Court of Common Pleas of Butler County, Pennsylvania Document Filing Requirements

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Real estate tax assessment appeal petition

The petition caption must identify the Appellant, the Butler County Board of Assessment Appeal, and the subject property's Tax Identification Number.

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.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Mediation statement

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.

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.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Plaintiff contact disclosure

The plaintiff must complete the contact-information disclosure, including the authorized contact’s name, address, phone number, fax number, and email.

Plaintiff must complete: DISCLOSURE OF PLAINTIFF CONTACT INFORMATION (person authorized to discuss case status and resolution options with the Defendant and/or the Defendant’s representative) Name: Address: Phone number: Fax number: Email:

CRITICAL

Applies to

Confidential document

An AOPC Confidential Document Form must accompany any filed confidential document covered by section 8.0 of the UJS public access policy.

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.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Photograph copy

A proponent providing a copy of a photograph must ensure it is clear and capable of further reproduction or transfer to digital media.

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.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Transfer of possession form

When exhibits are transferred, both the custodian and the receiving custodian or records office must complete and sign a Transfer of Possession Form.

When exhibits are transferred from the custodian to a subsequent custodian or filing office, a Transfer of Possession Form shall be completed and signed by both the custodian and the subsequent custodian or records office accepting the Exhibit Index Form and exhibits.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Transcript request

A transcript request under section (A)(4) must use the form prescribed by the Court Administrator.

A request for transcript under this section must be made on the form prescribed by the Court Administrator.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Notice to defend

(a) The organization to be named in the Notice to Defend to find out where legal help may be obtained: Office of Prothonotary, Butler County Butler County Government Center 124 West Diamond Street Butler, PA 16001 (724) 284-5214 Butler County Bar Association 240 S. Main Street Butler, PA 16001 (724) 841-0130

(a) The organization to be named in the Notice to Defend to find out where legal help may be obtained: Office of Prothonotary, Butler County Butler County Government Center 124 West Diamond Street Butler, PA 16001 (724) 284-5214 Butler County Bar Association 240 S. Main Street Butler, PA 16001 (724) 841-0130

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Order

Orders scheduling the hearing must notify parties that the status report is due to Court Administration 10 days before the 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.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

After removal, either side may seek readmission for good cause by presenting an appropriate motion, but readmission is not automatic.

If the defendant/borrower has previously participated in, and been removed from, the Consumer Credit or Residential Mortgage Foreclosure Diversion Program, the plaintiff/lender or the defendant/borrower may request the court to readmit the case to the program for good cause shown by presenting an appropriate Motion before the Court. Readmission to the program following removal is not automatic and not subject to Butler County L.R.C.P. L-1143(a)(b).

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion court cover sheet

Must include

certificate of service

The cover sheet includes a certification that all statements above are true and correct.

I certify that all of the above statements are true and correct.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion court cover sheet

The opposing party’s telephone number and email address must be stated on the Motion Court cover sheet.

Telephone number(s) and email address(es) of the opposing attorney/self-represented party must be stated on the Motion Court cover sheet.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Proposed voir dire questions

Proposed Voir Dire questions must be submitted to the Court before jury selection as directed by the pre-trial conference order.

Any proposed Voir Dire questions shall be submitted to the Court in advance of jury selection as directed by the Court in it’s pre-trial conference order.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Mediation conference report

The mediator must file a sealed report with the Prothonotary within 20 days after the conference, containing the listed information.

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

CRITICAL

Applies to

Request for conciliation conference

Counsel must complete the prescribed Request for Conciliation Conference form; class attendance and meeting with counselors are not prerequisites when the borrower is represented.

If the defendant/borrower is represented by counsel, the defendant/borrower need not attend the mortgage or credit assistance class or meet with any counselors as a condition precedent to filing a Request for Conciliation Conference. Counsel for the defendant must complete the Request for Conciliation Conference form, Butler County L.R.C.P. L-1143(b).

CRITICAL

Applies to

Document filed containing confidential information

An AOPC Confidential Information Form must accompany any filed document containing information covered by section 7.0 of the UJS 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.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Exhibit

A confidential exhibit must include a Confidential Document Form attached to a 9-by-12-inch unsealed envelope for sealing by the record office under Local Rule L100.

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.

CRITICALCivil cases

The filing must certify that the official docket was reviewed and that the listed parties and intervenors of record have been served.

(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.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Transcript request

A transcript request under this section must use the form prescribed by the Court Administrator.

A request for transcript under this section must be made on the form prescribed by the Court Administrator.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Proof of service

The proof of service must include a verified statement that service was made by regular mail.

(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.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Exhibit book

Before trial, each party must prepare a tabbed exhibit book containing each exhibit the party plans to show, introduce, or proffer as evidence.

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.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Transcript

The filed transcript must state on its face page that portions of the transcription have been 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.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition to proceed in forma pauperis

An application to waive some or all ordinary transcript costs must be supported by a Rule 240(h)-substantially compliant affidavit and should be prepared as an in-forma-pauperis petition and filed in the appropriate office.

(4) The application to waive all or a portion of costs for ordinary transcripts shall be supported by an affidavit substantially in the form required by Rule 240(h) of the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure. Such application should be prepared in the form of a Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis to waive all or a portion of the transcript costs and filed in the appropriate filing office.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Proposed consent order

A proposed consent order must have an attached motion explaining the reason for the proposed order.

A proposed consent order must have a motion attached to it, explaining the reason for the proposed order.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion court cover sheet

Select whether the opposing party opposes or consents to the requested relief.

SELECT ONE: *A box must be selected* Concerning the within request for relief, the opposing party: OPPOSES CONSENTS

CRITICAL

Applies to

Pretrial narrative

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.

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.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Request for conciliation conference

The Request for Conciliation Conference includes the undersigned's verification that its statements are true and correct and the stated false-statement warning.

The undersigned verifies that the statements made herein are true and correct. I understand that false statements are made subject to the penalties of 18 Pa. C.S. §4904 relating to unworn falsification to authorities.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion court cover sheet

The Motion Court cover sheet must state the date, time, and manner in which notice of presentation was given.

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.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Exhibit index

The custodian filing exhibits must include a numbered exhibit list identifying each exhibit’s proponent, evidentiary status, and description or identification.

(2) Index of Exhibits. The Custodian filing the exhibits with the records office shall include a numbered list of exhibits, and for each exhibit identify the proponent, whether the exhibit was admitted or rejected from evidence, and a textual description or identification of the exhibit.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Affidavit of service

In a consumer credit or residential mortgage foreclosure action, the plaintiff/lender must file an Affidavit of Service stating how and when the notice was served before the summary-judgment motion can be scheduled for court action.

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))

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Affidavit of service

If no L-1143(e) Affidavit of Service has been filed on one of the listed dockets, the plaintiff/lender must file one before further court action is available.

In a residential mortgage foreclosure proceeding, if no Butler County L.R.C.P. L-1143(e) Affidavit of Service (L-1143(e)) has been previously filed at either the Appearance Docket, Common Pleas Docket or Execution Docket, no further court action will be available to the plaintiff/lender, until such time as the plaintiff/lender files an Affidavit of Service (L-1143(e)).

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Motion

A cover sheet that may from time to time be adopted by Administrative Order shall be attached to each contested and uncontested motion and every copy of the same that is filed or served (cover sheet attached hereto).

A cover sheet that may from time to time be adopted by Administrative Order shall be attached to each contested and uncontested motion and every copy of the same that is filed or served (cover sheet attached hereto).

CRITICAL

Applies to

Exhibit index

The custodian must include a numbered exhibit list identifying each exhibit's proponent, admission or rejection status, and textual description or identification.

(2) Index of Exhibits. The Custodian filing the exhibits with the records office shall include a numbered list of exhibits, and for each exhibit identify the proponent, whether the exhibit was admitted or rejected from evidence, and a textual description or identification of the exhibit.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Settlement demand

Each plaintiff must make a written settlement demand and proposal to opposing counsel and unrepresented parties at least five days before the pre-trial settlement conference.

At least five (5) days prior to the pre-trial settlement conference all plaintiffs shall have made a bonafied written demand and proposal for settlement to all opposing counsel and non-represented parties.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Order of court

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.

(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.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Witness list

Each party must provide the court and Court Reporter with a complete potential-witness list and a list of unusual names likely to be referenced during testimony one week before trial.

One week prior to trial, each party shall provide to the court and the Court Reporter a complete list of potential witnesses and a list of any unusual names of other individuals, places, or things likely to be referenced during testimony.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Transcript

Once transcribed, transcripts of all hearings or portions of hearings must be filed of record in the proper recording office.

Transcripts of all hearings or portions thereof, once transcribed by the Court Reporter, shall be filed of record in the proper recording office.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Exhibit book

If required, each party must prepare a tabbed exhibit book before trial containing every exhibit it plans to show, introduce, or proffer as evidence.

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.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Request for conciliation conference

The Request for Conciliation Conference must certify the stated eligibility, notice-service, and applicable self-represented or represented-defendant facts and commitments.

Pursuant to the local rules governing the Butler County Consumer Credit or Residential Mortgage Foreclosure Diversion Program, the undersigned hereby certifies as follows: 1. This action involves consumer credit, or the Defendant is the owner of the residential property if this is a mortgage foreclosure action; and 2. If a residential mortgage foreclosure action, Defendant physically lives in the subject property, which is defendant's primary residence; and 3. Defendant has been served with a "Notice of Consumer Credit or Residential Mortgage Foreclosure Diversion Program" and a. If Defendant is self-represented: (1) Defendant is scheduled to attend the mortgage or credit assistance class (date) as instructed by the Butler County Consumer Credit/Residential Mortgage Foreclosure Diversion Program information line; and (2) Defendant will attend any follow up conference scheduled with the credit or housing counselor after the mortgage or credit assistance class; and (3) Defendant will personally attend the court conciliation conference as scheduled by the Court. Or b. If Defendant is represented by counsel: (1) I am legal counsel of record for the Defendant.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion to reclaim exhibits

must file a Motion to Reclaim Exhibits

must file a Motion to Reclaim Exhibits

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion court cover sheet

The appropriate box on the Motion Court cover sheet must be checked to indicate whether the requested relief can be agreed upon.

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.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Transcript

Transcripts of hearings or portions of hearings must be filed of record in the proper recording office once transcribed.

Transcripts of all hearings or portions thereof, once transcribed by the Court Reporter, shall be filed of record in the proper recording office.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Reduced copy of oversized exhibit

A proponent providing a reduced copy of an oversized exhibit must ensure it is clear and capable of further reproduction.

The proponent who provides a reduced copy of an oversized exhibit shall ensure the reproduced document is clear and capable of further reproduction.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Terminology list

Each party must provide the court and Court Reporter a list of obscure or case-specific terminology likely to be referenced during testimony.

Each party shall provide to the court and the Court Reporter a list of obscure or case specific terminology likely to be referenced during testimony.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Exhibit index

The custodian at the conclusion of the proceeding must file a typewritten Exhibit Index Form with the appropriate records office.

The custodian at the conclusion of the proceeding shall file with the appropriate records office a typewritten Exhibit Index Form.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Written appraisal

Each party must have a completed written appraisal for the subject property at the Conciliation Conference.

(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.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Affidavit of service

Before residential property is listed for Sheriff's sale, the plaintiff or lender must file an Affidavit of Service with the Prothonotary at one of the specified dockets.

Before any residential property may be listed for Sheriff's sale, the plaintiff/lender must have filed an Affidavit of Service, (L1143(e)), with the Prothonotary at either the Appearance Docket, Common Pleas Docket or Execution Docket.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Ordinary transcript cost waiver application

A waiver application for ordinary transcript costs must include a supporting affidavit substantially in the form required by Pennsylvania Rule of Civil Procedure 240(h).

(4) The application to waive all or a portion of costs for ordinary transcripts shall be supported by an affidavit substantially in the form required by Rule 240(h) of the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Termination request

A termination request must use the Administrator-created form, identify the case or cases, and be submitted to the Court Administrator's Office before it is submitted to the Court.

The request for termination shall be made on a form that shall be created by the Butler County District Court Administrator and shall include such specific information as is needed to properly identify the case or cases to be terminated. Requests for termination of cases shall be submitted to the Butler County Court Administrator's Office before being submitted to the Court for the entry of an order terminating cases.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Additional order

An additional order containing the specified seminar-registration and attendance language must be attached to the scheduling order.

In addition to the scheduling Order required by Pa.R.C.P. No. 1915.3, there shall be attached by the Conciliator’s office, an additional Order with the following text: “All adult parties to this action, who have not yet attended the seminar for divided families endorsed by the Butler County Family Court, shall within 5 days of receipt of this Order register to attend the next available seminar. Contact 724 XXX-XXXX to register. Attendance at this seminar is mandatory, unless, within 5 days of receipt of the Order, a party seeks permission to attend a comparable program in another county, and within 10 days, permission is granted by the custody conciliator.”

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Notice of intervention

A Notice of Intervention must name the interested party, identify that party as an intervenor on the cover page, and state that the party is intervening.

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.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Appeal

An appeal must attach the Panel award, certify that the Panel's compensation has been paid, and attach the court order regarding payment.

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.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Transcript request

A person seeking a copy of a previously filed transcript must submit a Request for Transcript.

A "Request for Transcript" must also be submitted for individuals seeking to obtain copies of transcripts that have previously been filed of record.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion or petition

Every motion or petition must have a completed Motion Court cover sheet attached.

ALL MOTIONS/PETITIONS MUST HAVE A COMPLETED COVER SHEET ATTACHED TO THEM.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Request for transcript

A transcript request under this section must use the form prescribed by the Court Administrator.

A request for transcript under this section must be made on the form prescribed by the Court Administrator.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Affidavit

The plaintiff or lender must file the specified Affidavit before a matter is scheduled for judicial consideration or arbitration, and the Affidavit must disclose the listed information.

Before any matter will be scheduled for consideration before the assigned judge or for arbitration, the plaintiff/lender must file an Affidavit, which discloses: the date and manner of service of the "Notice of Consumer Credit or Residential Mortgage Foreclosure Diversion Program"; whether or not the defendant/borrower has requested to participate in the Consumer Credit Residential Mortgage Foreclosure Diversion Program; and, whether or not there is a present, court-ordered stay in effect. The format for said Affidavit is set forth below.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Notice of appeal

A Notice of Appeal in a children’s fast track appeal must include an Order for Transcript.

(A) Attach an Order for Transcript to the Notice of Appeal;

CRITICAL

Applies to

Exhibit

The proponent must include a Confidential Document Form with the exhibit, attached to an unsealed 9 x 12 envelope.

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.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Petition

Must include

proposed order

Each petition filed with the Court must contain a proposed order.

Each petition filed with the Court shall contain a proposed order for the Court’s consideration.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Request for conciliation conference

A defendant or counsel participating in the diversion program must file a Request for Conciliation Conference in the provided format.

To participate in the Consumer Credit or Residential Mortgage Foreclosure Diversion Program the defendant/borrower or his/her legal counsel shall follow Butler County Local Rule of Civil Procedure 1143.1 program requirements and file a Request for Conciliation Conference in the format set forth below.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Written appraisal

Counsel must complete a written property appraisal and exchange it with the listed 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.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Petition and subsequent filings

Must include

caption

The petition and all subsequent filings must include a cover page with the caption and the listed interested-party and property information.

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).

CRITICAL

Applies to

Transcript request

The Request for Transcript must be accompanied by a copy of the order granting in forma pauperis status or a reduced rate.

A copy of the Order of Court granting a person the privilege of proceeding In Forma Pauperis, or at a reduced rate, must accompany the "Request for Transcript" form.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Transcript copy request

A request for a copy of a previously ordered, transcribed, and filed transcript requires completion of a Request for Transcript form and payment of the applicable fee.

A request for a copy of any transcript previously ordered, transcribed and filed of record shall be provided by the appropriate filing office upon completion of a “Request for Transcript” and payment of the appropriate fee according to the following schedule:

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Guardian ad litem annual update

Each year by January 5, proposed guardians ad litem must provide Domestic Relations with the listed updated documents.

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;

CRITICAL

Applies to

Trial materials

If directed by the presiding judge, a party must provide an exhibit book, witness list, or obscure-terminology list and provide a copy to the Court Reporter and the judge’s law clerk.

If directed by the presiding judge, an exhibit book, witness list, or a list of obscure terminology shall be provided by a party or parties, and a copy shall also be provided to the Court Reporter and the judge’s law clerk.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Request for conciliation conference

To participate, a self-represented borrower must file the prescribed Request for Conciliation Conference form and complete the stated program eligibility steps.

To be eligible to participate in the program, a self-represented/borrower must call the Butler County Consumer Credit/Residential Mortgage Foreclosure Diversion Program information line to obtain instructions to schedule and attend either the mortgage or credit assistance class. In addition, if eligible, Defendants must meet with a credit counselor and complete the financial information necessary for the plaintiff/lender. The self-represented borrower must also file a Request for Conciliation Conference on the form set forth in Butler County L.R.C.P. L-1143(b).

CRITICAL

Applies to

Emergency motion or petition

An emergency motion or petition that cannot wait for regularly scheduled Motion Court must be delivered to the Prothonotary’s Office for immediate delivery to the assigned judge for review.

An “Emergency” Motion/Petition which cannot wait to be presented to the judge in that judge’s regularly scheduled Motion Court, must be delivered to the Prothonotary’s Office, who will immediately deliver the Motion/Petition to the assigned judge for review.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Pre trial statement

A pre-trial statement must comply in all material respects with Pa.R.C.P. No. 1920.33(b).

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).

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Civil trial status report

Must include

case number

Counsel for the parties shall file a civil trial status report in the form set forth herein. ... CIVIL CASE STATUS REPORT ... (case number) ... Plaintiff’s Counsel Name: Phone No. Fax No. ... Defendant’s Counsel Name: Phone No. Fax No. ... Number on Trial List: ... Status of settlement negotiations: ... Anticipated length of trial: ... Motions, evidentiary rulings necessary prior to trial or scheduling issues-(identify issues generally): ... Date:

Counsel for the parties shall file a civil trial status report in the form set forth herein. ... CIVIL CASE STATUS REPORT ... (case number) ... Plaintiff’s Counsel Name: Phone No. Fax No. ... Defendant’s Counsel Name: Phone No. Fax No. ... Number on Trial List: ... Status of settlement negotiations: ... Anticipated length of trial: ... Motions, evidentiary rulings necessary prior to trial or scheduling issues-(identify issues generally): ... Date:

CRITICAL

Applies to

Emergency motion or petition

To be heard, an emergency motion or petition must state that irreparable harm will more likely than not occur unless the judge addresses it immediately and before the next regularly scheduled Motion Court.

To be heard by the judge, an "Emergency” Motion/Petition must state in the Motion/Petition that irreparable harm will, MORE LIKELY THAN NOT, occur unless the judge hears and addresses the Motion/Petition immediately, and prior to the judge's next regularly-scheduled Motion Court.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Mediation statement

Each party must file a mediation statement containing the listed information.

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

CRITICAL

Applies to

Affidavit of service and status

Must include

certificate of service

The affidavit must certify the notice’s service date, method, and server, and that either 30 days have passed with no conference request or, if a request was filed, no court-ordered stay is in effect.

I, _______________________ , counsel for Plaintiff, in the above action, do hereby certify that on the Defendant(s) was served with (date) "Notice of Consumer Credit or Residential Mortgage Foreclosure Diversion Program by , and that: (method of service and by whom) (1) 30 days have passed since service of the Notice; (2) The Defendant(s) has not filed a Request for Conciliation Conference (Butler County Local Rule of Civil Procedure L-1143b); or (3) If a Request for Conciliation Conference has been filed, there is no present Court ordered Stay in effect.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Assessment appeal award

After a re-hearing is scheduled for the newly appointed panel, that panel must file an award.

Thereafter, Court Administration shall schedule a re-hearing for the new panel, which shall thereafter file an award.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Status report

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.

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.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Ordinary transcript cost waiver application

An application to waive all or part of ordinary-transcript costs must include an affidavit substantially in the form required by Pennsylvania Rule of Civil Procedure 240(h).

(4) The application to waive all or a portion of costs for ordinary transcripts shall be supported by an affidavit substantially in the form required by Rule 240(h) of the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Settlement notice

When counsel agree on settlement terms, they must promptly notify the Court in writing using the format provided so the case can be removed from the hearing list.

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:

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Pre trial statement

A party must attach or adequately describe trial exhibits in its pre-trial statement; failure to do so may result in sanctions unless the stated exceptions are met.

If a party fails to literally comply with Pa.R.C.P. 1920.33(b)(4) by failing to attach to his Pretrial Statement filed with the Prothonotary*** or adequately describe therein exhibits to be offered at trial, he shall be subject to sanctions unless:

CRITICAL

Applies to

Exhibit book

At the start of trial and before opening arguments, copies of the exhibit book must be provided to the presiding judge, law clerk, opposing counsel or unrepresented parties, and Court Reporter.

At the commencement of the trial, in advance of opening arguments, copies of the exhibit book shall be provided to the presiding judge, his or her law clerk, opposing counsel/unrepresented parties, and the Court Reporter.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Real estate tax assessment appeal filing

Must include

caption

All filings related to a Real Estate Tax Assessment Appeal must contain a coversheet and caption in accordance with the rules.

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.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Mediator list

The parties must strike mediator names from the list, with an additional proposed mediator and strike for each additional party.

(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.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Transcript request

After a hearing or other judicial proceeding, expedited, daily, or same-day transcript requests must be submitted to the District Court Administrator for consideration.

Requests for expedited, daily or same day transcripts following a hearing or other judicial proceeding shall be submitted to the District Court Administrator for consideration.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Guardian ad litem rate letter

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.

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.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Settlement demand response

Each defendant or additional defendant must respond in writing to the settlement demand by the pre-trial settlement conference.

By the time of the pre-trial settlement conference, each defendant or additional defendant shall respond in writing to such written demand.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Motion for continuance

A motion for a continuance based on a required appearance in another county must include a true and correct copy of that court's scheduling order.

Any motion for a continuance on these grounds must include a true and correct copy of the scheduling order entered by the other court.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Transfer of possession form

When exhibits are transferred to a subsequent custodian or filing office, both the transferring custodian and recipient must complete and sign a Transfer of Possession Form.

When exhibits are transferred from the custodian to a subsequent custodian or filing office, a Transfer of Possession Form shall be completed and signed by both the custodian and the subsequent custodian or records office accepting the Exhibit Index Form and exhibits.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion or petition

On the presentation day, the attorney or self-represented party must appear in the assigned judge’s courtroom with the original motion or petition before Motion Court starts.

On the day the Motion/Petition is to be presented to the judge, the attorney/self-represented party must appear with the original Motion/Petition in the assigned judge’s courtroom, prior to the start of the judge's Motion Court.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Motion

A motion stating facts not of record must be properly verified.

A motion that sets forth facts not of record shall be properly verified.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Opposed motion or petition

Opposed motions and petitions must be presented to the assigned judge in Motion Court.

Opposed Motions/Petitions must be presented to the assigned judge in Motion Court.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Agreement reached at pretrial conference

Any agreement reached at the Pretrial Conference must be reduced to writing and entered as an order of Court.

Any agreement reached at the Pretrial Conference shall be reduced to writing and entered as an order of Court.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Request for transcript

A copy of the order granting in forma pauperis status or a reduced rate must accompany the Request for Transcript form.

A copy of the Order of Court granting a person the privilege of proceeding In Forma Pauperis , or at a reduced rate, must accompany the “Request for Transcript” form.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Transcript request

The appropriate filing office provides a copy of a previously ordered and filed transcript after the requester completes a Request for Transcript and pays the applicable fee.

A request for a copy of any transcript previously ordered, transcribed and filed of record shall be provided by the appropriate filing office upon completion of a "Request for Transcript" and payment of the appropriate fee according to the following schedule:

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Pre service training affidavit

Guardians ad litem must complete the pre-service training video and file its accompanying affidavit with Domestic Relations.

4. Has completed the Pre-Service Training for Guardians Ad Litem video and filed the accompanying Affidavit with Domestic Relations.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Transcript request

A transcript request under section (A)(3) must use the form prescribed by the Court Administrator.

A request for transcript under this section must be made on the form prescribed by the Court Administrator.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Request for transcript

A Request for Transcript seeking an in-forma-pauperis or reduced-rate transcript must be accompanied by a copy of the order granting that status or rate.

A copy of the Order of Court granting a person the privilege of proceeding In Forma Pauperis, or at a reduced rate, must accompany the "Request for Transcript" form.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Transcript

The transcript must be filed of record with the appropriate filing office.

the transcript shall be filed of record with the appropriate filing office.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Request for transcript

A transcript requestor must deliver the filed Notice of Appeal to the District Court Administrator with the Request for Transcript.

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.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Complaint

Must include

caption

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.

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)

CRITICAL

Applies to

Transfer of custody form

Exhibits transferred to the filing office or successor custodian must be accompanied by an Exhibit Index Form identifying and describing each exhibit and showing its proponent and admission or rejection status.

Included with the exhibits being transferred is the Exhibit Index Form containing a numbered list of exhibits, the identification of each exhibit's proponent, a checkmark indicating whether the exhibit was admitted or rejected from evidence, and a textual description of each submitted exhibit in accordance with L5102.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion court cover sheet

The notice identifies the assigned judge and the date and time when the matter will be presented in Motion Court.

You are hereby notified that the attached matter will be presented to assigned Judge on at in their Motion Court.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Agreement to extend arbitration limits

The parties may extend the arbitration jurisdictional limit to $50,000 only by agreement of all parties and court approval.

The parties may agree to extend the Arbitration jurisdictional limits for a case up to $50,000. Such agreement must be by all parties and approved by the court.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Praecipe to settle and discontinue

A Praecipe to Settle and Discontinue must be filed within 10 days.

You will be required to file a Praecipe to Settle and Discontinue within 10 days.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Transcript

Transcripts must identify minor children by initials only.

(B) Names of all minor children shall be identified by initial only.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Motion request application

A filing claiming an emergency must state the emergency's nature and why any required notice could not be given.

If a moving party claims that an emergency exists, the nature of the emergency, and the reasons why any required notice could not be given, must be set forth in the motion, request or application being filed.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Motion request application

Must include

proposed order

Every motion, request, and application must include an attached suggested order addressing the requested relief.

Every motion, request and application shall have attached thereto a suggested order concerning the relief that is requested by the moving party.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Proposed jury instructions

For jury trials, counsel must submit proposed jury instructions to the Court at jury selection.

At the time of jury selection, counsel shall submit to the Court proposed jury instructions for cases to be tried by a jury.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Exhibit book

At the start of trial and before opening arguments, each party must provide exhibit-book copies to the presiding judge, the judge's law clerk, opposing counsel or unrepresented parties, and the Court Reporter.

At the commencement of the trial, in advance of opening arguments, copies of the exhibit book shall be provided to the presiding judge, his or her law clerk, opposing counsel/unrepresented parties, and the Court Reporter.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Statement of intention to proceed

On the date for termination of inactive cases, as identified in L230.2(a) above, the Prothonotary shall deliver to the assigned judge the listing of cases wherein a statement of intention to proceed was filed on behalf of the party and also a list of cases administratively terminated upon the failure of any party to file a statement of intention to proceed in accordance with Pa. R.C.P.230.2(f).

On the date for termination of inactive cases, as identified in L230.2(a) above, the Prothonotary shall deliver to the assigned judge the listing of cases wherein a statement of intention to proceed was filed on behalf of the party and also a list of cases administratively terminated upon the failure of any party to file a statement of intention to proceed in accordance with Pa. R.C.P.230.2(f).

CRITICAL

Applies to

Complaint

Consumer credit and residential mortgage foreclosure complaints must include the specified diversion-program notice in the format provided.

(a) In all consumer credit and residential mortgage foreclosure actions, the complaint shall include a "Notice of Consumer Credit or Residential Mortgage Foreclosure Diversion Program” in the format set forth in below.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Documentary exhibits

Before exhibits are destroyed or disposed of under a court order, the filing office must create an electronic copy of all documentary exhibits for the file.

Prior to destruction or disposal of exhibits under any Order of Court, the applicable filing office shall ensure an electronic copy of all documentary exhibits is created for retention in the file.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Transcript

Once transcribed, transcripts of hearings or portions of hearings must be filed of record in the proper recording office.

Transcripts of all hearings or portions thereof, once transcribed by the Court Reporter, shall be filed of record in the proper recording office.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Witness list

Each party must provide the court and Court Reporter a complete potential-witness list and a list of unusual names likely to be referenced in testimony one week before trial.

One week prior to trial, each party shall provide to the court and the Court Reporter a complete list of potential witnesses and a list of any unusual names of other individuals, places, or things likely to be referenced during testimony.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Transcript request

A separate transcript request must be submitted for each requested date.

Because multiple Court Reporters may be involved in multiple day hearings, separate requests must be submitted for each date requested.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Request for conciliation conference

To obtain admission to the diversion program, the defendant or attorney must complete the specified request form, file it with the Prothonotary, and mail a copy to the plaintiff.

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.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Proposed findings conclusions

At the commencement of a non-jury trial, counsel for all parties must present proposed findings of fact and conclusions of law to the Court.

(a) At the time of commencement of a non-jury trial, counsel for all parties shall present to the Court proposed findings of fact and conclusions of law.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Documentary exhibits

Before exhibits are destroyed or disposed of under a court order, the filing office must create an electronic copy of all documentary exhibits for retention in the file.

Prior to destruction or disposal of exhibits under any Order of Court, the applicable filing office shall ensure an electronic copy of all documentary exhibits is created for retention in the file.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Request for transcript

Individuals seeking a copy of a previously filed transcript must submit a Request for Transcript.

(5) A "Request for Transcript" must also be submitted for individuals seeking to obtain copies of transcripts that have previously been filed of record.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Transcript request

The requester must file the original transcript request with the District Court Administrator.

The party requesting a full or partial transcript of a trial or other proceeding shall file the original request with the District Court Administrator of the Court of Common Pleas of Butler County who will immediately note in their intake log that the filing has been made.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Exhibit index form

Exhibits being transferred must include an Exhibit Index Form listing each exhibit’s number, proponent, admission or rejection status, and description.

Included with the exhibits being transferred is the Exhibit Index Form containing a numbered list of exhibits, the identification of each exhibit’s proponent, a checkmark indicating whether the exhibit was admitted or rejected from evidence, and a textual description of each submitted exhibit in accordance with L5102.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Request for custody pretrial conference

Must include

caption

The Request for Custody Pretrial Conference must substantially follow the provided form, including a caption, issues to be considered, verification, signature, and date.

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

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Sheriff return

The Sheriff's return must state the date and manner in which the Notice was posted on the property.

The Sheriff's return shall reflect the date and manner of posting said Notice on the property.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Agreement of reference

An agreement of reference must be signed by the parties or their counsel and define the issues and agreed stipulations.

By agreement of reference signed by the parties or their counsel. Such agreement shall define the issues and contain such stipulation as to facts, admissions, waivers of defenses, or proofs as are agreed upon.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Assessment appeal award

In the specified post-hearing vacancy or member-failure circumstances, the remaining panel members must sign and file the award.

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.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Arbitration report and award

Any delay damages included in an award must be added to the principal amount and separately stated on the report and award.

Any such delay damages shall be added to the principal amount awarded, but shall be separately stated on the report and award.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Emergency motion or petition

The motion or petition must clearly state why the matter is an emergency.

The reason why the matter is an emergency must be stated clearly in the Motion/Petition.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Motion request application

Must include

certificate of service

A motion, request, or application filed without a cover-page certification of notice and service may not receive substantive action from the court.

Any motion, request or application that is filed without the required certification of notice and service on the cover page may not be substantively acted upon by the court.

CRITICALCourt notice

Applies to

Transcript request

All transcript requests must use the Request for Transcript form and be submitted to the Court Administrator's office.

The most significant changes that the system users will experience is the requirement that all requests for transcripts must be made by filling out the "Request for Transcript (PDF)" form and submitting it to the Court Administrator's office.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion or petition

A motion or petition presented without five business days’ advance notice must be designated an “Emergency” Motion and will be scrutinized carefully.

For this reason, an “Emergency” Motion/Petition presented to the judge without providing five (5) business days advance notice of presentation to the opposing attorney/self-represented party must be designated an “Emergency” Motion and will be scrutinized carefully.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion or petition

At Motion Court, complete the sign-in sheet and place the motion or petition in the provided container.

A sign-in sheet will be on one of the counsel tables, along with a container in which to place the Motion/Petition. Please complete the sign-in sheet and place the Motion/Petition in the container.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Status conference motion

A party may request a status conference by written motion stating the reasons for the request.

Status Conferences may also be ordered upon written motion of a party, setting forth reasons in support of the request for status conference.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Affidavit of service

In consumer credit and residential mortgage foreclosure actions, the plaintiff or lender must file an Affidavit of Service stating how and when notice was served before the motion is scheduled for court action.

As a condition precedent to the scheduling of a motion for judgment on the pleadings 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))

CRITICAL

Applies to

Transcript

A redacted transcript filed of record must note on its face page that portions of the transcription have been redacted.

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.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Transcript request

Anyone seeking a copy of a previously filed transcript must submit a Request for Transcript.

A “Request for Transcript” must also be submitted for individuals seeking to obtain copies of transcripts that have previously been filed of record.

WARNINGCivil cases

Applies to

Proposed order

A motion qualifies under this uncontested-motion category when its proposed order seeks only appointment of a master, mediator, or hearing officer and no other relief.

Where the proposed order seeks only the appointment of a master, mediator or hearing officer and no such other further relief.

WARNING

Applies to

Transcript cost waiver application

Such application should be prepared in the form of a Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis to waive all or a portion of the transcript costs and filed in the appropriate filing office.

Such application should be prepared in the form of a Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis to waive all or a portion of the transcript costs and filed in the appropriate filing office.

WARNING

Applies to

Witness list

This list should additionally note any witness whose testimony will be received by deposition or video tape, and the particular area of expertise of any expert witness.

This list should additionally note any witness whose testimony will be received by deposition or video tape, and the particular area of expertise of any expert witness.

WARNINGCivil cases

Applies to

Filing form

The form includes a certification that its statements are true and correct, with spaces for the date, signature, and counsel.

I certify all the above statements are true and correct. _______________________ _______________________________________ Date Signature Counsel for:______________________________

WARNINGCivil cases

Applies to

Arbitration status report

The arbitration status report asks for an anticipated hearing length, and counsel should consult all sides to provide a reliable estimate.

Anticipated total length of Arbitration Hearing – (counsel should consult with all sides to provide a reliable estimate of time because other arbitration hearings may be scheduled to follow the time allotted for your case)

WARNINGCivil cases

Applies to

Proposed order

A motion qualifies under this uncontested-motion category when its proposed order seeks only a rule to show cause with a return hearing or argument date and no other relief.

Where the proposed order seeks only a rule to show cause with a return hearing or argument date and no such other further relief;

WARNING

Applies to

Terminology list

Each party must provide the court and Court Reporter with a list of obscure or case-specific terminology likely to be referenced during testimony.

(c) Each party shall provide to the court and the Court Reporter a list of obscure or case specific terminology likely to be referenced during testimony.

WARNING

Applies to

Exhibits and exhibit index

When there are successive custodians, each custodian must provide the submitted exhibits and exhibit index to the next custodian.

If multiple successive custodians are involved with a proceeding, the first custodian shall provide the subsequent custodian (and so on, if more than two successive custodians) with the submitted exhibits and index of exhibits.

WARNING

Applies to

Transcript cost waiver application

The application should be prepared as a Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis and filed in the appropriate filing office.

Such application should be prepared in the form of a Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis to waive all or a portion of the transcript costs and filed in the appropriate filing office.

WARNINGCivil cases

Applies to

Notice of intervention

(vii) The Notice of Intervention shall be substantially in the following form, which should include a cover page and caption as per RuleL5000(e), as well as the Notice of Intervention and the Proof of Service of the Intervention:

(vii) The Notice of Intervention shall be substantially in the following form, which should include a cover page and caption as per RuleL5000(e), as well as the Notice of Intervention and the Proof of Service of the Intervention:

WARNING

Applies to

Mediation statement

A party that does not timely file its mediation statement may face cancellation of the conference and an order to pay timely filing parties’ attorneys’ fees and expenses.

If a party fails to timely file the mediation conference statement, the mediation conference may not be held and party who fails to timely file the required statement may be required to pay the attorneys fees and expenses of those parties who have timely filed their statements.

WARNINGCivil cases

Applies to

Status report

Anticipated total length of Hearing – (counsel should consult with all sides to provide a reliable estimate of time because other hearings may be scheduled to follow the time allotted for your case)

Anticipated total length of Hearing – (counsel should consult with all sides to provide a reliable estimate of time because other hearings may be scheduled to follow the time allotted for your case)

WARNING

Applies to

Witness list

This list should additionally note any witness whose testimony will be received by deposition or video tape, and the particular area of expertise of any expert witness.

This list should additionally note any witness whose testimony will be received by deposition or video tape, and the particular area of expertise of any expert witness.

WARNINGCivil cases

Applies to

Arbitrator consent

Eligible persons must file written consent to serve as an arbitrator with the Prothonotary.

Persons who have been determined to be eligible shall file a written consent to serve as an arbitrator with the Prothonotary.

WARNING

Applies to

Exhibit book

An exhibit book must not include portions of medical or other voluminous records that will not be specifically referenced through testimony.

Do not include portions of medical records or other voluminous records that will not be specifically referenced through testimony.

WARNING

Applies to

Exhibit book

Portions of medical or other voluminous records that will not be specifically referenced through testimony must not be included.

Do not include portions of medical records or other voluminous records that will not be specifically referenced through testimony.

WARNING

Applies to

Trial materials

If the presiding judge directs a party to provide an exhibit book, witness list, or obscure-terminology list, a copy must also be provided to the Court Reporter and the judge's law clerk.

(1) If directed by the presiding judge, an exhibit book, witness list, or a list of obscure terminology shall be provided by a party or parties, and a copy shall also be provided to the Court Reporter and the judge's law clerk.

WARNING

Applies to

Mediation agreement

Parties may voluntarily submit a civil case to the mediation program by filing an agreement to submit and paying the mediation fees.

The parties to any civil case may voluntarily agree to submit a case for mediation through the Butler County Mediation Program by filing an agreement to submit and by paying the mediation fees.

WARNINGCivil cases

Applies to

Arbitration status report

Must include

caption

The arbitration status report must follow the prescribed format, which begins with a caption.

The arbitration status report shall be in the format set forth below:

WARNINGCivil cases

Applies to

Filing form

Must include

certificate of service

The filing form includes a Certificate of Notice/Service.

II. Certificate of Notice/Service I gave reasonable prior notice of filing and a copy of this document to: _____________________________________ at _______________________________ on ____________________________ by: ○Personal Service ○Fax ○ Mail ○ Other ______________________________

INFO

Upon the jury’s request, the court may direct alternative viewing arrangements for those exhibits.

The court may direct alternative viewing arrangements for such exhibits upon the request of the jury.

INFOCivil cases

Applies to

Uncontested motion

An uncontested motion may be based on all parties' consent, which counsel may certify or document by attaching written consent.

Where all parties or their counsel of record have consented to the motion and order. Counsel may certify that all parties or their counsel have consented or attach written consent;

INFOCivil cases

Applies to

Notice of intervention

An interested party wishing to participate in the appeal may file a Notice of Intervention with the Prothonotary.

Any interested party who wishes to participate in the appeal may file with the Prothonotary a Notice of Intervention.