Court of Common Pleas of Venango County, Pennsylvania
Court-Level Rules, Filing Procedures & Policies
- Rules last changed:
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Document Format Requirements13 rules
Motions in limine must be in writing
(B) A motion for continuance shall be filed on a form as provided by the Central Court Administrator.
The affidavit and the surety information page shall be in such form as the Clerk of Courts may prescribe from time to time.
The motion for the appointment of a conciliator and the appointment order to be submitted with the motion shall be substantially in the form prescribed by Local Rule 1920.74.
(a) The motion for appointment of a conciliator shall be substantially in the following form:
- Motion
Formatting
- •Substantially follow the form provided in Rule 1920.74.
4) Those legal papers that are not permitted to be electronically filed pursuant to this rule shall be maintained in a physical paper format only.
- File type
- Paper
6) Legal papers shall be presented for filing in portable document format (".pdf").
- File type
A motion averring facts not of record that requires a sworn affidavit must be created on paper, physically signed, and converted to PDF before electronic filing.
- File type
Court's wording
3) 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 may be electronically filed.
Motions in limine must be in writing and shall be filed with the Prothonotary no later than the pre-trial conference.
- Motion in limine
Formatting
- •The motion must be in writing
Motions for continuances shall be submitted in writing to the central Court Administrator on forms approved and provided by Central Court.
Original transcript requests must use the standardized Request for Transcript form, available on the county website or at a filing office.
Court's wording
(A) All original requests for transcripts shall be set forth on the standardized "Request for Transcript" form which may be downloaded from the Venango County website at www.co.venango.pa.us or a copy of which can be obtained at any filing office (Prothonotary, Clerk of Courts, Register of Wills/Clerk of Orphans' Court and/or Domestic Relations).
The order appointing a conciliator shall be substantially in the following form:
1) 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
(E) All motions must be accompanied by a motion certificate page substantially in the following form:
Estimated court time (REQUIRED): _____
Must include
- •Estimated court time
YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ATTACHED MOTION/PETITION WILL BE FILED WITH THE PROTHONOTARY/CLERK OF COURTS ON _____.
Pre-trial statements must identify the client and trial attorney, provide binding settlement demand and offer in jury cases unless otherwise scheduled, identify insurance coverage, and list trial witnesses with their addresses and purposes.
Court's wording
Pre-Trial Statements shall be filed no later than seven (7) days before the pre-trial conference and shall contain: (i) Name of client, name and telephone number of the attorney who will try the case; (ii) In jury cases, the demand and offer of settlement which shall be binding upon the parties for purposes of Pa.R.C.P. 212.1(b), unless otherwise scheduled by the Court; (iii) The name and coverage limits of any insurance carrier; (iv) The names and addresses of all witnesses to be called at trial with a description of their purpose, e.g. liability, damages, etc.;
(v) A list of exhibits to be introduced at trial. Counsel shall certify in the pre-trial memorandum that all exhibits were furnished to opposing counsel;
- Document
- Pretrial memorandum
Must include
- •Exhibit list
(vi) A list of voir dire questions;
Include
- •A list of voir dire questions
(vii) A statement of damages with a detailed analysis of the claim, including the manner of calculating damages;
(ix) A statement of the status of discovery, which shall include whether any further discovery is required and a proposed schedule for completing discovery;
(xii) A statement of novel questions of law, including whether any motions in limine will be filed;
(3) Pre-trial Statements shall be filed with the office of the Prothonotary/Clerk of Courts.
(viii) The estimated length of trial time necessary for counsel to present a party's evidence;
(xi) A statement of the status of any depositions for use at trial;
(x) A statement of the status of the scheduling of an independent medical examination;
For Preliminary Arraignments on arrest without warrant, the arresting agency shall fax a signed copy of the criminal complaint along with the bail questionnaire to the issuing authority.
For Preliminary Arraignments on arrest with a warrant, the arresting agency shall fax a copy of the criminal complaint, bail questionnaire, and signed served warrant to the issuing authority.
An attorney representing a defendant at the scheduled preliminary hearing must enter an appearance of record in the Court of Common Pleas on the provided form, unless the case is dismissed, withdrawn, or otherwise not held for that court.
Court's wording
An attorney who is representing a defendant at the time of the scheduled preliminary hearing at Venango County Central Court shall enter his/her appearance of record in the Venango County Court of Common Pleas on the form provided. An entry of appearance is not required if the entire court case is dismissed, withdrawn, or otherwise not held for the Court of Common Pleas of Venango County, Pennsylvania.
For Arrest Warrants, the affiant and issuing authority shall follow the same procedure as set forth in subsection D.
For Search Warrants, the requesting agency shall contact the issuing authority and arrange for a video-conference call. At such time as the video-conference call, the affiant shall swear to the affidavit of probable cause and then sign the search warrant application. The affiant will then fax the signed search warrant application to the issuing authority.
If the other charges are withdrawn as part of a plea agreement, the defendant shall sign the guilty plea portion of the citation and a copy of the plea agreement shall be attached to the citation when it is filed.
For police criminal complaints and arrest-warrant affidavits charging the listed offenses, attorney-for-the-Commonwealth approval is required before filing; approval may be oral, and when feasible should be communicated directly to the judicial officer, who should note it in the record.
Court's wording
The District Attorney of Venango County having filed a certification pursuant to Pennsylvania Rule of Criminal Procedure 507, criminal complaints and arrest warrant affidavits by police officers, as defined in the Rule of Criminal Procedure, charging the following offenses 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. The approval of the attorney for the Commonwealth may be oral. Whenever feasible, such oral approval should be communicated directly to the judicial officer who should make proper notations in the record thereof. Criminal Homicide 18 § 2501 Murder 18 § 2502 Voluntary Manslaughter 18 § 2503 Involuntary Manslaughter 18 § 2504 Causing or Aiding Suicide 18 § 2505 Drug Delivery Resulting in Death 18 § 2506 Rape 18 § 3121 Involuntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse 18 § 3123 Aggravated Indecent Assault of a Child 18 § 3125(b) Indecent Assault of a Child 18 § 3126(7) Arson 18 § 3301 Causing or risking catastrophe 18 § 3302 Perjury 18 § 4902
The affidavit of surety and the surety information page shall be signed by the defendant and by any and all other owners of the realty being offered as security.
evidence of the value of the realty. This can be either a certified copy of the most recent tax assessment or a sworn statement as to the fair market value of the real estate prepared by a licensed real estate appraiser to appraise in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
When realty is offered to satisfy a monetary condition of bail as permitted by Pa.R.Crim.P. 528(D)(3), in full or in combination with other forms of security, a completed affidavit of surety and surety information page (including a warrant of attorney for confession of judgment) must be submitted to the Clerk of Courts.
a photocopy of the deed, decree of distribution or other instrument of record, bearing all pertinent recording data, by which title was acquired, and;
Each affidavit of surety must include a qualifying lawyer's written certification of the owners, title, and liens, unless a title insurance policy naming Venango County as insured is substituted.
Court's wording
a written certification by a lawyer licensed to practice law in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania certifying the names of the current owners of record of the realty, certifying that good and marketable title is vested in them, and further certifying the nature, holder and unpaid balance of each lien that then encumbers the realty, including, but not limited to, mortgage, judgment and tax liens. A title insurance policy with Venango County appearing as the named insured may be substituted for the lawyer's written certification, and;
The Clerk shall file a certificate among the papers of the criminal case certifying that judgment has been entered and setting forth the pertinent details of entry.
All necessary forms shall be sent along with the defendant upon his or her commitment to the Venango County Prison by the issuing authority.
A set of signed original bond forms must accompany the bail money when it is transmitted to the appropriate authority.
Court's wording
All money received by the Venango County Prison for bail shall be transmitted along with a set of signed original bond forms to the issuing authority within forty-eight (48) hours, or if the case has been held for court then to the Clerk of Courts.
When a represented defendant detained outside Venango County Prison is scheduled to appear, defense counsel must petition for an order providing for temporary release and transportation to the Venango County Jail pending and during the appearance.
Court's wording
(A) When a defendant is in detention in any facility other than Venango County Prison, and the defendant is scheduled for an appearance before the Court of Common Pleas of Venango County, the following rules shall apply: (1) if the defendant is represented by counsel, defense counsel shall petition the court for an order causing the defendant’s temporary release from the current place of confinement and causing the defendant to be transported to confinement in the Venango County Jail pending and during the appearance before the Court.
At the time counsel is appointed to represent an indigent defendant for a PCRA proceeding, the Order shall include scheduling a status conference within sixty days of appointment. The District Court Administrator shall be copied on the order and shall schedule the status conference at the time of counsel’s appointment.
(2) if the defendant is not represented by counsel, the attorney for the Commonwealth shall file such a petition.
He/she shall also submit an interim proposed order, which shall include a hearing date before the Court.
A verification concerning the filer’s and household members’ criminal record or abuse history must be filed by the earlier of the initial in-person court contact or 30 days after service of the complaint or petition.
Court's wording
You must file with the Court a verification regarding any criminal record or abuse history regarding you and anyone living in your household on or before the initial in-person contact with the court (including, but not limited to, a conference with a conference officer or judge or conciliation), but not later than 30 days after the service of the complaint or petition, whichever first occurs.
Any party who files a petition for spousal support or alimony pendente lite when a claim for the other is pending will file a Motion to Consolidate and transfer that component of the proceeding to Domestic Relations if appropriate.
If custody issues remain unresolved, the conciliator must file a report stating who attended, the results, specified recommendations, and other recommendations that may assist the parties or court.
Court's wording
If any component is not settled or if the entire case is not settled, the conciliator will file a report with the court reciting who attended the conciliation, the results of the conciliation, recommendations for an interim order, recommendations concerning whether an attorney for the child should be appointed pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. No. 1915.11, and such other recommendations which may help the parties in the interim in resolving the matter or may help the court as the court addresses the matter in judicial conciliation and trial.
If any component of the case is settled, the conciliator will file a report setting forth the agreement and any recommendation of the conciliator and the proposed order to be signed by the court.
A proposed order of court will be submitted.
(4) The parties, if they consent to a divorce, will file the necessary consents and waivers immediately after the conciliation.
The motion for the appointment of a conciliator and the appointment order to be submitted with the motion shall be substantially in the form prescribed by Local Rule 1920.74.
The conciliator’s report must address resolved and unresolved issues, recommendations, trial preparation and scheduling, and a proposed order implementing the recommendations.
Court's wording
(5) The conciliator will file a report within 20 days of the conclusion of the session, which will include at least the following topics: (a) Identify issues resolved and what, if any, work needs to be done to complete resolution of the matter such as who is preparing the settlement agreement, powers of attorney, the qualified domestic relations orders, deeds, bills of sale, praecipe to transmit and other documents. (b) Identify unresolved issues and provide an analysis of the positions of the parties. (c) Make a recommendation as to whether experts should be appointed by the court or engaged by the parties. (d) Make such further recommendations to the court as the conciliator determines will assist the court in getting the case trial ready and in otherwise resolving the matter. (e) Confer with counsel regarding any issues not resolved and determine the amount of time the parties need to try the case. The conciliator will then schedule a trial date with the court administrator and include that date in the report. (f) Submit a proposed order of court to implement his recommendations.
(b) When the trial is conducted, the parties will file an updated inventory and pretrial statement not later than 20 days before the trial is scheduled before a judge.
(2) Conciliator will schedule conciliation only after at least one of the parties has filed both the inventory and a pre-trial statement as contemplated in Pa.R.C.P. 1920.33(b) and delivered a copy to the conciliator if filed after the conciliator is appointed.
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.
A converted PDF is treated as the original legal paper and may be used for all purposes.
Court's wording
3) 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, including but not limited to, court hearings and trials in the Venango County Court of Common Pleas.
An electronically signed motion or answer certifies that it was read, has good grounds to support it, and is not interposed for delay.
Court's wording
2) 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 good ground to support the motion or answer, and that it is not interposed for delay.
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 a paper format.
4) The original of a sworn or verified legal paper that is an electronic filing 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.
(a) The motion for appointment of a Divorce Master shall be substantially in the following form:
WHEREFORE, the _____ respectfully requests that this Honorable Court grant the instant prayer for the appointment of a divorce master by approving and entering the proposed Order attached hereto.
- Document
- Motion for appointment of divorce master
Include
- •Proposed order
Each party shall file and serve upon the other party a pre-trial statement in accordance with Pa. R.C.P. 1920.33(b) and deliver a copy to the Divorce Master prior to the preliminary conference.
The Order Appointing Master shall be in substantially the following form:
The preliminary conference with the Divorce Master shall not proceed until each party has filed their inventory and pre-trial statement.
(b) All motions must be accompanied by a cover sheet substantially in the following form:
A petition seeking a rule must include a statement of authority citing a statute, court rule, or case law; it may be in a contemporaneously filed brief or, for a petition without complex issues, in the petition itself.
Court's wording
The petition seeking the issuance of a rule shall be supported with an appropriate statement of authority citing a statute, rule of court, or case law in support of the requested relief. The statement may be in the form of a brief filed contemporaneously with the petition, or in a petition that does not raise complex legal and/or factual issues, the statement may be in the body of the petition itself.
The moving party is required to certify, by checking the appropriate box on the cover sheet required by Local Rule 205.2(b), whether the motion is contested or uncontested.
Every motion shall be supported by a brief statement of the applicable authority citing a statute, rule of court, or case law. The statement may be in the form of a brief filed contemporaneously with the motion, or where the motion does not raise complex legal and/or factual issues, the statement may be in the body of the motion itself.
The moving party is required to certify, by checking the appropriate box on the cover sheet required by Local Rule 205.2(b), whether he or she has conferred or attempted to confer with all interested parties regarding the motion.
Filing & Service rules
Electronic Filing Rules
Electronic filing of legal papers through PACFile is permitted for cases in the Venango County Court of Common Pleas.
AND NOW, this 20TH day of JANUARY, 2023 pursuant to Pennsylvania Rule of Criminal Procedure 576.1, it is HEREBY ORDERED and DECREED that the electronic filing of legal papers through the PACFile system with the Venango County Clerk of Court for cases in the Venango County Court of Common Pleas is authorized and shall be governed by V.C.R.Crim.P. 576.1, which is adopted.
Page 1 | ORDER OF COURT
Electronic filing of legal papers through PACFile is permitted for criminal cases in the Venango County Court of Common Pleas.
1) The electronic filing of legal papers and the electronic service of such papers through the PACFile system with the Venango County Clerk of Court for criminal cases in the Venango 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 https://ujsportal.pacourts.us/PACFile.aspx.
Page 2 | (B) Purpose.
An attorney must establish a PACFile account using procedures established by the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts to participate in PACFile.
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
The Clerk of Courts must accept and retain hard-copy legal papers and convert them to PDF for the system unless the papers are excluded from electronic filing under the cited rule.
Any legal paper submitted for filing to the Clerk of Courts in a physical paper (or 'hard-copy') 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. The Clerk of Courts shall convert such hard-copy legal paper to .pdf and add it to the system, except those legal papers excluded from electronic filing pursuant to Pa.R.Crim.P. 576.1(C) and this rule.
Page 4 | (E) Retention, Conversion, and Use of Legal Papers
Legal papers submitted electronically must be filed through PACFile at the Unified Judicial System web portal and follow its instructions.
1) 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://ujsportal.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
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 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
An attorney or defendant 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
Any party who declines to participate in the PACFile electronic filing system, or who is unable to electronically file or accept service of legal papers which were filed electronically, or who is otherwise unable to access the PACFile system, shall be permitted to file legal papers in a physical paper format ('hard-copy') and shall be served legal papers in a physical paper format by the Clerk of Courts and other parties, whether electronically filed or otherwise, as required by Pa.R.Crim.P. 576.
Any party who declines to participate in the PACFile electronic filing system, or who is unable to electronically file or accept service of legal papers which were filed electronically, or who is otherwise unable to access the PACFile system, shall be permitted to file legal papers in a physical paper format ('hard-copy') and shall be served legal papers in a physical paper format by the Clerk of Courts and other parties, whether electronically filed or otherwise, as required by Pa.R.Crim.P. 576.
Page 4 | (D) Participation
Parties are encouraged, but not required, to send the court copies of pleadings and other legal papers by email or floppy disk in addition to properly filing them with the Prothonotary.
In addition to properly filing all pleadings and other legal papers with the Prothonotary, parties are encouraged, but not required, to submit any and all pleadings and other legal papers to the court via email or floppy disk.
Civil cases
Page 3 | Rule 205.5. Providing Pleadings and Other Legal Papers to the Court.
Filing Timing and Cure Windows
Defense expert reports are due by the listed track deadlines.
| Defense Expert Reports | 8 Months | 12 Months | 18 Months |
Page 3 | RULE 212.1 – Civil Case Management
The case management conference or management order is scheduled four months after filing on all three tracks.
| Case Management Conference/Management Order | 4 Months after the date of filing | 4 Months after the date of filing | 4 Months after the date of filing |
Page 3 | RULE 212.1 – Civil Case Management
Dispositive motions are due by the listed track deadlines.
| Dispositive Motions | 8 Months | 12 Months | 18 Months |
Page 3 | RULE 212.1 – Civil Case Management
The fast-track schedule lists the praecipe for arbitration filing at nine months.
| Praecipe for Arbitration Filed | 9 Months | | |
Page 3 | RULE 212.1 – Civil Case Management
The trial date is within 18 months of filing on the standard track and within 24 months on the complex track.
| Trial Date | | within 18 months of filing | within 24 months of filing |
Page 3 | RULE 212.1 – Civil Case Management
Plaintiff expert reports are due by the listed track deadlines.
| Plaintiff Expert Reports | 6 Months | 9 Months | 16 Months |
Page 3 | RULE 212.1 – Civil Case Management
The pre-trial statement is due 60 days before trial on the standard and complex tracks.
| Pre-Trial Statement Due | | 60 days prior to trial | 60 days prior to trial |
Page 3 | RULE 212.1 – Civil Case Management
The pre-trial conference is scheduled at 14 months on the standard track and 18 months on the complex track.
| Pre-Trial Conference | | 14 Months | 18 Months |
Page 3 | RULE 212.1 – Civil Case Management
Discovery must be complete and a motion to compel filed by the listed track deadlines.
| Discovery Complete; Motion to Compel Filed | 6 Months | 9 Months | 12 Months |
Page 3 | RULE 212.1 – Civil Case Management
Pre-trial statements must be filed no later than seven days before the pre-trial conference.
Pre-Trial Statements shall be filed no later than seven (7) days before the pre-trial conference
Page 4 | (c) Pre-Trial Statements
A motion to participate in a conference by telephone or videoconference must be submitted at least seven days before the pre-trial conference, and the Court may grant it in its discretion.
(2) A Motion to the Court to participate in the conferences via telephone or videoconference must be submitted no later than seven (7) days prior to the pre-trial conference date, which the Court may grant in its discretion.
Page 4 | (b) Case Management, Status, and Pre-Trial Conferences
Motions in limine must be filed with the Prothonotary by the pre-trial conference.
Motions in limine must be in writing and shall be filed with the Prothonotary no later than the pre-trial conference.
Page 5 | (c) Pre-Trial Statements
The affiant must deliver the original signed search warrant application to the issuing authority the next business day.
The affiant shall deliver to the issuing authority the original signed search warrant application the next business day.
Criminal cases
Page 4 | V.C.R.Crim.P. 118(D). Use of Two-Way Simultaneous Advanced Communication Technology in Criminal Proceedings
The arresting agency must deliver the original signed criminal complaint to the issuing authority the next business day.
The arresting agency shall deliver to the issuing authority the original signed criminal complaint the next business day.
Criminal cases
Page 4 | V.C.R.Crim.P. 118(B). Use of Two-Way Simultaneous Advanced Communication Technology in Criminal Proceedings
The judge must notify the District Attorney 24 hours before intending to unseal the affidavit.
The Judge shall give notice to the District Attorney twenty-four (24) hours prior of his or her intent to unseal the affidavit.
Criminal cases
Page 8 | V.C.R.Crim.P. 211. SEALING SEARCH WARRANT AFFIDAVITS
The Clerk of Courts must forward the sealed documents to the issuing judge 48 hours before the stated expiration date for review and, if appropriate, public filing in the criminal proceeding or as a separate proceeding.
Forty-eight (48) hours before the recited expiration date, the Clerk of Courts shall forward the sealed documents to the issuing Judge who will then review the matter and, if appropriate, open the file and provide for filing the matter publicly as part of the criminal proceeding, if one has been initiated, or as a distinct proceeding.
Criminal cases
Page 8 | V.C.R.Crim.P. 211. SEALING SEARCH WARRANT AFFIDAVITS
Bail money and signed original bond forms must be transmitted within 48 hours to the issuing authority, or to the Clerk of Courts if the case has been held for court.
All money received by the Venango County Prison for bail shall be transmitted along with a set of signed original bond forms to the issuing authority within forty-eight (48) hours, or if the case has been held for court then to the Clerk of Courts.
Criminal cases
Page 11 | V.C.R.Crim.P. 528.2. After Hours Bail
The petition must be filed no later than ten days before the appearance date.
(B) The petition may have an appropriate Order attached thereto, and the petition shall be filed no later than ten (10) days before the date of appearance.
Criminal cases
Page 15
A status conference in a PCRA proceeding must be scheduled within 60 days of counsel’s appointment.
At the time counsel is appointed to represent an indigent defendant for a PCRA proceeding, the Order shall include scheduling a status conference within sixty days of appointment. The District Court Administrator shall be copied on the order and shall schedule the status conference at the time of counsel’s appointment.
Criminal cases
Page 15 | V.C.R.Crim.P. 904. PCRA Status Conference
The verification is due by the initial in-person court contact and in no event later than 30 days after service of the complaint or petition, whichever occurs first.
You must file with the Court a verification regarding any criminal record or abuse history regarding you and anyone living in your household on or before the initial in-person contact with the court (including, but not limited to, a conference with a conference officer or judge or conciliation), but not later than 30 days after the service of the complaint or petition, whichever first occurs.
Page 2 | RULE 1915.3. COMMENCEMENT OF ACTION. COMPLAINT. ORDER.
The conciliator must file a report within 20 days after the session concludes.
(5) The conciliator will file a report within 20 days of the conclusion of the session,
Page 7
The updated inventory and pretrial statement are due no later than 20 days before the trial is scheduled before a judge.
(b) When the trial is conducted, the parties will file an updated inventory and pretrial statement not later than 20 days before the trial is scheduled before a judge.
Page 7
If the parties consent to a divorce, they must file the necessary consents and waivers immediately after conciliation.
(4) The parties, if they consent to a divorce, will file the necessary consents and waivers immediately after the conciliation.
Page 7
The conciliator must schedule the conciliation no sooner than 20 days after the pre-trial statement is filed.
Conciliator will schedule the conciliation not sooner than 20 days from the date of filing the pre-trial statement.
Page 10 | ORDER OF COURT
The other party must file the inventory and pre-trial statement at least 7 days before conciliation, but the conference will proceed even if a party has not made the required filings.
(3) The other party shall then file the inventory and pre-trial statement not later than 7 days before the scheduled conciliation. Conciliation will proceed whether or not one of the parties has made the required filings.
Page 10 | ORDER OF COURT
A paper complying with the Pennsylvania Rules of Criminal Procedure cannot be refused based on a local electronic-filing requirement or practice.
4) 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
A legal paper is filed upon submission and clerk acceptance, with the submission time and date controlling if accepted; the clerk may reject a noncompliant filing.
3) 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
An electronic filing must be completed by 11:59:59 p.m. EST/EDT to be considered filed that day.
2) 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
The pre-trial statement must be filed before the preliminary conference.
Each party shall file and serve upon the other party a pre-trial statement in accordance with Pa. R.C.P. 1920.33(b) and deliver a copy to the Divorce Master prior to the preliminary conference.
Civil cases
Page 3 | ORDER APPOINTING DIVORCE MASTER
For applicable civil actions, excluding custody matters, compulsory-arbitration appeals, and the specified divorce matters, the Court will issue a Case Management Order within four months of filing that gives notice of the earliest trial date.
This rule shall apply to all civil actions, both jury and non-jury, with the exception of custody matters, appeals from compulsory arbitration, actions in divorce, and other issues permitted by law relating to the termination or validity of marriages. (a) Case Tracks and Case Events: Upon the filing of a civil action, the District Court Administrator shall assign a Judge to the case. Within four months of filing a case, the Court will issue a Case Management Order providing notice of the earliest date the case may be tried, pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 212.1.
Civil cases
Page 4 | RULE 212.1 – Civil Case Management.
The responding party must file a response and, if appropriate, a brief within 20 days after service of the motion.
In all cases the responding party shall file a response and a brief, if appropriate, within twenty (20) days after service of the motion.
Civil cases
Page 4 | Rule 208.3. Motions Practice and Procedure.
Fast-track cases are scheduled for disposition within 12 months.
Fast 12 Months
Civil cases
Page 5 | RULE 212.1 – Civil Case Management
Standard-track cases are scheduled for disposition within 18 months.
Standard 18 Months
Civil cases
Page 5 | RULE 212.1 – Civil Case Management
Complex-track cases are scheduled for disposition within 24 months.
Complex 24 months
Civil cases
Page 5 | RULE 212.1 – Civil Case Management
Praecipe for Arbitration 9 Months
Praecipe for Arbitration 9 Months
Civil cases
Page 6 | RULE 212.1 – Civil Case Management
Pre-Trial Statement Due 60 days prior to trial 60 days prior to trial
Pre-Trial Statement Due 60 days prior to trial 60 days prior to trial
Civil cases
Page 6 | RULE 212.1 – Civil Case Management
Defense expert reports are due eight, twelve, or eighteen months after filing, depending on the case track.
Defense Expert Reports 8 Months 12 Months 18 Months
Civil cases
Page 6 | RULE 212.1 – Civil Case Management
Trial is scheduled within 18 months of filing in the Standard track and within 24 months in the Complex track.
Trial Date within 18 months of within 24 months of filing filing
Civil cases
Page 6 | RULE 212.1 – Civil Case Management
Pre-Trial Conference 14 Months 18 Months
Pre-Trial Conference 14 Months 18 Months
Civil cases
Page 6 | RULE 212.1 – Civil Case Management
Discovery must be complete by six, nine, or twelve months, depending on the case track.
Discovery Complete; 6 Months 9 Months 12 Months
Civil cases
Page 6 | RULE 212.1 – Civil Case Management
Plaintiff expert reports are due six, nine, or sixteen months after filing, depending on the case track.
Plaintiff Expert Reports 6 Months 9 Months 16 Months
Civil cases
Page 6 | RULE 212.1 – Civil Case Management
Service and Proof of Service Rules
The certification records service of the motion or petition and proposed order, the recipient, the service method, and the date.
A copy of this Motion/Petition and proposed Order have been served on: _____ by: Fax Mail E-Mail Personal Service on the _____ day of _____, 20____.
Criminal cases
Page 3 | CERTIFICATION OF NOTICE AND SERVICE
The defendant must be provided a copy of all documents prepared for the preliminary arraignment.
The defendant shall be provided a copy of all documents.
Criminal cases
Page 3 | V.C.R.Crim.P. 118(B). Use of Two-Way Simultaneous Advanced Communication Technology in Criminal Proceedings
Continuance notices must be mailed to the last known address of every party involved in the case, in compliance with Pa.R.Crim.P. Rule 542.
All continuance notices shall be mailed to the last known address of all parties involved in a particular case and in compliance with Pa.R.Crim.P. Rule 542.
Criminal cases
Page 7 | V.C.R.Crim.P. 131.1. General Procedures Governing Central Court
If the issuing authority is unavailable when the individual is arrested, the individual must be released and notified of the contempt proceeding by mail.
If upon arrest of the individual the issuing authority is unavailable, the individual shall be released and notified of the contempt of court proceeding by mail as previously described.
Criminal cases
Page 7 | V.C.R.Crim.P. 131.1. General Procedures Governing Central Court
If the inventory and pre-trial statement are filed after the conciliator is appointed, a copy must be delivered to the conciliator.
(2) Conciliator will schedule conciliation only after at least one of the parties has filed both the inventory and a pre-trial statement as contemplated in Pa.R.C.P. 1920.33(b) and delivered a copy to the conciliator if filed after the conciliator is appointed.
Page 10 | ORDER OF COURT
Electronic service of legal papers through PACFile is permitted for criminal cases in the Venango County Court of Common Pleas.
1) The electronic filing of legal papers and the electronic service of such papers through the PACFile system with the Venango County Clerk of Court for criminal cases in the Venango County Court of Common Pleas is permitted under the terms described in this Local Rule.
Page 2 | (B) Purpose.
Establishing an attorney account or authorizing a self-represented defendant to use PACFile constitutes consent to electronic filing and electronic service of documents filed there.
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
Any party who declines to participate in the PACFile electronic filing system, or who is unable to electronically file or accept service of legal papers which were filed electronically, or who is otherwise unable to access the PACFile system, shall be permitted to file legal papers in a physical paper format ('hard-copy') and shall be served legal papers in a physical paper format by the Clerk of Courts and other parties, whether electronically filed or otherwise, as required by Pa.R.Crim.P. 576.
Any party who declines to participate in the PACFile electronic filing system, or who is unable to electronically file or accept service of legal papers which were filed electronically, or who is otherwise unable to access the PACFile system, shall be permitted to file legal papers in a physical paper format ('hard-copy') and shall be served legal papers in a physical paper format by the Clerk of Courts and other parties, whether electronically filed or otherwise, as required by Pa.R.Crim.P. 576.
Page 4 | (D) Participation
Legal 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
The Sheriff, Adult Probation, Court Reporter, and Court Administration must be served with court orders and notices 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 Reporter, and Court Administration. This applies to the service of court orders and notices.
Page 4 | (D) Participation
Each party must serve the pre-trial statement on the other party.
Each party shall file and serve upon the other party a pre-trial statement in accordance with Pa. R.C.P. 1920.33(b) and deliver a copy to the Divorce Master prior to the preliminary conference.
Civil cases
Page 3 | ORDER APPOINTING DIVORCE MASTER
If a party will not call a witness it previously indicated would be called, it must give opposing counsel three days’ notice.
If a party has indicated a witness will be called, three (3) days’ notice shall be given to opposing counsel if the witness will not be called for any reason.
Civil cases
Page 8 | RULE 212.1 – Civil Case Management.
Copies of the transcript request must be served as provided by Pa.R.J.A. 4007(B).
Copies of this request must be served in accordance with Pa.R.J.A. 4007(B).
Page 1 | Request for Transcript or Copy
Parties serving subpoenas on witnesses must submit a Service of Process form to the Issuing Authority as proof of service.
Parties serving subpoenas upon witnesses shall submit a Service of Process form to the Issuing Authority to substantiate that service was made upon the witness.
Criminal cases
Page 1 | RULES GOVERNING CENTRAL COURT PROCEDURE
Continuance notices must be mailed to every party’s last known address.
All continuances notices shall be mailed to the last known address of all parties involved in a particular case.
Criminal cases
Page 4 | RULES GOVERNING CENTRAL COURT PROCEDURE
When counsel files a praecipe for appointment of the Board, opposing counsel must receive notice.
The Board of three members shall be appointed within ten (10) days after a case is at issue, or after filing of the Agreement of Reference upon praecipe filed by counsel for either party, with notice to the opposing counsel.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Rule 1301. Arbitration.
The Chairman must notify the parties or their counsel of the hearing’s time and place.
The Chairman shall give notice to the parties or their counsel of the time and place fixed for hearing.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Rule 1301. Arbitration.
The original transcript request must be filed with the appropriate filing office, and copies must be provided to the presiding judge, court reporter, district court administrator, and opposing counsel or party.
(B) The original request shall be filed in the appropriate filing office and the requesting party shall provide copies of the formal request to: - (1) the judge presiding over the matter; - (2) the court reporter; - (3) the district court administrator; and - (4) opposing counsel or party
Page 2 | Rule 4007. Requests for Transcripts
Copies of a transcript request must be served as required by Pa.R.J.A. 4007(B).
Copies of this request must be served in accordance with Pa.R.J.A. 4007(B).
Page 5 | Request for Transcript or Copy
In equity, partition, prevent-waste, and specified declaratory-judgment actions, original process must be served within Pennsylvania by the sheriff or a competent adult.
With respect to all actions filed in Venango County, Pennsylvania, original process shall be served within the Commonwealth: - i. By the sheriff or a competent adult in the actions in equity, partition, prevent waste and declaratory judgment when declaratory relief is the only relief sought;
Civil cases
Page 1 | ORDER OF COURT
In all other actions filed in Venango County, original process must be served within Pennsylvania by the sheriff.
With respect to all actions filed in Venango County, Pennsylvania, original process shall be served within the Commonwealth: - ii. By the sheriff in all other actions;
Civil cases
Page 1 | ORDER OF COURT
If a previously identified witness will not be called, the party must give opposing counsel three days' notice.
If a party has indicated a witness will be called, three (3) days' notice shall be given to opposing counsel if the witness will not be called for any reason.
Page 5 | (c) Pre-Trial Statements
At the Commonwealth attorney’s request, contempt proceedings may commence against a nonappearing subpoenaed witness if service of the subpoena can be substantiated.
Witnesses who have been subpoenaed and do not appear for a preliminary hearing may upon request of the attorney for the Commonwealth, have contempt proceedings commence against them if service of the subpoena can be substantiated.
Criminal cases
Page 6 | V.C.R.Crim.P. 131.1. General Procedures Governing Central Court
Notice of contempt proceedings may be sent by first-class or certified mail.
Notice of the contempt of court proceedings against them may be via first class mail or certified mail.
Criminal cases
Page 6 | V.C.R.Crim.P. 131.1. General Procedures Governing Central Court
A subpoenaed witness who fails to appear within ten minutes after a preliminary hearing begins may be notified by First Class and Certified Mail of contempt proceedings if service of the subpoena can be substantiated.
Witnesses who have been subpoenaed and do not appear within ten (10) minutes of the actual start time for a preliminary hearing may be notified via First Class Mail and Certified Mail of Contempt of Court proceedings against them, if service of the subpoena can be substantiated.
Criminal cases
Page 3 | RULES GOVERNING CENTRAL COURT PROCEDURE
Filing Fees and Waivers
Each party must deposit the conciliator’s fee with the Prothonotary within two weeks after the order, and the conference will not be scheduled until the fees are deposited.
The parties are directed to deposit $_____ each to pay the conciliator’s fee with the Prothonotary within two (2) weeks from the date of this order. The conciliation conference will not be scheduled until the required fees are deposited.
Page 10 | ORDER OF COURT
Applicable filing fees must be paid using the Clerk of Courts’ procedures, at the time and in the amount required by statute, court rule or order, or the published fee schedule.
Applicable filing 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 7 | (I) Fees
The motion form requires certification that the proper appointment fee has been deposited with the Venango County Prothonotary.
12. I hereby certify that _____ has deposited the proper fee for the appointment of the Divorce Master with the Venango County Prothonotary on _____.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Rule 1920.74 Form of Motion for the Appointment of Divorce Master. Order.
The requestor’s payable costs may not exceed the rates prescribed in Pa.R.J.A. 4008(A)(1) and (D)(1).
Costs payable by requestor shall not exceed the rates prescribed in Pa.R.J.A. 4008(A)(1) and (D)(1).
Page 2 | IV. Transcript Delivery and Cost
The first requestor must pay for the original transcript and, if desired, a personal copy, subject to cost sharing with additional parties.
Note: The first requestor of a transcript is obligated to pay for the original transcript, which is filed with the court, plus the copy rate if the requestor desires a personal copy (subject to any cost sharing with additional parties).
Page 2 | IV. Transcript Delivery and Cost
The requestor must pay a non-refundable deposit of 90% of the estimated transcript cost within 14 calendar days, using an approved payment method; an order to transcribe will be vacated if the deposit is late.
(1) A non-refundable deposit in the amount of 90% shall be made by the requestor within fourteen (14) calendar days after the Court Reporter has informed the requestor of the estimated cost. All deposits shall be made by cash, money order, certified check or law firm check made payable to the "County of Venango" and delivered to the Court Reporter. The Court Reporter will immediately forward the payment, along with the "Escrow Fund Deposit" form to the District Court Administrator who will deposit the check with the Venango County Treasurer. Orders directing transcription will be vacated if deposit amounts are not remitted within the stated timeframe.
Page 2 | Rule 4007. Requests for Transcripts
Original transcripts will not be filed and copies will not be distributed until the balance is paid in full.
Original transcripts will not be filed or copies distributed until the balance is paid in full.
Page 3 | Rule 4007. Requests for Transcripts
The final transcript balance must be paid to the court reporter within seven calendar days after the parties are notified, using an allowed payment method.
(4) Upon receipt of final invoice, payment for the balance due shall be paid by cash, money order, certified check or law firm check made payable to the County of Venango and delivered to the court reporter within seven (7) calendar days from the date the parties are notified.
Page 3 | Rule 4007. Requests for Transcripts
A deposit set by local rule may be required for a transcript request.
A deposit determined by local rule may be required.
Page 1 | Request for Transcript or Copy
Qualifying requestors facing economic hardship may receive reduced transcript rates.
If the cost of the transcript presents an economic hardship, there are reduced rates available to those who qualify.
Page 1 | Request for Transcript or Copy
Expedited, daily, and same-day delivery may be requested only where the judicial district or court reporter provides those options.
Note: Expedited, Daily, and Same Day Requests are only available where provided by the judicial district or court reporter.
Page 2 | IV. Transcript Delivery and Cost
Hard-copy transcript delivery adds $0.25 per page to the applicable page rates.
Manner of Delivery: Electronic (PDF) Format Hard copy (add $0.25 per page to page rates)
Page 2 | IV. Transcript Delivery and Cost
A requestor’s copy costs $0.50, $0.75, $1.00, or $1.25 per page for ordinary, expedited, daily, or same-day delivery, respectively.
| Copy for Requestor: Yes No | +$0.50 | +$0.75 | +$1.00 | +$1.25 (cost per page) |
Page 2 | IV. Transcript Delivery and Cost
Original transcript charges are $2.50, $3.50, $4.50, or $6.50 per page for ordinary, expedited, daily, or same-day delivery, respectively.
| Delivery Time: | Ordinary | Expedited | Daily | Same Day | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Original Transcript: | +$2.50 | +$3.50 | +$4.50 | +$6.50 (cost per page) |
Page 2 | IV. Transcript Delivery and Cost
A secure realtime feed costs $1.00 per page.
| Secure Realtime Feed | $1.00 per page |
Page 3 | Rule 4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof
The expedited transcript rate is $3.75 for paper and $3.50 for electronically filed transcripts.
| Expedited: | $3.75 (paper) | $3.50 (electronically filed) |
Page 3 | Rule 4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof
A requesting party other than the Commonwealth or its subdivisions must pay the listed transcript costs unless a waiver is granted.
(A)(1)(2) Costs. The costs payable by a requesting party, other than the Commonwealth or a subdivision thereof, unless a waiver is granted, shall be as follows:
Page 3 | Rule 4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof
A paper uncertified rough draft costs $1.25.
| | $1.25 (paper) |
Page 3 | Rule 4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof
Uncertified rough drafts are not eligible for waivers.
| Uncertified Rough Draft: NO WAIVERS | $1.00 (electronic) |
Page 3 | Rule 4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof
The local rule's deposit and final-payment provisions do not apply when the Commonwealth or its subdivision requests the transcript, or when the requestor has in forma pauperis status.
(F) The provisions of this Local Rule regarding deposits and final payments shall not apply to a request for a transcript where the Commonwealth or any subdivision thereof is the requestor, or where the requestor has been granted in forma pauperis status.
Page 3 | Rule 4007. Requests for Transcripts
The ordinary transcript rate is $2.75 for paper and $2.50 for electronically filed transcripts.
| Ordinary: | $2.75 (paper) | $2.50 (electronically filed) |
Page 3 | Rule 4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof
| Fee schedule for COPIES: | $0.75 (paper) $0.50 (electronic) |
| Fee schedule for COPIES: | $0.75 (paper) $0.50 (electronic) |
Page 3 | Rule 4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof
Complex litigation, medical malpractice, or technical testimony transcripts incur an additional $0.50 per page upon order.
Complex Litigation / Medical Malpractice/ Technical Testimony + .50 per page upon Order
Page 3 | Rule 4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof
The daily transcript rate is $4.75 for paper and $4.50 for electronically filed transcripts.
| Daily: | $4.75 (paper) | $4.50 (electronically filed) |
Page 3 | Rule 4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof
The same-day transcript rate is $6.75 for paper and $6.50 for electronically filed transcripts.
| Same Day: | $6.75 (paper) | $6.50 (electronically filed) |
Page 3 | Rule 4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof
An electronic uncertified rough draft for the Commonwealth or a subdivision costs $1.00.
| Uncertified Rough Draft | $1.00 (electronic) |
Page 4 | Rule 4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof
The County must pay the court reporter $1.50 per page for court orders.
A court reporter shall be paid by the County at the rate of $1.50 per page for court orders.
Page 4 | Rule 4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof
Requests for copies of filed transcripts must be directed to and produced by the Court Reporter, with payment made by an allowed method to the County of Venango and delivered to the reporter at the established rates.
Any requests for copies of transcripts filed of record shall be directed to the Court Reporter and shall be produced solely by the Court Reporter. Payment for copies of transcripts shall be paid by cash, money order, certified check or law firm check made payable to the County of Venango and delivered to the Court Reporter pursuant to the rates established in 4008(A)(1)(2).
Page 4 | Copies of transcripts
The ordinary transcript rate for the Commonwealth or a subdivision is $2.00 for paper and $1.75 for electronically filed transcripts.
| Ordinary: | $2.00 (paper) | $1.75 (electronically filed) |
Page 4 | Rule 4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof
The expedited transcript rate for the Commonwealth or a subdivision is $3.00 for paper and $2.75 for electronically filed transcripts.
| Expedited: | $3.00 (paper) | $2.75 (electronically filed) |
Page 4 | Rule 4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof
The same-day transcript rate for the Commonwealth or a subdivision is $6.00 for paper and $5.75 for electronically filed transcripts.
| Same Day: | $6.00 (paper) | $5.75 (electronically filed) |
Page 4 | Rule 4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof
The daily transcript rate for the Commonwealth or a subdivision is $4.00 for paper and $3.75 for electronically filed transcripts.
| Daily: | $4.00 (paper) | $3.75 (electronically filed) |
Page 4 | Rule 4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof
The specified transcript costs apply to the Commonwealth and the listed Pennsylvania government entities and their representatives.
The costs payable by the Commonwealth or a subdivision (to include any Pennsylvania state, county, regional or municipal government entity, including any department, board, attorney, employee or agent acting on behalf of that entity) shall be:
Page 4 | Rule 4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof
A paper transcript copy for the Commonwealth or a subdivision costs $0.50.
| Fee schedule for COPIES: | $ .50 (paper) |
Page 4 | Rule 4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof
A requesting party may request or receive a reduction or waiver of costs for a non-ordinary transcript only by demonstrating reasonable need.
(a) No reduction or waiver of costs shall be requested or granted for any non-ordinary transcript unless the requesting party demonstrates reasonable need.
Page 4 | Economic Hardship
Requestors choosing a hard-copy transcript pay an additional $0.25 per page over the listed page rates.
Manner of Delivery: | Electronic (PDF) format Hard copy (add $0.25 per page to page rates) |
Page 5 | IV. Private Party Transcript Delivery and Cost
A deposit determined by local rule may be required.
A deposit determined by local rule may be required.
Page 5 | Request for Transcript or Copy
A requestor seeking a reduced rate must provide proof of authorization or the affidavit required by Rule 4008(B)(4) requesting a full or partial cost waiver.
I am Counsel for _____ Self-Represented Not a party to this action Court Appointed? Yes No Does this request qualify for a reduced rate pursuant to Rule 4007(E)? Yes No If Yes, please provide proof of authorization for a reduced rate or an affidavit required by Rule 4008(B)(4) requesting waiver of all or a portion of the costs.
Page 5 | II. Requestor Information
Original electronic transcript requests have per-page rates listed for ordinary, expedited, daily, and same-day delivery.
Delivery Time: | Ordinary Expedited Daily Same Day | | Cost per page (electronic format) | $2.50 page $3.50 per page $4.50 per page $6.50 per page |
Page 5 | IV. Private Party Transcript Delivery and Cost
Electronic transcript copies for the Commonwealth or a subdivision have a listed cost of $0.
| | $ -0-(electronic) |
Page 4 | Rule 4008. Transcript Costs Payable by a Requesting Party Other Than the Commonwealth or a Subdivision Thereof
Qualifying requestors facing economic hardship may receive reduced transcript rates under Pa.R.J.A. 4007(E).
If the cost of the transcript presents an economic hardship, there are reduced rates available to those who qualify. See Pa.R.J.A. 4007 (E).
Page 5 | II. Requestor Information
Sealing & Redaction Procedures
When the judge seals a search-warrant affidavit, the judge must attach the order to the outside of the sealed envelope, and the order must state how long the affidavit will remain sealed.
When a Judge of the Court of Common Pleas of Venango County issues a Search Warrant and seals the Affidavit, the Judge shall attach a copy of the Order to the outside of the sealed envelope. Said order shall state the length of time the Affidavit shall remain sealed.
Criminal cases
Page 8 | V.C.R.Crim.P. 211. SEALING SEARCH WARRANT AFFIDAVITS
The Clerk of Courts must establish a system for filing and monitoring sealed search-warrant affidavits.
The Clerk of Courts shall establish a system for filing and monitoring said Affidavits.
Criminal cases
Page 8 | V.C.R.Crim.P. 211. SEALING SEARCH WARRANT AFFIDAVITS
The judge must cause the sealed search-warrant affidavit to be filed with the Clerk of Courts in the Judicial District.
The Judge shall cause the sealed Search Warrant Affidavit to be filed with the Clerk of Courts in the Judicial District.
Criminal cases
Page 8 | V.C.R.Crim.P. 211. SEALING SEARCH WARRANT AFFIDAVITS
Pre-Motion Conference Requirements
The trial judge will schedule opposing-party responses and argument on motions in limine as required.
The trial judge will schedule opposing party responses and argument as required;
Page 5 | (c) Pre-Trial Statements
The trial judge will schedule opposing-party responses and argument as required.
The trial judge will schedule opposing party responses and argument as required;
Civil cases
Page 8 | RULE 212.1 – Civil Case Management.
Adjournment & Extension Requirements
The Court may modify the case track or case-management deadlines in its discretion or for good cause, and a party requesting modification must obtain written concurrence from all parties and file a written motion.
(1) The case track and/or deadlines established by the case management order may be modified by the Court in its own discretion or for good cause shown. A party seeking modification shall seek the written concurrence of all parties and make the request for modification by written motion.
Page 4 | RULE 212.1 – Civil Case Management
The Central Court Administrator may grant or deny a continuance motion filed before the date set for the preliminary hearing.
(C) The Central Court Administrator shall have authority to grant or deny a motion for continuance filed prior to the date set for the preliminary hearing.
Criminal cases
Page 2 | V.C.R.Crim.P. 106. Continuance for Preliminary Hearings
When a case is continued and the defendant is being held on bail, the presiding Magisterial District Judge or issuing authority must review bail at the same time as the continuance motion.
(F) On all cases continued, where the defendant is currently being held on bail, the presiding Magisterial District Judge or issuing authority shall review bail contemporaneously with the motion for continuance.
Criminal cases
Page 2 | V.C.R.Crim.P. 106. Continuance for Preliminary Hearings
The presiding Magisterial District Judge must rule on a continuance motion filed on the date of the preliminary hearing.
(E) The presiding Magisterial District Judge shall rule on any motion for continuance filed on the date scheduled for the preliminary hearing.
Criminal cases
Page 2 | V.C.R.Crim.P. 106. Continuance for Preliminary Hearings
Continuance motions must be submitted in writing to the Central Court Administrator on a Central Court form, and defendants or witnesses cannot be excused until the presiding judge approves the motion in writing; if denied, the case may proceed without an absent defendant or witness as stated.
Motions for continuances shall be submitted in writing to the Central Court Administrator on forms approved and provided by Central Court. No defendants or witnesses shall be excused until the Motion has been reviewed and approved in writing by the presiding Magisterial District Judge. If the motion is denied and the defendant is not present, it shall result in the case proceeding under Pa.R.Crim.P. Rule 543. If the motion is denied and a witness is not present, the case will move forward without the witness.
Criminal cases
Page 7 | V.C.R.Crim.P. 131.1. General Procedures Governing Central Court
A party seeking modification of the case track or case-management deadlines must seek all parties’ written concurrence and request the modification by written motion; the Court may modify the order in its discretion or for good cause.
The case track and/or deadlines established by the case management order may be modified by the Court in its own discretion or for good cause shown. A party seeking modification shall seek the written concurrence of all parties and make the request for modification by written motion.
Civil cases
Page 7 | RULE 212.1 – Civil Case Management.
Before continuing a case under Rules 7 and 8, the District Justice must consider inconvenience or hardship to witnesses, victims, or parties.
Prior to a District Justice dismissing or continuing a case under the provisions of Rules 7 and 8, a District Justice shall give due consideration to any inconvenience or hardship on the witnesses, victims, or parties to the action.
Criminal cases
Page 3 | RULES GOVERNING CENTRAL COURT PROCEDURE
Before continuing a case, the Commonwealth’s attorney and/or defense attorney must be notified when their respective ten-minute appearance periods begin.
Additionally, prior to any action being taken for dismissal or continuance, the attorney for the Commonwealth and/or the attorney for the defendant shall be notified of the commencement of the ten (10) minutes for their respective appearances.
Criminal cases
Page 3 | RULES GOVERNING CENTRAL COURT PROCEDURE
If defense counsel does not appear within ten minutes after the case is called, the District Justice must ask whether the defendant wishes to proceed without counsel or have the case continued; the presiding Justice decides whether to grant a continuance, and any granted continuance should be recorded with its reason and reported to the President Judge.
If an attorney for the defendant fails to appear within ten (10) minutes of being notified of the case being called, the District Justice shall ask the defendant whether they wish to proceed without an attorney or have their case continued. The presiding District Justice shall make the final determination as to whether a continuance is granted. If the District Justice continues the case, a record of the reason for continuance should be made either through use of a court reporter or some other device to memorialize said decision. Said continuance should then be reported to the President Judge of the Court of Common Pleas.
Criminal cases
Page 3 | RULES GOVERNING CENTRAL COURT PROCEDURE
Defendants and witnesses must not be excused until the presiding District Justice has reviewed and approved the continuance motion in writing.
No defendants or witnesses shall be excused until the Motion has been reviewed and approved in writing by the presiding District Justice.
Criminal cases
Page 4 | RULES GOVERNING CENTRAL COURT PROCEDURE
If a continuance motion is denied while a witness is absent, the case proceeds without that witness.
If the Motion is denied and a witness is not present, the case will move forward without the witness.
Criminal cases
Page 4 | RULES GOVERNING CENTRAL COURT PROCEDURE
If a continuance motion is denied while the defendant is absent, a warrant must issue for the defendant’s arrest.
If the Motion is denied and defendant is not present, it shall result in a warrant for his or her arrest.
Criminal cases
Page 4 | RULES GOVERNING CENTRAL COURT PROCEDURE
If a defendant or attorney appears to be District Justice shopping, the case may be continued only to a date when that District Justice team is again presiding together.
24. If it appears that a defendant or attorney is attempting to "District Justice shop", the case shall only be continued to a date at which that District Justice team is again presiding as a team.
Criminal cases
Page 5 | RULES GOVERNING CENTRAL COURT PROCEDURE
A party requesting or opposing a continuance may obtain review of the Central Court Administrator’s decision by the issuing authority if the party objects to the decision.
(D) The party requesting or opposing the continuance shall have the right to a review of the Central Court Administrator’s decision by the issuing authority if there is an objection to the decision of the Central Court Administrator.
Criminal cases
Page 2 | V.C.R.Crim.P. 106. Continuance for Preliminary Hearings
Failure to contact the Central Court Administrator by the cutoff may result in a continuance marked as requested by the defendant.
Failure to contact the Central Court Administrator prior to the cut-off time may result in the case being continued and it will be marked as a continuance requested by the defendant.
Criminal cases
Page 1 | RULES GOVERNING CENTRAL COURT PROCEDURE
If the Commonwealth's attorney has not appeared within ten minutes, the District Justice may continue the case for one week.
If an attorney for the Commonwealth fails to appear within ten (10) minutes, the District Justice may continue the case for a period of one week, may dismiss the case, or ask the officer named on the Complaint if he or she wishes to prosecute the case.
Criminal cases
Page 2 | RULES GOVERNING CENTRAL COURT PROCEDURE
The court or issuing authority may grant a continuance in the interest of justice on its own motion or on either party’s motion.
(A) The court or issuing authority may, in the interest of justice, grant a continuance on its own motion, or on the motion of either party.
Criminal cases
Page 2 | V.C.R.Crim.P. 106. Continuance for Preliminary Hearings
The Central Court Administrator may grant continuances when a District Justice is unavailable at the Central Court office.
The Central Court Administrator shall have the authority to grant continuances when a District Justice is not available at the Central Court office.
Criminal cases
Page 1 | RULES GOVERNING CENTRAL COURT PROCEDURE
Chambers Communication Rules
Defendants or their attorneys must notify the Central Court Administrator by 4 p.m. on the Monday before the Central Court date whether the defendant has counsel or intends to act pro se.
Defendants or their attorney must notify the Central Court Administrator by 4 p.m. on the Monday immediately prior to their Central Court date as to the name of counsel representing the defendant or of the defendant's desire to act pro se.
Criminal cases
Page 1 | RULES GOVERNING CENTRAL COURT PROCEDURE
A pro se defendant who needs to leave the courtroom must notify the Central Court Administrator's staff of their whereabouts.
If a defendant needs to leave the court room for any reason, they shall first notify their attorney as to their whereabouts. Defendant who appear pro se shall notify the Central Court Administrator's staff as to their whereabouts.
Criminal cases
Page 5 | RULES GOVERNING CENTRAL COURT PROCEDURE
The party requesting a remote appearance must coordinate it with the Court Administrator, and counsel must make all arrangements.
The party requesting remote appearance is responsible for coordinating the appearance with the Court Administrator. All arrangements shall be made by counsel.
Page 4 | (b) Case Management, Status, and Pre-Trial Conferences
Contact the Court Administrator's Office by phone for accessibility information or 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 the Court Administrator's Office at (814) 432-9610. All arrangements must be at least 72 hours prior to any hearing or business before the Court.
Page 3 | AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF 1990
Contact the court office about accessibility 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 4 | Americans with Disabilities Act
If the moving party wants oral argument on the motion or to meet with the Judge about the motion, he or she should contact the District Court Administrator to schedule a time. The lawyer shall be prepared to accurately estimate the amount of time required.
If the moving party wants oral argument on the motion or to meet with the Judge about the motion, he or she should contact the District Court Administrator to schedule a time. The lawyer shall be prepared to accurately estimate the amount of time required.
Civil cases
Page 3 | Rule 208.3. Motions Practice and Procedure.
An attorney who knows of an arbitrator’s interest or representation must inform the prothonotary.
It shall be the duty of any attorney having knowledge of such interest or representation to inform the prothonotary thereof.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Rule 1301. Arbitration.
The District Court Administrator schedules argument or a hearing on the petition and any stay motion, so the moving party need not request one.
The petition and any motion seeking a stay of execution shall be scheduled for argument and/or hearing by the District Court Administrator and it is not necessary for the moving party to request a hearing and/or argument.
Civil cases
Page 3 | Rule 206.4. Rule to Show Cause
The Central Court Administrator should be contacted to arrange an appointment for an advance waiver.
The Central Court Administrator should be contacted to arrange an appointment to facilitate the advance waiver.
Criminal cases
Page 1 | RULES GOVERNING CENTRAL COURT PROCEDURE