Franklin County Court of Common Pleas
Court-Level Rules, Filing Procedures & Policies
- Rules last changed:
Limits & Logistics
Courtesy Copies
Brief
- 2 copies • At Time of Service
Pre Trial Conference Memorandum
- 1 copy • At Least 5 Days Before Scheduled Pretrial Conference
Pretrial Conference Memorandum
- 1 copy • At Least 5 Days Before Scheduled Pretrial Conference
Adjournments
- A party seeking to extend a deadline bears the burden of establishing good cause.
- A case will not be continued because of an absent witness who could have been found and served as required.
- A continuance application based on a cause existing and known at the Pre-trial Conference will not be granted unless presented to the Court at least one week before trial.
- +10 more
Request must include
Document Format Requirements21 rules
(iii) Unless permitted by the court to be made or taken orally, all motions shall be in writing
The Clerk of Courts must convert accepted hard-copy papers to PDF, add them to the electronic system, and return the paper copy, subject to stated exclusions; the PDF is treated as the original.
- File type
Exception
Those legal papers excluded from electronic filing pursuant to Pa
Court's wording
The Clerk of Courts shall convert such hard copy legal paper to portable document format (''pdf''), add it to the electronic system, and return the paper copy to the filer, except those legal papers excluded from electronic filing pursuant to Pa.R.Crim.P. 576.1(C) and subdivision (c) of this Rule. Once converted to pdf, the pdf version of the legal paper shall be deemed and treated as the original legal paper and may be used by the parties and the Court for all purposes and proceedings.
The Conciliator’s filing must include the original and two copies, with the parties’ Conciliation Memorandums attached to the original Summary Report.
Formatting
- •File the original plus two copies
Court's wording
Following the conclusion of each conference and within seven (7) business days thereof, the Conciliator shall file with the Prothonotary a Summary Report and Proposed Order of Court, if applicable, in the original plus two (2) copies. The Conciliation Memorandums of the parties shall be attached to the original Summary Report for filing.
Each party shall furnish to every other party a typewritten brief in the form set forth in Local Rule 210, Form and content of Briefs.
Each party shall furnish to every other party a typewritten brief in the form set forth in Local Rule 210, Form and content of Briefs.
Briefs shall be typewritten and double spaced, except for quotations, on paper 8 ½ inches by 11 inches in size, and shall be bound at the top, not at the side.
- Line spacing
- Double
- Paper size
- Letter
Formatting
- •Double spacing does not apply to quotations
- •Briefs must be bound at the top, not at the side
39-211.6 Each party shall furnish to every other party a typewritten brief in the form set forth in Local Rule 210, Form and content of Briefs.
Each party shall furnish to every other party a typewritten brief in the form set forth in Local Rule 210, Form and content of Briefs.
39-226.1. Each point for charge shall be submitted to the Court on a separate piece of paper, 8 1/2 inches by 11 inches, double spaced containing the caption and the point number.
- Line spacing
- Double
- Paper size
- Letter
The Proponent shall place the portable media device in an envelope not exceeding 8 ½ by 11 inches
If an intended original documentary exhibit exceeds 250 single-sided pages, the Proponent must convert it to PDF and place it on a portable media device.
- More than 250 pages
- File type
Formatting
- •The page threshold is for intended original documentary exhibits counted single-sided
Court's wording
Where the intended, original documentary exhibit(s) exceeds 250 pages (single sided), the Proponent shall cause the exhibit to be transformed into a portable document file (“pdf”) and placed onto a flash drive, thumb drive, usb drive, or other portable media-containing device.
In advance of a proceeding, the Proponent shall prepare a physical, photographic copy of all potential, non-documentary exhibits pursuant to Pa. R.J.A. 5103(b).
All requests for transcripts shall be set forth on a standardized Request for Transcript form provided by the Court Administrator of Pennsylvania.
Complete and accurate copies of the original questionnaires (copies) shall be collated into numbered >> binders
Note: Use “tab” between fields
Formatting
- •Use tab between fields
It is suggested one (1) inch of blank space be left for judge’s comments or changes to the proposed Order.
Evidence shall be in the form of affidavits unless depositions are ordered.
39-1033.1. Where an amendment of a pleading is permitted by the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure or allowed by the Court, such amendment may be in the form of a supplementary pleading setting forth only the amendment numbered in such a way as to preserve the continuity of the pleading.
It is suggested one (1) inch of blank space be left for judge’s comments or changes to the proposed Order.]
and shall be cited as 39th Jud. Dist. R.J.C.P. _____.
Copies of pleadings to be furnished pursuant to this Rule need not be true and attested, signed or verified.
Document Filing Requirements219 rules
The plaintiff must initiate discussion, and the parties must make a good-faith effort to submit a joint proposed Case Management Order by the specified date; if they cannot agree, they must submit separate proposals in chambers by that date.
Court's wording
IT IS HEREBY ORDERED that the Plaintiff shall initiate discussion among all parties who shall make a good faith effort to agree upon a proposed Joint Case Management Order which shall be submitted to the assigned judge not later than . In the event that the parties cannot agree upon a proposed Joint Case Management Order, they shall submit separate proposed Case Management Orders to the assigned judge in chambers not later than the foregoing date.
The plaintiff must submit a proposed order substantially in the form provided in the rule.
Court's wording
(b) In all cases to which this rule is applicable, the plaintiff shall, not later than sixty (60) days after service of the complaint upon defendant(s), file and transmit to the assigned judge a proposed order of court in substantially the following form:
The parties must register within ten days after program notification using the brochure's preprinted registration form.
Court's wording
(3) Within ten days of the notification of the Program as provided in paragraph 1 above, the parties are required to register by using the preprinted registration form contained in the Educational Program for Divorcing Parents brochure.
When filing a divorce complaint, the moving party must also file a vital statistics sheet, two addressed envelopes, and a separate statement listing the parties and children under 18.
Court's wording
(1) Simultaneously with the filing of the a Divorce Complaint, the moving party must file the vital statistics sheet along with two addressed envelopes for both parties who will then be notified by the Court establishing the program. A separate statement shall be filed with each Divorce Complaint listing the names, addresses and telephone numbers of the parties and the names and ages of all children under eighteen (18).
Except for those Motions which are uncontested by their terms, each responding party shall file an Answer which shall contain supporting authority for the relief sought or which shall be accompanied by a brief at the time of filing.
Each Answer shall also have attached at the time of filing the order which is sought by the answering party.
(iv) The proper order to be made by the court upon a motion shall be prepared by counsel and attached to the motion at the time of filing.
and shall be verified if the facts do not appear on the face of the record.
The Court Administrator shall submit the list of panels and arbitration dates to the Court not later than the second Monday of each October for the entry by the Court of an order confirming the same.
A petition for court approval must comply with Pa.R.C.P. 2039 and include the specified case, minor, settlement, lien, medical, allocation, fee, insurance, and proposed-order information.
- Document
- Petition for court approval
Must include
- •Proposed order
Court's wording
The Petition for Court approval shall comply with Pa.R.C.P. 2039 and shall set forth the following: (a) The salient facts which form the basis of the cause of action; (b) The date of birth, social security number and address of the minor, names and addresses of the parents and guardians of the minor, and reference to court docket number and date of any court order appointing a guardian; (c) Terms of the settlement, including the specific provisions of any annuity or structured settlement, the credit rating of any entity which assumes responsibility for future payments and the present cost of the annuity or structure, periodic and lump sum payments; (d) Whether a lien or claim has been raised on behalf of any medical supplier, Medicare, the Department of Public Welfare, ERISA plan, or other entity; (e) Health care records and/or a written physician’s report reflecting the minor’s injuries and health care progress; (f) A statement under oath by the guardian and/or the parent(s), certifying the present physical and/or mental condition, as appropriate, of the minor and approval of the proposed settlement and distribution; (g) If there is to be an allocation between parties, a statement of the amounts to be allocated to each party and specific reasons for such allocation; (h) A copy of the agreement supporting a claim for attorney fees; (i) An itemized accounting of all attorney expenses which counsel requests that the Court approve for reimbursement as part of the settlement; (j) Certification of policy limits or copy of the declaration page supporting any allegation that limits of insurance coverage are being offered; and (k) A proposed Order.
The petitioner must state in the petition or a separate affidavit why a hearing may be required, including whether available insurance limits are being offered in settlement.
Court's wording
In a petition for Court approval of settlement or by separate affidavit, a petitioner shall set forth the reasons why a hearing may be required on the petition. Such reasons shall include, but are not limited to, information as to whether or not the available limit of insurance coverage is being offered in settlement.
As soon as possible and within sixty (60) days of entry of a final order, the petitioner shall file with the Prothonotary or Clerk of Courts, as appropriate, a certification of compliance with the court order and proof of deposit.
If a hearing is required, the petitioner or counsel must secure its date and time and provide the Court with a proposed order scheduling it.
- Document
- Proposed hearing order
Must include
- •Proposed order
Court's wording
In the event that a hearing is required, the petitioner or counsel for the petitioner shall be so advised. In such event, the petitioner or counsel shall secure a date and time for a hearing and shall provide the Court with a proposed order scheduling hearing.
An application for an arrest warrant shall be made by submitting a written allegation supported by a probable cause affidavit with an issuing authority.
The "on-call" schedule for each year shall be filed with the Clerk of Courts and be available for public inspection, as well as distributed and publicized pursuant to the order of the President Judge.
In instances where legal papers must be served upon parties not automatically served via PACFile, those legal papers must be filed with the Clerk of Courts and include a complete distribution legend listing the names of all parties required to be served with a paper copy.
Any party not utilizing PACFile shall notify the Clerk of Courts utilizing the ''Notice of Non-Participation in PACFile'' form following this Rule and shall serve a copy of the completed form to all parties and/or counsel of record, and Court Administration.
Counsel and unrepresented parties must include confidential information relevant to the case on the approved AOPC Confidential Information Form.
(ii) An averment as to the Moving Party's knowledge of the Non-Moving Party's representation or non-representation by counsel, and if represented, an averment as to the Non-Moving Party's counsel's name;
(iv) The language of the proposed custody arrangement shall be stated as a paragraph of the Complaint;
(i) Moving Party’s Criminal Record/ Abuse History Verification pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. No, 1915.3-2 as an exhibit;
(iii) An averment as to the form, time and manner of furnishing a copy of the Complaint and Non-Moving Party’s Criminal Record/ Abuse History Verification to the Non-Moving Party or to legal counsel;
The Complaint must identify the relief sought, specify the requested legal and physical custody terms, and state their factual basis.
Court's wording
The Complaint shall specifically designate the relief sought by the party who filed the pleading and include specific terms of legal custody (sole or shared) and physical custody (sole, primary, partial, shared, or supervised) sought by the Moving Party as well as the factual basis therefore.
After entry, the Order of Court and Directive for Conciliation must be filed with the Prothonotary.
Court's wording
After the Order of Court and Directive for Conciliation has been entered by the Court, the Order shall be filed with the Prothonotary and the Complaint and Order served in accordance with the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure governing the service of Custody Complaints.
The Moving Party shall allege in his/her Complaint or Petition for Modification the form and manner of furnishing notice to the Non-Moving Party and whether said notice was given directly to the named Non-Moving Party or to named legal counsel or by first class U.S. mail.
(v) A Proposed Order of Court and Directive for Conciliation in a form similar to Sample Form “A” (see Sample Form “A”)
Include
- •Proposed order
When the Proposed Order of Court and Directive for Conciliation simply maintains the status quo as evidenced by a prior Court Order, a copy of which must be attached to the Complaint or Petition for Modification.
When all parties stipulate to the proposed order, any counsel representing a party must be identified by name and sign the stipulation.
Court's wording
When all parties have stipulated to the entry of a Proposed Order of Court and Directive for Conciliation, without respect to whether any party is represented by counsel. However, if counsel represents any party, they shall be so identified by name, and counsel's signature shall be required on the Stipulation.
The Conciliation Memorandum must address the listed factual and legal matters, include a proposed order, and be supplemented if new information becomes available before conciliation.
- Document
- Conciliation memorandum
Must include
- •Proposed order
Court's wording
At least three (3) days prior to the scheduled Conciliation Conference, each party shall furnish to the Conciliator and counsel for the opposing party, or the self-represented party individually, a Conciliation Memorandum addressing the following: (i) Factual background, including a brief history of the case; (ii) If not previously filed of record, Defendant/ Respondent must file of record and include as an exhibit a Criminal Record/ Abuse History Verification pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. No. 1915.3-2. Additionally, if a party has filed a Criminal Record/ Abuse History Verification, any necessary updates should be made at this time. (iii) Names and ages of the children; (iv) A proposed order for resolution of matters; (v) Issues, both factual and legal, for resolution; (vi) Whether a home study is requested; and (vii) Whether the parties will agree to a particular psychologist/psychiatrist for evaluation or request psychological evaluations. The parties are directed to supplement the Memorandum from time to time if new information becomes available prior to Conciliation.
If not already filed, the Defendant/Respondent must file and attach the Criminal Record/Abuse History Verification; necessary updates should be made to a previously filed verification.
Court's wording
If not previously filed of record, Defendant/ Respondent must file of record and include as an exhibit a Criminal Record/ Abuse History Verification pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. No. 1915.3-2. Additionally, if a party has filed a Criminal Record/ Abuse History Verification, any necessary updates should be made at this time.
After applicable studies and evaluations are complete and the order approving the Conciliator’s report is entered, either party may file a scheduling praecipe or motion with a proposed pretrial conference order.
- Document
- Praecipe motion for scheduling pretrial conference
May include
- •Proposed order
Court's wording
Upon the completion of home studies and psychological evaluations (if applicable), and at any time after the entry of the Order of Court approving the Conciliator's Summary Report, either party may file a Praecipe/ Motion for Scheduling of a Pre-Trial Conference and Proposed Order of Court for a Pre-Trial Conference. (See, Sample Forms ''B'' and “C”).
The Proposed Order of Court for a Pre-Trial Conference shall contain language requiring the parties to the proceeding to attend and successfully complete a parent education program designated by the Court.
If the proposed order amends the order and directive signed at presentation, it must state that it becomes final and appealable 181 days after the complaint or petition is filed and give the exact final date.
Court's wording
If the Proposed Order of Court amends the Order of Court and Directive for Conciliation signed at presentation, the Proposed Order of Court shall also include a provision stating that the order will become a final appealable order of court one hundred eighty-one (181) days after the date of filing of the complaint/petition and shall include the exact date that the order will become final.
In the stated circumstances, the Conciliator’s Summary Report must include the custody status, parties’ positions, issues before the Court, and the Conciliator’s recommendation and rationale.
Court's wording
(iii) In the event the parties reach a partial agreement, or fail to reach any agreement to modify the existing order, the Conciliator’s Summary Report shall include the following: 1. Custody status at the time of conciliation; 2. Summary of the parties' positions; 3. Identification of legal and factual issues before the Court; and 4. The Conciliator's recommendation and rationale therefore.
The proposed order must reflect any partial agreement and the stated need for studies or evaluations.
Court's wording
(iv) The Proposed Order of Court shall reflect the terms of any partial agreement reached and the need for home studies, psychological evaluations, or need for evaluation of either party or members of their household pursuant to 23 Pa.C.S.A. § 5329.
(i) At least five (5) days prior to the scheduled Pre-Trial Conference, a Pre-Trial Conference Memorandum in conformity with Pa.R.C.P. 1915.4-4 shall be filed and served.
The party filing the Praecipe/ Motion for Scheduling of a Pre-Trial Conference shall provide the Prothonotary with pre-addressed, stamped envelopes for each party to the custody action.
(ii) In addition to the information required by Pa.R.C.P. 1915.4-4, the Pre-Trial Conference Memorandum shall contain a brief summary containing the anticipated testimony of each listed witness.
A memorandum shall be furnished to the Conciliator at least three (3) days prior to the scheduled Conciliation Conference pursuant to 39th Judicial District Civil Rule No. 1915.3(e)(5).
You must file with the Court a Criminal Record/ Abuse History Verification regarding you and anyone living in your household on or before the presentation scheduled on _________________________, but no later than thirty (30) days after the date of service of the Complaint or Petition for Modification.
A complaint for alimony pendente lite filed with the Domestic Relations Office must aver the divorce filing date and docket number, when alimony pendente lite was raised, payment and docketing of the applicable fee, and any substantive information required by that office.
Court's wording
(b) A hearing on the alimony pendente lite issue shall be scheduled before a Domestic Relations hearing officer upon the filing of a complaint for alimony pendente lite at the Domestic Relations Office which contains the following averments: (1) The fact that a complaint in divorce has been filed with the prothonotary, the date of the filing and docket number assigned to the file. (2) The fact that the issue of alimony pendente lite has been raised in the complaint or in a responsive or subsequent pleading and the date alimony pendente lite was raised. (3) The fact that the fee of $20.00, or any other such fee as may be in effect at that time, for the additional count of alimony pendente lite to the divorce file was paid to the prothonotary and the date such fee was docketed. (4) Any substantive information required by the Domestic Relations Office.
(a) When alimony pendente lite is an issue in divorce, it must be raised in the complaint or subsequent pleadings under Pa. R.C.P. 1920.12, 1920.13, 1920.14, 1920.15, et seq., and filed with the prothonotary.
(c) A true and attested copy from the Prothonotary's office of the complaint or other pleading in which alimony pendente lite was raised must be attached to the complaint for alimony pendente lite filed with the Domestic Relations Office.
A cause of action shall be listed for trial by filing a Praecipe in the office of the Prothonotary
The Praecipe shall contain a certification that mediation was pursued or, if not, was the subject of good faith consideration by counsel and all parties.
The application for bail piece under Pa. R. Crim. P. 4016(c)(3) shall be in writing and be verified and shall set forth sufficient reason why the court should order a bail piece to issue.
The interim order must state that a party may file a written hearing demand within 20 days after the order is mailed.
Court's wording
The interim order entered following office conference pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1910.12(b)(1) shall state that any party may within twenty days after mailing of a copy of the order file a written demand with Domestic Relations Section for a hearing before the Support Master.
A hearing demand must use the Domestic Relations Section form, identify the issues for the Support Master, and select a routine or complex hearing.
Court's wording
The demand for hearing shall be in writing on a form to be provided by the Domestic Relations Section and it shall indicate issues that the party wishes the Support Master to address at the hearing. The party must select the type of hearing being requested, routine hearing or complex hearing.
The party requesting a complex hearing must petition the court, using the demand for hearing form (mentioned above), for allowance to schedule a complex hearing.
Filing & Service rules
Electronic Filing Rules
A party who switches to PACFile participation must immediately stop paper filing of eligible written legal papers.
If a party files a ''Notice of Non-Participation in PACFile'' and thereafter elects to participate in PACFile by establishing a PACFile account pursuant to subdivision (b) of this Rule, the party shall immediately cease filing written legal papers, where not excluded under this rule, and service shall be made upon the party electronically.
Page 1 | Electronic Filing and Service of Legal Papers
A defendant who established a PACFile account while unrepresented may not use that account while represented by counsel.
In the event an attorney enters an appearance for a defendant who was previously unrepresented and said defendant established a PACFile account while unrepresented, said defendant shall no longer be permitted to utilize their PACFile account while represented by counsel, as defined under Pa.R.Crim.P. 576.1(D).
Page 1 | Electronic Filing and Service of Legal Papers
Legal papers requiring service on parties not automatically served through PACFile must be filed with the Clerk of Courts.
In instances where legal papers must be served upon parties not automatically served via PACFile, those legal papers must be filed with the Clerk of Courts and include a complete distribution legend listing the names of all parties required to be served with a paper copy.
Page 1 | Service Pursuant to Pa.R.Crim.P. 576
The Clerk of Courts must accept legal papers submitted in paper format when paper filing is required or permitted.
Any legal paper submitted for filing to the Clerk of Courts in a paper format, whether required or permitted under this rule, shall be accepted by the Clerk of Courts in that format.
Page 1 | Clerk of Courts Maintenance of Files
The AOPC Confidential Information Form must not be filed electronically through PACFile.
The Confidential Information Form shall not be filed electronically in PACFile
Page 1 | Confidential Information
Attorneys and self-represented parties filing electronically must establish a PACFile account through the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania Web Portal.
Attorneys or self-represented parties who file legal papers electronically must establish a PACFile account using the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania Web Portal.
Page 1 | Electronic Filing and Service of Legal Papers
The transcript and associated documents must be scanned and transmitted to the Franklin County Clerk of Courts in digital format instead of as physical paper.
Electronic Transmission. The transcript and any associated documents shall be electronically scanned and transmitted to the Franklin County Clerk of Courts in digital format in lieu of transmitting the physical paper transcript and associated documents.
Criminal cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-135. Transcript of Proceedings Before Issuing Authority
The transcript and associated documents must be scanned and transmitted digitally to the Franklin County Clerk of Courts instead of transmitted as physical paper.
The transcript and any associated documents shall be electronically scanned and transmitted to the Franklin County Clerk of Courts in digital format in lieu of transmitting the physical paper transcript and associated documents.
Criminal cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-547. Transmittal of Transcript and Associated Documents
Transcripts and associated documents must be scanned and transmitted digitally to the Franklin County Clerk of Courts instead of sent as physical paper.
The transcript and any associated documents shall be electronically scanned and transmitted to the Franklin County Clerk of Courts in digital format in lieu of transmitting the physical paper transcript and associated documents.
Criminal cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-460. Notice of Appeals; Transmittal of Transcript and Associated Documents
The inventory and appraisement may be filed electronically through the Guardianship Tracking System or in paper form through the Register of Wills office.
(Electronically through the Guardianship Tracking System, or in paper form through the Register of Wills office, along with the appropriate filing fee.)
Civil cases
Page 2 | As Guardian of the Estate, I shall
Reports may be filed electronically through the Guardianship Tracking System or on forms available from the Clerk of the Orphans' Court.
File a report at least once within the first 12 months of appointment and at least annually thereafter electronically through the Guardianship Tracking System or on forms available in the Clerk of the Orphans' Court office
Civil cases
Page 3
PACFile may be used by designated participants for legal papers, except for the listed categories of excluded filings.
Any party identified as an electronic filing participant by Pa.R.Crim.P. 576.1(D) may utilize PACFile for legal papers including pleadings or other submissions to the court, including motions, answers, notices, or other documents, of which filing is required or permitted, including orders, copies of exhibits, and attachments, except the following: 1. exhibits offered into evidence, whether or not admitted, in a court proceeding pursuant to Pa.R.J.A. 5104(c), 2. all documents prohibited by Pa.R.Crim.P. 576.1(C) in the definition of ''legal papers,'' 3. applications for search warrants, 4. applications for arrest warrants, 5. any grand jury materials, except the indicting grand jury indictment or the investigating grand jury presentment, 6. submissions filed ex parte as authorized by law, 7. submissions filed or authorized to be filed under seal including but not limited to the AOPC Confidential Information Form submitted pursuant to the Public Access Policy, 8. confidential documents including but not limited to drug and alcohol assessments and reports, mental health evaluations and reports, and medical records, 9. Wiretap Act submissions related to cell phone, tracker, and internet petitions, 10. Notice of Appeals, 11. motions for the appointment of new counsel, 12. any matter requiring the assignment of a Miscellaneous Docket number including but not limited to expungements filed pursuant to Pa.R.Crim.P. 490 or petitions for modification of bail in matters still pending in the Magisterial District Court, 13. initial filings for Summary Appeals, and 14. third party filings and amicus briefs or other third party filings.
Page 1 | Electronic Filing and Service of Legal Papers
Electronic filing is optional in Franklin County, and parties who decline or are unable to use PACFile may file and serve papers in physical paper format.
Electronic filing is permissive within Franklin County. 1. Any party who declines to participate in the PACFile system, or who is unable to electronically file or accept service of legal papers filed electronically, shall be permitted to file and serve legal papers in a physical paper format consistent with the Pennsylvania Rules of Criminal Procedure 576 and 576.1.
Page 1 | Electronic Filing and Service of Legal Papers
A legal paper requiring judicial signature or action may be filed, delivered, or mailed to the Prothonotary.
A legal paper requiring the signature of, or action by a Judge may be filed, delivered or mailed to the Prothonotary as in Pa. R.C.P. 205.1.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 205.1(a). Filing Legal Papers. Presentation to the Court.
Filing Timing and Cure Windows
In covered civil actions, excluding the listed categories, the plaintiff must file and transmit a proposed order to the assigned judge no later than 60 days after service of the complaint.
(a) This Rule shall be applicable to all civil actions other than family law matters governed by Pa. R.C.P. 1901 through 1940.9, credit card collection cases, cases for and appeals from compulsory arbitration, administrative agency appeals, appeals from labor arbitration, landlord-tenant appeals, appeals from boards of view, mortgage foreclosures and cases in which judgment has been entered. (b) In all cases to which this rule is applicable, the plaintiff shall, not later than sixty (60) days after service of the complaint upon defendant(s), file and transmit to the assigned judge a proposed order of court in substantially the following form:
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-212.7. Scheduling Conference and Case Management.
Within 14 days after the discovery-completion deadline, plaintiff’s counsel must arrange a telephone conference with chambers for all parties’ counsel to estimate trial days, secure trial dates, and consider mediation.
(c) Not later than 14 days after the deadline for the completion of discovery pursuant to any Case Management Order, Plaintiff’s counsel shall arrange with the chambers of the assigned judge for a telephone conference between the Court and counsel for all parties for the express purpose of [1] making a good faith estimate as to the number of trial days—excluding jury selection date—that will be required for trial; [2] securing trial dates; and [3] considering mediation as a settlement tool.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-212.7. Scheduling Conference and Case Management.
The standing master/transcription assessment is due at the time the divorce complaint is filed.
(a) In addition to all filing fees now or hereafter required to be deposited at the time a complaint in divorce is filed, a standing master/transcription assessment in the amount of $55.00 shall be deposited commencing April 1, 1996.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-1920.3. Commencement of the Action. [Divorce]
The moving party must file the required accompanying materials simultaneously with the divorce complaint.
(1) Simultaneously with the filing of the a Divorce Complaint, the moving party must file the vital statistics sheet along with two addressed envelopes for both parties who will then be notified by the Court establishing the program. A separate statement shall be filed with each Divorce Complaint listing the names, addresses and telephone numbers of the parties and the names and ages of all children under eighteen (18).
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-1920.3. Commencement of the Action. [Divorce]
The Prothonotary must mark a motion or answer filed upon receipt and deliver it to the Court Administrator.
Upon receipt, the Prothonotary shall mark it filed and deliver it to the Court Administrator.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-208.3. Answers to Motions.
Answers other than those to summary judgment motions are due within 20 days after service, unless the court modifies the time, an earlier filing is required in the interests of justice, or the motion is an emergency, in which case the answer is due as soon as possible.
Answers other than those to Motions for Summary Judgment shall be filed not later than 20 days after the date of service of the Motion as evidenced by a certificate or affidavit of service unless the time for filing is modified by court order; or unless earlier required in the interests of justice; or as soon as possible in the case of emergency motions.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-208.3. Answers to Motions.
Any order signed by the court must be filed promptly.
Any order signed by the court shall be promptly filed.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-208.3. Answers to Motions.
Upon receipt, the Prothonotary must mark the paper filed and deliver it for distribution to the appropriate Judge's Law Clerk.
When such paper is received by the Prothonotary it shall be marked filed and then delivered to the Court Administrator for distribution to the appropriate Judge's Law Clerk for judicial consideration.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 205.1(a). Filing Legal Papers. Presentation to the Court.
The Court Administrator must submit the panels-and-dates list by the second Monday of each October.
The Court Administrator shall submit the list of panels and arbitration dates to the Court not later than the second Monday of each October for the entry by the Court of an order confirming the same.
Civil cases
Page 1 | 39.1302.3 Arbitration Dates and Schedule
The arbitration date assigned when the praecipe is filed must be at least 40 days after filing.
At the time of the filing of the praecipe, the Prothonotary shall assign the next available arbitration date which shall be not less than forty days following the date of filing.
Civil cases
Page 1 | 39.1302.1 Filing for Arbitration
The hearing must be set 30 to 60 days after the Board is appointed.
The date set for the hearing shall not be more than sixty (60) days nor less than thirty (30) days after the appointment of the Board.
Civil cases
Page 2 | 39.1302.6
The filing must be made as soon as possible and no later than 60 days after entry of the final order.
As soon as possible and within sixty (60) days of entry of a final order, the petitioner shall file with the Prothonotary or Clerk of Courts, as appropriate, a certification of compliance with the court order and proof of deposit.
Civil cases
Page 2 | 39-2039.4. Proof of Deposit and Compliance with Court Order
A copy of the filed Complaint or modification petition must be delivered to the Court Administrator at least five days before the scheduled time of a planned presentation; the excerpt cuts off before completing the sentence.
A copy of the filed Complaint or Petition for Modification shall be delivered to the Court Administrator a minimum of five (5) days prior to the scheduled time of any planned
Page 2 | Scheduling Presentations; Pleadings Delivered to Court Administrator
The Conciliator must file the Summary Report and any applicable proposed order within seven business days after each conference, attaching the parties’ Conciliation Memorandums to the original report.
Following the conclusion of each conference and within seven (7) business days thereof, the Conciliator shall file with the Prothonotary a Summary Report and Proposed Order of Court, if applicable, in the original plus two (2) copies. The Conciliation Memorandums of the parties shall be attached to the original Summary Report for filing.
Page 6 | Summary Report by Conciliator
The Pre-Trial Conference Memorandum must be filed at least five days before the conference.
(i) At least five (5) days prior to the scheduled Pre-Trial Conference, a Pre-Trial Conference Memorandum in conformity with Pa.R.C.P. 1915.4-4 shall be filed and served.
Page 8 | Pre-Trial Conference Memorandum
The assigned Judge must schedule the pretrial conference within 60 days after submission of a party’s motion requesting it.
The assigned Judge shall schedule a Pre-Trial Conference within sixty (60) days of the submission of a Motion by either party requesting said conference.
Page 8 | Scheduling
File the verification by the scheduled presentation, and in all events no later than 30 days after service of the Complaint or Petition for Modification.
You must file with the Court a Criminal Record/ Abuse History Verification regarding you and anyone living in your household on or before the presentation scheduled on _________________________, but no later than thirty (30) days after the date of service of the Complaint or Petition for Modification.
Page 11 | Commencement of Action. Complaint and Order.
A Pre-Trial Conference Memorandum must be filed at least five days before the conference; failure to provide it may be grounds for sanctions.
A Pre-Trial Conference Memorandum shall be filed of record and a copy furnished to the Court at least five (5) days prior to the scheduled Pre-Trial Conference pursuant to 39th Judicial District Civil Rule No. 1915.3(f)(4). Failure to provide said Pre-Trial Conference Memorandum may be grounds for imposition of sanctions.
Page 13 | Rule 39-1915.3.3 Commencement of Action. Complaint and Order.
A cause must be listed for trial at least five full calendar weeks before trial begins.
A cause must be listed for trial at least five (5) full calendar weeks prior to the day on which trial commences.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-214. Preferences on Trial List.
After notice of a defendant’s disclaimer, the plaintiff must traverse the denial or possession within 20 days and under oath to keep the action proceeding as to the disclaiming defendant.
within twenty (20) days after notice, shall traverse such denial or possession under oath
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-1054. Specific Averments. Abstract of Title.
A person seeking a share of the distribution must file a petition with the Clerk by the end of the six-month period.
Any person who feels they may have a statutory or equitable basis for sharing in any such distribution shall file a petition with the Clerk on or before the expiration of the six month time period.
Criminal cases
Page 1 | A. BAIL FORFEITURE PROCEDURE
A principal or surety may petition for relief within six months of the forfeiture order, but the court will not entertain the petition until the forfeited bond is paid to the Clerk.
Any principal or surety who has deposited a forfeited bail bond or recognizance with the Clerk of Courts, shall have six months from the date of the order of forfeiture to petition the Court for relief from the forfeiture, provided, however, no such petition shall be entertained by the Court until the forfeited bond or recognizance has been paid to the Clerk of Courts.
Criminal cases
Page 1 | A. BAIL FORFEITURE PROCEDURE
The rule to show cause must be returnable no later than forty-five days after it is issued.
The rule shall be returnable on a date set by court in the rule which date shall not exceed fortyfive (45) days from the date of the > issuance of the rule.
Criminal cases
Page 1 | A. BAIL FORFEITURE PROCEDURE
After distribution of the forfeited bond under the court's order, the court will not entertain further action by the principal or surety seeking remission.
When the forfeited bail bonds or recognizance is distributed in accord with the court order issued pursuant to this paragraph (7), the court will not entertain any further action on behalf of the principal or the surety for remission of the forfeiture.
Criminal cases
Page 1 | A. BAIL FORFEITURE PROCEDURE
The District Attorney must petition for a rule to show cause within fifteen days of the bail breach.
Within fifteen days of the breach of bail as provided in paragraph (1) above, the Franklin County District Attorney shall petition the Court for the issuance upon the principal or the surety, as appropriate, a rule to show cause why the bail bond or recognizance should not be forfeited.
Criminal cases
Page 1 | A. BAIL FORFEITURE PROCEDURE
An opposing party seeking a hearing on its issues must file a separate demand within the original 20-day period.
The opposing party may file a separate demand for hearing (cross appeal) to preserve the opposing party's right to a hearing on the opposing party's issues; however said demand must be filed within the original 20 day period as set forth above or it will be deemed untimely.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Procedure following office conference
A party may file a written demand for a Support Master hearing within 20 days after the order is mailed.
any party may within twenty days after mailing of a copy of the order file a written demand with Domestic Relations Section for a hearing before the Support Master.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Procedure following office conference
If the Support Master requires a pre-trial memorandum, it must be filed at Domestic Relations at least 7 days before the hearing.
If required by the Support Master, the Pre-Trial Memorandum shall be filed at Domestic Relations at least 7 days before the hearing.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Proceedings Before the Master — Pre-Trial Memorandum
The Master must file and transmit the report and Recommended Order within 14 days after the hearing, or within 30 days in a complex case.
Within 14 days following the conclusion of the Master’s hearing, and 30 days in a complex case, the Master shall file and transmit to the assigned judge a report containing a Recommended Order of Court.
Civil cases
Page 3 | Master's Report, Content
Service and Proof of Service Rules
The plaintiff must promptly serve copies of the order on all other parties.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the parties shall begin engaging in discovery pending the entry of a Case Management Order if they have not already done so; and that the Plaintiff promptly serve copies of this order upon all other parties.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-212.7. Scheduling Conference and Case Management.
Motions other than those made at trial must be served on all other parties with any entered or proposed order, and service must be evidenced by a certificate attached at filing or a separately filed affidavit.
(v) All motions other than those made at trial shall be served, along with any order entered or any order proposed to be entered, upon all other parties in accordance with Pa.R.C.P. 440(a). All such service shall be evidenced by either a certificate of service attached at the time of filing or by an affidavit of service filed separately.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-208.3. Answers to Motions.
The filing party must serve the other party with a true copy of the praecipe within seven days after filing.
A true copy of such praecipe shall be served by the filing party on the other party not more than seven days following the date of the filing.
Civil cases
Page 1 | 39.1302.1 Filing for Arbitration
Requisite notice of the date, time and place of the hearing shall be given to the Chairperson by regular mail, to the parties' attorneys of record, or to the parties if no attorney has appeared for them.
Requisite notice of the date, time and place of the hearing shall be given to the Chairperson by regular mail, to the parties' attorneys of record, or to the parties if no attorney has appeared for them.
Civil cases
Page 2 | 39.1302.6
Establishing a PACFile account constitutes consent to electronic filing and electronic service of documents filed through PACFile.
Pursuant to Pa.R.Crim.P. 576.1(D)(2), the establishment of a PACFile account constitutes consent to participate in electronic filing, including acceptance of service electronically of any document filed using PACFile.
Page 1 | Electronic Filing and Service of Legal Papers
Court Administration must receive paper copies of all electronically filed legal papers, court orders, and notices, even when a party uses PACFile.
Notwithstanding a party's election to participate in PACFile, Court Administration must be served with paper copies of all legal papers filed electronically in accordance with Pa.R.Crim.P. 576(b). This subdivision shall also apply to the service of court orders and notices.
Page 1 | Service Pursuant to Pa.R.Crim.P. 576
The Confidential Information Form must be served on and made available to the parties, the Court, and appropriate Court staff under the Public Access Policy.
The Confidential Information Form shall not be filed electronically in PACFile and shall be served on and made available to the parties to the case, the Court and appropriate Court staff, as provided in the Public Access Policy.
Page 1 | Confidential Information
After a party declines PACFile participation, electronically filed legal papers must be served on that party in paper format.
Once a party declines participation in PACFile by serving the Notice required by subdivision (d)(2), all electronically filed legal papers shall be served on them in paper format consistent with the Pennsylvania Rules of Criminal Procedure 114(B) and 576(b).
Page 1 | Electronic Filing and Service of Legal Papers
The completed Notice of Non-Participation in PACFile must be served on all parties or their counsel and Court Administration.
Any party not utilizing PACFile shall notify the Clerk of Courts utilizing the ''Notice of Non-Participation in PACFile'' form following this Rule and shall serve a copy of the completed form to all parties and/or counsel of record, and Court Administration.
Page 1 | Electronic Filing and Service of Legal Papers
After a party elects PACFile participation, service on that party must be made electronically.
If a party files a ''Notice of Non-Participation in PACFile'' and thereafter elects to participate in PACFile by establishing a PACFile account pursuant to subdivision (b) of this Rule, the party shall immediately cease filing written legal papers, where not excluded under this rule, and service shall be made upon the party electronically.
Page 1 | Electronic Filing and Service of Legal Papers
After entry, the Complaint and Order must be served under the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure governing service of Custody Complaints.
After the Order of Court and Directive for Conciliation has been entered by the Court, the Order shall be filed with the Prothonotary and the Complaint and Order served in accordance with the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure governing the service of Custody Complaints.
Page 1 | Commencement of an Action
A true, attested copy of the Complaint or modification petition and Proposed Order must be furnished to opposing counsel or the unrepresented Non-Moving Party at least five days before anticipated presentation to the Court.
A true, attested copy of the Complaint or Petition for Modification and Proposed Order of Court and Directive for Conciliation shall be furnished to the Non-Moving Party's counsel of record or to the non-moving party if not represented, not less than five (5) days prior to its anticipated presentation to the Court.
Page 2 | Time for Furnishing a Copy of the Complaint and Proposed Order to the Non-Moving Party; Record Proof
The moving party must serve the assigned conciliator with the order and complaint or petition for modification within ten days of the order’s date.
The Moving Party shall also serve a copy of the Order of Court and Directive for Conciliation, along with the Complaint or Petition for Modification upon the assigned Conciliator within ten (10) days of the date of the Order of Court and Directive for Conciliation.
Page 4 | Service Upon Conciliator
The non-moving party must serve the assigned conciliator with any filed response within ten days of the order’s date.
The Non-Moving Party shall serve a copy of any Response that was filed to the Complaint or Petition for Modification within ten (10) days of the date of the Order of Court and Directive for Conciliation.
Page 4 | Service Upon Conciliator
The moving party must certify service by filing a certificate of service with the Prothonotary.
The Moving Party shall certify service by filing a Certificate of Service with the Prothonotary.
Page 4 | Service Upon Conciliator
Each party must furnish a Conciliation Memorandum to the Conciliator and the opposing party at least three days before the conference.
At least three (3) days prior to the scheduled Conciliation Conference, each party shall furnish to the Conciliator and counsel for the opposing party, or the self-represented party individually, a Conciliation Memorandum addressing the following:
Page 6 | Conciliation Memorandum by Parties
The Prothonotary must furnish the order to counsel or directly to any unrepresented party under Pa.R.C.P. 236.
A copy of said Order of Court shall be furnished to legal counsel for the parties or in the event a party is unrepresented, to the party directly by the Prothonotary in accordance with Pa.R.C.P. 236
Page 7 | Entry and Service of Order of Court
If neither counsel nor the party appears, the conference may proceed in that party’s absence only upon proof that the pretrial conference order was served under the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure.
In the event that neither legal counsel nor a party appears, the Pre-Trial Conference shall be held in that party's absence upon proof of service of the Order of Court for Pre-Trial Conference in accordance with the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure.
Page 8 | Appearance by the Parties at the Pre-Trial Conference
The Pre-Trial Conference Memorandum must be served at least five days before the conference.
(i) At least five (5) days prior to the scheduled Pre-Trial Conference, a Pre-Trial Conference Memorandum in conformity with Pa.R.C.P. 1915.4-4 shall be filed and served.
Page 8 | Pre-Trial Conference Memorandum
If a witness's identity is known and the witness is available for service, the subpoena must be served at least four days before the witness's appearance.
If the identity of a witness is known and the witness is available for service, a subpoena shall be served at least four (4) days previous to the day on which the witness is to appear.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-216. Grounds for Continuance
The party filing the entry of appearance must send a copy to all parties and attorneys, including any attorney removed from the case.
THE PARTY FILING THIS ENTRY OF APPEARANCE MUST PROVIDE NOTICE BY SENDING A COPY TO ALL PARTIES AND ATTORNEYS, INCLUDING THE ATTORNEY REMOVED FROM THE CASE.
Page 1 | Entry of Appearance of Self-Represented Party
A copy of the Praecipe must be sent by ordinary mail to opposing counsel and any unrepresented parties; this is sufficient notice of the trial listing.
with a copy of the Praecipe to be sent by ordinary mail to opposing counsel of record, and to all parties not represented by counsel, which shall constitute sufficient notice of the listing of the cause.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-214. Preferences on Trial List.
After receiving a timely distribution petition, the Clerk must notify Franklin County and anyone who filed a petition to share in the distribution.
Upon receipt of any such petition within the six month time period, the Court shall set a date for hearing on said petition and the Clerk shall provide notice to Franklin County and any persons who may have filed a petition to share in said distribution.
Criminal cases
Page 1 | A. BAIL FORFEITURE PROCEDURE
The rule must be served personally or by certified mail at the surety's last known address.
The rule shall be served personally or by certified mail at the surety's last known address.
Criminal cases
Page 1 | A. BAIL FORFEITURE PROCEDURE
Upon receiving the parties’ Pre-Trial Memorandum, the Domestic Relations Section must mail a copy to each party before the hearing.
Upon receiving the parties’ Pre-Trial Memorandum, the Domestic Relations Section shall mail copies of the same to each party prior to the hearing before the court.
Civil cases
Page 3 | Proceedings Before the Master
The Domestic Relations Section must mail the report and Recommended Order to the parties and counsel, and advise counsel and self-represented parties of the right to file exceptions and the consequence of not doing so.
The Domestic Relations Section shall give notice of the filing of the Support Master’s Report and Recommended Order by forwarding a copy of the same to the parties and their counsel, if any, by ordinary mail. In addition, the Domestic Relations Section shall advise counsel and pro se parties of their right to file exceptions to the Report and Recommended Order and that the failure to file exceptions shall result in the Support Master’s Recommended Order becoming the Order for Support.
Civil cases
Page 4 | Service of Report; Exceptions to Report; Final Order
The standing master must give each party 15 days’ written notice of the pre-trial conference’s time and place.
Within thirty (30) days of certification by the non-moving party that discovery is complete or upon the expiration of the period of time granted by the standing master to complete discovery, the standing master shall schedule a pre-trial conference and shall give each party fifteen (15) days written notice of the time and place of the conference.
Page 2 | Rule 39-1920.53. Hearing by Master. Report.
Within ten days after receiving the appointment and accompanying discovery-completion certification, the standing master must notify the parties and inform the non-moving party whether discovery is complete or further discovery is needed.
Within ten (10) days of the standing master's receipt of his appointment with the accompanying certification by the moving party pursuant to Pa. R.C.P. 1920.74(a) that discovery is complete as to the claim(s) for which the appointment of the master is requested, the standing master shall give notice of his appointment to the parties. Said notice shall inform the non- moving party of his/her completion of discovery or, in alternative, his/her need for further discovery.
Page 2 | Rule 39-1920.53. Hearing by Master. Report.
Notice of the report’s filing must be made in accordance with Pa. R.C.P. 1920.55.
Notice of the filing of the report shall be made in conformity with Pa. R.C.P. 1920.55.
Page 2 | Rule 39-1920.53. Hearing by Master. Report.
Filing Fees and Waivers
A $55 standing master/transcription assessment must be deposited when a divorce complaint is filed, beginning April 1, 1996.
(a) In addition to all filing fees now or hereafter required to be deposited at the time a complaint in divorce is filed, a standing master/transcription assessment in the amount of $55.00 shall be deposited commencing April 1, 1996.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-1920.3. Commencement of the Action. [Divorce]
Each seminar attendee must pay and mail the court-set fee with the completed registration form before the seminar; requests for a waiver or reduction must include proof of hardship and be presented to Program Administration.
(4) A fee shall be assessed against each individual attending the seminar with said fee to be set on a regular basis by the Court. The fee must be paid and mailed in advance of the seminar along with the completed registration form to the address listed in the brochure. Any requests for a waiver or a reduction of the fee with proof of hardship must be presented to the Program Administration as instructed in the brochure.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-1920.3. Commencement of the Action. [Divorce]
A party filing a praecipe for arbitration must pay the appropriate filing fee.
After the case is at issue in the Franklin County Branch, a praecipe for arbitration shall be filed with the Prothonotary by either party to an action with the appropriate filing fee.
Civil cases
Page 1 | 39.1302.1 Filing for Arbitration
Applicable filing fees must be paid through Clerk of Courts procedures at the time and in the amount required by governing authority, but parties granted in forma pauperis status pay no filing fees.
Applicable filing fees shall be paid through procedures established by the Clerk of Courts and at the same time and amount as required by statute, Court rule or order, or published fee schedule. A party who has been granted in forma pauperis status shall not pay filing fees to the Clerk of Courts.
Page 1 | Filing Fees
Filing must be accompanied by payment of both the designated filing fee and the conciliator’s fee.
Filing shall be accompanied by the payment of the designated filing fee and the conciliator’s fee.
Page 1 | Commencement of an Action
When filing the complaint or petition for modification, the moving party must deposit the nonrefundable conciliator’s fee set by the Court with the Prothonotary.
The Moving Party shall deposit a nonrefundable conciliator’s fee in the amount established by the Court2 the Prothonotary upon the filing of the Complaint or Petition for Modification.
Page 4 | Conciliator’s Fee
The applicable fee for adding alimony pendente lite to the divorce file must be paid to the prothonotary, and the complaint must state that it was paid and when it was docketed.
(3) The fact that the fee of $20.00, or any other such fee as may be in effect at that time, for the additional count of alimony pendente lite to the divorce file was paid to the prothonotary and the date such fee was docketed.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-1920.51. Hearing by the Court. Appointment of Master. Notice of Hearing
A $25 fee must accompany a hearing demand; it is nonrefundable, and a party unable to pay must seek court leave for a waiver using the Domestic Relations Section form.
d. Filing fee; pauper status: Except as set forth in subsection (3) below, the party shall pay a $25.00 filing fee to the Domestic Relations Section at the time of filing the demand for hearing. 1. The demand for hearing shall not be accepted and no hearing shall be scheduled by Domestic Relations if not accompanied by the filing fee. 2. The filing fee is non-refundable. 3. If a party is unable to pay the filing fee, the party must seek leave of court using a form to be provided by the Domestic Relations Section in order to have the fee waived.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Filing fee; pauper status
A party granted pauper status under section (d)(3) may not be assessed transcript-production costs.
Any party who has been granted pauper status pursuant to section (d)(3) above shall not be assessed any cost for producing the transcript.
Civil cases
Page 4 | Pauper status; no cost
The moving party must deposit a non-refundable $350 when filing a motion to appoint the standing master.
When a motion for the appointment of the standing master is filed, the moving party shall deposit a non-refundable sum of $350.00 with the prothonotary.
Page 1 | Rule 39-1920.53. Hearing by Master. Report.
Maximum per-page charges for an original electronic transcript vary by delivery speed: $2.50 standard, $3.50 expedited, $4.50 daily, and $6.50 same day.
(1) The costs payable by a requesting party, other than the parties referenced in subdivision (a)(3), for an original transcript in electronic format shall not exceed: (i) for a transcript for which an accelerated delivery is not requested, $2.50 per page, (ii) for an expedited transcript, $3.50 per page, (iii) for a daily transcript, $4.50 per page, and (iv) for same day delivery, $6.50 per page.
Page 1 | (a) Costs
Specified Franklin and Fulton County parties pay no more than $1.00 per page for an original electronic transcript; expedited, daily, or same-day delivery requires President Judge approval and is capped at $2.50 per page.
(3) The Commonwealth or a subdivision thereof shall include Franklin and Fulton Counties, the district attorneys for Franklin and Fulton Counties, the public defenders for Franklin and Fulton Counties, and conflict counsel or court appointed criminal counsel who are paid by Franklin and Fulton Counties. The costs payable by a requesting party under this paragraph for an original transcript in electronic format shall not exceed: (i) $1.00 per page. (ii) Where a party under this paragraph requests an expedited transcript, daily transcript, or same day delivery, such a request shall be approved by the President Judge, and the fee per page shall not exceed $2.50.
Page 1 | (a) Costs
No fee is paid to transcribe or prepare dictated court orders or transcripts requested solely by the Court.
(4) Court Orders and Court requests for transcripts. There shall be no fee paid for transcribing or preparing dictated court orders, or transcripts requested solely by the Court.
Page 1 | (a) Costs
The first transcript requester pays for the original and, if requesting a personal copy, the records filing office’s copy rate, subject to cost sharing with additional parties.
The first requestor of a transcript is obligated to pay for the original transcript, which is filed with the court, plus the copy rate of the records filing office if the requestor desires a personal copy (subject to any cost sharing with additional parties).
Page 1 | Comment to (a) Costs
A party seeking a transcript-cost fee waiver must follow the guidelines and procedure in Pa.R.J.A. 4008(B).
(b) Economic hardship, fee waiver. A party requesting a fee waiver for the costs of transcripts shall follow the guidelines and utilize the procedure set forth in Pa.R.J.A. 4008(B).
Page 1 | (b) Economic hardship, fee waiver
A bound-paper transcript is subject to the applicable paragraph (1) cost plus a $0.25-per-page surcharge.
(2) When the transcript is prepared in bound paper format, the costs shall be in accordance with paragraph (1) plus a surcharge of $0.25 per page.
Page 1 | (a) Costs
If the records filing office cannot provide a copy of an expedited transcript, a court reporter or courtroom technician may prepare it with the presiding judge’s approval, at a maximum of $1.00 per bound paper page or $0.75 per electronic page.
(2) Although not generally available, if a request for a copy of an expedited transcript is made which copy cannot be provided by the applicable records filing office, the costs for preparation by a court reporter or courtroom technician with the approval of the presiding judge shall not exceed: (i) $1.00 per page bound, paper format, and, (ii) $0.75 per page electronic copy.
Page 2 | (d) Copies of transcript
A request for a copy of a transcript already filed of record must be filed with the applicable records filing office, which receives the copy fee; maximum rates are $0.75 per bound paper page and $0.50 per electronic page.
(1) A party requesting a copy of any transcript previously ordered, transcribed and filed of record shall file a request with the applicable records filing office. The copy fees shall be paid to the applicable records filing office. Costs for a copy shall not exceed: (i) $0.75 per page bound, paper format, and, (ii) $0.50 per page electronic copy.
Page 2 | (d) Copies of transcript
If the records filing office cannot provide a copy of a same-day transcript, a court reporter or courtroom technician may prepare it with the presiding judge’s approval, at a maximum of $1.50 per bound paper page or $1.25 per electronic page.
(4) Although not generally available, if a request for a copy of a same day transcript is made which copy cannot be provided by the applicable records filing office, the costs for preparation by a court reporter or courtroom technician with the approval of the presiding judge shall not exceed: (i) $1.50 per page bound, paper format, and, (ii) $1.25 per page electronic copy.
Page 2 | (d) Copies of transcript
The provision calls for equitable sharing of transcript costs among recipients, with specified proportional allocation for free or reduced-price transcripts and court determination if parties cannot agree.
It is the intent of this provision that all parties who receive a transcript should share equitably in the costs. If two parties receive the transcript, they would each pay their share of the cost of the original transcript that is filed with the court, with each party paying for their copy. In cases where a party qualifies for a free or reduced price transcript, any other party paying full price pays only their proportionate share of the full price, with the judicial district absorbing the cost of the free or reduced price transcript. In the event parties cannot informally agree to equitably share in the costs of the preparation of a transcript and copies, the court shall determine the equitable share of costs each party shall pay.
Page 2 | Comment to (c) Assignment and allocation of transcript costs
Transcript costs must be allocated in accordance with Pa.R.J.A. 4008(C).
Allocation of costs for transcripts shall be in accordance with Pa.R.J.A. 4008(C).
Page 2 | (c) Assignment and allocation of transcript costs
If the records filing office cannot provide a copy of a daily transcript, a court reporter or courtroom technician may prepare it with the presiding judge’s approval, at a maximum of $1.25 per bound paper page or $1.00 per electronic page.
(3) Although not generally available, if a request for a copy of a daily transcript is made which copy cannot be provided by the applicable records filing office, the costs for preparation by a court reporter or courtroom technician with the approval of the presiding judge shall not exceed: (i) $1.25 per page bound, paper format, and, (ii) $1.00 per page electronic copy.
Page 2 | (d) Copies of transcript
The public charge for a transcript copy filed of record may not exceed $0.75 per page, regardless of its form or storage location.
Pa.R.J.A. 4008(D)(1) provides that the cost charged to the public for a transcript copy that has been filed of record shall not exceed $0.75 per page, regardless of the form or location in which the transcript is filed or stored.
Page 3 | Comment
Copy fees imposed under subdivisions (d)(2)–(4) must be paid to the District Court Administrator or designee.
(5) All copy fees imposed under subdivisions (d)(2)—(4) shall be paid to the District Court Administrator or their designee.
Page 3 | (d)(5)
Parties and the public may not be charged transcript or related costs beyond those listed in subdivisions (a), (c), and (d).
(1) No transcript or related costs may be charged to the parties or the public other than those listed in subdivisions (a), (c) and (d).
Page 3 | (e)(1)
Fees imposed under subdivisions (e)(2)–(3) must be paid to the District Court Administrator or designee.
(4) All fees imposed under subdivisions (e)(2)-(3) shall be paid to the District Court Administrator or their designee.
Page 3 | (e)(4)
After the original transcript is filed with the appropriate records filing office, the copy rate in (D)(1) applies rather than the expedited-delivery rates.
The copy rates in Pa.R.J.A. 4008(D)(2), (3), and (4) reflect the additional work necessary to deliver a transcript on an expedited schedule, but once the original transcript is filed with the appropriate records filing office, the copy rate in (D)(1) is to apply.
Page 3 | Comment
A $25 filing fee must accompany a hearing demand, is non-refundable, and may be waived only by leave of court for a party unable to pay.
d. Filing fee; pauper status: Except as set forth in subsection (3) below, the party shall pay a $25.00 filing fee to the Domestic Relations Section at the time of filing the demand for hearing. 1. The demand for hearing shall not be accepted and no hearing shall be scheduled by Domestic Relations if not accompanied by the filing fee. 2. The filing fee is non-refundable. 3. If a party is unable to pay the filing fee, the party must seek leave of court using a form to be provided by the Domestic Relations Section in order to have the fee waived.
Civil cases
Page 1 | d. Filing fee; pauper status
Courtesy Copy Requirements
One copy of the Pre-Trial Conference Memorandum must be furnished to the Court at least five days before the conference.
A Pre-Trial Conference Memorandum shall be filed of record and a copy furnished to the Court at least five (5) days prior to the scheduled Pre-Trial Conference pursuant to 39th Judicial District Civil Rule No. 1915.3(f)(4).
Page 13 | Rule 39-1915.3.3 Commencement of Action. Complaint and Order.
Each party must furnish two copies of its brief to the assigned judge when serving the brief.
At the time each party serves his brief, he shall furnish two copies thereof to the assigned judge.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Local Rule 211.7
Each party must furnish two copies of the brief to the assigned judge when serving the brief.
At the time each party serves his brief, he shall furnish two copies thereof to the assigned judge.
Civil cases
Page 2 | 39-211.7
Each party must provide two copies of its brief to the assigned judge when it serves the brief.
At the time each party serves his brief, he shall furnish two copies thereof to the assigned judge.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Local Rule 211. Oral Arguments
A Pre-Trial Conference Memorandum must be filed and a copy furnished to the Court at least five days before the conference.
A Pre-Trial Conference Memorandum shall be filed of record and a copy furnished to the Court at least five (5) days prior to the scheduled Pre-Trial Conference pursuant to 39th Judicial District Civil Rule No. 1915.3(f)(4).
Civil cases
Page 1 | ORDER OF COURT
Each party must furnish two copies of its brief to the assigned judge when serving the brief.
At the time each party serves his brief, he shall furnish two copies thereof to the assigned judge.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Rule 39-211. Oral Arguments (cont.)
Sealing & Redaction Procedures
Counsel and unrepresented parties must keep confidential information out of filed legal papers and include relevant confidential information on the approved AOPC Confidential Information Form.
Counsel and unrepresented parties must adhere to the PUBLIC ACCESS POLICY OF THE UNIFIED JUDICIAL SYSTEM OF PENNSYLVANIA and refrain from including confidential information in legal papers filed with the Clerk of Courts or the Court whether filed electronically or in paper format. Counsel and unrepresented parties must include confidential information relevant to the case on the approved AOPC Confidential Information Form.
Page 1 | Confidential Information
Unless law, court rule, or court direction requires otherwise, filed documents may include only the specified limited personal identifiers; parties alone are responsible for redacting them, and the Prothonotary and Clerk of Courts will not review compliance.
(iii) Unless required by an applicable law or rule of court or unless so directed by the court, parties or their attorneys may include in documents filed of record only (a) the last four digits of a social security number or taxpayer identification number; (b) the month and year of a person's birth; and (c) the last four digits of financial account information. Responsibility for redacting personal identifiers rests solely with the parties and documents will not be reviewed by the Prothonotary or Clerk of Courts for compliance with this requirement.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 205.2(a). Physical Characteristics of Pleadings and Other Legal Papers; Assignment to Judge upon Filing of Complaint.
Parties must not file both a redacted and an unredacted version of the same document.
Parties are expressly prohibited from filing two versions of any document, i.e., a redacted version and an unredacted version.
Page 1 | Rule 200. Confidential Information and Documents.
Original questionnaires of impaneled jurors must be kept in a sealed file and not destroyed before the specified trial term unless the Court orders otherwise.
All original questionnaires of all impaneled jurors shall be retained by the Court Administrator in a sealed file and shall not be destroyed until the commencement of the trial term one (1) year after the trial term in which they were selected, unless otherwise ordered by the Court.
Criminal cases
Page 1 | Rule 39.1107.4 Disposition of Questionnaires and Copies
Confidential juror questionnaires must be kept securely by the court-appointed official custodian and are not public records.
Confidential Juror Information Questionnaires (questionnaires) will be maintained securely in the office of >> the courtappointed official custodian. The questionnaires shall not constitute a public record.
Page 1 | Rule 39-1107.1. General
Pre-Motion Conference Requirements
After the response under Pa.R.C.P. 1035.3 is filed, summary-judgment motions are scheduled, argued, and decided under Local Rule 211.
After the filing of a response in accordance with Pa.R.C.P. 1035.3, motions for summary judgment shall be scheduled, argued and decided in accordance with Local Rule 211.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 1035.2(a). Motion for Summary Judgment.
Counsel for the moving party must confer or attempt to confer with all interested parties about resolving a discovery matter without court action.
39-208.2(e). Every motion relating to discovery shall attach a certificate, signed by counsel for the moving party, certifying that counsel has conferred or attempted to confer with all interested parties in order to resolve the matter without court action. The attached certificate shall detail the efforts made by the moving party, detailing time, place and manner of conversations and shall include copies of any related correspondence.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-208.2(e)
Before seeking more than 40 interrogatories or requests for admissions, counsel must promptly consult opposing counsel and attempt in good faith to agree in writing on a reasonable additional number; if no stipulation is reached, the party must move for relief.
If counsel for a party believes that more than forty (40) interrogatories or requests for admissions are necessary, he shall consult with opposing counsel promptly and attempt to reach a written stipulation as to a reasonable number of additional interrogatories or requests for admissions. Counsel are expected to comply with this requirement in good faith. In the event a written stipulation cannot be agreed upon, the party seeking to submit additional interrogatories or requests for admissions shall file a motion with the court showing the necessity for relief.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-4005. Written Interrogatories to a Party.
For a listed case, the moving party must ensure the other parties receive its brief at least 35 days before argument, and the responding party must ensure the moving party receives its brief at least 28 days before argument.
39-211.7 When a case is listed for argument, the moving party shall file and serve a copy of his brief upon all other parties in the manner set forth in Pa.R.C.P. 440(a) to insure receipt by the responding party not later than the thirty-fifth (35th) day preceding the day scheduled for argument. The responding party shall, in return, serve a copy of his brief upon the moving party in the manner set forth in Pa.R.C.P. 440(a) to insure receipt by the moving party not later than the twenty-eighth (28th) day preceding the day scheduled for argument.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Local Rule 211. Oral Arguments
If the court orders a hearing or argument, the case must be listed, briefed, and decided under Local Rule 211 and following.
If hearing or argument is ordered by the court the case shall be listed, briefed and decided as set forth in Local Rule 211 et seq.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-206.4(c). Petition with Issuance of Rule to Show Cause.
At the status conference, the presiding judge, counsel, and any unrepresented parties must discuss exhibit maintenance and security during and after the proceeding, and the judge must confirm those arrangements by court order.
The presiding judge, counsel, and parties if unrepresented, shall discuss maintenance and security of the exhibit(s) both during and after the proceeding consistent with Pa. R.J.A. 5104(a)(4), and the presiding judge shall confirm same per an Order of Court.
Page 2 | Status Conference for Bulky, Oversized, or Otherwise Physically Impractical Exhibits
When the Proponent anticipates a bulky, oversized, or physically impractical exhibit, the Proponent must move in advance of the proceeding for a status conference attended by all counsel and any unrepresented parties of record.
In advance of any proceeding where a Proponent anticipates their exhibit(s) will be categorized as bulky, oversized, or otherwise physically impractical pursuant to Pa. R.J.A. 5103(c)(3), the Proponent shall motion for a status conference to be attended by all counsel and parties of record, if unrepresented.
Page 2 | Status Conference for Bulky, Oversized, or Otherwise Physically Impractical Exhibits
Motions may be decided without oral argument; when a party requests argument or the Court requires it, the Court may schedule argument by order or the motion may be argued under Local Rule 211 et seq.
(vi) Motions may be decided without oral argument. For those Motions for which a party requests argument of for which the Court requires argument, the Court may issue an order scheduling argument or the motion may be argued by following the procedure set forth in Local Rule 211 et seq.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-208.3. Answers to Motions.
Arguments are generally held on the first Thursday of each month in Franklin County, except August and court-scheduled legal-holiday dates; Fulton County argument dates follow the annual court calendar or the Court’s schedule.
Except as otherwise provided by the Court, arguments in the Franklin County Branch shall be held on the first Thursday of each month excluding August, except when that Thursday is a legal holiday, in which case the argument shall be held on as scheduled by the Court; and in the Fulton County Branch, arguments shall be held on days as established by the annual Court calendar or as scheduled by the Court.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Local Rule 211.1
Oral arguments are scheduled according to the applicable county branch calendar, subject to the Court's directions and the stated holiday exception.
39-211.1 Except as otherwise provided by the Court, arguments in the Franklin County Branch shall be held on the first Thursday of each month excluding August, except when that Thursday is a legal holiday, in which case the argument shall be held on as scheduled by the Court; and in the Fulton County Branch, arguments shall be held on days as established by the annual Court calendar or as scheduled by the Court.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Local Rule 211. Oral Arguments
The parties may agree in writing to add a cause to the argument list at any time if the briefs can still be served within Rule 39-211.7's time requirements.
39-211.3 The parties may agree in writing to add a cause to the argument list at any time so long as service of briefs may be made in accordance with the time requirements of Rule 39- 211.7.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Local Rule 211. Oral Arguments
The party seeking an order argues first and may rebut only opposing arguments if the Court permits; the Court directs the order of argument among multiple responding parties.
39-211.5 The person seeking the order applied for shall argue first, and may also argue in rebuttal, if permitted by the Court, but such rebuttal shall be limited to answering arguments advanced by the opposing party. In causes where there is more than one responding party, the order of argument by the responding parties shall be as directed by the Court.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Local Rule 211. Oral Arguments
The Court may order a cause listed for the next scheduled argument court or another date and may set the brief-service time.
The Court may order a cause listed for argument at the next scheduled argument court or on such other day as it may direct and, in that event, it may set the time for service of briefs.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Local Rule 211. Oral Arguments
The parties may agree to submit a matter on filed briefs without oral argument if the Court approves.
39-211.9 With the approval of the Court, oral argument may be dispensed with by agreement of the parties and the matter shall be submitted to the Court on briefs filed.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Local Rule 211. Oral Arguments
If a party fails to file and serve briefs on time, the Court may deny or grant requested relief, allow argument only by the complying party, or impose other relief or sanctions.
39-211.8 Unless the time for filing and serving briefs is extended by the Court for cause shown, where briefs have not been timely filed and served as required by Rule 39-211.7, the Court may upon its own motion or upon request of a party: (1) Deny the relief requested where the moving party has failed to comply; (2) Grant the requested relief where the responding party has failed to comply; (3) Permit oral argument, but only by the complying party; (4) Grant such other relief or impose such other sanctions as it shall deem proper.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Local Rule 211. Oral Arguments
The presiding judge may, at the judge’s discretion, hold the status conference by telephone or other electronic means.
A status conference held pursuant to this subdivision may be held via telephone or other electronic means at the discretion of the presiding judge.
Page 2 | Status Conference for Bulky, Oversized, or Otherwise Physically Impractical Exhibits
Adjournment & Extension Requirements
A continuance application based on a cause existing and known at the Pre-trial Conference will not be granted unless presented to the Court at least one week before trial.
No application for a continuance shall be granted if based on a cause existing and known at the time of the Pre-trial Conference unless the same is presented to the Court at least one (1) week prior to the date fixed for trial of the case.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-216. Grounds for Continuance
A case will not be continued because of an absent witness who could have been found and served as required.
A cause will not be continued on account of the absence of a witness who might have been found and served as herein required.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-216. Grounds for Continuance
A case may be continued or stricken from the argument list only by court order; a party may request that order by petition stating the basis.
Cases shall be continued or stricken from the argument list only pursuant to order of Court. A party may request such an order of Court by petition setting forth the basis for the request.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Local Rule 211.10
A party seeking an extension of a deadline bears the burden of establishing good cause.
Thereafter, a party seeking extension of a deadline will have the burden of establishing good cause for such extension.
Civil cases
Page 2 | NOTE
A case may be continued or stricken from the argument list only by court order; a requesting party must petition with the basis and certification of the other parties’ concurrence or non-concurrence.
Cases shall be continued or stricken from the argument list only pursuant to order of Court. A party may request such an order of Court by petition setting forth the basis for the request. Such petition must include certification regarding concurrence or non- concurrence of all other parties as required by Local Rule 39-206.1.
Civil cases
Page 2 | 39-211.10
A case may be continued or stricken from the argument list only by court order, requested by petition stating the basis and certifying the other parties' concurrence or non-concurrence.
39-211.10 Cases shall be continued or stricken from the argument list only pursuant to order of Court. A party may request such an order of Court by petition setting forth the basis for the request. Such petition must include certification regarding concurrence or non- concurrence of all other parties as required by Local Rule 39-206.1.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Local Rule 211. Oral Arguments
A case may be continued or stricken from the argument list only by court order; a party must request the order by petition stating the basis and certifying the other parties’ concurrence or non-concurrence.
Cases shall be continued or stricken from the argument list only pursuant to order of Court. A party may request such an order of Court by petition setting forth the basis for the request. Such petition must include certification regarding concurrence or non-concurrence of all other parties as required by Local Rule 39-206.1.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Rule 39-211. Oral Arguments (cont.)
The Court may extend the time for filing and serving briefs for cause shown.
Unless the time for filing and serving briefs is extended by the Court for cause shown, where briefs have not been timely filed and served as required by Rule 39-211.7, the Court may upon its own motion or upon request of a party:
Civil cases
Page 2 | Rule 39-211. Oral Arguments (cont.)
A party seeking to extend a deadline bears the burden of establishing good cause.
Thereafter, a party seeking extension of a deadline will have the burden of establishing good cause for such extension.
Civil cases
Page 2 | NOTE
After the Pre-trial Conference, the Court may, on its own motion or a party's application, pass or continue a case because a nonparty witness who has not been served with a subpoena is absent.
The Court may, on its own Motion, or upon application of a party, pass or continue a case pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 216(E) after the Pre-trial Conference because of the absence of a witness, not a party, who has not been served with a subpoena.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-216. Grounds for Continuance
The standing master shall have the power to issue as of course upon the request of the non-moving party an interim order providing up to sixty (60) days to complete discovery.
The standing master shall have the power to issue as of course upon the request of the non-moving party an interim order providing up to sixty (60) days to complete discovery.
Page 2 | Rule 39-1920.53. Hearing by Master. Report.
The Court may extend brief filing and service deadlines for cause shown.
Unless the time for filing and serving briefs is extended by the Court for cause shown, where briefs have not been timely filed and served as required by Rule 39-211.7, the Court may upon its own motion or upon request of a party:
Civil cases
Page 2 | Local Rule 211.8
The Court may extend the time for filing and serving briefs for cause shown.
Unless the time for filing and serving briefs is extended by the Court for cause shown,
Civil cases
Page 2 | 39-211.8
The Court may extend brief deadlines for cause shown; for untimely briefs, it may deny or grant relief, limit argument to the complying party, or impose other relief or sanctions.
39-211.8 Unless the time for filing and serving briefs is extended by the Court for cause shown, where briefs have not been timely filed and served as required by Rule 39-211.7, the Court may upon its own motion or upon request of a party: (1) Deny the relief requested where the moving party has failed to comply; (2) Grant the requested relief where the responding party has failed to comply; (3) Permit oral argument, but only by the complying party; (4) Grant such other relief or impose such other sanctions as it shall deem proper.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Local Rule 211. Oral Arguments
Chambers Communication Rules
Plaintiff’s counsel must contact chambers by telephone to arrange the required conference, which addresses trial-day estimates, trial dates, and mediation.
(c) Not later than 14 days after the deadline for the completion of discovery pursuant to any Case Management Order, Plaintiff’s counsel shall arrange with the chambers of the assigned judge for a telephone conference between the Court and counsel for all parties for the express purpose of [1] making a good faith estimate as to the number of trial days—excluding jury selection date—that will be required for trial; [2] securing trial dates; and [3] considering mediation as a settlement tool.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-212.7. Scheduling Conference and Case Management.
After filing, a custody complaint or modification petition not previously assigned to a judge must be presented to the Court Administrator for assignment.
All Custody Complaints and/or Petitions for Modification that have not been previously assigned to a judge shall be presented to the Court Administrator for assignment, after filing, in accordance with these rules.
Page 1 | Commencement of an Action
Plaintiff’s counsel must contact the assigned judge’s chambers to arrange a telephone conference with the Court and counsel for all parties to estimate trial days, secure trial dates, and consider mediation.
(c) Not later than 14 days after the deadline for the completion of discovery pursuant to any Case Management Order, Plaintiff’s counsel shall arrange with the chambers of the assigned judge for a telephone conference between the Court and counsel for all parties for the express purpose of [1] making a good faith estimate as to the number of trial days—excluding jury selection date—that will be required for trial; [2] securing trial dates; and [3] considering mediation as a settlement tool.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-212.7(c)
Emergency motions should be filed and then delivered directly to Court Administration or the assigned judge’s chambers if assigned, and directed to the Court Administrator for assignment if unassigned.
(ii) Emergency motions in cases already assigned to a specific judge should be filed and then delivered directly to Court Administration or to the assigned judge's chambers for handling and, in cases not already assigned, should be directed to the Court Administrator for assignment.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-208.3. Answers to Motions.
Contact the court office for information about accessibility and accommodations, and make all arrangements at least 72 hours before a hearing or other court business.
For information about accessible facilities and reasonable accommodations available to disabled individuals having business before the court, please contact our office. All arrangements must be made at least 72 hours prior to any hearing or business before the court.
Page 12 | Commencement of Action. Complaint and Order.
Contact the court office for accessibility or accommodation information, and make all arrangements at least 72 hours before a hearing or other court business.
For information about accessible facilities and reasonable accommodations available to disabled individuals having business before the court, please contact our office. All arrangements must be made at least 72 hours prior to any hearing or business before the court.
Page 2 | AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF 1990
A motion may alternatively be presented at an open court session or to the assigned judge’s law clerk or the judge in chambers at a time set by the court.
Alternatively, a motion may be presented to the court at any open session, or to the assigned judge’s law clerk or to the assigned judge in chambers at such time as the court may set.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 39-208.3. Answers to Motions.
Counsel and self-represented parties may obtain presentation times for Complaints or modification petitions from the Court Administrator.
Counsel or self-represented parties may obtain the specific time for presentation of Complaints or Petitions for Modification from the Court Administrator.
Page 2 | Scheduling Presentations; Pleadings Delivered to Court Administrator
Schedule inquiries may be directed to the Court Administrator at the stated courthouse address or by phone.
Inquiries concerning the schedule for sessions to be held at this location may be made to the Court Administrator for the 39th Judicial District at the Franklin County Courthouse, 157 Lincoln Way East, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania 17201 or by phone at 7172613848.
Criminal cases
Page 1 | Franklin County Jail Courtroom Facilities