Centre County Court of Common Pleas
Court-Level Rules, Filing Procedures & Policies
- Rules last changed:
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Clerk
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Document Format Requirements17 rules
Electronic filings must be PDF unless the Court designates another format; non-PDF papers presented for filing must be converted to PDF.
- File type
Court's wording
All electronic filings shall be in Portable Document Format (PDF) or any other electronic format, if any, that the Court by local rule designates. A paper presented for filing in a format other than PDF shall be converted to PDF and maintained by the Prothonotary/Clerk of Courts in that format.
Margins must be at least one inch on all four sides. Page numbers may be placed in the margins, but no text may appear there.
- Margins
- At least 1 inch
(8) Each motion and each brief shall be a separately bound document.
(5) All papers and other documents filed in this court shall be securely fastened with a staple in the upper left hand corner.
The font type and size used in footnotes shall be the same as that used in the body of the brief.
The lettering or typeface shall be clearly legible and shall not be smaller than 14 point word processing font or, if typewritten, shall not be smaller than pica.
- Font size
- 14 points
Formatting
- •Lettering or typeface must be clearly legible
- •If typewritten, lettering or typeface must not be smaller than pica
(2) The first sheet shall contain a three (3) inch space from the top of the paper for all court stampings, filings notices, etc.
Exhibits to a brief or motion shall accompany the brief or motion and shall be marked/labeled at the bottom of the page.
A proposed order shall accompany each motion or other request for relief, but shall not be fastened together.
Papers and other documents filed in this court, except original or true copies of exhibits, shall be on paper approximating eight and one-half (8½) inches by eleven (11) inches in size.
(4) The lettering or typeface shall be on only one (1) side of a page, except that exhibits and similar supporting documents may be lettered on both sides of a page.
The text must be double-spaced, but quotations more than two lines long may be indented and single-spaced. Headings and footnotes may be single-spaced.
- Line spacing
- Double
(1) Prepared on white paper (except for covers, dividers, and similar sheets) of good quality with typed or printed matter six and one-half (6½) inches by nine and one- half (9½) inches.
All motions filed prior to trial must be written
Except for motions made orally during a trial or hearing, all motions shall be in writing.
(If you have text messages on cell phones, you must reduce the text messages to written form on paper before the time of trial for the Court to possibly consider and to include in the case file).
- File type
- Paper
- Text messages
The Prothonotary/Clerk of Courts shall affix "Filed by Email" near the time stamp.
Document Filing Requirements44 rules
By electronically filing a legal paper, the filing party certifies that its hard copy was properly signed and, when applicable, verified, and makes the certification required by Pa.R.C.P. 1023.1(c).
Court's wording
The electronic filing of a legal paper constitutes a certification by the filing party that a hard copy of the legal paper was properly signed and, where applicable, verified; and a certification as provided by the signature to a legal paper under Pa.R.C.P. 1023.1(c), the violation of which shall be subject to the sanction provided by Pa.R.C.P. 1023.1(d).
The filing party must retain the signed hard copy for two years after the latest of the specified case or issue dispositions.
Court's wording
The filing party shall maintain the signed hard copy of the document filed for two (2) years after the later of: the disposition of the case; the entry of an order resolving the issue raised by the legal paper; or, the disposition by an appellate court of the issue raised by the legal paper.
A legal paper filed electronically shall be deemed the original document. The Prothonotary/Clerk of Courts shall maintain a hard copy of the document filed.
An electronically filed document shall be deemed to have been signed by the filer if it bears a facsimile or typographical signature of the filer, e.g. /s/ John Doe.
As required by Pa.R.C.P. 205.5, the filing party shall include the statewide cover sheet with the initial filing.
Any other party at any time may serve upon the filing party a notice to produce for inspection the signed hard copy within fourteen (14) days of service of the notice. The Court upon motion may grant appropriate sanctions for failure to produce the signed hard copy pursuant of the notice.
The party requesting a full or partial transcript of a trial or other proceeding shall file the written request with the Office of the District Court Administrator.
- Document
- Transcript request
Must include
- •Written request
Where there is more than one case number referenced on a filing, an original document must be filed to each case number.
A proposed order shall accompany each motion or other request for relief,
- Document
- Motion or request for relief
Must include
- •Proposed order
Exhibits to a brief or motion shall accompany the brief or motion
All original documents shall be marked “original.” All copies shall be marked “copy.”
An attorney-signed filing must list the attorney’s name, contact details, and bar identification number under the signature line, using the state’s postal abbreviation as the number’s prefix.
- Document
- Attorney signed filing
- Placement
- Signature block
Court's wording
Any document signed by an attorney for filing shall contain under the signature line the name, address, telephone number, fax number, e-mail address (if applicable) and Pennsylvania or other state bar identification number. When listing the bar identification number, the state’s postal abbreviation shall be used as a prefix (e.g., PA 12345, NY 246810).
All legal papers filed shall be accompanied by a civil cover sheet in a form as contained in this Rule.
A request for a stay of execution pending disposition of a petition to open a default judgment shall be clearly set forth in the petition and rule.
shall contain a certification by counsel for the movant that he or she has sought concurrence in the motion from each party, and that it has been either given or denied.
Every motion shall be accompanied by a form of order which, if approved by the court, would grant the relief sought in the motion.
A discovery motion must include a statement certifying the good-faith conference and, if issues were partly resolved, identifying the resolved and unresolved issues.
- Document
- Discovery motion
Must include
- •Certificate of conference
Court's wording
Counsel for movant in a discovery motion shall file as part of the motion a statement certifying that counsel has conferred with counsel for the opposing party in a good faith effort to resolve by agreement the issues raised by the motion without the intervention of the court. If part of the issues raised by the motion have been resolved by agreement, the statement shall specify the issues so resolved and the issues remaining unresolved.
All motions shall include a scheduling Order which will be completed by the Judge assigned to that motion, as well as a proposed Order specifying the relief sought by the moving party.
- Document
- Motion
Must include
- •Proposed order
A copy of any unpublished opinion which is cited must accompany the brief as an attachment.
No brief may incorporate by reference all or any portion of any other brief.
Briefs shall contain a complete citations of all authorities relied upon, including whenever practicable, citations both to official and unofficial reports.
A brief may address only one motion, except in the case of cross motions for summary judgment.
The brief of the moving party shall contain a procedural history of the case, a statement of facts, a statement of questions involved, and argument.
- Document
- Brief
Must include
- •Statement of facts
A brief longer than 15 pages must include a page-referenced table of contents and a table of cited authorities with page references.
Must include
- •Table of contents
Court's wording
The brief of each party, if more than fifteen (15) pages in length, shall contain a table of contents, with page references, and table of citations of the cases, statutes, and other authorities referred to therein, with references to the pages at which they are cited.
If the parties reach an agreement resolving all the issues raised, the conciliator shall forward an agreed upon Order and Parenting Plan to the Court for approval.
The required verification regarding criminal record or abuse history must be completed before the conference if not already filed, and filed of record afterward.
Court's wording
The conciliator shall review the court file before the custody conciliation conference to ensure that all pleadings and documents have been properly filed by all parties, including a verification regarding any criminal record or abuse history. If a party has not filed the verification, then the conciliator shall have that party complete the verification before commencing the custody conciliation conference, and the conciliator shall ensure that the verification is filed of record after the conference.
The recommended interim custody order of the conciliator prepared in accordance with Rule 1915.4-3 (I)(3) shall be submitted to the court for approval, signature, and entry of record.
If the parties do not resolve all issues, the conciliator must file a written report containing the attendance, conference results, interim-order recommendation, specified evaluation and counseling determinations, expedited-hearing recommendations, mediation-orientation determination, and pre-trial recommendations.
Court's wording
If the parties do not reach an agreement resolving all issues raised, the conciliator shall file a written report with the Court that recites the following: (1) the parties and attorneys that attended the custody conciliation conference; (2) the results of the custody conciliation conference; (3) a recommended interim custody order as to legal and physical custody matters which will govern, pending further proceedings with the Court; (4) an initial determination, subject to ultimate approval by the Court, as to the use of psychological evaluations, home study evaluations, drug and alcohol evaluations and/or treatments, co-parenting counseling, reunification counseling, the appointment of a guardian ad litem, and/or the appointment of counsel for the child(ren); (5) any recommendations regarding the need for an expedited hearing in emergency and relocation cases; (6) whether a party should not be compelled to attend a mediation orientation session because a party, or a child of a party, is or has been the subject of domestic violence or child abuse allegedly perpetrated by an opposing party at any time within the preceding twenty-four (24) months; and (7) a recommendation that the case be scheduled for a pre-trial conference and the estimated number of trial days needed.
A custody case will be removed from the custody conciliation conference, pre-trial schedule and/or the custody trial list only upon written agreement of the parties or Court order.
Both parties and their respective counsel shall appear before the Court for presentation of the issues and discussion of possible settlement and disposition of any matters referred to the Court.
Any request by the parties for evaluations made after the initial conference and not made at the pre-trial conference or entered by stipulation must be made by Petition for Special Relief alleging specific facts and reasons for the request.
At the time set for the pre-trial conference, both parties shall submit documents and information required by the Court’s Custody Scheduling Order.
The petition for special relief must be presented as a separate document headed “Petition for Special Relief.” The petition shall conform to the requirements of Pa.R.C.P. 1915.15, as may be applicable, and must allege facts which clearly specify the clear and present danger to the welfare of the child(ren).
Should the parties consent to mediation and successfully reach an agreement, the mediator shall prepare a Memorandum of Understanding. The Memorandum of Understanding shall be forwarded to the Court.
An order denying, modifying, or vacating a waiver must state the reason and that the party has 30 days to pay or the action will be terminated without further notice.
Court's wording
If the court denies an application, or modifies or vacates an order previously granting an application, the court shall state in its order: - (i) the reason for its decision; and - (ii) that the party has 30 days to pay the filing fees or the action will be terminated without further notice.
Transcript requests shall be made on the form provided at the Court Administrator's Office or on the website: centrecountypa.gov
The party requesting a full or partial transcript of a trial or other proceeding shall file the written request with the Court Administrator's Office.
Have all physical evidence (papers, text messages, photographs, medical records, etc.) you desire to present at the proceeding with you in the courtroom.
Scanned signatures will be accepted as originals.
All motions should include a brief statement of the applicable authority.
If counter statements of facts or questions involved are not filed, the statements of the moving party will be deemed adopted.
Should a significant change in circumstances arise after entry of an interim custody order and before the pre-trial conference necessitating a modification of the interim custody order, which modification cannot be amicably agreed upon pending the pre-trial conference, either party may file a motion for reconsideration of the interim order, setting forth all pertinent facts in support thereof and verified by the filing party.
The brief of the opposing party may contain a counter statement of the facts and of the questions involved and a counter history of the case.
If the parties do not reach a final agreement resolving all issues raised but have reached a temporary custody agreement and do not want to proceed to a custody trial, by mutual consent of the parties, they may request the conciliator forward an agreed upon interim Order and Parenting Plan to the Court for review and entry.
Filing & Service rules
Electronic Filing Rules
The Prothonotary/Clerk of Courts must provide electronic access at all times.
The Prothonotary/Clerk of Courts shall provide electronic access at all times.
Civil cases
Page 2 | C. Access
Legal papers filed electronically must be filed through the Prothonotary/Clerk of Court’s Electronic Filing System, accessible at the stated email address.
All legal papers that are filed electronically shall be filed through the Prothonotary/Clerk of Court's Electronic Filing System which shall be accessible at Prothonotary/Clerk of Courts-orders@centrecountypa.gov.
Civil cases
Page 2 | C. Access
Preliminary Objections must be filed in the Prothonotary’s Office, which forwards them to the Court Administrator’s Office.
All Preliminary Objections shall be filed in the Prothonotary’s Office, which will then forward the Objections to the Court Administrator’s Office.
Civil cases
Page 12 | LOCAL RULE 1028(c) — PRELIMINARY OBJECTIONS
Electronic filing is permitted for legal papers, except in the listed case categories.
The Centre County Court of Common Pleas hereby permits the electronic filing of legal papers and the electronic service of such papers under the terms described in this Local Rule. In the context of this rule, “legal papers” which may be filed electronically do not include cases involving Domestic Relations, Protection From Abuse, Orphans’ Court, and Mental Health/Intellectual Disability.
Civil cases
Page 1 | A. Electronic Filing
Filing Timing and Cure Windows
Filings must be received by 4:30 p.m. to be timestamped for that business day.
All filings must be received by 4:30 p.m. to be time stamped for that business day.
Civil cases
Page 3 | E. Time of Filing
During the temporary order's effective period, filings had to be received by 3:30 p.m. to be timestamped for that business day.
All filing must be received by 3:30 pm to be timestamped for that business day.
Civil cases
Page 4 | Temporary Administrative Order
All filing must be received by J.'30prr to be timestamped for that business day.
All filing must be received by J.'30prr to be timestamped for that business day.
Civil cases
Page 5 | Order
A late brief filed without written leave may result in the motion issues being treated as uncontroverted.
Failure to file a brief in a timely manner without written leave of the Court may result in the Court determining the issues raised in the motions to be uncontroverted.
Civil cases
Page 9 | LOCAL RULE 208.3(a) MOTIONS PROCEDURE
Briefs remain due on the dates set by the Court unless the deadlines are continued in writing.
However, briefs shall still be due on the days previously indicated by the Court, unless continued in writing.
Civil cases
Page 13 | LOCAL RULE 1034(a) MOTION FOR JUDGMENT ON THE PLEADINGS
A late brief filed without the Court’s written leave may result in the motion’s issues being deemed uncontroverted.
Failure to file a brief in a timely manner without written leave of the Court may result in the Court determining the issues raised in the Motion to be uncontroverted.
Civil cases
Page 13 | LOCAL RULE 1034(a) MOTION FOR JUDGMENT ON THE PLEADINGS
The fee-waiver application or praecipe must be filed at or after commencement of the action, never before.
(1) The application or praecipe shall be filed at the same time as or after the commencement of the legal action, not before.
Page 2 | Rule 1990. Application to Waive Fees and Costs (In Forma Pauperis) — (d) Timing
for commencing the action within 30 days of notification of the denial.
for commencing the action within 30 days of notification of the denial.
Page 3 | Rule 1990. Application to Waive Fees and Costs (In Forma Pauperis)
The filing office must terminate the action if at least 30 days have passed since service of an order denying the application, the fee remains unpaid, and no appeal has been filed.
If at least 30 days have passed after the filing office has served an order denying the application, the fee remains unpaid, and an appeal has not been filed, the filing office shall enter an appropriate order terminating the legal action.
Page 4 | Rule 1990. Application to Waive Fees and Costs (In Forma Pauperis)
After a denial, modification, or vacatur, the party has 30 days to pay the filing fees or the action will be terminated without further notice.
If the court denies an application, or modifies or vacates an order previously granting an application, the court shall state in its order: - (i) the reason for its decision; and - (ii) that the party has 30 days to pay the filing fees or the action will be terminated without further notice.
Page 4 | Rule 1990. Application to Waive Fees and Costs (In Forma Pauperis)
The filing party is responsible for delays, disruptions, signal interruptions, and document legibility problems, except when caused by failure of the e-filing website.
A filing party shall be responsible for any delay, disruption, interruption of the electronic signals and legibility of the document electronically filed, except when caused by the failure of the electronic filing system's website.
Civil cases
Page 3 | E. Time of Filing
If a filing is not accepted or is refused, the Clerk must promptly notify the presenting party and state the presentation date, the refusal or nonacceptance, and the reason.
If a legal paper is not accepted upon presentation for filing or is refused for filing by the Electronic Filing System, the Prothonotary/Clerk of Courts shall immediately, or if the office is closed, immediately upon opening, notify the party presenting the legal paper for filing of the date of presentation, the fact the document was not accepted or was refused for filing by the system, and the reason it was not accepted or was refused.
Civil cases
Page 3 | E. Time of Filing
Upon receipt, the Clerk must acknowledge the filing with its receipt date and time and notify the filing party whether it was accepted.
Upon receipt of the legal paper, the Prothonotary/Clerk of Courts shall provide the filing party with an acknowledgement, which includes the date and time the legal paper was received by the Electronic Filing System. The Prothonotary/Clerk of Courts shall also provide the filing party with notice that the legal paper was accepted for filing.
Civil cases
Page 3 | E. Time of Filing
A brief filed late without written leave of the Court may result in the issues raised in the Preliminary Objections being deemed uncontroverted.
Failure to file a brief in a timely manner without written leave of the Court may result in the Court determining the issues raised in the Preliminary Objections to be uncontroverted.
Civil cases
Page 12 | LOCAL RULE 1028(c) — PRELIMINARY OBJECTIONS
The court should enter its order on the application within 20 days of filing.
The court should enter its order determining the application within 20 days of its filing date.
Page 3 | Rule 1990. Application to Waive Fees and Costs (In Forma Pauperis)
Service and Proof of Service Rules
After electronic filing is accepted, the filing party must provide the Sheriff with the proper service fee and the documents for Original Service and Writs.
Once the electronic filing has been accepted, it shall be the responsibility of the filing party to provide the Sheriff with the proper service fee and the documents for Original Service and Writs.
Civil cases
Page 3 | F. Service of Legal Papers
The requesting party must serve the transcript request on opposing counsel or, if the opposing party is unrepresented, on that party.
The requesting party shall serve copies of the request upon opposing counsel or the opposing party if the party is unrepresented.
Page 3 | Rule 4009. – Court Reporting and Transcripts – Fees and Procedures
The original of each brief must be filed with the Prothonotary, and a copy must be served on the assigned Judge.
The original of all briefs shall be filed with the Prothonotary, but a copy shall be served on the Judge to whom the matter has been assigned.
Civil cases
Page 11 | LOCAL RULE 210 — CONTENTS AND FILING OF BRIEFS
The petitioning party must serve the petition and any temporary emergency order on the opposing party as soon as possible and before the court conference or hearing, using the manner of service for original process, and make reasonable efforts to provide copies to an attorney reasonably believed to represent the other party.
As immediately as possible and in any event prior to the conference or hearing before the Court, the petition for special relief and any temporary emergency order shall be served on the opposing party by the petitioning party in the same manner as original process. In addition to service on the opposing party, the petitioner shall make reasonable efforts to provide a copy of the documents to any attorney whom the petitioning party reasonably believes may represent the interests of the other party.
Civil cases
Page 5 | LOCAL RULE 1915.13-1. Petition for Special Relief.
The filing office must serve the court’s order on the party.
The filing office shall serve the court's order upon the party.
Page 4 | Rule 1990. Application to Waive Fees and Costs (In Forma Pauperis)
The requester must serve copies of the transcript request on opposing counsel or, if the opposing party is unrepresented, on that party.
The requesting party shall serve copies of the request upon opposing counsel or the opposing party if the party is unrepresented.
Page 6 | Rule 4009. Court Reporting and Transcripts. Fees and Procedures.
When offering evidence to the Court, show that evidence to the opposing party.
at the time you offer evidence to the Court, you must show the opposing party the evidence you are trying to present to the Court.
Page 1 | RULES & PROCEDURES FOR ONE OR BOTH PARTIES REPRESENTING THEMSELVES
Self-represented litigants must follow the rules governing pleadings, including giving notice to the opposing party.
- 3. WHERE PLEADINGS ARE FILED OR REQUIRED, SELF-REPRESENTED LITIGANTS ARE REQUIRED TO CONFORM TO THE RULES GOVERNING THE CONSTRUCTION, FILING AND SERVICE OF SAME INCLUDING NOTICE TO THE OPPOSING PARTY.
Page 6 | CIVIL SELF REPRESENTED LITIGANTS MUST COMPLY WITH THE FOLLOWING ORDERS THROUGHOUT THIS CASE
Electronic service of legal papers is permitted under the Local Rule, subject to the stated case exclusions.
The Centre County Court of Common Pleas hereby permits the electronic filing of legal papers and the electronic service of such papers under the terms described in this Local Rule. In the context of this rule, “legal papers” which may be filed electronically do not include cases involving Domestic Relations, Protection From Abuse, Orphans’ Court, and Mental Health/Intellectual Disability.
Civil cases
Page 1 | A. Electronic Filing
Parties should provide the opposing party a copy of the evidence for that party’s records.
You should provide a copy of the evidence to the opposing party for that party's records,
Page 1 | RULES & PROCEDURES FOR ONE OR BOTH PARTIES REPRESENTING THEMSELVES
Filing Fees and Waivers
After electronic filing is accepted, the filing party must provide the Sheriff with the proper service fee for Original Service and Writs.
Once the electronic filing has been accepted, it shall be the responsibility of the filing party to provide the Sheriff with the proper service fee and the documents for Original Service and Writs.
Civil cases
Page 3 | F. Service of Legal Papers
The party ordering a transcript must pay the estimated preparation cost in advance; checks must be payable to County of Centre and delivered to the Court Administrator’s Office.
The party ordering the transcript shall make full advanced payment of the estimated cost. All checks shall be made payable to “County of Centre”, and shall be delivered to the Court Administrator’s Office.
Page 2 | ORDER
The party ordering a transcript must pay the estimated cost in advance, with checks payable to County of Centre and delivered to the Court Administrator’s Office.
Upon receipt of a transcript request, the Court Reporter shall provide a written estimate of the cost of preparing the transcript in accordance with the fee schedule set forth in paragraph (G) of this Rule. The party ordering the transcript shall make full advanced payment of the estimated cost. All checks shall be made payable to “County of Centre”, and shall be delivered to the Court Administrator’s Office.
Page 3 | Rule 4009. – Court Reporting and Transcripts – Fees and Procedures
The completed transcript is released to the ordering party only after any balance above the estimate is paid.
The completed transcript shall be released to the party ordering the transcript upon payment of any balance owed above the estimated cost.
Page 3 | Rule 4009. – Court Reporting and Transcripts – Fees and Procedures
An expedited transcript in electronic format costs $3.50 per page.
- b. Expedited transcript - $3.50/page
Page 3 | Rule 4009. – Court Reporting and Transcripts – Fees and Procedures
A daily transcript in electronic format costs $4.50 per page.
- c. Daily transcript - $4.50/page
Page 3 | Rule 4009. – Court Reporting and Transcripts – Fees and Procedures
An ordinary transcript in electronic format costs $2.50 per page.
- a. Ordinary transcript - $2.50/page
Page 3 | Rule 4009. – Court Reporting and Transcripts – Fees and Procedures
A bound paper transcript costs the applicable electronic-format rate plus a $0.25-per-page surcharge.
When the transcript is prepared in bound paper format, the costs shall be as shown above, related to electronic format, plus a surcharge of $0.25/page.
Page 4 | Rule 4009. – Court Reporting and Transcripts – Fees and Procedures
No transcript fee is charged when the Commonwealth or one of its subdivisions requests the transcript.
If the Commonwealth, or a subdivision thereof, requests a transcript, there shall be no fee charged.
Page 4 | Rule 4009. – Court Reporting and Transcripts – Fees and Procedures
A same-day delivery transcript in electronic format costs $6.50 per page.
d. Same day delivery transcript - $6.50/page
Page 4 | Rule 4009. – Court Reporting and Transcripts – Fees and Procedures
A party seeking a waiver on the basis of lacking financial resources must submit an application and qualify through needs-based public assistance or the stated income and asset criteria.
(1) Without Financial Resources. A party seeking a waiver shall complete and submit an application so the court can determine whether the party is without financial resources to pay the fees and costs associated with the legal action. A party shall be deemed without financial resources if the party: - (i) Receives needs-based public assistance (including, but not limited to, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF)); or - (ii) Meets the following income and asset requirement: - (I) gross income (i.e., before taxes and other deductions) that is 200% or less than the federal poverty guidelines for the party's household size; and (II) assets less than $10,000, excluding the party's home and one vehicle.
Page 1 | Rule 1990. Application to Waive Fees and Costs (In Forma Pauperis) — (c)(1) Without Financial Resources
If a party cannot pay the applicable fees and costs, the payee must provide information about seeking a waiver.
(b) Information. If a party is unable to pay the initial filing fee and such other fees and costs associated with a legal action, the payee shall provide the party with information about seeking a waiver of fees and costs pursuant to this rule.
Page 1 | Rule 1990. Application to Waive Fees and Costs (In Forma Pauperis)
If the court denies the fee-waiver application, the party must pay the filing fee.
(3) If the court denies the application, the party shall pay the filing fee
Page 2 | Rule 1990. Application to Waive Fees and Costs (In Forma Pauperis) — (d) Timing
A party seeking a waiver based on substantial financial hardship must submit an application for the court to assess the stated hardship factors.
(2) Substantial Financial Hardship. A party seeking a waiver shall complete and submit an application so the court can determine whether the party will suffer a substantial financial hardship, which means the party is or will be unable to fully meet their basic human needs or obligations including, but not limited to, nutrition, housing, utilities, health, transportation, care of dependents, or other areas of essential need, by paying the fees and costs associated with the legal action based upon: - (i) the party's gross income, assets, and expenses; - (ii) the number of minor children or adult children, who are incapable of self-support due to a physical or mental disability, that the party is supporting, including a child support obligation; - (iii) employment history; - (iv) other available financial resources, including resources from individuals who have a duty of support to the party; and - (v) other factors affecting the party's income, assets, or expenses.
Page 2 | Rule 1990. Application to Waive Fees and Costs (In Forma Pauperis) — (c)(2) Substantial Financial Hardship
The filing office must docket the action and application or praecipe without requiring payment of the filing fee at that time.
(2) The filing office shall docket the legal action and the application or praecipe without the party paying the filing fee.
Page 2 | Rule 1990. Application to Waive Fees and Costs (In Forma Pauperis) — (d) Timing
The court or its designee must review every application to determine immediate eligibility.
The court or an individual designated by the court shall review all applications to determine immediate eligibility.
Page 3 | Rule 1990. Application to Waive Fees and Costs (In Forma Pauperis)
A party may not proceed while the fee remains unpaid unless the party appeals the denial or obtains court permission to proceed.
The party may not proceed in the action, so long as the fee remains unpaid, except that the party may appeal the denial or obtain permission from the court to proceed.
Page 3 | Rule 1990. Application to Waive Fees and Costs (In Forma Pauperis)
The court must grant an eligible party’s waiver application without a hearing.
If a party is deemed eligible for a waiver, the court shall grant the application without a hearing.
Page 3 | Rule 1990. Application to Waive Fees and Costs (In Forma Pauperis)
A party or counsel who received a fee waiver must inform the court of financial improvements that would enable the party to pay waived fees and costs.
A party or counsel receiving a waiver of fees and costs has a continuing obligation to inform the court of an improvement in the party's financial circumstances that would enable the party to pay any waived fees and costs.
Page 4 | Rule 1990. Application to Waive Fees and Costs (In Forma Pauperis)
If a party who received a waiver obtains a money judgment or settlement, the court must order the payer to pay the previously waived fees and costs to the filing office as taxed costs.
If the party receiving a waiver obtains a money judgment or settlement, the court shall order the party paying the judgment or settlement to pay the previously waived fees and costs to the filing office as part of the litigation's taxed costs.
Page 4 | Rule 1990. Application to Waive Fees and Costs (In Forma Pauperis)
Taxed costs for waived fees and costs may never be paid to the party who received the waiver.
Under no circumstances shall taxed costs for the waived fees and costs be paid to the party who has received a waiver.
Page 4 | Rule 1990. Application to Waive Fees and Costs (In Forma Pauperis)
Upon counsel’s praecipe under subdivision (c)(3), the party is deemed to have received a waiver without further court action.
Upon praecipe of counsel pursuant to subdivision (c)(3), a party shall be deemed to have received a waiver without further action of the court.
Page 4 | Rule 1990. Application to Waive Fees and Costs (In Forma Pauperis)
The transcript requester must pay the full estimated cost in advance, with any check payable to County of Centre and delivered to the Court Administrator's Office.
The party ordering the transcript shall make full advanced payment of the estimated cost. All checks shall be made payable to "County of Centre" and shall be delivered to the Court Administrator's Office.
Page 6 | Rule 4009. Court Reporting and Transcripts. Fees and Procedures.
The completed transcript is released to the requester only after any balance above the estimate is paid.
The completed transcript shall be released to the party ordering the transcript upon payment of any balance owed above the estimated cost.
Page 6 | Rule 4009. Court Reporting and Transcripts. Fees and Procedures.
Unless waived, transcript charges are $2.50 per page for ordinary or electronic transcripts and $2.75 for bound paper transcripts; the Commonwealth rates are $2.00 and $2.25, respectively.
The requesting party, unless waived, shall pay $2.50 per page for ordinary and electronic transcripts and $2.75 per page for a bound paper form transcript. The Commonwealth shall pay $2.00 and $2.25, respectively, per page;
Page 6 | Rule 4009. Court Reporting and Transcripts. Fees and Procedures.
The Court is not required to print electronically filed documents, and a fee is charged for documents over 25 pages that the Prothonotary/Clerk of Courts prints.
The Prothonotary/Clerk of Courts, Courts or Court Administrator shall not be obligated to print documents that are filed electronically. A fee will be charged for any documents exceeding 25 pages which need to be printed by the Prothonotary/Clerk of Courts, including a hard copy of any pleadings.
Civil cases
Page 2 | C. Access
The Prothonotary will not accept advance deposits for future filing fees.
The Prothonotary will not accept advance deposit on account of future filing fees.
Civil cases
Page 2 | D. Filing Fees
Filing fees may be paid by the listed credit and debit cards, and the filer is responsible for any convenience fee.
The Prothonotary/Clerk of Courts will accept for payment of filing fees the following credit and debit cards: American Express, Discover, Master Card and Visa. Any convenience fee charged will be the responsibility of the filer.
Civil cases
Page 2 | D. Filing Fees
The stated transcript fees are the maximum costs that may be charged to litigants or the public.
The fees set forth herein are the maximum costs that may be charged to litigants or the public.
Page 4 | Rule 4009. – Court Reporting and Transcripts – Fees and Procedures
The trial judge may impose a reasonable transcript surcharge in unusually complex cases.
The trial judge may impose a reasonable surcharge in unusually complex cases.
Page 4 | Rule 4009. – Court Reporting and Transcripts – Fees and Procedures
The court may vacate a fee-waiver order if the application or supplemental information was materially inaccurate or the party can pay the fees and costs.
The court may vacate its order granting an application if the court later finds that the application or supplemental information was materially inaccurate or the party is able to pay the fees and costs.
Page 3 | Rule 1990. Application to Waive Fees and Costs (In Forma Pauperis)
The court may deny a waiver application without argument or a hearing.
The court may deny an application without argument or a hearing.
Page 3 | Rule 1990. Application to Waive Fees and Costs (In Forma Pauperis)
If the court cannot determine eligibility solely on the application, then the court may direct the party to submit supplemental information to complete or substantiate the application.
If the court cannot determine eligibility solely on the application, then the court may direct the party to submit supplemental information to complete or substantiate the application.
Page 3 | Rule 1990. Application to Waive Fees and Costs (In Forma Pauperis)
Fees and costs already paid will not be refunded if the party later applies to waive them.
If a party commences an action and later files an application or praecipe to waive fees and costs, the filing office shall not refund the fees and costs previously paid.
Page 3 | Rule 1990. Application to Waive Fees and Costs (In Forma Pauperis)
The court may reinstate the legal action upon a showing of good cause.
The court may reinstate the legal action for good cause shown.
Page 4 | Rule 1990. Application to Waive Fees and Costs (In Forma Pauperis)
The waiver continues throughout the litigation and appeals unless its duration is limited or a later order modifies or vacates it.
continue throughout the litigation of the legal action, including any appeals, unless the duration of the waiver is specifically limited in the order granting the waiver or the order is modified or vacated by a subsequent order.
Page 5 | Rule 1990. Application to Waive Fees and Costs (In Forma Pauperis)
A court may order a party to re-apply for a waiver on the basis of subdivision (c)(1) or (c)(2) and modify or vacate an existing waiver.
A court may order a party to re-apply for a waiver on the basis of subdivision (c)(1) or (c)(2) and modify or vacate an existing waiver.
Page 5 | Rule 1990. Application to Waive Fees and Costs (In Forma Pauperis)
Subject to subdivision (h)(1), a waiver obtained under subdivision (c)(3) continues through the litigation even if counsel withdraws.
Subject to subdivision (h)(1), a waiver obtained on the basis of subdivision (c)(3) shall continue throughout the litigation of the legal action regardless of whether counsel withdraws.
Page 5 | Rule 1990. Application to Waive Fees and Costs (In Forma Pauperis)
A party requesting a transcript copy owes $0.75 per page for a bound paper copy unless waived.
- (5) Any party requesting a copy of a transcript, unless waived, shall pay $0.75 per page in bound paper form, and $0.50 per page in electronic format. The Commonwealth shall pay $0.50 and $0.25, respectively, per page;
Page 7 | Rule 4009. Court Reporting and Transcripts. Fees and Procedures.
The court must approve the request and waive transcript costs for a party alleging inability to pay when the stated transcript and fee-waiver conditions are met.
(i) If a party requests a transcript but cannot pay for the transcript because of alleged inability to pay, the court shall approve the request and waive the transcript costs if: - (1) The request is for an ordinary transcript and the matter is under appeal, or a transcript is necessary to advance the litigation; and - (2) The party has obtained a waiver pursuant to Pa.R.J.A. 1990.
Page 7 | Rule 4009. Court Reporting and Transcripts. Fees and Procedures.
The listed transcript fees are maximum costs that may be charged to litigants or the public.
(h) The fees set forth herein are the maximum costs that may be charged to litigants or the public.
Page 7 | Rule 4009. Court Reporting and Transcripts. Fees and Procedures.
A requesting party owes $3.50 per page for an expedited electronic transcript unless waived.
- (2) The requesting party, unless waived, shall pay $3.50 per page for expedited transcripts in electronic format and $3.75 per page in bound paper form. The Commonwealth shall pay $3.00 and $3.25, respectively, per page;
Page 7 | Rule 4009. Court Reporting and Transcripts. Fees and Procedures.
A $0.50-per-page surcharge applies to transcripts involving specified litigation if the presiding judge orders it.
- (6) If the transcript involves a mass tort, medical malpractice, or unusually complex litigation, a surcharge of $0.50 per page shall be added to the fees set forth herein, upon Order of the presiding Judge.
Page 7 | Rule 4009. Court Reporting and Transcripts. Fees and Procedures.
A requesting party owes $6.50 per page for a same-day electronic transcript unless waived.
- (4) The requesting party, unless waived, shall pay $6.50 per page for same day delivery in electronic format and $6.75 per page in bound paper form. The Commonwealth shall pay $6.00 and $6.25, respectively, per page;
Page 7 | Rule 4009. Court Reporting and Transcripts. Fees and Procedures.
A requesting party owes $4.50 per page for a daily electronic transcript unless waived.
- (3) The requesting party, unless waived, shall pay $4.50 per page for daily transcripts in electronic format and $4.75 per page in bound paper form. The Commonwealth shall pay $4.00 and $4.25, respectively, per page;
Page 7 | Rule 4009. Court Reporting and Transcripts. Fees and Procedures.
The court may waive specified transcript costs at its discretion for qualifying parties upon good cause shown.
- (j) Transcript costs for ordinary transcripts in matters that are not subject to an appeal, where the transcript is not necessary to advance the litigation, or for expedited transcripts may be waived at the court's discretion for parties who qualify for a waiver of fees and costs pursuant to Pennsylvania Rule of Judicial Administration 1990 under subdivision (B) and upon good cause shown.
Page 8 | Rule 4009. Court Reporting and Transcripts. Fees and Procedures.
The waiver procedure applies, to the extent authorized by procedural rule, to the specified fees, costs, and security for commencing a legal action.
(a) Scope. To the extent authorized by procedural rule, this rule shall govern the procedure for waiving the initial filing fee and such other fees and costs associated with a legal action: - (1) Imposed or authorized by an Act of Assembly or general rule, and payable to a court, filing office, or public officer or employee; or - (2) Required for the posting of bond or other security for costs as a condition for commencing a legal action.
Page 1 | Rule 1990. Application to Waive Fees and Costs (In Forma Pauperis)
The court may hold an ex parte record hearing if the application has arguable merit or the court seeks further information.
The court may hold an ex parte record hearing if the application is of arguable merit or the court wishes to solicit further information.
Page 3 | Rule 1990. Application to Waive Fees and Costs (In Forma Pauperis)
If the estimate exceeds the actual transcript cost, the Court Administrator must refund the difference to the requester.
In the event the estimated cost exceeds the actual cost, the Court Administrator shall refund the difference to the requesting party.
Page 6 | Rule 4009. Court Reporting and Transcripts. Fees and Procedures.
Sealing & Redaction Procedures
Any evaluation filed with the Court must be filed as a confidential document under the Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System’s Case Records Public Access Policy.
Any evaluation filed with the Court shall be filed as a confidential document under the Case Records Public Access Policy of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania.
Civil cases
Page 4 | LOCAL RULE 1915.11-3 Appointment of a Guardian Ad Litem; Physical and Mental Examination of Persons; Psychological Examinations and Home Studies
Pre-Motion Conference Requirements
A certificate of non-concurrence does not replace the required conference between counsel for a discovery motion.
A certificate of non-concurrence does not eliminate the need for counsel to comply with Local Rule 208.2(e) relating to conferences between counsel in all discovery motions directed toward a resolution of the motion.
Civil cases
Page 7 | LOCAL RULE 208.2(d) PRETRIAL MOTIONS; CERTIFICATION
Counsel moving on a discovery motion must confer in good faith with opposing counsel to try to resolve the issues before seeking court intervention.
Counsel for movant in a discovery motion shall file as part of the motion a statement certifying that counsel has conferred with counsel for the opposing party in a good faith effort to resolve by agreement the issues raised by the motion without the intervention of the court.
Civil cases
Page 8 | LOCAL RULE 208.2(e) DISCOVERY MOTIONS, STATEMENT OF CONFERENCE TO RESOLVE OBJECTIONS
The assigned judge will issue an order setting a briefing schedule and, if applicable, an argument date.
The assigned Judge will then issue an Order setting forth a briefing schedule and a date for argument, if any.
Civil cases
Page 9 | LOCAL RULE 208.3(a) MOTIONS PROCEDURE
The scheduling order must state any requirements for briefing and filing responses to the motion.
The Judge assigned to hear a motion under Local Rule 208.3(a) shall in the scheduling Order set forth any requirements with respect to briefing and the filing of responses.
Civil cases
Page 10 | LOCAL RULE 208.3(b) MOTIONS; BRIEFS and RESPONSES
Adjournment & Extension Requirements
A custody conciliation conference may be cancelled only with the parties’ written consent or leave of court.
A custody conciliation conference may not be cancelled without the written consent of the parties or leave of court.
Civil cases
Page 3 | LOCAL RULE 1915.4-3.2
If a party fails to appear and the complaint or petition has not been served on all parties, the custody conciliation conference must be rescheduled.
If any one party fails to appear for a scheduled custody conciliation conference and the complaint or petition has not been served on all parties, the custody conciliation conference shall be rescheduled.
Civil cases
Page 3 | LOCAL RULE 1915.4-3.2
Chambers Communication Rules
A party wishing to submit a matter on briefs without oral argument must notify the Court in writing before the argument day.
In the event that either or both parties wish to submit the matter on briefs without oral argument, they shall communicate that wish to the Court, in writing, prior to the Argument day.
Civil cases
Page 9 | LOCAL RULE 208.3(a) MOTIONS PROCEDURE
The moving party must alert the Prothonotary and the Court Administrator’s Office that a motion is an emergency.
It is the duty of the moving party to bring to the attention of the Prothonotary and the Court Administrator’s Office the emergency nature of the motion.
Civil cases
Page 9 | LOCAL RULE 208.3(a) MOTIONS PROCEDURE
Self-represented litigants may not seek legal advice from the court or court staff.
- 4. SELF-REPRESENTED LITIGANTS ARE ORDERED THAT THEY MAY NOT SEEK LEGAL ADVICE FROM THE COURT OR COURT STAFF, AS THE COURT AND STAFF ARE PROHIBITED FROM PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE.
Page 6 | CIVIL SELF REPRESENTED LITIGANTS MUST COMPLY WITH THE FOLLOWING ORDERS THROUGHOUT THIS CASE
The stated email address may be used only to file documents and not for any other purpose.
Prothonotary/Clerk of Courts-orders@centrecountypa.gov shall only be used for filing documents and not for any other purposes.
Civil cases
Page 2 | C. Access
Requests for court records must be made to the Centre County Prothonotary/Clerk of Court.
*Please note request(s) for court records need to be made to the Centre County Prothonotary/Clerk of Court*
Page 1
Contact:Kendra J. Miknis, Court Administrator ATTN: Rule 509 (Request for Financial Records) Records Manager 102 South Allegheny Street Centre County Courthouse (Room 103) Bellefonte, PA 16823 Phone: (814)355-6727 Fax: (814)355-6707 Email: kjmiknis@centrecountypa.gov
Contact:Kendra J. Miknis, Court Administrator ATTN: Rule 509 (Request for Financial Records) Records Manager 102 South Allegheny Street Centre County Courthouse (Room 103) Bellefonte, PA 16823 Phone: (814)355-6727 Fax: (814)355-6707 Email: kjmiknis@centrecountypa.gov
Page 1 | Rule 509 Information