Court of Common Pleas of Indiana County, Pennsylvania
Court-Level Rules, Filing Procedures & Policies
- Rules last changed:
Limits & Logistics
Courtesy Copies
Pretrial Statement
- 1 copy • Upon Filing
Adjournments
- A case management conference may be continued upon written motion and good cause, or by agreement of all parties approved by the Court Program Manager.
- Parties may not alter or extend Case Management Order deadlines or waive its provisions; the Court may grant relief or schedule a conference upon a party’s motion and good cause.
- A motion for continuance should state the current scheduled date, prior continuances, reasons for the request, and the parties’ awareness and responses.
- +7 more
Request must include
- More than seven days before the hearing, the case may be continued once by agreement of all parties; the written request must be filed with the Prothonotary, copied to the Court Program Manager, and state that all parties agree.
Document Format Requirements17 rules
Legal papers shall be presented for filing in portable document format (".pdf").
- File type
Those legal papers that are not permitted to be electronically filed pursuant to this Rule shall be maintained in a physical paper format only.
Any motion that, pursuant to Pa.R.Crim.P. 575(A)(2)(g), avers facts not of record and requiring a sworn affidavit, must be created in a physical paper form, have a physical signature placed on it, and then be converted into a .pdf before it is electronically filed.
The original of a sworn or verified legal paper that is electronically filed or is contained within an electronic filing shall be maintained by the electronic filer in paper format and made available upon direction of the court or reasonable request of the signatory or opposing party.
Submit two paper copies of this Order to the Legislative Reference Bureau and one electronic copy in Microsoft Word format only to Bulletin@palrb.us for publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin;
(1) These non-documentary exhibits must be photographed by the proponent, converted to a letter sized document, and appropriately marked and produced during the court proceeding for inclusion in the documentary record.
- Paper size
- Letter
- Non-documentary exhibit
(b) Any digital exhibit that cannot be printed (i.e. audio or video recording) shall be entered into the records on a Universal Serial Bus (USB) flash drive (or other format if expressly approved by the court).
- (2) All originals shall be marked "Original." Copies shall be marked "Copy."
Formatting
- •Mark all originals "Original" and all copies "Copy."
- (3) Tabs shall be placed at the bottom of all exhibits and appendices.
- Exhibits
- Appendices
Formatting
- •Place tabs at the bottom
Motions to continue shall substantially comply with Form F1, attached to and made a part of these local rules.
The Certificate of Readiness shall substantially comply with Form F2, attached to and made a part of these local rules.
Briefs shall be submitted on 81/2 x 11 inch paper and shall be double-spaced.
- Line spacing
- Double
- Paper size
- Letter
- Brief
The Motion for Child Custody Mediation shall be submitted on a form in substantial compliance with that found in L-1915.3(c).
(e) Any motion for continuance of Mediation must be directed to the Court and made on a form in substantial compliance with Form F.3 of these Local Rules.
The arbitration award form shall be substantially similar to the form set forth in Pa. R. Civ. P. No. 1312.
Legal papers shall be presented for filing in a portable document format (PDF).
- File type
- Legal paper
Except as provided in paragraph (G)(3), an electronic signature of the filer as provided for in the system is permitted on electronic filings in the following form: /s/ John L. Doe.
Document Filing Requirements80 rules
The requester must file the original transcript request at the District Court Administrator’s Office using the standardized form.
Court's wording
The party requesting a full or partial transcript of a trial or other proceeding or requesting a copy of an already filed transcript, shall file the original request with the District Court Administrator’s Office at the Indiana County Courthouse, on the standardized form provided.
In the event that a requestor seeks reduction or waiver of transcript fees, he or she shall complete the Request for Waiver or Reduction of Transcript Costs Petition and Affidavit and shall file the petition, affidavit, and proposed order in the District Court Administrator’s Office at the time the request for transcript is filed.
- Document
- Transcript fee reduction or waiver request
Must include
- •Proposed order
Such requests shall be filed at the District Court Administrator’s Office on the standardized form provided.
Distribution to those parties not automatically served via PACFile with a court order or notice must be filed with the Clerk of Courts office with a complete distribution list including the names and addresses of all parties required to be served with a paper copy.
An electronic filer must provide the Clerk of Courts a paper copy of an electronically filed document only when it exceeds 30 pages.
Court's wording
An electronic filer is not required to file a paper copy of any document filed electronically unless the document exceeds thirty (30) pages. If the document exceeds thirty (30) pages, the filer shall provide a paper copy of the document to the Clerk of Courts.
Electronically filing a signed motion or answer certifies that the filer has read it, believes it has good grounds, and is not submitting it for delay.
Court's wording
The electronic filing of a motion or answer that includes an electronic signature constitutes a certification pursuant to Pa.R.Crim.P. 575 that the filing party or attorney has read the legal paper, that to the best of the filing party's or attorney's knowledge, information, and belief there is a good ground to support the motion or answer, and that it is not interposed for delay.
If an agreement is reached at the conference, counsel for the parties prepare an Order to be submitted to the Court for approval.
If an agreement is reached, the Mediator prepares an Order of Court for the Court's approval.
Police complaints and arrest-warrant affidavits charging the listed offenses require approval from an attorney for the Commonwealth before filing and will not otherwise be accepted by a judicial officer.
Court's wording
The District Attorney of Indiana County having filed a certification pursuant to Pa.R.Crim.P. 507, criminal complaints and arrest warrants affidavits by police officers, as defined in the Rules of Criminal Procedure, charging: - 1) All offenses, both substantiative or inchoate, that are graded as felonies, except for the following charges: - a. Retail Theft - b. Driving Under the Influence unless there is personal injury or death - c. Theft offenses under $10,000. - 2) All misdemeanor offenses included below: - a. All offenses under Chapter 31 of the Pennsylvania Crimes Code, titled "Sexual Offenses" - b. All offenses under Chapter 63 of the Pennsylvania Crimes Code, titled "Minors" - c. All offenses under Chapter 43 of the Pennsylvania Crimes Code, titled "Offenses against the family" - d. 18 PA 2713, Neglect of a Care Dependent Person. - e. All offenses under Chapter 55 of the Pennsylvania Crimes Code, titled "Offenses against public order and decency" - 3) Any offense arising out of an incident for which the District Attorney of Indiana County has given notice to the investigating Agency of his intent to review any charges brought in connection with that incident prior to filing. Shall not hereafter be accepted by any judicial officer unless the complaint and affidavit has the approval of an attorney for the Commonwealth prior to filing.
(c) Any exhibit containing confidential information or equivalent to any of the categories enumerated in PA. Access Policy §8.0 shall include a Confidential Document Form so that the document can be properly sealed by the record office.
An Initial Case Management Order for an Expedited track matter must address the form of trial or arbitration, the fact-discovery period and timely service of discovery, and a post-discovery case management conference.
Court's wording
For Expedited track matters, the Court Program Manager will submit an Initial Case Management Order, which shall include: - (a) Whether the action involves a jury trial, nonjury trial, or arbitration; - (b) The time period for the completion of all fact discovery. All interrogatories, request for the production of documents, depositions, and request for admissions shall be served within sufficient time to allow responses to be completed prior to the close of fact discovery; and - (c) The scheduling of a case management conference after the time period for the completion of fact discovery has concluded.
Where a party seeks a court order, the party shall file an Original and Copy with the Prothonotary.
The first page of legal papers must include the caption, case number, filer and law-firm details or pro se party details, and the moving party.
- Document
- Legal papers
Must include
- •Caption
- •Case number
Court's wording
- (1) The first page shall set forth the case caption, case number, and the name, identification number, address and telephone number of the attorney and law firm or pro se party submitting the legal papers. This page also shall identify the moving party.
- (5) Any legal papers not original process shall include a Certificate of Service setting forth the date, manner, and person served with a copy of the legal papers.
Petitioners must file proposed orders as described in Pa. R.C.P. No. 206.6, subject to the explanatory note's modification.
- Document
- Petition
Must include
- •Proposed order
Court's wording
Indiana County generally fixes a hearing date upon the filing of a petition; therefore, petitioners shall file proposed orders as described in Pa. R.C.P. No. 206.6 but as modified by the explanatory note to Pa. R.C.P. No. 206.6.
- (4) The name of each person signing a legal paper shall be typed beneath the person's signature.
- Document
- Legal papers
- Placement
- Signature block
All petitions shall include a proposed order.
- Document
- Petition
Must include
- •Proposed order
If the parties agree to the relief sought, the petition shall be accompanied by a stipulation signed by all affected counsel or unrepresented parties and a proposed order.
- Document
- Petition
Must include
- •Proposed order
A discovery-related motion must include a certification containing the specified good-faith conference language.
- Document
- Discovery motion
Must include
- •Certificate of conference
Court's wording
Every motion relating to discovery shall contain a certification with the following language: "The movant has in good faith conferred or attempted to confer with the person or party failing to make the discovery in an effort to secure the information or material without court action."
If the parties agree to the relief sought, a motion shall be accompanied by a stipulation signed by all affected counsel or unrepresented parties and a proposed order.
- Document
- Motion
Must include
- •Proposed order
Motions shall identify the applicable procedural rule, statute or other authority.
Any brief more than fifteen pages shall contain a table of contents and a table of citations.
- Document
- Brief
Must include
- •Table of contents
A movant must attach to a contested motion the form of order required by Pa. R.C.P. No. 208.4, as modified by the Rule's Note.
Court's wording
Since the Indiana County Court of Common Pleas routinely conducts evidentiary hearings on contested motions, movants shall attach to contested motions the form of Order required by Pa. R.C.P. No. 208.4, as modified by the Note to the Rule.
Briefs shall contain complete and accurate citations of all authorities.
The brief of the moving party shall contain: all relevant facts; a procedural history; the questions involved; the argument; and a conclusion.
Preliminary objections shall be praeciped to the argument list.
Objections shall be stated with particularity. If the objecting party claims that discovery is incomplete, the objecting party shall specify any discovery remaining to be completed.
All motions for judgment on the pleadings shall be praeciped to the argument list.
The objecting party shall attach to objections a praecipe to place objections on the next available argument list.
All motions for summary judgment shall be praeciped to the argument list.
The Certificate of Readiness certifies that pleadings, discovery, and expert reports are complete and that the case is ready for trial.
Court's wording
I hereby certify that: - 1. All pleadings have been completed; - 2. All pretrial discovery procedure have been completed; - 3. All expert witness reports (medical, damage, liability, or otherwise) have been completed and exchanged between or among the parties; and, - 4. This case is ready for trial.
A moving party seeking a custody-related order or modification must move to schedule an Initial Custody Conference and substantially comply with L-1915.3(a), unless both parties certify the conference would be fruitless.
Court's wording
(a) In all cases in which a party seeks an Order of Court, or modification of an existing Order of Court, regarding custody, partial custody and/or visitation of minor children, including proceedings commenced under the Domestic Relations Code of 1990 (23 Pa.C.S. §§ 5301 et. seq.), unless both parties by certification verify that an Initial Custody Conference would be fruitless, the moving party shall proceed by moving the Court to schedule an Initial Custody Conference. This motion shall be submitted in a form in substantial compliance with that found in L-1915.3(a).
If the parties reach full agreement at the conference, the moving party must prepare a Consent Order stating that the agreement was reached at the conference and giving its date, unless the parties agree otherwise.
Court's wording
(c) Should the parties reach full agreement at the Initial Custody Conference, unless the parties agree otherwise, the moving party shall have such agreement reduced to the form of a Consent Order of Court. The Consent Order shall indicate that the agreement was reached at an Initial Custody Conference and include the date of the Initial Custody Conference.
A copy of the Consent Order shall be transmitted to the Court Administrator.
(In this circumstance, counsel for both parties must sign the Motion for Mediation).
Each attorney or party must send the mediator the listed course, fee, and questionnaire materials no later than seven days before mediation; out-of-county or out-of-state litigants may provide proof of equivalent services.
Court's wording
(c) Not later than seven (7) days prior to a scheduled Mediation, each attorney/party shall forward to the Child Custody Mediator the following: (1) Proof of attendance or registration for the Parent Education Course also known as the Children-in-the-Middle Parent Education Course. (Out of county/state litigants may attach proof of equivalent services in their jurisdiction); (2) Proof of payment of his or her Mediation Fee to the Prothonotary of Indiana County or copy of an approved IFP Petition; and, (3) A completed Child Custody Questionnaire or a form in substantial compliance with that found at L-1915.3(e).
(h) The Mediation Fee shall be refunded only if, by a writing signed by both parties or counsel and submitted to the Court not less than seven (7) days before the scheduled date of Mediation, the parties agree that the Mediation should be canceled.
Petitioner has attached the Criminal Record/Abuse History Verification form required pursuant to Pa. R.C.P. No. 1915.3-2.
A true and correct copy of the Order is attached.
I verify that the statements made in this Complaint are true and correct. I understand that false statements herein are made subject to the penalties of 18 Pa.C.S. §4904 relating to unsworn falsification to authorities.
A party seeking complex-case designation must file the specified motion with the Indiana County Domestic Relations Section using substantially the Form 1 format.
Court's wording
(4) When a party wishes to deem a case complex under Pa. R. Civ. Pro. 1910.12(c), that party shall file a Motion to Designate Support Case as Complex with the Indiana County Domestic Relations Section in substantially the form which is set forth in Form 1 appended to these Rules.
Each exception shall set forth a separate objection precisely and matters not covered by exceptions are deemed waived unless leave is granted by the Court.
The complex-support-case motion form calls for allegations about the case history, hearing de novo, reasons the case is complex, requested discovery, and the parties’ conferral and position.
Court's wording
AND NOW, the Plaintiff/Defendant moves this Honorable Court to designate the above captioned case as complex and in support thereof avers as follows: - 1. On or about _____, 20____, a Complaint for Child/Spousal/Both was filed or a Petition for modification of an existing support Order. - 2. An office conference was held on _____, 20____, and an Order of Support was entered. - 3. A request for a hearing de novo was filed or will be filed. - 4. The case is complex for the following reasons: _____ _____ _____. - 5. The following discovery is being requested: _____ _____ _____. - 6. I have conferred with the opposing counsel/party on the issue and the parties agree/disagree that the matter shall be designated complex.
Proof of payment of his or her $200.00 Mediation Fee or that he or she has petitioned the Court for, and been granted IFP status.
Proof that he or she has attended or registered for the Children-in-the-Middle Parent Education Course or its equivalent for the parties residing outside of Indiana County.
A completed Mediation Questionnaire including complete names, addresses, and telephone numbers of all parties.
A party filing a Praecipe for Arbitration must use the Form 1 form and certify that the case is ready in all respects.
Court's wording
(d) When a case is appropriate, a party shall file a Praecipe for Arbitration with the Prothonotary, the form which is set forth in Form 1 appended to these Rules, and certify that the case is ready in all respects.
In the event that any party believes that the arbitration hearing cannot be accomplished within ninety (90) minutes, a Motion setting forth the party's reasons shall be filed and presented to the Court.
(f) A party that files a Praecipe for Arbitration shall certify that the arbitration hearing will not exceed ninety (90) minutes in length.
The Court Program Manager shall submit the form to the Prothonotary for filing, docketing, and distribution to the parties.
A party requesting delay damages shall, no later than the commencement of the hearing, present to the chairperson of the arbitration board/panel in a sealed envelope with the caption and case number on it a photocopy of any written offer of settlement made by a party against whom damages are demanded or set forth in writing the fact that no written offer has been made;
A party that does not concur in the information set forth in Rule L1306(2) shall state a brief explanation as to the reasons for their non-concurrence and present it to the chairperson of the arbitration board/panel in a sealed envelope with the caption and case number on it no later than the commencement of the hearing.
(7) If damages for delay are awarded, the amount thereof shall be added to the principal amount awarded, but shall be separately stated on the arbitration award form.
Filing & Service rules
Electronic Filing Rules
Electronic filing and service of legal papers through PACFile are permitted in Indiana County criminal cases under this rule.
(1) The electronic filing of legal papers and the electronic service of such papers through the PACFile system with the Indiana County Clerk of Courts for criminal cases in the Indiana County Court of Common Pleas is permitted under the terms described in this Local Rule.
Page 2 | (B) Purpose
PACFile is the exclusive system for electronic filing.
(2) The exclusive system for electronic filing is the PACFile system, developed and administered by the Administrative Office of the Pennsylvania Courts and located on Pennsylvania's Unified Judicial System Web Portal at http://ujsportal.pacourts.us/PACFile.aspx.
Page 2 | (B) Purpose
An attorney must establish a PACFile account using the procedures established by the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts to participate.
In order to participate in the PACFile system, an attorney shall establish an account in the PACFile system by procedures established by the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts.
Page 3 | (D) Participation
A legal paper complying with the Pennsylvania Rules of Criminal Procedure may not be refused based on a local electronic-filing rule, procedure, or practice.
No legal paper that complies with the Pennsylvania Rules of Criminal Procedure shall be refused for filing by the Clerk of Courts or the electronic filing system based upon a requirement of a local rule or local administrative procedure or practice pertaining to the electronic filing of legal papers.
Page 5 | (F) Filing
Legal papers submitted electronically must be filed through PACFile at the Unified Judicial System web portal in accordance with the applicable rules and portal instructions.
When a legal paper is to be electronically filed, it shall be submitted to the PACFile system at the Unified Judicial System web portal at http://uisportal.pacourts.us, in accordance with Pa.R.Crim.P. 576.1, this Rule, and any filing instructions as may be otherwise provided at the web portal site.
Page 5 | (F) Filing
Once electronic filing is implemented on a date set by Administrative Order, electronic filing is permitted in civil cases except for the listed categories, which the President Judge may further expand or restrict by Administrative Order.
(1) Upon implementation of an electronic filing system, beginning on a date set by Administrative Order of the President Judge, the Indiana County Court of Common Pleas shall permit the electronic filing of legal papers in all civil cases, except: - a. All filings pertaining to Domestic Relations Section matters; - b. All filings in cases brought pursuant to either the Protection From Abuse Act and Protection of Victims of Sexual Violence or Intimidation Act; - c. A petition requesting a name change; - d. A motion for involuntary transfer of vehicle ownership; - e. An appeal from a driver's license suspension; and, - f. An appeal from a decision of a Magisterial District Judge. - (2) The President Judge may further expand or restrict the categories of cases subject to this Local Rule by Administrative Order.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Local Rule 205.4 Electronic Filing and Service of Legal Papers; (A) General Provision
Only individuals, not entities such as law firms or corporations, may be registered users.
All registered users must be individuals and not entities, including but not limited to law firms, agencies, corporations, or government entities.
Civil cases
Page 3 | (A)(4)(b) Registration
Registered users must update their address or other contact information in the CountySuite Portal within ten days of a change.
Registered users shall change their address or other contact information with the CountySuite Portal within ten (10) days of any change.
Civil cases
Page 3 | (A)(4)(c) Registration
Electronic filers must register with the CountySuite Portal according to its User Manual.
Electronic filers must register with CountySuite Portal in accordance with the CountySuite Portal User Manual.
Civil cases
Page 3 | (A)(4)(a) Registration
Once accepted, the electronic document is the official record; electronic filers need not submit paper copies unless the document exceeds 30 pages or the Court specifically requires them.
When the legal paper is accepted by the Prothonotary, the electronic document is the official record. An electronic filer is not required to file any paper copies unless the document exceeds thirty (30) pages or is specifically required by the Court.
Civil cases
Page 6 | (F) Filing
The Prothonotary's docket and EFS are available online, and access requires additional registration or login.
(1) Access to the Prothonotary's docket and EFS is available on the internet at www.indianacountypa.gov./departments/prothonotary-clerk-of-courts/. Additional registration/login is required for access.
Civil cases
Page 4 | (C)(1) Access to the Docket
The Prothonotary must maintain a hard copy of filed documents unless the President Judge removes that requirement by Administrative Order.
The Prothonotary shall maintain a hard copy of the document filed; this requirement may be removed by Administrative Order of the President Judge.
Civil cases
Page 6 | (F) Filing
Attorneys and defendants proceeding without counsel may file legal papers electronically under the Local Rule.
All attorneys and defendants proceeding without counsel shall be permitted to file legal papers electronically in accordance with this Local Rule.
Page 3 | (D) Participation
A defendant proceeding without counsel may use PACFile through the authorization process established by the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts.
A defendant who is proceeding without counsel shall be permitted to utilize the PACFile system through an authorization process established by the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts.
Page 3 | (D) Participation
Attorneys and defendants participating in PACFile may file legal papers electronically or in physical paper format.
Any attorney or defendant participating in the PACFile system is permitted to file a legal paper either in an electronic or in a physical paper format.
Page 4 | (D) Participation
Legal papers may be submitted to the Clerk of Courts in physical paper format, which the Clerk must accept.
Any legal paper submitted for filing to the Clerk of Courts in a physical paper format shall be accepted by the Clerk of Courts in that format and shall be retained by the Clerk of Courts as may be required by applicable rules of court and record retention policies.
Page 4 | (E) Retention, Conversion, and Use of Legal Papers
Filing Timing and Cure Windows
The fee-reduction or waiver materials must be filed at the same time as the transcript request.
In the event that a requestor seeks reduction or waiver of transcript fees, he or she shall complete the Request for Waiver or Reduction of Transcript Costs Petition and Affidavit and shall file the petition, affidavit, and proposed order in the District Court Administrator’s Office at the time the request for transcript is filed.
Page 2 | Rule 4007(D)
Electronic filings may be submitted except during periodic maintenance and must be completed by 11:59:59 p.m. EST/EDT to be considered filed that day.
Electronic filings may be submitted at any time, except during times of periodic maintenance. The electronic submission must be completed by 11:59:59 p.m. EST/EDT to be considered filed that day.
Page 5 | (F) Filing
A legal paper is filed when submitted to the system and accepted by the Clerk; if accepted, its filing date and time are those of submission, and the Clerk may reject a noncompliant filing.
A legal paper shall be considered filed upon submission of the legal paper to the system and acceptance of the filing by the Clerk of Courts. If the Clerk of Courts determines that the requirements for filing have been met, the time and date of filing shall be the time and date that the legal paper was submitted to the system. If the Clerk of Courts finds that the requirements for filing are not met, the Clerk may reject the filing.
Page 5 | (F) Filing
When one custodian is involved, that custodian must file all submitted exhibits and the exhibit index within five business days after the proceeding concludes.
If only one custodian is involved with a proceeding, he/she shall file with the appropriate records office all submitted exhibits and index of exhibits within 5 business days of the conclusion of the proceeding.
Page 2 | Rule 5102. General Provisions
The Court Administrator must incorporate the Rule into the Local Rules within thirty days of its publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin and publish the rules on the Court website.
Incorporate the Rule into the set of Local Rules within thirty (30) days of publication of the Local Rule in the Pennsylvania Bulletin and publish the rules on the Court's website at www.IndianaCountyPA.gov;
Page 2 | Order of Court
When multiple custodians are involved, the custodian at the conclusion of the proceeding must file all submitted exhibits and the exhibit index within five business days after the proceeding concludes.
The custodian at the conclusion of the proceeding shall file with the appropriate records office all submitted exhibits and index of exhibits within 5 business days of the conclusion of the proceeding.
Page 2 | Rule 5102. General Provisions
An opposing party must file a responsive brief within twenty days after service of the motion and supporting brief, together with any opposing affidavits, depositions, transcripts, or other documents.
Within twenty days after service of the moving party's motion and brief, any party opposing the motion shall file a responsive brief, together with any opposing affidavits, depositions, transcripts or other documents.
Civil cases
Page 3 | Local Rule 208.3(b)(2). Response Brief
The plaintiff must provide a pretrial statement at least 10 days before the conference, and all remaining parties must provide theirs 3 days before it.
Not less than ten (10) days prior to the scheduled time of the pre-trial conference, the plaintiff shall file with the Prothonotary (and simultaneously send a copy directly to the judge presiding over the pretrial conference), and serve on opposing counsel, a pretrial statement. Three (3) days prior to the scheduled time of the pre-trial conference, all remaining parties shall file in like manner their pretrial statements.
Civil cases
Page 5 | (d) Pretrial Statements: filing deadlines
Objections to a Certificate of Readiness must be filed within 20 days after service of the certificate.
Any party objecting to a Certificate of Readiness shall do so by filing and serving objections within twenty (20) days of service of the Certificate of Readiness.
Civil cases
Page 5 | (c) Objection to Certificate of Readiness
All parties other than the plaintiff must file their pretrial statements 3 days before the scheduled pre-trial conference.
Three (3) days prior to the scheduled time of the pre-trial conference, all remaining parties shall file in like manner their pretrial statements.
Civil cases
Page 5 | (d) Pretrial Statements: filing deadlines
The Court Administrator must schedule the Initial Custody Conference within 45 days after the motion is filed.
The Initial Custody Conference shall be scheduled by the Court Administrator within forty-five (45) days of the date the motion is filed.
Civil cases
Page 8 | RULE L-1915.1. INITIAL CUSTODY CONFERENCE
The required mediation materials must be forwarded to the mediator no later than seven days before the scheduled mediation.
(c) Not later than seven (7) days prior to a scheduled Mediation, each attorney/party shall forward to the Child Custody Mediator the following:
Civil cases
Page 9 | RULE L-1915.2. CUSTODY MEDIATION
The written agreement to cancel mediation must be submitted to the Court at least seven days before the scheduled mediation.
(h) The Mediation Fee shall be refunded only if, by a writing signed by both parties or counsel and submitted to the Court not less than seven (7) days before the scheduled date of Mediation, the parties agree that the Mediation should be canceled.
Civil cases
Page 10 | RULE L-1915.2. CUSTODY MEDIATION
The motion must be filed no later than ten days after the office conference concludes.
(5) The Motion to Designate Support Case as Complex shall be filed no later than ten (10) days after the conclusion of the office conference.
Page 2 | Rule L1910.12(c)
A party may file exceptions within 20 days of whichever occurs first: receipt or mailing of the Report and Recommendation.
Within twenty (20) days of the receipt or date of mailing of the Court Program Manager's Report and Recommendation, whichever occurs first, any party may file exceptions to the report.
Page 3 | Rule L1910.12(c)
Each party must submit the required mediation documentation to the mediator no later than seven days before mediation.
It is hereby ORDERED and DIRECTED that no later than seven (7) days prior to the date for Mediation, each party must have submitted to the Indiana County Child Custody Mediator the following documentation:
Civil cases
Page 2 | ORDER OF COURT
A party disputing whether a case is ripe for arbitration may file a motion objecting to the Praecipe within 10 days after service of the Praecipe.
(e) In the event that there is a dispute between the parties as to whether a case is ripe for arbitration, any party may file, within ten (10) days from the date of service of the Praecipe, a Motion objecting to the Praecipe. The Court will then determine suitability for arbitration.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Rule L1301 – Scope. Certification.
The Certificate of Readiness for trial must be filed simultaneously with the appeal.
(e) Simultaneously with the filing of the appeal, the appellant shall also file a Certificate of Readiness for trial with the Prothonotary and shall serve all parties to the matter.
Civil cases
Page 9 | Rule L1308 – Appeal. Arbitrator's Compensation.
A relevant party may request reconsideration if an important factor was overlooked; an offender may file only once and must do so within 30 days of the initial rejection.
If a relevant party to the offender’s case (attorney, judge, treatment provider, police officer, etc.) feels the Veterans Treatment Court Team failed to consider a particularly important factor, he/she may fill out a request for the case to be reconsidered. An offender may file for reconsideration one time and must be within 30 days of initial rejection.
Criminal cases
Page 13 | RECONSIDERATION POLICY
The Prothonotary reviews filed legal papers only during normal business hours and notifies the filing party whether each paper is accepted or rejected.
Once filed, the legal paper shall be reviewed by the Prothonotary, and the filing party will receive notification that the legal paper was either accepted or rejected. Legal documents will only be reviewed by the Prothonotary staff during normal business hours.
Civil cases
Page 6 | (F) Filing
If a legal paper is accepted for filing by the Prothonotary, the it shall be deemed to have been filed the date and time it was received by the EFS. If a legal paper is submitted without the requisite fees, the legal paper shall be deemed to have been accepted for filing as of the date payment is received.
If a legal paper is accepted for filing by the Prothonotary, the it shall be deemed to have been filed the date and time it was received by the EFS. If a legal paper is submitted without the requisite fees, the legal paper shall be deemed to have been accepted for filing as of the date payment is received.
Civil cases
Page 6 | (F) Filing
An approved filing is dated as of the date the EFS received the document, not the date of approval.
The date of an approved filing shall be the date the document was received by the EFS, not the date of approval.
Civil cases
Page 6 | (F) Filing
The EFS records the filing date and time and emails the filing party an acknowledgment stating when the legal paper was received.
The date and time of filing of a legal paper shall be recorded by the EFS. The EFS shall provide the filing party with an electronic mail acknowledgement which includes the date and time the legal paper was received by the EFS.
Civil cases
Page 6 | (F) Filing
An electronically filed document is due by 11:59:59 p.m. EST/EDT on its due date.
(1) The filing deadline for any document filed electronically shall be 11:59:59 p.m. EST/EDT on the date it is due.
Civil cases
Page 7 | (H) Miscellaneous
The filing party is responsible for delays, disruptions, interruptions, or legibility issues unless caused by failure of the system's website.
A filing party shall be responsible for any delay, disruption, and interruption of the electronic signals and legibility of the document electronically filed, except when caused by the failure of the system's website.
Page 5 | (F) Filing
The parties are requested to complete and return the mediation questionnaire to the Prothonotary’s Office at least seven days before the conference.
It is requested that the parties complete and return the Child Custody Mediation Questionnaire to the Prothonotary's Office at least seven (7) days prior to the scheduled conference.
Page 1 | CHILD CUSTODY CASE PROCEDURES
The moving party may file a reply brief within five business days after service of the responsive brief.
The moving party may file a brief in reply to the responsive brief with five business days after service of a responsive brief.
Civil cases
Page 4 | Local Rule 208.3(b)(3). Reply Brief
The Prothonotary must provide access to the EFS except during required maintenance.
The Prothonotary shall provide access to its EFS at all times except during periods of required maintenance.
Civil cases
Page 6 | (F) Filing
An Initial Custody Conference generally occurs within 30–45 days after the custody complaint is filed.
The first step in the process is an Initial Custody Conference, which generally occurs within 30-45 days following the filing of a Complaint for Custody, Partial Custody, or Visitation of a minor child.
Page 1 | CHILD CUSTODY CASE PROCEDURES
A registered user who believes EFS unavailability prevented timely filing may file a motion within ten days of the attempt to file.
If the registered user believes the unavailability of the EFS prevented a timely filing, the registered user may file a motion within ten (10) days of the registered user's attempt to file the document.
Civil cases
Page 7 | (H) Miscellaneous
Service and Proof of Service Rules
The requester must serve a copy of the transcript request on the court reporter, presiding judge, and opposing counsel or, if unrepresented, the opposing party.
The party requesting a transcript shall also serve a copy of the request upon the court reporter, the presiding judge, and opposing counsel, or in the event the opposing party is not represented, the opposing party.
Page 1 | Rule 4007(A)
Electronic service of legal papers through PACFile is permitted in Indiana County criminal cases under this rule.
(1) The electronic filing of legal papers and the electronic service of such papers through the PACFile system with the Indiana County Clerk of Courts for criminal cases in the Indiana County Court of Common Pleas is permitted under the terms described in this Local Rule.
Page 2 | (B) Purpose
Establishing a PACFile account or obtaining authorization constitutes consent to electronic filing and electronic service of PACFile documents.
Establishment of an account by an attorney or authorization of a defendant proceeding without counsel in the PACFile system, to the extent permitted under this Local Rule and authorized by the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts, shall constitute consent to participate in electronic filing, including acceptance of service electronically of any document filed in the PACFile system.
Page 3 | (D) Participation
Electronic filings must be served under Rules 114(B) and 576(b) on attorneys or parties who lack an account or cannot access or use the electronic system.
Service of electronic filings on any attorney or party who has not established a UJS web portal account or who is unable to file or receive legal papers electronically or otherwise unable to access the system shall be made by the procedures provided under Rules 114(B) and 576(b).
Page 4 | (D) Participation
Court orders and notices must be served on the listed offices in accordance with Pa.R.Crim.P. 576.
The following offices must be served in accordance with Pa.R.Crim.P. 576: Sheriff, Adult Probation, Court Reporters, Court Administration, and Judge's Chambers. This applies to the service of court orders and notices.
Page 4 | (D) Participation
Papers must be served electronically on attorneys and defendants participating in PACFile.
Service upon an attorney or defendant participating in the PACFile system shall be done electronically.
Page 4 | (D) Participation
For Expedited track matters, discovery requests must be served early enough for responses to be completed before fact discovery closes.
All interrogatories, request for the production of documents, depositions, and request for admissions shall be served within sufficient time to allow responses to be completed prior to the close of fact discovery;
Civil cases
Page 3 | (c) Scheduling
A party must file its brief with the Prothonotary and serve copies in accordance with Pa. R.C.P. No. 440.
A party shall file a brief with the Prothonotary and shall serve copies pursuant to Pa. R.C.P. No. 440.
Civil cases
Page 4 | Local Rule 210. Form of Briefs.
Not less than ten (10) days prior to the scheduled time of the pre-trial conference, the plaintiff shall file with the Prothonotary (and simultaneously send a copy directly to the judge presiding over the pretrial conference), and serve on opposing counsel, a pretrial statement. Three (3) days prior to the scheduled time of the pre-trial conference, all remaining parties shall file in like manner their pretrial statements.
Not less than ten (10) days prior to the scheduled time of the pre-trial conference, the plaintiff shall file with the Prothonotary (and simultaneously send a copy directly to the judge presiding over the pretrial conference), and serve on opposing counsel, a pretrial statement. Three (3) days prior to the scheduled time of the pre-trial conference, all remaining parties shall file in like manner their pretrial statements.
Civil cases
Page 5 | (d) Pretrial Statements: filing deadlines
Objections to a Certificate of Readiness must be served within 20 days after service of the certificate.
Any party objecting to a Certificate of Readiness shall do so by filing and serving objections within twenty (20) days of service of the Certificate of Readiness.
Civil cases
Page 5 | (c) Objection to Certificate of Readiness
The moving party must ensure that copies of the scheduling order are served on all parties and their counsel.
It shall be the responsibility of the moving party to see that copies of the Order of Court scheduling the Initial Custody Conference are served on all parties and their respective counsel.
Civil cases
Page 8 | RULE L-1915.1. INITIAL CUSTODY CONFERENCE
The moving party must ensure that copies of the order scheduling mediation are served on all parties and their counsel.
It shall be the responsibility of the moving party to see that copies of the Order of Court scheduling the Child Custody Mediation are served on all parties and their respective counsel.
Civil cases
Page 9 | RULE L-1915.2. CUSTODY MEDIATION
Discovery requests and depositions must be served with enough time for responses to be completed before fact discovery closes.
All interrogatories, request for the production of documents, depositions, and request for admissions shall be served within sufficient time to allow responses to be completed prior to the close of fact discovery;
Page 4 | Rule L1910.12(c), subsection (8)(b)
A party requesting delay damages must serve the information required by Rule L1306(2) on all other parties no later than when it is presented to the chairperson.
A party requesting delay damages shall serve a copy of the information set forth in Rule L1306(2) upon all other parties at or before the time the same is presented to the chairperson of the arbitration board/panel;
Civil cases
Page 8 | Rule L1306 – Award
The appellant must serve all parties to the matter with the Certificate of Readiness for trial.
(e) Simultaneously with the filing of the appeal, the appellant shall also file a Certificate of Readiness for trial with the Prothonotary and shall serve all parties to the matter.
Civil cases
Page 9 | Rule L1308 – Appeal. Arbitrator's Compensation.
Before the specified continuance requests are presented to the Court, all parties must receive notice.
(b) Requests for continuance made less than seven (7) days before the scheduled hearing, in instances in which all parties do not concur in the request for continuance, or a request for a second or subsequent continuance, shall, after notice to all parties, be presented to the Court for disposition.
Civil cases
Page 10 | Rule L1315 – Continuances of Hearing.
Electronic service is complete when the legal paper is sent to the recipient's email address.
If electronically served, service is complete when a legal paper is sent to the recipient's electronic mail address.
Civil cases
Page 7 | (G) Service
After an electronic filing is accepted, the filing party must provide the Sheriff the documents needed for original service and writs.
(2) Once an electronic filing has been accepted by the Prothonotary, it shall be the responsibility of the filing party to provide to the Sheriff the proper service fee and documents for original service and writs.
Civil cases
Page 7 | (G) Service
Service may be made under Pa.R.C.P. 440 or electronically, except by fax, if the parties agree or the recipient's electronic address appears on an appearance or prior filed paper.
served as provided by Pa.R.C.P. 440 or by electronic transmission, other than facsimile transmission, if the parties agree thereto or an electronic address is included on an appearance or a prior legal paper filed with the Court in the action.
Civil cases
Page 7 | (G) Service
Filing Fees and Waivers
The requester must pay a nonrefundable 75% of the estimated transcript cost at the District Court Administrator’s Office by check or money order payable to the County of Indiana, except that the Commonwealth and its subdivisions owe no down payment.
The requesting party shall make partial payment of seventy‐five percent (75%) of the estimated cost, which shall be nonrefundable. Payments shall be made at the District Court Administrator’s Office. Only checks or money orders made payable to “The County of Indiana” will be accepted. No down payment shall be required from the Commonwealth or a subdivision of the Commonwealth
Page 1 | Rule 4007(B)
The balance must be paid by check or money order payable to the County of Indiana, and private parties will not receive the transcript until the full cost is paid.
The District Court Administrator’s Office shall receive payment for the balance owed by check or money order made payable to “The County of Indiana.” No transcript shall be delivered to private parties until 100 % of the payment cost is received.
Page 1 | Rule 4007(C)
An expedited transcript in bound paper format costs $3.75 per page for a requester other than the Commonwealth or its subdivisions.
(b) Expedited $3.75 per page
Page 2 | Rule 4008(A)(b)
An ordinary transcript in bound paper format costs $2.75 per page for a requester other than the Commonwealth or its subdivisions.
(a) Ordinary $2.75 per page
Page 2 | Rule 4008(A)(a)
A copy of a previously ordered, transcribed, and filed transcript costs $0.75 per page in bound paper format.
A request for a copy of a transcript previously ordered, transcribed and filed of record shall be provided at the rate of $0.75 per page bound, paper format.
Page 2 | Rule 4008(D)
A daily transcript in bound paper format costs $4.75 per page for a requester other than the Commonwealth or its subdivisions.
(c) Daily $4.75 per page
Page 2 | Rule 4008(A)(c)
A same-day-delivery transcript in bound paper format costs $6.75 per page for a requester other than the Commonwealth or its subdivisions.
(d) Same day delivery $6.75 per page
Page 2 | Rule 4008(A)(d)
Applicable fees must be paid through the Clerk of Courts’ procedures at the time and in the amount required by the governing statute, rule, order, or fee schedule.
Applicable fees shall be paid through procedures established by the Clerk of Courts and at the same time and in the same amount as required by statute, court rule or order, or published fee schedule.
Page 6 | (I) Fees
The parties must deposit $200 with the Indiana County Prothonotary seven days before the Mediation Conference.
Seven (7) days prior to the Mediation Conference, the parties are required to deposit $200.00 with the Prothonotary of Indiana County.
Page 1 | CHILD CUSTODY CASE PROCEDURES
Parties who have not filed an in forma pauperis petition must pay a $50 per-person fee to the Guidance Center’s Confidential Counseling Services Department.
All parties, who have not filed a Petition For In Forma Pauperis with the Court are required to pay a $50.00 per person fee to the Confidential Counseling Services Department of the Indiana County Guidance Center.
Page 1 | CHILD CUSTODY CASE PROCEDURES
A party must provide proof of payment of the mediation fee or a copy of an approved IFP petition.
(2) Proof of payment of his or her Mediation Fee to the Prothonotary of Indiana County or copy of an approved IFP Petition; and,
Civil cases
Page 9 | RULE L-1915.2. CUSTODY MEDIATION
The mediation fee is refunded only when the parties agree in a writing signed by both parties or counsel and submitted to the Court at least seven days before mediation to cancel it.
(h) The Mediation Fee shall be refunded only if, by a writing signed by both parties or counsel and submitted to the Court not less than seven (7) days before the scheduled date of Mediation, the parties agree that the Mediation should be canceled.
Civil cases
Page 10 | RULE L-1915.2. CUSTODY MEDIATION
Proof of payment of his or her $200.00 Mediation Fee or that he or she has petitioned the Court for, and been granted IFP status.
Proof of payment of his or her $200.00 Mediation Fee or that he or she has petitioned the Court for, and been granted IFP status.
Civil cases
Page 2 | ORDER OF COURT
An appealing party must pay any required appeal-filing fee; the Prothonotary establishes the filing cost with court approval.
A party appealing an award shall pay to the Prothonotary any fee required for the filing of the appeal. The cost of filing an appeal shall be established, with approval by the court, by the Prothonotary.
Civil cases
Page 9 | Rule L1308 – Appeal. Arbitrator's Compensation.
The participant must pay the appropriate fee at the Clerk of Courts Office before filing an expungement petition.
The participant must pay the appropriate fee in the Clerk of Courts Office prior to the filing of the petition for expungement.
Criminal cases
Page 14 | PROGRAM TRACKS
Electronic filers must promptly report payment errors to the Prothonotary's Office and no later than 45 days after payment.
Electronic filers shall alert the Prothonotary's Office of any payment errors as soon as possible and not later than forty-five (45) days of the payment date.
Civil cases
Page 5 | (D) Fees
E-filing fees may be paid by Discover, MasterCard, Visa, American Express, or electronic check.
The Prothonotary will accept the following credit cards for payment of all e-filing fees: Discover, MasterCard, Visa, American Express, and electronic checks.
Civil cases
Page 5 | (D) Fees
After an electronic filing is accepted, the filing party must provide the Sheriff the proper service fee and documents for original service and writs.
(2) Once an electronic filing has been accepted by the Prothonotary, it shall be the responsibility of the filing party to provide to the Sheriff the proper service fee and documents for original service and writs.
Civil cases
Page 7 | (G) Service
The presiding judge may impose a reasonable transcript-cost surcharge in mass-tort, medical-malpractice, or other unusually complex litigation.
Pursuant to Pa.R.J.A. 4008(E), the presiding judge may impose a reasonable surcharge in cases such as mass tort, medical malpractice, or other unusually complex litigation.
Page 2 | Rule 4008(E)
A transcript-cost reduction based on economic hardship is governed by Pa.R.J.A. 4008(B).
Reduction based on economic hardship shall be in accordance with Pa.R.J.A 4008(B).
Page 2 | Rule 4008(B)
Transcript-cost allocation is governed by Pa.R.J.A. 4008(C).
Allocation of costs shall be as set forth in Pa.R.J.A. 4008(C).
Page 2 | Rule 4008(C)
The Prothonotary may charge a convenience fee in the amount set by Administrative Order of the President Judge.
The Prothonotary is authorized to charge a convenience fee, as set by Administrative Order of the President Judge.
Civil cases
Page 5 | (D) Fees
Advance deposits for future filings are not accepted.
The Prothonotary will not accept advance deposits for payment of future filings.
Civil cases
Page 5 | (D) Fees
Courtesy Copy Requirements
Pretrial statements must be filed with the Prothonotary, with a copy sent directly to the presiding judge and service on opposing counsel.
Not less than ten (10) days prior to the scheduled time of the pre-trial conference, the plaintiff shall file with the Prothonotary (and simultaneously send a copy directly to the judge presiding over the pretrial conference), and serve on opposing counsel, a pretrial statement. Three (3) days prior to the scheduled time of the pre-trial conference, all remaining parties shall file in like manner their pretrial statements.
Civil cases
Page 5 | (d) Pretrial Statements: filing deadlines
Sealing & Redaction Procedures
Counsel and unrepresented parties must follow the Public Access Policy and refrain from including confidential information in papers filed with the Clerk or Court.
Counsel and unrepresented parties must adhere to the Public Access Policy of the Unified Judicial System or Pennsylvania and refrain from including confidential information in legal papers filed with the Clerk of Courts or the Court whether filed electronically or in a paper format.
Page 6 | (H) Confidential Information
Confidential exhibits, including those equivalent to categories enumerated in PA Access Policy §8.0, are to be handled so the record office can seal them.
(c) Any exhibit containing confidential information or equivalent to any of the categories enumerated in PA. Access Policy §8.0 shall include a Confidential Document Form so that the document can be properly sealed by the record office.
Page 4 | Rule 5103. Custody of Exhibits. Special Provisions.
Arbitrators must not open sealed envelopes or otherwise ascertain their contents until the board or panel decides the merits.
(6) No arbitrator shall open the sealed envelope(s), or, in any other manner, attempt to ascertain the contents thereof, until the arbitration board/panel has reached a decision on the merits of the case;
Civil cases
Page 9 | Rule L1306 – Award
A party seeking to file a document under seal must designate it as sealed in the CountySuite Portal and submit a Motion to Seal at the same time; the designation alone does not seal the document, and the motion must explain the reasons and follow the cited local rule procedure.
Documents intended to be filed under seal shall be designated by the filing party as "sealed" in the CountySuite Portal. However, designation of documents as "sealed" does not seal the documents. In addition, to make the designation in the CountySuite Portal, the filing party must also submit a Motion to Seal at the same time as the legal paper intended to be sealed. The motion shall outline the reasons why the legal paper should be sealed and shall follow motion procedure set forth in Local Rule of Civil Procedure 208.3(a) and (b).
Civil cases
Page 5 | (E) Filings Under Seal
Qualifying Confidential Information Forms and documents filed with a Confidential Document Form are sealed without a motion.
Confidential Information Forms and documents properly filed with a Confidential Document Form pursuant to Case Records Public Access Policy of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania will be sealed without motion.
Civil cases
Page 5 | (E) Filings Under Seal
Public access terminals provide registered-user access, except for cases sealed by court order, statute, or court rule.
The public access terminals will provide the same level of access to cases that is provided to all registered users, excluding any cases sealed by court order, statute, or rule of court.
Civil cases
Page 5 | (C) Access to the Docket
Filing details and titles appear in the EFS, but sealed documents and Confidential Information Forms are viewable only by the listed court personnel and case participants.
The filing details and document title will appear in the EFS. The sealed documents and Confidential Information Forms can be viewed only by the Court, Court staff, Court Administration, Prothonotary staff, and case participants.
Civil cases
Page 5 | (E) Filings Under Seal
Filing Bundling Requirements
The moving party must file the motion, proposed order, and supporting brief concurrently; if the brief is omitted, an opposing party may praecipe to have the motion deemed withdrawn without prejudice.
The moving party shall file a motion, proposed order and supporting brief concurrently. If a brief is not filed with the motion, the motion shall be deemed withdrawn, without prejudice, upon praecipe of an opposing party.
Civil cases
Page 3 | Local Rule 208.3(b)(1). Motion and Brief
A party may submit multiple digital exhibits together on one USB flash drive.
If one party has multiple digital exhibits, they may be submitted together on one USB flash drive.
Page 4 | Rule 5103. Custody of Exhibits. Special Provisions.
Adjournment & Extension Requirements
A case management conference may be continued upon written motion and good cause, or by agreement of all parties approved by the Court Program Manager.
A case management conference shall not be continued except: - (a) Upon written motion to the Court and for good cause shown; or, - (b) Upon agreement of all parties, provided that the agreement is approved by the Court Program Manager.
Civil cases
Page 5 | (e) Miscellaneous
Parties may not alter or extend Case Management Order deadlines or waive its provisions; the Court may grant relief or schedule a conference upon a party’s motion and good cause.
The parties may not, individually or by agreement, alter or extend the deadlines of a Case Management Order, or waive any of the provisions of the Order; however, the Court, by motion of any party and upon good cause shown, may grant appropriate relief and/or order the scheduling of a case management conference before the Court Program Manager.
Civil cases
Page 5 | (e) Miscellaneous
A motion for continuance should state the current scheduled date, prior continuances, reasons for the request, and the parties’ awareness and responses.
2. This matter is presently scheduled for a _____ which is scheduled for _____ at _____ m. before Judge _____. 3. This matter has previously been continued for the following reasons: DATE _____ REASON _____ ON MOTION OF _____ 4. Counsel for _____ requests the above-captioned matter be continued. 5. The reasons for this requested continuance are as follows _____ _____ _____ 6. All parties or their attorneys have been made aware of the presentation of this motion and have responded as follows:
Civil cases
Page 7 | FORM F1
A motion to continue mediation must be directed to the Court and substantially comply with Form F.3.
(e) Any motion for continuance of Mediation must be directed to the Court and made on a form in substantial compliance with Form F.3 of these Local Rules.
Civil cases
Page 10 | RULE L-1915.2. CUSTODY MEDIATION
A case management conference may be continued only on written motion to the Court and a showing of good cause.
(c) A case management conference shall not be continued except upon written motion to the Court and for good cause shown;
Page 5 | Local Rule (10)(c)
Parties may not alter or extend Case Management Order deadlines or waive its provisions themselves or by agreement; the Court may grant appropriate relief on a party’s motion and for good cause shown.
(d) The parties may not, individually or by agreement, alter or extend the deadlines of a Case Management Order, or waive any of the provisions of the Order; however, the Court, by motion of any party and upon good cause shown, may grant appropriate relief and/or order the scheduling of a case management conference before the Court Program Manager; and
Page 5 | Local Rule (10)(d)
A party seeking to avoid consequences for missing mediation must file a Motion for Continuance and obtain a continuance from the Court.
B. Any party failing to appear for Mediation without having filed a Motion for Continuance and been granted a continuance by the Court, may have an Order entered against his or her custodial interest and/or will result in the scheduling of a hearing to determine whether or not the non-participating party is in contempt and whether or not sanctions should be imposed including, but not limited to, costs, fines, attorney fees, probation, and/or incarceration.
Civil cases
Page 3
A request made less than seven days before the hearing, without all parties' agreement, or for a second or later continuance must be presented to the Court for disposition after notice to all parties.
(b) Requests for continuance made less than seven (7) days before the scheduled hearing, in instances in which all parties do not concur in the request for continuance, or a request for a second or subsequent continuance, shall, after notice to all parties, be presented to the Court for disposition.
Civil cases
Page 10 | Rule L1315 – Continuances of Hearing.
More than seven days before the hearing, the case may be continued once by agreement of all parties; the written request must be filed with the Prothonotary, copied to the Court Program Manager, and state that all parties agree.
(a) More than seven (7) days prior to the hearing date, a case may be continued one (1) time by agreement of all parties. The request for continuance must be in writing, filed with the Prothonotary, and a copy provided to the Court Program Manager. The continuance must aver that all parties agree to the continuance. The Court Program Manager will reschedule the arbitration hearing to the next available date.
Civil cases
Page 10 | Rule L1315 – Continuances of Hearing.
Mediation shall not be canceled or continued for noncompliance with the requirements of L-1915.2(c), above.
Mediation shall not be canceled or continued for noncompliance with the requirements of L-1915.2(c), above.
Civil cases
Page 9 | RULE L-1915.2. CUSTODY MEDIATION
Mediation will not be canceled or continued because of nonpayment of fees.
No Mediation will be canceled or continued for nonpayment of fees.
Civil cases
Page 2 | ORDER OF COURT
Chambers Communication Rules
An arbitrator unable to serve must notify the Court Program Manager in writing at least ten days before the scheduled hearing, unless prevented by matters beyond the arbitrator’s control.
(j) If an appointed arbitrator cannot serve at the time designated, the attorney shall, unless otherwise prevented by matters beyond his or her control, notify the Court Program Manager in writing at least ten (10) days in advance of the date which the hearing has been scheduled and a substitute arbitrator will be appointed.
Civil cases
Page 4 | Rule L1302 – List of Arbitrators. Appointment to the Board/Panel.