in the parties’ Stipulation, the Appellant must appear at the specified hearing, which is canceled if the docket is settled.
If the docket is not settled within ten (10) days of the settlement date set forth the parties’ Stipulation, Appellant shall appear before the court on the __________day of _______________at 9:00 o’clock a.m. in courtroom ________. Settlement of the docket shall cancel this hearing.
Civil cases
Page 17 | RULE L5000 REAL ESTATE TAX ASSESSMENT APPEALS
The Assessment Appeals Panel must file its award within seven days after the hearing is completed.
The Assessment Appeals Panel shall file their award within seven (7) days after the completion of hearing.
Civil cases
Page 22 | RULE L5008 AWARD
The arbitration status report must be filed with Court Administration 14 days before the scheduled arbitration date.
All orders of court scheduling the arbitration hearing shall provide for notification that an arbitration status report shall be filed with Court Administration fourteen (14) days prior to the scheduled arbitration date.
Civil cases
Page 2 | RULE L1303 HEARING. NOTICE.
A status conference may not be scheduled earlier than 90 days after the complaint is filed.
Status Conferences shall not be scheduled sooner than ninety (90) days following the filing of the complaint.
Page 1 | RULE L212.1 CIVIL ACTIONS TO BE TRIED BY JURY AND BY NON-JURY
All plaintiffs must file a pre-trial statement within 30 days after the praecipe for trial is filed.
A pre-trial statement shall be filed by all plaintiffs within thirty (30) days after the praecipe for trial is filed.
Page 1 | RULE L212.1 CIVIL ACTIONS TO BE TRIED BY JURY AND BY NON-JURY
Unless the court calendar is otherwise scheduled, the pre-trial conference must be scheduled within 60 days after the praecipe for trial is filed.
Unless the court’s calendar is otherwise scheduled, a case shall be scheduled for pre-trial conference within sixty (60) days of the filing of the praecipe for trial.
Page 1 | RULE L212.1 CIVIL ACTIONS TO BE TRIED BY JURY AND BY NON-JURY
The trial term must occur within 90 to 120 days after the praecipe is filed.
The trial term during which the case shall be scheduled shall occur within ninety (90) to one hundred and twenty (120) days from the filing of the praecipe.
Page 1 | RULE L212.1 CIVIL ACTIONS TO BE TRIED BY JURY AND BY NON-JURY
All defendants and additional defendants must file their pre-trial statements no later than 5 days before the scheduled pre-trial conference.
Pre-trial statements on behalf of all defendants and additional defendants shall be filed no later than five (5) days prior to the scheduled pre-trial conference date.
Page 2 | RULE L212.1 CIVIL ACTIONS TO BE TRIED BY JURY AND BY NON-JURY
The mediator list showing the parties’ strikes must be returned to the Prothonotary within 30 days after service of the proposed-mediator list.
The listing of mediators with strikes shall be returned to the Prothonotary within thirty (30) days from the date when the list of proposed mediators was served on the parties.
Page 3 | Butler County Mediation Program
The completed mediator-assignment form must be returned to the Prothonotary within 20 days of assignment of the proposed mediators.
This completed form shall then be returned to the Prothonotary within twenty (20) days of the date of assignment of the proposed mediators.
Page 3 | Butler County Mediation Program
The mediation conference must be held within 60 days after the case is assigned to a mediator.
The Court Administrator shall schedule the mediation conference to be held within sixty days of the assignment of the case to a mediator.
Page 4 | Butler County Mediation Program
The mediator must file a report within 20 days after the mediation conference.
The mediator shall file his or her report within twenty (20) days from the date of the mediation conference in accordance with Butler County L.R. C.P. L212.1(f)(9)
Page 4 | Butler County Mediation Program
The mediator must file the conference report within 20 days after the mediation conference.
Within twenty (20) days from the date of mediation conference, the mediator shall file with the Prothonotary a sealed mediation conference report which shall set forth the following:
Page 5 | Butler County Mediation Program
Required supplementation to a previously filed pre-trial statement must be filed at least 10 days before the mediation conference.
In the event a pre-trial statement has been previously filed, said pre-trial statement shall serve to provide the information required for a mediation statement. In the event any prior pre-trial statement requires updating or additional information to provide all categories for a mediation statement, said supplementation to the pre-trial statement shall be filed at least (10) days prior to the mediation conference.
Page 5 | Butler County Mediation Program
Non-moving parties must file their briefs no later than one week before the scheduled submission or argument date.
Briefs for the non-moving parties shall be filed and served no later one (1) week prior to the scheduled submission/argument date.
Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE L1028(c) PRELIMINARY OBJECTIONS
The supporting brief must be filed at the same time as the preliminary objections.
A brief in support of preliminary objections shall be filed at the same time as the filing of the preliminary objections.
Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE L1028(c) PRELIMINARY OBJECTIONS
A party filing an amended pleading in response to preliminary objections must contemporaneously file a motion to cancel the scheduled submission or argument date.
If an amended pleading is filed in response to the preliminary objections, the amending party shall contemporaneously file a motion to cancel any submission/argument date scheduled to address the preliminary objections.
Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE L1028(c) PRELIMINARY OBJECTIONS
Arbitrators must file their award within seven days after the arbitration hearing is completed.
Arbitrators shall file their award within seven (7) days after the completion of the arbitration hearing.
Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE L1306 AWARD
Proposed guardians ad litem must provide their annual updates to Domestic Relations no later than January 5 each year.
Each year, no later than January 5, proposed Guardians Ad Litem shall provide the following updated documents to Domestic Relations:
Civil cases
Page 2 | II. Appointments
The supporting brief must be filed at the same time as the summary-judgment motion.
A brief in support of the motion shall be filed at the same time as the motion for summary judgment is filed.
Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE L1035.2 (a) MOTION FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT
Non-moving parties must file their briefs no later than one week before the scheduled submission or argument date.
Briefs for the non-moving parties shall be filed and served no later than one (1) week prior to the scheduled submission or argument date.
Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE L1035.2 (a) MOTION FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT
A party may file a Request for Custody Pretrial Conference within 30 days after service of the specified Custody Order if no comprehensive agreement was reached.
A party may file a Request for Custody Pretrial Conference anytime within 30 days after service of a Custody Order issued as a result of a Conciliation Conference, in cases where a comprehensive agreement is not reached.
Page 1 | L1915.4-4 Pretrial Procedures
Counsel or unrepresented parties must file a Pretrial Narrative with the Prothonotary’s Office at least seven days before the Pretrial Conference.
Counsel or the parties, if unrepresented, shall file a Pretrial Narrative with the Prothonotary’s Office at least seven days prior to the Pretrial Conference.
Page 2 | L1915.4-4 Pretrial Procedures
Unless the court orders otherwise, the court reporter must deliver an appeal transcript within 14 days after receiving notice from the district court administrator.
(A) Unless otherwise ordered by the court, the court reporter shall deliver the transcript for those cases under appeal within 14 days of receiving notice from the district court administrator as required by Pa.R.A.P. 1922(a).
Page 1 | Rule L-4011(A) Deadline for Delivery of Transcript
Service and Proof of Service Rules
The Appellant must serve the petition by regular mail on the listed recipients and file proof of service within twenty days thereafter.
The Appellant shall serve copies of the Real Estate Tax Assessment Appeals Petition via regular mail upon County Solicitor, the governing body of the municipality in which the tax parcel is located, the board of school directors of the school district wherein the real estate is located and the property owner. Within twenty days thereafter, the Appellant shall file a proof of service.
Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE L5000 REAL ESTATE TAX ASSESSMENT APPEALS
An intervenor must serve the Notice of Intervention by regular mail on the Appellant and the listed officials, property owner, and intervening parties of record.
Intervenor shall serve copies of the Notice of Intervention by regular mail upon the Appellant, County Solicitor, the governing body of the municipality in which the affected tax parcel is located, the board of school directors of the school district wherein the real estate is located, the property owner and any other intervening parties of record.
Civil cases
Page 2 | RULE L5000 REAL ESTATE TAX ASSESSMENT APPEALS
Copies must be served by regular mail, and proof of service must be filed.
(iii) Intervenor shall file with the Prothonotary, within five days of the filing of the Notice of Intervention, proof of service of copies thereof including a verified statement, as defined in Pa. R.C.P. 76, that service was made by regular mail.
Civil cases
Page 3 | RULE L5000 REAL ESTATE TAX ASSESSMENT APPEALS
Notices in the case must be served at the address provided on the form.
All Notices in the above-captioned case shall be served at this address.
Civil cases
Page 4 | RULE L5000 REAL ESTATE TAX ASSESSMENT APPEALS
The intervenor's proof-of-service form certifies service of the Notice of Intervention and Entry of Appearance on the appellant, specified public entities, the property owner, and other intervening parties of record.
I hereby certify that the Notice of Intervention and Entry of Appearance in the above captioned matter has been served upon Appellant, County Solicitor, the governing body of the municipality in which the tax parcel is located, the board of school directors of the school district wherein the real estate is located, the property owner and any other intervening parties of record as per the official court docket reviewed upon ________________, 20___ as follows:
Civil cases
Page 5 | PROOF OF SERVICE BY THE INTERVENOR
Each party's completed written appraisal must have been exchanged with the appellant, County Solicitor, specified municipal and school district bodies, the property owner, and other intervening parties of record.
(c) At the time of the Conciliation Conference, all parties and/or their counsel shall be present, with full authority to effectuate settlement of the appeal. Each party must have a completed written appraisal(s) for the subject property, which has been previously exchanged with Appellant, County Solicitor, the governing board of the municipality in which the tax parcel is located, the board of school directors of the school district wherein the real estate is located, the property owner and any other intervening parties of record.
Civil cases
Page 6 | RULE L5001 CONCILIATION CONFERENCE
Completed written appraisals and any other evidence of value to be offered must be exchanged with the parties and intervenors at least five business days before the Conciliation Conference.
(b) Completed written appraisal(s) or any other evidence of value that will be offered for the subject property shall be exchanged with the parties and intervenors, a minimum of five (5) business days prior to the Conciliation Conference.
Civil cases
Page 6 | RULE L5001 CONCILIATION CONFERENCE
A copy of the Order must be served on all parties and intervenors of record.
A copy of this Order shall be served upon all parties and intervenors of record.
Civil cases
Page 7 | Assessment Appeal Conciliation Conference Order
Counsel must exchange the written appraisal with the specified recipients at least five business days before the Conciliation Conference.
Counsel is directed to have a written appraisal of the property completed and exchanged with Appellant, County Solicitor, the governing board of the municipality in which the tax parcel is located, the board of school directors of the school district wherein the real estate is located, the property owner and any other intervening parties of record, a minimum of five (5) business days prior to the Conciliation Conference date listed above.
Civil cases
Page 7 | Assessment Appeal Conciliation Conference Order
A copy of the order must be served on all parties and intervenors of record.
A copy of this Order shall be served on all parties and intervenors of record.
Civil cases
Page 11 | RULE L5000 REAL ESTATE TAX ASSESSMENT APPEALS
The scheduled arbitration time must be sent to all counsel and unrepresented parties by mail and/or fax.
(d) Upon receipt of the arbitration status report forms, the arbitration cases will be scheduled for a specific time for hearing before a panel of arbitrators on the scheduled arbitration date. Notification of the scheduled arbitration time shall be forwarded to all counsel and unrepresented parties by mail and/or facsimile transmission.
Civil cases
Page 3 | ARBITRATION STATUS REPORT
The mediator must provide every party with a copy of the conference report.
All parties will be provided with a copy of the mediator’s conference report by the mediator.
Page 5 | Butler County Mediation Program
Non-moving parties must serve their briefs no later than one week before the scheduled submission or argument date.
Briefs for the non-moving parties shall be filed and served no later one (1) week prior to the scheduled submission/argument date.
Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE L1028(c) PRELIMINARY OBJECTIONS
Non-moving parties must serve their briefs no later than one week before the scheduled submission or argument date.
Briefs for the non-moving parties shall be filed and served no later than one (1) week prior to the scheduled submission or argument date.
Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE L1035.2 (a) MOTION FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT
If an evaluator has been appointed, the Prothonotary must mail the evaluator a copy of the trial scheduling order.
The Prothonotary shall mail a copy of the trial scheduling order to the evaluator, if one has been appointed in the case.
Page 1 | L1915.4-4 Pretrial Procedures
The Request for Custody Pretrial Conference must be served on the opposing party or, if represented, that party’s counsel.
Said Request shall be served on the opposing party, or counsel, if represented.
Page 1 | L1915.4-4 Pretrial Procedures
Copies of the Pretrial Narrative must be served on all parties.
Copies of the Pretrial Narrative shall be served on all parties.
Page 2 | L1915.4-4 Pretrial Procedures
Copies of all exhibits must be provided to opposing counsel or the opposing party.
Copies of all exhibits shall be provided to opposing counsel or to the opposing party.
Page 2 | L1915.4-4 Pretrial Procedures
For a nonconsented motion or petition, a copy must be provided to the opposing party five business days before presentation to the judge.
If a Motion/Petition is not consented-to, a copy of the Motion/Petition must be provided to the opposing attorney/self-represented party. This must be done five (5) business days prior to the day that the Motion/Petition will be presented to the judge.
Page 1 | 4. Opposed Motions/Petitions
The opposing party must receive advance notice of presentation and a copy of the motion or petition.
Notice of presentation and a copy of the Motion/Petition must be given in advance, to the opposing attorney/self-represented party and the date, time and manner that this notice was given must be stated on the Motion Court cover sheet.
Page 2 | 5. Emergency Motions/Petitions
The certificate records that prior notice of presentation and a copy of the document were given to the listed recipient, including the date, time, and method.
I gave prior notice of presentation and a copy of this document to: on at by: Electronic Mail Fax Mail Other:
Page 3 | II. Certificate of Notice/Service
Each party must serve its pre-trial statement on opposing counsel 10 business days before the pre-trial conference.
Ten (10) business days before the pre-trial conference, each party shall file with the Prothonotary, and serve upon opposing counsel, a pre-trial statement which complies in all material respects with the requirements of Pa.R.C.P. No. 1920.33(b).
Civil cases
Page 2 | L1920.33(b) Pre-trial Procedures
As a condition for avoiding sanctions for an exhibit omission, the party must provide opposing counsel with a complete copy of all identified exhibits together with the served pre-trial statement.
(i) he has provided a complete copy of all the exhibits identified in his Pretrial Statement with the copy of the Pretrial Statement served on opposing counsel;
Civil cases
Page 2 | L1920.33(b) Pre-trial Procedures
A copy of the Request for Conciliation Conference must be served by mail to the plaintiff’s address.
To obtain admission to the Consumer Credit/Residential Mortgage Foreclosure Diversion Program, you or your attorney must complete a Request For Conciliation Conference form as provided at Butler County Local Rule L-1143 (b), file the same with the Prothonotary, and serve a copy of said Request, by mail to the Plaintiff’s address set forth below.
Page 2 | NOTICE OF CONSUMER CREDIT/RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE DIVERSION PROGRAM
The Request for Conciliation Conference must be served upon the plaintiff or lender.
The Request for Conciliation Conference shall be filed with the Prothonotary within thirty 30 days of service of the Notice of Consumer Credit or Residential Mortgage Foreclosure Diversion Program and shall be served upon the plaintiff/lender.
Page 2 | RULE L-1143(b)
For complaints filed and served before November 2, 2009, the diversion-program notice may be served by certified mail, service is dated upon delivery, and L-402 governs if original complaint service is incomplete.
For complaints filed and served before November 2, 2009, the “Notice Of Consumer Credit or Residential Mortgage Foreclosure Diversion Program” may be served by certified mail to the record address of the Defendant or to Defendant’s legal counsel of record, if any. The date of service shall be the date when the certified mail is delivered to Defendant or Defendant’s counsel. However, if original service of the complaint has not been completed, service of the Notice shall be as per Butler County Local Rule of Civil Procedure L-402.
Page 4 | (d) Service of process
All interested parties must be given notice of the motion to destroy or dispose of proffered exhibits.
All interested parties shall be given notice of such Motion
Page 2 | Rule L5103. Custody of Exhibits. Special Provisions
Interested parties must be given notice of the motion to destroy or dispose of exhibits.
All interested parties shall be given notice of such Motion and must file a Motion to Reclaim Exhibits within thirty (30) calendar days of service of the Motion.
Page 3 | Rule L5103. Custody of Exhibits. Special Provisions
Interested parties must be given notice of the motion and must file any motion to reclaim exhibits within 30 calendar days after service.
All interested parties shall be given notice of such Motion and must file a Motion to Reclaim Exhibits within thirty (30) calendar days of service of the Motion.
Page 6 | Rule L5103(7). Disposition Documentary Exhibits After Trial.
Before any motion is filed, the moving party shall serve a copy of the motion, request or application and any proposed order, and a statement of the date and time of the intended presentation, to counsel of record and any unrepresented party at least five days in advance of the presentation. Service may be accomplished personally, by first class mail, or by facsimile transmission. Service shall be made pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 440.
Before any motion is filed, the moving party shall serve a copy of the motion, request or application and any proposed order, and a statement of the date and time of the intended presentation, to counsel of record and any unrepresented party at least five days in advance of the presentation. Service may be accomplished personally, by first class mail, or by facsimile transmission. Service shall be made pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 440.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Required pre-filing notice
Filing Fees and Waivers
A continuance requested after the hearing time is posted is granted only upon payment of the Butler County Board of Assessment Appeal fees.
Continuances requested after the posting of the time for the hearing shall only be granted upon the payment of the Butler County Board of Assessment Appeal fees.
Civil cases
Page 11 | RULE L5000 REAL ESTATE TAX ASSESSMENT APPEALS
A continuance requested after a hearing time is scheduled requires payment of the Board of Assessment Appeals’ fees.
NOTICE: Any continuance requested after the scheduling of a hearing time for your Real Estate Tax Assessment Appeal hearing as per Butler County L.R.C.P. L5002 will require a motion before the Court and the payment of the Board of Assessment Appeals’ fees.
Civil cases
Page 13 | RULE L5002
For a continuance requested and granted after hearing times are posted, the requesting party is responsible for the Assessment Appeal Panel fees established by special order of court.
Any continuance requested and granted after the posting of the times as set forth in Rule L5002 shall include a requirement that the party requesting a continuance shall be responsible for payment of the Butler County Assessment Appeal Panel fees, as established pursuant to special order of court.
Civil cases
Page 14 | RULE L5003 CONTINUANCES
A party with unpaid imposed fees may take no further procedural steps in the matter without prior leave of court.
The party, upon whom such fees have been imposed, may not, so long as such fees remain unpaid, take any further procedural steps in such matter without obtaining prior leave of court.
Civil cases
Page 14 | RULE L5003 CONTINUANCES
The Appellant must pay the discontinuance fee to the Prothonotary of Butler when filing the stipulation.
The Appellant shall pay the appropriate fee, payable to the Prothonotary of Butler, for the discontinuance of this action. Payment shall accompany the filing of this stipulation.
Civil cases
Page 16 | Stipulation to Settle
The Appellant must pay the appropriate filing fee before the Prothonotary marks the case settled, discontinued, and ended.
It is further ORDERED that, upon receipt of the appropriate filing fee from the Appellant, the Prothonotary of Butler County is to mark the above case, settled, discontinued, and ended.
Civil cases
Page 17 | RULE L5000 REAL ESTATE TAX ASSESSMENT APPEALS
A deposit of 90% of the estimated transcript cost is required before the reporter begins preparing it.
And, after the Court Reporter has determined the approximate length of the transcript, a deposit of 90% of the estimated cost will be required before the court reporter begins to complete the transcript.
Court notice
Page 1 | Request for Transcripts
Upon notice of the estimated transcript cost, the requester must pay a 90% deposit to the proper filing office; deposit checks must be payable to that office.
The requester shall make partial payment of 90% of the estimated transcript cost upon notification by the Court Reporter of the estimated total cost of preparing the transcript. Litigants will be directed by the Court Reporter to the proper filing office where payment may be made. Deposit checks are to be made payable to the filing office in which the transcript will be or has been filed.
Page 1 | Rule L4007(D)(1)
Transcript preparation may proceed after the deposit is paid and acknowledged; failure to pay the deposit or final amount within 30 days of notice causes the request to be treated as withdrawn.
Upon payment of the deposit the filing office will notify the District Court Administrator who in turn will notify the Court Reporter that the deposit has been received and that preparation of the desired transcript may proceed. Failure to pay the required deposit or final payment within 30 days of notification by the Court Reporter of the amount due shall cause the Request for Transcript to be deemed withdrawn and the Requestor shall be required to start the process again if the transcript is still wanted.
Page 1 | Rule L4007(D)(2)
Checks or money orders for the final balance must be payable to the filing office where the transcript was filed.
Checks or Money Orders for the final balance are to be made payable to the filing office in which the transcript has been filed.
Page 2 | Rule L4007(D)(3)
A same-day delivery transcript costs $6.50 per page and is available only if the court reporter can accommodate the request.
(d) for same day delivery, $6.50 per page, same day delivery transcripts are only available if the court reporter is able to accommodate.
Page 3 | Rule L4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof (A)(1)(d)
For an ordinary electronic transcript, the requesting party must pay $2.50 per page, except for entities described in section 4.
The costs payable by a requesting party, other than those entities described in section 4 below, for production and filing of a transcript in an electronic format shall be: (a) for an ordinary transcript, $2.50 per page;
Page 3 | Rule L4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof (A)(1)(a)
An expedited transcript costs $3.50 per page and is available only if the court reporter can accommodate the request.
(b) for an expedited transcript, $3.50 per page, expedited transcripts are only available if the court reporter is able to accommodate;
Page 3 | Rule L4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof (A)(1)(b)
A daily transcript costs $4.50 per page and is available only if the court reporter can accommodate the request.
(c) for a daily transcript, $4.50 per page, daily transcripts are only available if the court reporter is able to accommodate; and
Page 3 | Rule L4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof (A)(1)(c)
A paper transcript costs the applicable electronic-format rate plus a $0.25-per-page surcharge.
(2) When the transcript is prepared in paper format, the costs shall be in accordance with paragraph (1) relating to electronic format plus a surcharge of $0.25 per page.
Page 3 | Rule L4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof (A)(2)
A paper copy of a transcript costs $0.75 per page.
(1) $0.75 per page, paper format; and,
Page 4 | Rule L4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof (D)(1)
An electronic copy of a transcript costs $0.50 per page.
(2) $0.50 per page electronic copy.
Page 4 | Rule L4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof (D)(2)
A requester representing a Commonwealth or federal agency is charged the same transcript costs as an outside private party or litigant.
(3) When the requesting party represents a Commonwealth or federal agency (for example but not limited to: Office of the Attorney General, Penn Dot, FBI other state or federal investigative agency) the costs payable to the County of Butler shall be equivalent to that which is charged to any outside, private party or litigant.
Page 4 | Rule L4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof (A)(3)
An administrative conciliation fee must be submitted to the Prothonotary when the custody complaint is filed, unless the court directs otherwise.
In addition to the filing fees assessed by the Prothonotary, an administrative fee for conciliation services shall be assessed by administrative order of court, and shall be submitted to the Prothonotary at the time of the filing of the custody complaint unless otherwise directed by the court.
Civil cases
Page 1 | L1915.3 Commencement of Action. Complaint. Order. Service.
For a transcript ordered for an appeal, the requestor must pay for one hard copy at $2.75 per page and one electronic copy at $0.50 per page, except for requestors listed in section 4.
When a requestor indicates that the transcript is being ordered pursuant to an appeal, the requestor (except those listed in section 4 below) must pay for one hard copy and one electronic copy at the rates of $2.75 per page for a hard copy for the recording office and an additional $.50 per page for an electronic copy for his or her own personal use.
Page 1 | Rule L4008(A)(2)
A $150 Booking Center fee is assessed against defendants who meet the statutory requirements, with assessments levied by the Clerk of Courts and assessed by Magisterial District Judges in eligible cases disposed of there.
Therefore, it is hereby Ordered that the Booking Center fee is increased to One Hundred and Fifty Dollars ($150.00). This fee shall be assessed against any defendant who meets the requirements of that Title. It is further Ordered that such assessment shall be levied by the Office of the Clerk of Courts of Butler County, Pennsylvania, as set forth in the Act. Magisterial District Judges shall assess the fee in those cases that are eligible and disposed of at a Magisterial District Court in Butler County, Pennsylvania.
Page 1 | Booking Center Fee
A party who is ultimately successful may not recover fees imposed under this rule.
The party, upon whom such fees have been imposed may not recover such fees if that party is ultimately successful.
Civil cases
Page 14 | RULE L5003 CONTINUANCES
Each party in a case submitted for mediation must pay the fee set by court administrative order.
Each party to a case submitted for mediation will pay a mediation fee as established by administrative order of court.
Page 2 | Butler County Mediation Program
The parties submitting a case to the mediation program must tender the fee established by court administrative order.
We agree to submit the above case to mediation under the Mediation of Butler regulations and herewith tender the Mediation Fee as established by administrative order of court for the program.
Page 3 | Butler County Mediation Program
Checks or money orders for the final transcript balance must be payable to the filing office where the transcript was filed.
Checks or Money Orders for the final balance are to be made payable to the filing office in which the transcript has been filed.
Page 3 | Rule L4007. Requests for Transcripts
A trial judge may impose a reasonable surcharge in specified complex cases when reporters must significantly expand their dictionary.
A trial judge may impose a reasonable surcharge in cases such as mass tort, medical malpractice or other unusually complex litigation, where there is a need for court reporters to significantly expand their dictionary.
Page 4 | Rule L4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof (E)
A discretionary surcharge may not exceed $1.00 per page.
Such surcharges, not to exceed $1.00 per page, are at the discretion of the trial judge.
Page 4 | Rule L4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof (E)
No transcript charge applies to the specified judge, county offices, or agencies when the transcript is used to further litigation.
(4) When the requesting party is a Judge, the Butler County District Attorney's office, the Butler County Public Defender's Office or any other County office or agency there will be no charge for a transcript provided the transcript is being used in the furtherance of litigation.
Page 4 | Rule L4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof (A)(4)
A paper transcript costs the applicable electronic-format rate under paragraph (1), plus a $0.25-per-page surcharge.
(2) When the transcript is prepared in paper format, the costs shall be in accordance with paragraph (1) relating to electronic format plus a surcharge of $0.25 per page.
Page 1 | Rule L4008(A)(2)
Courtesy Copy Requirements
Parties must provide the Appeal Panel with three working copies of exhibits at the hearing.
Parties shall provide three working copies of any exhibits to the Appeal Panel at the time of hearing.
Civil cases
Page 22 | RULE L5006 AUTHORITY OF THE PANEL CHAIRPERSON
Courtesy copies must not be delivered to the Court before the Pretrial Conference.
Courtesy copies shall not be delivered to the Court prior to the Pretrial Conference.
Page 2 | L1915.4-4 Pretrial Procedures
Sealing & Redaction Procedures
The mediator’s conference report must be filed under seal.
Within twenty (20) days from the date of mediation conference, the mediator shall file with the Prothonotary a sealed mediation conference report which shall set forth the following:
Page 5 | Butler County Mediation Program
Parties may not file both a redacted and an un-redacted version of any document.
Parties are expressly prohibited from filing two versions of any document, i.e., a redacted version and an un-redacted version.
Page 2 | Rule of Judicial Administration L-100. Access to Case Records, Confidential Information Forms, and Confidential Document Forms. Public Access Policy for the Butler County Court of Common Pleas
Exhibits containing confidential information or equivalent protected categories must be prepared by the proponent with a Confidential Document Form and an unsealed 9 x 12 envelope so the record office can seal the document.
Any exhibit containing confidential information or the equivalent to any of the categories enumerated in Pa. Access Policy § 8.0 must be prepared by the proponent and include a Confidential Document Form attached to a 9 x 12 unsealed envelope, in accordance with Local Rule L100 so that the document can be properly sealed by the record office.
Page 1 | Rule L5105. Confidentiality. Exhibits Under Seal.
An exhibit sealed by the court during a proceeding must not be accessible to the public.
Any exhibit sealed by the court during the court proceeding shall not be accessible to the public.
Page 1 | Rule L5105. Confidentiality. Exhibits Under Seal.
An exhibit sealed by the court during a proceeding must not be accessible to the public.
Any exhibit sealed by the court during the court proceeding shall not be accessible to the public.
Page 6 | Rule L5105. Confidentiality. Exhibits Under Seal.
A transcript from a sealed or nonpublic proceeding may not be delivered to someone not otherwise entitled to it.
Nothing in this rule shall authorize delivery of an original transcript, or copy thereof, in a proceeding where the record is sealed or where the record is not generally available to the public to any person or entity not otherwise entitled to the same.
Page 4 | Rule L4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof (A)(5)
Transcripts must identify minor children by initials only.
Names of all minor children shall be identified by initial only.
Page 5 | Rule 4014. Redaction of Personal Identifiers
Other confidential, personal, financial, or identifying information may be redacted on the Court’s motion or a party’s motion, followed by a Court order.
Other confidential, personal and/or financial data and other identifiers may be redacted upon the Court's own motion or upon motion of any party and subsequent Order of Court.
Page 5 | Rule 4014. Redaction of Personal Identifiers
The Court Reporter must retain an unredacted copy in personal electronic files.
The Court Reporter shall maintain an un-redacted copy in their personal electronic files.
Page 5 | Rule 4014. Redaction of Personal Identifiers
A transcript of a proceeding not open to the public may be released only with the presiding judge’s approval.
The transcript of any proceeding which is not open to the public may be released only with the approval of the presiding judge.
Page 5 | Rule 4014. Redaction of Personal Identifiers
When transcript information is redacted, the Court Reporter must file only the redacted transcript of record.
In the instance when information in a transcript is to be redacted, the Court Reporter shall file of record only the redacted transcript noting on the face page that portions of the transcription have been redacted.
Page 5 | Rule 4014. Redaction of Personal Identifiers
Transcripts filed of record must redact social security and financial institution account numbers, showing only the last four numbers.
As a rule, social security numbers and financial institution account numbers shall be redacted from any transcript that is filed of record. Only the last four numbers of the social security number or financial institution account number shall appear in a transcript.
Page 5 | Rule 4014. Redaction of Personal Identifiers
If an unredacted transcript is requested, the Court may direct the Court Reporter to create one and the proper filing office to deliver it to a party designated by the Court.
Should an un-redacted copy of the transcript be requested, the Court may, at its own discretion or upon motion of either one or all of the parties, direct that an un-redacted copy of the transcript be created by the Court Reporter and delivered by the proper filing office to the party as directed by the Court.
Page 5 | Rule 4014. Redaction of Personal Identifiers
Redacted information may be provided to the parties only upon a motion and Court order.
Redacted information may be made available to the parties upon motion presented to and ordered by the Court.
Page 5 | Rule 4014. Redaction of Personal Identifiers
An original transcript or copy from a sealed or nonpublic proceeding may not be delivered to anyone not otherwise entitled to it.
(5) Nothing in this rule shall authorize delivery of an original transcript, or copy thereof, in a proceeding where the record is sealed or where the record is not generally available to the public to any person or entity not otherwise entitled to the same.
Page 1 | Rule L4008(A)(5)
A transcript from a sealed or nonpublic proceeding may not be delivered to a person or entity not otherwise entitled to it.
(5) Nothing in this rule shall authorize delivery of an original transcript, or copy thereof, in a proceeding where the record is sealed or where the record is not generally available to the public to any person or entity not otherwise entitled to the same.
Page 4 | Rule L4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof (A)(5)
A transcript of a proceeding not open to the public may be released only with the presiding judge’s approval.
The transcript of any proceeding which is not open to the public may be released only with the approval of the presiding judge.
Page 5 | Rule 4014. Redaction of Personal Identifiers
When transcript information is redacted, the Court Reporter must file only the redacted transcript and note on its face page that portions were redacted.
(C) In the instance when information in a transcript is to be redacted, the Court Reporter shall file of record only the redacted transcript noting on the face page that portions of the transcription have been redacted.
Page 5 | Rule 4014. Redaction of Personal Identifiers
Transcripts filed of record must redact social security and financial institution account numbers, showing only their last four numbers.
(A) As a rule, social security numbers and financial institution account numbers shall be redacted from any transcript that is filed of record. Only the last four numbers of the social security number or financial institution account number shall appear in a transcript.
Page 5 | Rule 4014. Redaction of Personal Identifiers
The Court Reporter must retain an unredacted copy in their personal electronic files.
The Court Reporter shall maintain an un-redacted copy in their personal electronic files.
Page 5 | Rule 4014. Redaction of Personal Identifiers
Other confidential, personal, financial, or identifying information may be redacted on the Court’s own motion or a party’s motion followed by a Court order.
Other confidential, personal and/or financial data and other identifiers may be redacted upon the Court's own motion or upon motion of any party and subsequent Order of Court.
Page 5 | Rule 4014. Redaction of Personal Identifiers
If an unredacted transcript is requested, the Court may direct its creation and delivery at its discretion or on a party’s motion.
Should an un-redacted copy of the transcript be requested, the Court may, at its own discretion or upon motion of either one or all of the parties, direct that an un-redacted copy of the transcript be created by the Court Reporter and delivered by the proper filing office to the party as directed by the Court.
Page 5 | Rule 4014. Redaction of Personal Identifiers
Redacted information may be made available to the parties only upon motion and Court order.
Redacted information may be made available to the parties upon motion presented to and ordered by the Court.
Page 5 | Rule 4014. Redaction of Personal Identifiers
Filing Bundling Requirements
The motion for judgment on the pleadings and its supporting brief must be filed together with the Prothonotary.
A motion for judgment on the pleadings shall be filed with the Prothonotary. A brief in support of the motion shall be filed at the same time as the motion for judgment on the pleadings is filed.
Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE L1034 (a) MOTION FOR JUDGMENT ON THE PLEADINGS.
The status report may be filed individually or jointly by counsel and any unrepresented parties.
This form may be filed individually or jointly by all counsel and any unrepresented parties.
Civil cases
Page 14 | RULE L5002
A party may submit multiple digital exhibits together on one USB flash drive.
If one party has multiple digital exhibits, they may be submitted together on one USB flash drive.
Page 5 | Rule L5103. Custody of Exhibits. Special Provisions.
Pre-Motion Conference Requirements
Before filing a motion or petition, attorneys and self-represented parties must attempt to discuss the issues and whether the requested relief can be agreed upon with the opposing party.
Attorneys/self-represented parties must attempt to communicate with the opposing attorney/self-represented party about the issue(s) raised in the Motion/Petition and determine whether the relief requested can be agreed upon and check the appropriate box on the cover sheet.
Page 1 | 2. Motion Court Cover Sheet
Non-moving parties must file their briefs one week before the scheduled submission or argument date.
Briefs for the non-moving parties shall be filed and served one (1) week prior to the scheduled submission or argument date.
Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE L1034 (a) MOTION FOR JUDGMENT ON THE PLEADINGS.
After the motion is filed, the court schedules oral argument or submission without argument; any party may request argument, which will be assigned a time on the scheduled submission date.
(2) Upon the filing of motion for judgment on the pleadings, oral argument or submission without oral argument will be scheduled by the court. Any party may submit a request for argument on their motion for judgment on the pleadings. Upon receipt of a request for argument, a time for argument will be assigned for the scheduled submission date.
Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE L1034 (a) MOTION FOR JUDGMENT ON THE PLEADINGS.
Known or anticipated pre-trial motions in limine are encouraged to be presented before or at the pre-trial conference; the Court will consider and attempt to resolve motions filed by then.
In addition to matters set forth in Pa.R.C.P. 212.3 for consideration at a pre-trial conference, the Court will consider, and attempt to resolve all motions in limine filed up to that time. It is encouraged that all known or anticipated pre-trial motions in limine be presented prior to or at the pre-trial conference.
Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE L212.3 PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURES (a) Pre-Trial Settlement Conferences
Adjournment & Extension Requirements
A continuance of the Assessment Appeal Conciliation Conference must be requested by motion presented to the assigned Judge.
Any continuance of the Assessment Appeal Conciliation Conference must be obtained upon motion presented to the assigned Judge.
Civil cases
Page 7 | Assessment Appeal Conciliation Conference Order
A hearing continuance must be requested by motion to the assigned judge, and a continuance requested after the hearing time is posted is granted only upon payment of the assessment appeal fees.
Any continuance of the Real Estate Tax Assessment Appeal hearing must be obtained upon motion presented to the assigned Judge. Continuances requested after the posting of the time for the hearing shall only be granted upon the payment of the Butler County Board of Assessment Appeal fees.
Civil cases
Page 11 | RULE L5000 REAL ESTATE TAX ASSESSMENT APPEALS
A continuance requested after a hearing time is scheduled requires a motion before the Court and payment of the Board of Assessment Appeals’ fees.
NOTICE: Any continuance requested after the scheduling of a hearing time for your Real Estate Tax Assessment Appeal hearing as per Butler County L.R.C.P. L5002 will require a motion before the Court and the payment of the Board of Assessment Appeals’ fees.
Civil cases
Page 13 | RULE L5002
A continuance requires leave of Court and a motion filed before the assigned judge; it will be granted only for good and sufficient reasons presented by the parties.
Continuances of the Real Estate Tax Assessment Appeal hearings before a Butler County Assessment Appeal Panel may only be obtained by leave of Court. Parties seeking a continuance shall file their Motion for Continuance before the assigned judge for the case. Continuances will be granted by the Court only for good and sufficient reasons as presented by the parties.
Civil cases
Page 14 | RULE L5003 CONTINUANCES
A continuance must be requested by motion to the assigned Judge, and a request made after the arbitration time is posted is granted only upon payment of the arbitrators’ fees.
Any continuance of the Arbitration hearing must be obtained upon motion presented to the assigned Judge. Continuances requested after the posting of the time for the Arbitration shall only be granted upon the payment of the Arbitrators’ fees.
Civil cases
Page 2 | RULE L1303 HEARING. NOTICE.
A continuance requested after an arbitration hearing time is scheduled requires payment of the arbitrators’ fees.
NOTICE: Any continuance requested after the scheduling of a hearing time for your arbitration hearing as per Butler County L.R.C.P. 1303(d) will require the payment of the arbitrators’ fees.
Civil cases
Page 3 | ARBITRATION STATUS REPORT
Any continuance requested after this date WILL require the payment of the arbitrators’ fees.
Any continuance requested after this date WILL require the payment of the arbitrators’ fees.
Civil cases
Page 4 | ARBITRATION TIME SCHEDULING ORDER
The mediation conference may be continued only by order of the court.
The conference may not be continued unless by Order of Court.
Page 4 | Butler County Mediation Program
A continuance of an arbitration hearing requires leave of court, must be requested before the assigned judge, and will be granted only for good and sufficient reasons.
Continuances of hearings before board of arbitrators may only be obtained by leave of court. Parties seeking a continuance shall file their requests for continuance before the assigned judge for the case. Continuances will be granted by the Court only for good and sufficient reasons as presented by the parties.
Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE L1304 CONTINUANCES.
For a continuance requested and granted after arbitration times are posted, the requesting party must pay the arbitrators’ fees; while unpaid, those fees prevent further steps in the arbitration without prior leave of court and cannot be recovered even if the party succeeds.
Any continuance requested and granted after the posting of the arbitration times as set forth in Rule L1303(d) shall include a requirement that the party requesting a continuance shall be responsible for payment of the arbitrators’ fees as established pursuant to special order of court. The party upon whom such fees have been imposed may not, so long as such fees remain unpaid, take any further step in such arbitration without prior leave of court. The party upon whom such fees have been imposed may not recover such fees if that party is ultimately successful in the arbitration.
Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE L1304 CONTINUANCES.
A continuance based on an attorney's or party's required appearance in another county will be granted only if that matter was scheduled before the Butler County matter.
If the basis for a continuance is a required appearance of an attorney or party in a court of another County, the policy of this Court is to grant such a continuance only if the other matter was scheduled prior to the Butler County matter being scheduled.
Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE L216(c) GROUNDS FOR CONTINUANCE.
For continuance applications under Pa. R.C.P. 216(c), the civil trial status-report filing date is treated as the trial-list call date.
The date for filing of civil trial status reports, as set forth in Butler County L.R.C.P. L212.3(b) shall constitute the date for call of the trial list for purposes of any applications for continuance pursuant to Pa. R.C.P. 216 (c).
Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE L216(c) GROUNDS FOR CONTINUANCE.
Chambers Communication Rules
Should this matter settle before the Real Estate Tax Assessment Appeal date, please notify Court Administration via facsimile at 724 284-5185.
Should this matter settle before the Real Estate Tax Assessment Appeal date, please notify Court Administration via facsimile at 724 284-5185.
Civil cases
Page 11 | RULE L5000 REAL ESTATE TAX ASSESSMENT APPEALS
An appointed or prospective guardian ad litem who no longer meets the qualifications must immediately notify the Domestic Relations Director and the assigned judge.
If, at any time, an attorney or mental health practitioner who has been appointed by the Court in a particular case, or who has requested that Domestic Relations place them on the list to be considered for appointment, no longer meets the qualifications set forth above, then he/she shall be responsible for immediately notifying the Domestic Relations Director and the judge assigned to any case to which the Guardian Ad Litem has been appointed.
Civil cases
Page 2 | II. Appointments
Should a vacancy on the Assessment Appeal Panel occur prior to the hearing for any reason, or should a member of the panel fail to attend the hearing or secure a replacement, a member of the panel shall notify Court Administration, who shall immediately vacate that appointment and make an appointment to fill that vacancy.
Should a vacancy on the Assessment Appeal Panel occur prior to the hearing for any reason, or should a member of the panel fail to attend the hearing or secure a replacement, a member of the panel shall notify Court Administration, who shall immediately vacate that appointment and make an appointment to fill that vacancy.
Civil cases
Page 21 | RULE L5005 APPOINTMENT TO ASSESSMENT APPEAL PANEL
A panel member securing a replacement must notify Court Administration of the replacement.
Said member shall notify Court Administration of the replacement, and Court Administration shall appoint said substitute attorney to replace said member.
Civil cases
Page 21 | RULE L5005 APPOINTMENT TO ASSESSMENT APPEAL PANEL
If the remaining panel members cannot agree, they must notify Court Administration, which will appoint a third member.
If the remaining members of the panel are unable to agree, they shall notify Court Administration who shall appoint a third member.
Civil cases
Page 21 | RULE L5005 APPOINTMENT TO ASSESSMENT APPEAL PANEL
An arbitrator who obtains a replacement must notify Court Administration and the Prothonotary.
Said arbitrator shall notify Court Administration and the Prothonotary of the replacement.
Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE L1302 LIST OF ARBITRATORS. APPOINTMENT TO BOARD.
Should a vacancy on the board of arbitrators occur prior to the hearing for any reason, or should a member of the board fail to attend the hearing, a member of the board shall notify the Prothonotary who shall immediately vacate that appointment and make an appointment to fill that vacancy.
Should a vacancy on the board of arbitrators occur prior to the hearing for any reason, or should a member of the board fail to attend the hearing, a member of the board shall notify the Prothonotary who shall immediately vacate that appointment and make an appointment to fill that vacancy.
Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE L1302 LIST OF ARBITRATORS. APPOINTMENT TO BOARD.
If the remaining board members cannot agree, they must notify the Prothonotary, who will appoint a third member.
If the remaining members of the board are unable to agree, they shall notify the Prothonotary who shall appoint a third member.
Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE L1302 LIST OF ARBITRATORS. APPOINTMENT TO BOARD.
When counsel agree on settlement terms, they must notify the Court in writing as soon as possible so the case can be removed from the arbitration hearing list.
When counsel agree upon terms for settlement, they shall notify the Court, in writing, as soon as possible such that the case can be removed from the Arbitration hearing list.
Civil cases
Page 2 | RULE L1302 LIST OF ARBITRATORS. APPOINTMENT TO BOARD.
If a civil case has no judicial assignment, moving counsel or the party must obtain one from the Office of the Prothonotary.
If no judicial assignment has been made in a civil case, moving counsel or party shall obtain a judge assignment for the case from the Office of the Prothonotary.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Motion Court Session
A qualified attorney or mental health practitioner may submit their name to the judge for placement on the guardian ad litem list.
Any attorney or mental health practitioner who meets the above qualifications may submit their name to the judge, to be placed on the list of Guardians Ad Litem.
Civil cases
Page 2 | II. Appointments
The Court may communicate with the other court to resolve scheduling conflicts in a way satisfactory to both courts.
This Court may communicate with the other court in order to resolve any conflicts to the benefit and satisfaction of both courts.
Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE L216(c) GROUNDS FOR CONTINUANCE.