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

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Petition for distribution of a small estate

A small-estate distribution petition must include the specified petitioner, decedent, beneficiary, estate, claim, notice, and requested-relief information.

(a) Petitions under Probate, Estates and Fiduciaries Code §3102 for distribution of small estates shall set forth: (1) The name and address of the petitioner and his relationship to the decedent. (2) The name, date of death, and domicile of decedent, whether he died testate or intestate, the dates of the probate of the will and of the grant of letters if any, and whether the personal representative has been required to give bond, and in what amount. (3) The names and relationships of all beneficiaries entitled to any part of the estate under the will or intestate laws, a brief description of their respective interest, whether any of them has received or retained any property of the decedent by payment of wages under Probate, Estates and Fiduciaries Code §3101, or otherwise, and whether any of them are minors, incapacitated persons or deceased with the names of their f iduciaries, if any. (4) The person or persons, if any, entitled to the family exemption and, if a claim therefore is made in this petition, any additional facts necessary to establish the prima facie right thereto, as required by Rule 5.2. (5) An inventory of the real and personal estate of the decedent, with values ascribed to each item, either incorporated in the petition or attached as an exhibit. (6) A list showing the nature, amount and preference of all unpaid claims against the estate and indicating which are admitted. (7) If any unpaid beneficiary, heir, or claimant has not joined in the petition, a statement that ten (10) days’ notice of intention to present the petition has been given in accordance with these rules. (8) A prayer for distribution of the personal property to those entitled, and in appropriate cases for the discharge of the personal representative.

CRITICALCriminal cases

Applies to

Pretrial assessment report

The Pretrial Officer must furnish the pretrial assessment report to the assigned Magisterial District Judge before the preliminary hearing.

The Pretrial Officer shall furnish a pretrial assessment report to the assigned Magisterial District Judge prior to the preliminary hearing.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Post trial motion

A post-trial motion must be filed with the Prothonotary together with a transcript request form identifying the portion of the record to be transcribed.

Any post-trial motions shall be filed with the Prothonotary in accordance with Pa.R.C.P. 227 .1, together with a transcript request form designating that portion of the record to be transcribed.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Pre trial statement

All pre-trial statements must be filed with the Prothonotary.

All pre-trial statements shall be filed with the Prothonotary.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Certificate of deposition

A Certificate of Deposition must identify the deponents, confirm the witness was sworn, state the page count and deposition details, identify counsel present, and name the counsel who received the transcript and copies.

The Certificate of Deposition shall contain the following information and shall substantially conform to the form shown in Appendix K. (1) The name(s) of the person(s) deposed; and (2) That the witness was duly sworn; and (3) The total number of pages in each deposition; and (4) The date, time and place deposition was taken; and (5) the counsel present at deposition; (6) The name of counsel who has received the original transcription and copies thereof.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Complaint

A complaint must describe the issue in full detail and include relevant documents; additional pages may be attached if needed.

Please describe in full detail the issue and attach all relevant documents. Attach additional pages if necessary.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Written notice

The written notice must include the prescribed statement about an absent party, a judge hearing the matter, and the lack of a right to trial de novo.

The written notice provided for in subsection (b) above shall include the following statement: “This matter will be heard by a board of arbitrators at the time, date, and place specified but, if one or more of the parties is not present at the hearing, the matter may be heard at the same time and date before a judge of the court without the absent party or parties. There is no right to a trial de novo on appeal from a decision entered by a judge.”

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Caption sheet

Must include

caption

The caption sheet must give all parties’ complete names, but an appropriate and obvious shortened caption may be used when the filing party has previously filed.

(b) (In capital letters on left side of center) The complete names of all parties; if the party filing the attached pleading has made a previous filing, an appropriate and obvious shortened caption may be used.

CRITICALCriminal cases

Applies to

Subpoena

A subpoena issued by the issuing authority must be signed by that authority and bear its seal.

(3) The subpoena shall be signed by and under the seal of the issuing authority.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Order appointing master

An order appointing a master must specify the matters referred to the master.

The order of appointment shall specify the matters which are referred to the master.

CRITICALCriminal cases

Applies to

Subpoena

A subpoena must specify the witness’s appearance and production obligations, the party on whose behalf the witness is called, the applicant’s contact information, and the consequences of noncompliance.

1) The subpoena shall: (a) order the witness named to appear before the court at the date, time, and place specified to give testimony and to bring any records, books, papers, documents, data, or other items identified or described in the subpoena; (b) state on whose behalf the witness is being ordered to testify; (c) state the name, address, and phone number of the individual who applies forthesubpoena;and (d) inform the witness that the failure to comply with the subpoena may be considered by the court as grounds for contempt and that a bench warrant may be issued for the arrest of the witness.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Hours of operation modification

Magisterial District Courts may modify operating hours, but each modification must be submitted to the District Court Administrator for approval by the President Judge.

Modify their hours of operation, including times when in-person payments and filings may be accepted in order to permit for screening of the public; provided however, that any modification must be submitted to the District Court Administrator for approval by the President Judge.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Notice of proposed termination

The District Court Administrator must prepare the proposed termination notice in compliance with Pa. R. Civ. P. 230.2(f) and include the proposed termination date.

The proposed notice shall be in a form that complies with Pa. R. Civ. P. 230.2(f) and prepared by the District Court Administrator; such preparation shall include the date of proposed termination.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Legal paper filed electronically

Must include

proposed order

When a legal paper is filed electronically, its proposed court order must be filed separately in Microsoft Word format.

If a legal paper is filed electronically, there shall be a separately filed proposed order of court in a Microsoft Word format in accordance with Wash.L.R.C.P. 205.4(b)(2).

CRITICAL

Applies to

Special relief motion

A custody complaint must be filed before a motion for special relief is presented.

A complaint in custody must be filed prior to presentation of the motion.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Confidential document form

The filer must separately file a publicly accessible Confidential Document Form identifying the confidential documents and the type of pleading.

The electronic filer shall separately file a publicly accessible Confidential Document Form indicating the confidential documents and the type of pleading.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Email or fax filing

Email or fax filings must be followed by the signed original sent by mail or private delivery, with any applicable fee.

Email and/or facsimile filings will need to be followed by the original document (with original signatures) via mail or private delivery service, and include any applicable filing fee.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Executed referral order

When the court refers a contempt petition to a child custody conference officer, the petitioner must provide the executed referral order to the Court Administrator-Civil Division for scheduling.

If the Court chooses to refer the matter to a child custody conference officer, the petitioner shall present a copy of the executed order doing so to the Office of the Court Administrator – Civil Division so that the matter may be scheduled.

CRITICAL

Applies to

In forma pauperis application

A party seeking in forma pauperis status must apply to the Court and attach an affidavit demonstrating inability to pay litigation costs.

A party seeking leave to proceed in forma pauperis shall apply to the Court for such status. The application shall include as an attachment the affidavit of the party demonstrating an inability to pay the costs of litigation.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Masters report

A master’s report in a referred action must include findings of fact, conclusions of law, and a recommended disposition.

In an action which has been referred to a master, the master’s report shall include findings of fact, conclusions of law, and a recommended disposition of the case.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Praecipe for writ of summons

When an ejectment action is commenced by praecipe for a writ of summons, a copy of the land description for insertion in the writ must be filed with the praecipe.

If an action in ejectment is commenced by filing a praecipe for a writ of summons, there shall be filed with the praecipe a copy of the description of the land for insertion in the writ.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Paper

A paper may not be filed unless at least one signing attorney is admitted to practice before the Pennsylvania Supreme Court bar; a violating paper or praecipe will be suppressed.

The Prothonotary, or Domestic Relations Section, shall not permit any paper to be filed unless at least one of the attorneys signing it shall have been admitted to practice before the bar of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania, and any paper or praecipe filed in violation of this rule shall be suppressed.

CRITICALCriminal cases

Applies to

Professional bondsman real estate certification

A professional bondsman using Pennsylvania real estate as collateral must annually submit an oath-supported certification listing Washington County real estate and including the specified property, valuation, encumbrance, and net-value information.

A professional bondsman may use his real estate located in Pennsylvania as collateral for his bonds. He shall annually certify to the Clerk of Courts, under oath, a list of all of the real estate owned by him in Washington County. Such certification shall include: A. A description of each tract of real estate, its location in the county, and the deed book volume and page where the deed in recorded. B. Attached to the certification shall be an appraisal of the fair market value of the real estate as certified by a licensed real estate broker in the county. C. A certification by an attorney who practices in the Commonwealth, or a title insurance policy certifying the encumbrances, mortgages, and liens against the real states, and the unpaid balance of each encumbrance as of the date of the statement. D. A statement by the bondsman setting forth the net value of each piece of real estate, which shall be the fair market value certified as above, less the encumbrances certified above.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Petition for distribution of a small estate

A small-estate distribution petition must have the listed exhibits attached, including the will, joinders, prior disbursements, and inheritance-tax payment proof.

(b) There shall be attached to the petition the following exhibits: (1) The original of the decedent's will if it has not been probated, or a copy of the will if it has been probated. (2) Joinders of parties in interest. (3) An itemized list of disbursements made prior to the filing of the petition, indicating the payor and whether the disbursements were in payment of administration expenses, preferred or ordinary debts, distribution or the family exemption; and (4) Proof of payment of inheritance tax.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Exhibit index

The designated custodian must maintain an exhibit index containing the case and exhibit identification, proponent, admission status, and exhibit description.

The member of court staff designated as the custodian shall maintain create an index of all exhibits offered as evidence. The index shall set forth the name and docket number of the case, the number or letter of the exhibit, the proponing party, whether the exhibit was admitted or denied, and a description of the exhibit.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Hours of operation modification notice

Notice of any modified hours must be posted at the affected court and displayed on the specified website.

A notice of any modification of hours shall be posted on the door of the affected magisterial district court and displayed at www.washingtoncourts.us.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Exhibit index

A copy of the exhibit index must be filed with the records office.

A copy of the index shall be filed with the records office.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Formal arraignment packet

The formal arraignment packet must provide for an ACT conference before a scheduled plea, except in DUI, fast-track, and incarcerated-defendant cases.

The formal arraignment packet shall provide for a process to confer about the case with the defendant, or counsel if represented, using ACT prior to any scheduled plea. - i. The requirement to confer shall not be applicable to DUI cases, "fast track" cases, or cases involving incarcerated defendants.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Joint statement or proposed special verdict questions

Counsel must jointly submit a statement or proposed special verdict questions to the Special Master 48 hours before jury selection.

Counsel shall submit to the Special Master, forty-eight (48) hours prior to the selection of the jury, a joint statement or proposed special verdict questions, for use at trial.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Real estate tax appeal

The petition must identify whether the challenge concerns fair market value, base year value, or constitutional uniformity.

Reason(s) for the appeal. The petition shall identify whether the challenge is based on fair market value, base year value, or a constitutional challenge based on uniformity.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Pleadings and proposed orders

Must include

caption

All pleadings and proposed orders must include a caption substantially in the form provided.

All pleadings and proposed orders shall include a caption substantively as follows:

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Real estate award form

For an adjudication awarding real estate, the attorney for the accountant must prepare the prescribed form and submit it to the Clerk for execution on final confirmation.

The following form shall be prepared by the attorney for the accountant and submitted to the Clerk for execution on final confirmation of an adjudication awarding real estate: Orphans' Court Division IN RE: ESTATE OF No. 63 -- In the Matter of the Account of

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Brief

Every brief must include a case history, the issues, pertinent relevant materials or references, an argument with authority citations, relevant Court or agency opinions, and a conclusion.

Every brief shall contain the following: (a) a brief history of the case; (b) a statement of the issue(s) involved; (c) a copy of, or reference to, the pertinent parts of any relevant document, report, recommendation, order, and/or transcript; (d) an argument with citations of the authority relied upon; (e) a citation or copy to any opinion of the Court or an agency involved in the case; and (f) a conclusion.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Real estate tax appeal

Must include

caption

The appeal caption must identify the appellant, the Board, all taxing authorities, any owner joined by a taxing-authority appellant, and the tax parcel identification number.

Caption designating the named party talcing the appeal as Appellant, the Board as Appellee, and if Appellant is a taxing authority it shall join the owner of the real estate involved as a matter of course as a party in the assessment appeal by designating such named owner in the caption as an Appellee. All taxing authorities shall be named as parties in the appeal. The tax parcel identification number for the real estate in question shall appear in the caption.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Pleading, petition, motion, or other legal paper

Must include

caption

The first page of any pleading, petition, motion, or other legal paper must be a caption cover sheet in the prescribed format; if needed, a second page may be attached and numbered “Caption Sheet 2.”

(1) The first page of any pleading, petition, motion or other legal paper shall be a cover sheet setting forth the items of information specified below, according to the format presented in Form of Caption Sheet below. If needed, a second page may be attached and numbered “Caption Sheet 2” at the bottom of the page.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Parenting coordinator roster application

An attorney or mental health professional seeking roster inclusion must submit a letter to the Court Administrator – Civil Division with the listed supporting materials.

An attorney or mental health professional seeking to be included on the roster of the Washington County Court’s roster of qualified individuals to serve as a Parenting Coordinator shall submit a letter to the Court Administrator – Civil Division together with the following:

CRITICALCriminal cases

Applies to

Probation or parole order

The Court must inform the offender that enforceable special or additional probation and parole conditions in the rules apply, along with the listed conditions, unless the Court deletes them by order.

The Court shall also inform the offender that all special and/or additional conditions of probation and parole as set forth in these rules, and which are within the authority of the probation/parole officers to enforce, shall be applicable and all of the following shall apply unless specifically deleted by the Court in its order or in a subsequent order:

CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition

Except for the alternative in subsection (b), an action must be commenced with a petition filed with the Prothonotary that states the supporting facts concisely and requests the desired relief.

(a) Except as provided in subsection (b), an action shall be commenced by filing with the Prothonotary a petition, setting forth a concise statement of the facts relied upon to justify the relief requested, and a prayer for the relief desired.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion to appoint master

The motion and proposed order must be delivered to the Civil Division Court Administrator, and if granted, the moving party must pick up and file them with the Prothonotary after being contacted.

(i) The motion and proposed order shall be delivered to the Office of the Court Administrator – Civil Division. The Court shall act upon the motion, and, if granted, the Court Administrator shall assign the master. The Office of the Court Administrator – Civil Division shall then contact the moving party to pick up the motion and order and file same with the Prothonotary.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Preliminary objections

Preliminary objections must be filed with the Prothonotary.

All preliminary objections shall be filed with the Prothonotary.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Notice to defend

A notice to defend accompanying a complaint must name the Lawyer Referral Service and Summit Legal Aid with the listed contact information.

The organizations to be named in the notice to defend accompanying a complaint filed in the Court of Common Pleas of Washington County, Pennsylvania shall be: Lawyer Referral Service 119 South College Street. Washington PA 15301 (724) 225-6710 Summit Legal Aid 10 West Cherry Avenue Washington, PA 15301 (724) 225-6170

CRITICAL

Applies to

Exhibits

Exhibits containing confidential information or qualifying as confidential documents must have the form required by the Case Records Public Access Policy affixed to them.

Exhibits that contain confidential information or are a confidential document as defined in the Case Records Public Access Policy of the Unified Judicial System shall be affixed with the appropriate form required by the Policy

CRITICAL

Applies to

Praecipe to transmit record

For divorce grounds under §3301(c) or §3301(d), the Praecipe to Transmit Record must include the applicable settlement-incorporation checkbox selections.

When the grounds for divorce are based on §3301(c) or §3301(d) of the Divorce Code, the Praecipe to Transmit Record shall include the following: Check applicable box: (a) Section 3301(c) with incorporation of property/marital settlement Yes ( ) No ( ) (b) Section 3301(d) with incorporation of property/marital settlement Yes ( ) No ( )

CRITICAL

Applies to

Points for charge

The parties must jointly submit points for charge to the Special Master, who resolves any disputes.

The points for charge shall be submitted jointly by the parties to the Special Master forty-eight (48) hours prior to the selection of the mini- jury. The Special Master shall rule on any disputes on a point for charge.

CRITICALCriminal cases

Applies to

Petition

The Gagnon II petition must state whether the allegations are contested or the hearing is for disposition only.

The Petition shall indicate whether the allegations are contested or whether a Gagnon II Hearing shall be for disposition purposes only.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Caption sheet

A caption for a case involving real estate must include a tax identification number.

a tax identification number is required in all cases involving real estate.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Objections

A copy of the Objections must include counsel’s certification, or the unrepresented objecting party’s certification, that the transcript or necessary portions have been ordered.

A copy of the Objections must be accompanied by a certification of counsel or of the objecting party, if unrepresented, that the trial transcript, or necessary portions of the transcript, have been ordered from the Court Administrator’s Office.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Masters report and recommendation

The master’s report and recommendation must be filed, and the Prothonotary must serve a copy by regular mail on counsel of record and any unrepresented party.

The master’s report and recommendation shall be filed, and the Prothonotary shall serve a copy to all counsel of record and any unrepresented party by regular mail.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Citation

The citation must specify a certain return date and time.

The citation shall be made returnable to a day and time certain.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Bill of costs

A bill of costs must list each witness’s name, attendance dates, actual miles traveled, and the places from which mileage is claimed.

Bills of costs must contain the names of the witnesses, the dates of their attendance, the number of miles actually traveled by them, and the places from which mileage is claimed.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Complaint

A complaint must use the prescribed written form, be signed by the complainant, and detail the relevant allegation or dispute.

A complaint by or against a constable must be in writing on the form set forth below and shall be signed by the complainant and specify in detail the alleged misconduct, financial dispute, or other matter related to the performance ofjudicial duties.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Custody complaint and custody consent agreement

Must include

proposed order

Present the Custody Complaint and Custody Consent Agreement with the proposed Order attached to the assigned Family Court Judge in Motions Court for approval.

The Custody Complaint and the Custody Consent Agreement with proposed Order attached shall be presented to the Family Court Judge to whom the case is assigned in Motions Court for Court Approval,

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

Every motion must identify each judge who ruled on another issue in the same or a related case and specify the issue.

Every motion shall name each judge who has ruled upon any other issue in the same or a related case and shall specify the issue.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Caption sheet

Must include

caption, judge name, case number

The caption sheet must include the specified division, docket number, assigned judge if applicable, pleading title, applicable class-action or real-estate information, party and counsel statements, and service email address.

(c) (In appropriate upper and lower case, except where otherwise indicated, on the right side of center on separate lines): 1. the specific DIVISION, e.g., CIVIL or DOMESTIC RELATIONS; ii. the docket number; iii. the name of the assigned judge, if applicable; 1v. the name of the pleading, in bold face and all capital letters; v. if the action is filed as a class action, then "CLASS ACTION'' shall be set forth following the title of the document; vi. if the action involves real estate, then the address, municipality, ward if applicable, and a tax identification number shall be set forth; vii. the completed statement: "Filed on behalf of (party's name, party's relationship to case)"; viii. the completed statement: "Counsel of Record: (attorney's name and Pennsylvania Identification Number, firm name, firm number, address, and telephone number)"; ix. the electronic mail address for service of the filing party;

CRITICAL

Applies to

Caption sheet

Must include

caption, judge name, case number

The caption sheet must contain the specified court name, party names, division, docket number, applicable judge name, pleading title, applicable class-action or real-estate information, party and counsel statements, and the filing party’s service email address.

(2) The information required includes: (a) (In Capital letters from the left to right margins) "IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA" (b) (In capital letters on left side of center) The complete names of all parties; if the party filing the attached pleading has made a previous filing, an appropriate and obvious shortened caption may be used. (c) (In appropriate upper and lower case, except where otherwise indicated, on the right side of center on separate lines): (i.) the specific DIVISION, e.g., CIVIL or DOMESTIC RELATIONS; (ii.) the docket number; (iii.) the name of the assigned judge, if applicable; (iv.) the name of the pleading, in bold face and all capital letters; (v.) if the action is filed as a class action, then "CLASS ACTION'' shall be set forth following the title of the document; (vi.) if the action involves real estate, then the address, municipality, ward if applicable, and a tax identification number shall be set forth; (vii.) the completed statement: "Filed on behalf of (party’s name, party's relationship to case)"; (viii.) the completed statement: "Counsel of Record: (attorney's name and Pennsylvania Identification Number, firm name, firm number, address, and telephone number)"; (ix.) the electronic mail address for service of the filing party; and

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Mediator report

The mediator’s report must include assessments of liability and damages, a verdict range and settlement value opinion, the parties’ final demand and offer, and a settlement recommendation; a copy must be provided to and kept by the Court Administrator until the case closes.

If the case has not been resolved, within ten ( 10) days from the date of the mediation, the mediator shall send the Court a report setting forth the following information: (a) the mediator's assessment of liability; (b) the mediator's assessment of damages; (c) the mediator's opinion regarding the potential range of a verdict and the settlement value of the case; (d) the Plaintiffs final settlement demand; (e) the Defendant's final settlement offer; and (t) the mediator's recommendation regarding settlement of the case. A copy of the report shall be provided to and maintained by the Court Administrator until the case is closed.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Custody complaint

Must include

caption

The filed custody complaint must accompany the proposed agreement, be signed by the parties and counsel if any, and use the specified caption.

a complaint in custody in substantial compliance with Pa.R.C.P. 1915.15(a) along with the proposed Custody Consent Agreement, signed by the parties and counsel, if any, and captioned as “Complaint for Custody/Proposed Custody Consent Agreement,” shall be filed with the Prothonotary after paying the appropriate filing fees and costs;

CRITICAL

Applies to

Written objection

If the property owner objects to the inspection or its scheduled time, the owner must file written objections and present them to the assigned judge.

(d) If the property owner objects to the inspection or the time for inspection set forth in the notice, the property owner shall file written objections to such inspection and present such objections to the assigned judge.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Pleading exhibit or other document

A person filing a pleading, exhibit, or other document containing policy-defined confidential information must file the applicable CIF or CDF with the custodian.

Pursuant to Sections 7.0 and 8.0 of the Case Records Public Access Policy of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania, persons who file a pleading, exhibit, or other document that contains confidential information as defined by the policy shall utilize and file with the applicable custodian a confidential information form ("CIF") or a confidential document form ("CDF"), as applicable, in order to comply with the Policy.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Ordinary transcript cost waiver application

An application to waive some or all costs for an ordinary transcript must be supported by an affidavit substantially similar to the provided form.

(D) An application to waive all or a portion of costs for ordinary transcripts shall be supported by an affidavit on a form substantially similar to the following:

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion to appoint master

The motion to appoint a master must specifically state the statutory grounds for divorce consistently with the pleadings.

(e) The statutory grounds for the divorce shall be specifically set forth in the motion for appointment and shall be consistent with the pleadings in the action.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Settlement letter

When the case is resolved by settlement, the mediator must send a letter to the Judge with copies to counsel and the Court Administrator.

If the case is resolved and a settlement agreed upon, the mediator shall send a letter to the Judge, with copies to counsel and the Court Administrator.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Existing support case stipulation

In the specified existing support cases, counsel for either party must file the stipulation and a copy of the divorce decree with the Domestic Relations Section.

In existing support cases where the parties enter into a stipulation before the Divorce Master following the entry of the support order which modifies the terms of the current support obligation, counsel for either party shall file the stipulation and a copy of the divorce decree with the Domestic Relations Section.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Written admission colloquy

When a juvenile enters admissions, the defense attorney must ensure the written colloquy is completed and submitted to the Court, and no admission may be accepted without it.

Every defense attorney representing a juvenile alleged to have perpetrated a delinquent act or acts where the juvenile is entering admissions shall ensure that the written colloquy required by amended Pa.R.J.C.P. 407 shall be completed prior to the date and time set for the adjudication hearing in the matter. No admission/s shall be accepted without the written colloquy completed and submitted to the Court.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Brief

Issues raised in preliminary objections must be briefed or they will be deemed abandoned.

Issues raised, but not briefed, shall be deemed abandoned.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Electronically filed legal paper

An electronically filed legal paper must include a signature block naming the authorized filer.

A legal paper filed electronically must include a signature block for the name of the authorized filer.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Record

The record submitted under the writ of certiorari must include a certified copy of the zoning ordinance in effect when the decision was rendered.

The record submitted to the Court, in compliance with the writ of certiorari, shall include a certified copy of the zoning ordinance in effect at the time the decision was rendered.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Special master motion

Parties may jointly seek a special master by filing and presenting a motion that states payment terms for the master and stenographic services, including apportionment and conditions.

(ii) The parties may jointly seek the appointment of a special master in appropriate cases by filing and presentation of a motion. The motion shall specify the payment terms of the special master, including the apportionment of the payment and the terms and conditions of the payment. The motion shall also address the provisions made by the parties for stenographic services and shall set forth the apportionment and terms and conditions of the payment for these services.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Exhibit transfer order

When exhibits are transferred from the Court to a proponent, the Court must enter and docket an order reflecting the transfer.

If exhibits are transferred from the possession of the Court to a proponent, the Court shall enter an order reflecting the transfer. The order shall be docketed at the number for the applicable case

CRITICAL

Applies to

Praecipe to transmit record

When the specified §3301(d) affidavit and admitted or undenied averments are present, the parties must file a Praecipe to Transmit Record stating whether the marital settlement agreement should be incorporated or merged into the decree.

(b) If a complaint has been filed requesting a divorce on the grounds of irretrievable breakdown and the party has filed an affidavit under §3301(d) of the Divorce Code, the averments of which the parties have either admitted or not denied, the parties shall file with the Prothonotary a Praecipe to Transmit Record indicating whether a marital settlement agreement should be incorporated or merged into the decree.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Pre trial statement

A pre-trial statement must include the specified liability, exhibit, damages, motion-in-limine, legal-issue, authority, and settlement information; an unanticipated motion in limine or one permitted by the Court in the interest of justice may be filed later.

In addition to the requirements of Pa.R.C.P. 212.2, a pre-trial statement shall contain the following: (1) a brief narrative statement of the facts and contentions as to liability; (2) a listing of all exhibits available at the time of pre-trial which the party intends to introduce at trial; (3) a specific description of damages; (4) any presently known motions in limine and any legal research, memorandum, or brief in support thereof. Failure to include any motion in limine in the pre-trial statement will not bar a future filing of the motion if it could not have been anticipated at the time of filing the pre-trial statement or if, in the interest of justice, the Court permits late filing; (5) a summary of legal issues involved and applicable legal authorities relied upon; (6) the settlement status of the case to include settlement offers and demands; and (7) the reasons supporting the settlement posture set forth by the party.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

Must include

certificate of service

Every motion must contain a Certificate of Service as specified by the cited local rule.

Every motion shall contain a Certificate of Service as set forth in Wash.L.R.C.P. 205.5(b)(2)(c)(xi).

CRITICAL

Applies to

Notice of sale

The sale notice must use a brief property description identifying its location, improvements, and owner or reputed owners; a metes-and-bounds description is unnecessary if the street address and tax parcel identification number are provided.

(2) a brief description of the property to be sold, its location, the improvements, if any, and the name of the owner or reputed owners, with or without a brief recital of title, which shall be the description used in the notice of sale provided for in subdivisions (a) and (b) of Pa.R.C.P. 3129.1 and 3129.2. A metes and bounds description shall not be required, as long as the description sets forth the location of the property by street address and by reference to the tax parcel identification number.

CRITICALCriminal cases

Applies to

Subpoena

If a subpoena is issued, the issuing authority must fill in the information provided.

If the subpoena is to be issued, the issuing authority shall fill in the information provided.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Real estate tax appeal

The petition must identify the Board decision and notification date and attach the Board’s notice of decision as an exhibit.

Reference to the decision of Washington County Board of Assessment Appeals (Board) from which the appeal is taken. The date of notification shall be provided. A copy of the Board's notice of decision shall be attached as an exhibit to the petition.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Deposition

In non-jury trials, a summary identifying each witness’s salient testimony must be attached to every deposition.

(d) In all non-jury trials, counsel, or a party if unrepresented, shall attach to any deposition a summary of the examination of the testimony of each witness, thereby pointing out the salient points to be noted by the Court.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Parenting coordinator roster application

A roster applicant must submit Pennsylvania Act 33 child abuse and Act 34 criminal history clearances that are within the past two years.

(2) Pennsylvania Act 33 child abuse and Act 34 criminal history clearances, within the past two (2) years;

CRITICAL

Applies to

Brief

Every brief must include a case history, issues, pertinent materials, an argument with supporting authority, relevant Court or agency opinions, and a conclusion; Rule 210 does not apply to briefs supporting or opposing a Pa.R.C.P. 227.1 post-trial-relief motion.

(2) Every brief shall contain the following: (a) a brief history of the case; (b) a statement of the issue(s) involved; (c) a copy of, or reference to, the pertinent parts of any relevant document, report, recommendation, order, and/or transcript; (d) an argument with citations of the authority relied upon; (e) a citation or copy to any opinion of the Court or an agency involved in the case; and (f) a conclusion. (5) This rule shall not apply to any brief filed in support of, or in opposition to, a motion for post-trial relief pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 227.1.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition

Must include

proposed order

A petitioner seeking a rule to show cause must append two proposed orders providing for argument or an evidentiary hearing.

The petitioner shall append two proposed orders to the petition, providing for either the use of argument or an evidentiary hearing to determine the petition as set forth in Pa.R.C.P. 206.5(d).

CRITICALCriminal cases

Applies to

Subpoena request

The person requesting a subpoena must provide the issuing authority with the information required by paragraph (C)(1).

The individual requesting the subpoena shall provide the issuing authority with the information required in paragraph (C)(1).

CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition for appointment of viewers

A petition to appoint viewers in an eminent domain proceeding must specify the applicable Act of Assembly, if any, under which condemnation was made.

The petition for appointment of viewers in all eminent domain proceedings shall specify the applicable Act of Assembly, if any, under which the condemnation was made.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Argument list

The argument list must state the time allocated for argument to each party.

(b) The argument list shall state the amount of time set aside for argument for each party.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Parenting coordinator roster application

A roster applicant must acknowledge having read and agreeing to follow the specified AFCC and APA parenting coordinator guidelines.

(3) An acknowledgement that the applicant has read and will follow the Association of Family and conciliation Courts (AFCC) Parenting Coordinator guidelines and the American Psychological Association (APA) Parenting Coordinator Guidelines.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Objection to transcript request

Must include

certificate of service

A certificate of service for objections to a transcript request must be filed of record.

Any objections to the request designating the portion of the record to be transcribed, filed pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 227.3, shall likewise be served upon the trial judge, the court administrator, the court reporter, and every other party to the action, and a certificate of service shall be filed of record.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Proposed case management order

A proposed case management order must state the actual completion date for each stage of litigation.

The proposed CMO shall set forth the actual dates in which each stage of the litigation must be completed.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Complaint

The complaint form directs the complainant to describe the issue fully, attach relevant documents, and use additional pages if needed.

Please describe in full detail the issue and attach all relevant documents. Attach additional pages if necessary.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Praecipe to transmit record

When both parties file consent affidavits under §3301(c), the plaintiff must file a Praecipe to Transmit Record stating whether the marital settlement agreement should be incorporated or merged into the decree.

(a) Where both parties have filed affidavits under §3301(c) of the Divorce Code evidencing consent to the entry of a final decree, the plaintiff shall file with the Prothonotary a Praecipe to Transmit Record indicating whether a marital settlement agreement should be incorporated or merged into the decree.

CRITICALCriminal cases

Applies to

Summons

A summons issued instead of an arrest warrant must include a notice directing the recipient to appear at the Central Booking Center before the preliminary hearing.

When an issuing authority issues a summons rather than an arrest warrant, the issuing authority shall send a notice with the summons directing recipient to appear at the Central Booking Center prior to his/her preliminary hearing.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Special order for service motion or petition

A motion or petition seeking a special service order must describe prior service attempts and the nature and extent of the good-faith search for the defendant.

When a special order for service is sought, a motion, or petition, shall be presented to the Court, setting forth what attempts have been made to serve the defendant, as well as the nature and extent of the good faith search to locate the defendant.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Preliminary objections

At the Motions Session, a copy of the preliminary objections must be presented with an original order scheduling argument and briefs.

When preliminary objections are filed to any pleading or proceeding in the Office of the Clerk after notice to opposing counsel, a copy shall be presented to the Court at its Motions Session along with an original Order for scheduling argument and briefs.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Order appointing viewers

An order appointing viewers must contain the tax parcel identification number of the condemned property.

The order appointing the viewers shall contain the tax parcel identification number of the property subject to condemnation.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Confidential information form

The filer must separately e-file a Confidential Information Form and mark it confidential through the portal prompts at submission.

The electronic filer shall separately electronically file a Confidential Information Form and shall indicate that the form is a confidential filing at the time of their filing submission through the prompts on the C-Track E-Filing Portal.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Receipt

The plaintiff and defendant must each sign a receipt for the written hearing notice.

Written notice of the hearing shall be delivered to the plaintiff and defendant and each shall sign a receipt.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Transcript release

The requesting party must produce a receipt showing full payment before the transcript is released.

A receipt evidencing full payment must be produced prior to the release of a transcript to the requesting party.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Continuance motion

If another court appearance is the reason for a continuance request, the motion must include a copy of the conflicting hearing’s notice or order.

(4) if another court appearance is the reason for the request, a copy of the notice or order of the conflicting hearing shall be attached.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Original orders

The moving party must file all original orders with the Prothonotary.

It is the responsibility of the moving party to file all original Orders with the Prothonotary.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Mediation statement

Each mediation statement must include the specified factual, legal, medical or expert, damages, and settlement information.

At least ten (10) days prior to the mediation, each party shall file a mediation statement which must include the following: (1) a succinct explanation of the facts and relief sought; (2) significant legal issues that remain unresolved; (3) summary of medical and expert reports (if applicable); (4) itemized list of damages; and (5) settlement posture and rationale.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Praecipe

To qualify for the specified fee waiver, counsel must file a praecipe certifying the party’s participation in the applicable program.

if counsel for the party has filed a praecipe certifying participation in the applicable program.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Praecipe

A copy of the praecipe must be provided to the Court Administrator at the same time it is filed.

A copy of the praecipe must be provided contemporaneously to the Court Administrator.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Brief

Every brief must include a brief case history, the issues, pertinent parts of relevant documents or transcripts, an argument with citations to relied-on authority, any relevant Court or agency opinion, and a conclusion; this rule does not apply to briefs supporting or opposing a motion for post-trial relief under Pa. R. C. P. 227.1.

(2) Every brief shall contain the following: (a) a brief history of the case; (b) a statement of the issue(s) involved; (c) a copy of, or reference to, the pertinent parts of any relevant document, report,recommendation, order, and/or transcript; (d) an argument with citations of the authority relied upon; (e) a citation or copy to any opinion of the Court or an agency involved in the case; and (f) a conclusion.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Special master motion

The moving party must provide the Civil Division Court Administrator a copy of the special-master motion and order.

The moving party shall provide a copy of the motion and order to the Office of the Court Administrator – Civil Division.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Mediation statement

Each party must file a mediation statement with the mediator containing the listed information, unless a prior pre-trial statement satisfies the requirement, in which case only updates or additional information are required.

At least seven (7) days prior to the mediation, each party shall file, with the mediator, a mediation statement which must include the following: (1) a succinct explanation of liability and damages; (2) significant legal issues that remain unresolved; (3) a summary of medical and expert reports (if applicable); (4) an itemized list of damages; and (5) settlement posture and rationale. (a) This requirement shall be deemed satisfied if a party has previously filed a pre- trial statement pursuant to rule of court, in which case the mediation statement shall only provide updated or additional information. (b) Failure to file a mediation statement may result in sanctions, if requested by the mediator.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Sanctions motion

A sanctions motion must contain a certification that counsel conferred or attempted to confer with all interested parties to resolve or narrow the issues.

Any motion for sanctions shall be governed by Wash.L.R.C.P. 208.2(e) and 208.3(a), and the motion shall contain a certification that counsel has conferred or attempted to confer with all interested parties in order to resolve the matter or narrow the issues to be reviewed by the Court.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Schedule of distribution

Schedules of distribution must include real-estate awards to the entitled parties, individually or, when appropriate, in undivided interests.

(a) Schedules of distribution shall include awards of real estate to the parties entitled thereto, whether individually, or, where the circumstances require, in undivided interests.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Motion petition or pleading

Must include

certificate of service

Every motion, petition, or pleading must include a substantially conforming certificate of service stating the service method for each party, the attorney of record for each represented party, and the address where service was made.

every motion, petition, or pleading must include a "Certificate of Service" which sets forth the manner of service upon each party including the name of an attorney of record for each party that is represented and the address at which service was made. The "Certificate of Service" shall be substantially in the following form:

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Real estate tax appeal

A petition alleging a fact that does not appear of record must include a verification complying with Pa. R. C. P. 206.3.

A verification in accordance with Pa. R. C. P. 206.3, if the petition contains an allegation of fact which does not appear of record.

CRITICALCriminal cases

Applies to

Court record

If the matter is held for Court, the copy of bail and the bondsman’s statement must become part of the record.

If the matter is held for Court, the copy of bail and the bondsman’s statement shall become part of the record.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Hearing transcript

Any hearing must be transcribed for use by the CRB and the President Judge.

Any hearing shall be transcribed for use by the CRB and the President Judge.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Notice

The notice served with original process must contain the prescribed text, including the warning and instructions for incarcerated recipients.

You are being served with original process in a domestic relations matter, and a proceeding has been, or may be scheduled, which could affect your rights. In the event a proceeding has been scheduled, you will be served with notice of the proceeding. If you are incarcerated and want to testify or present evidence, you must apply to the Court for a writ of habeas corpus ad testificandum to enable you to participate in the proceeding. The writ is available where an incarcerated individual wishes to testify as provided by statute or rule, as well as where the testimony is sought by another. IF YOU FAIL TO APPLY TO THE COURT FOR A WRIT, YOU MAY BE UNABLE TO PARTICIPATE IN ANY PROCEEDINGS WHILE INCARCERATED.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Custody consent order

Any agreement reached at the conference must be prepared and signed as a Custody Consent Order.

If an agreement is reached, the agreement shall be prepared and signed in the form of a Custody Consent Order.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Real estate tax appeal

Must include

caption

A real estate tax appeal must use one of the specified captions.

Real Estate Tax Assessment Appeal from a decision of the Board as to the amount of the assessment for real estate tax purposes, or as to exemption of real estate from payment of real estate taxes, shall be captioned "Petition for Real Estate Tax Assessment Appeal" or "Petition for Real Estate Tax Exemption Appeal" and filed with the Prothonotary within the time prescribed by statute.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Pre trial statement

Pretrial statements must include a narrative, intended expert witness list, expert reports, damages assessment, presently known motions in limine, and supporting legal materials.

The pre-trial statements shall contain a narrative statement, a list of any expert witnesses intended to be called at trial, all expert reports, and an assessment of damages. The pre-trial statement shall also include any presently known motions in limine and any legal research, memorandum, or brief in support thereof.

CRITICALCriminal cases

Applies to

Bail record submission

A District Justice who accepts bail from a professional bondsman must forward a copy of the bail and the bondsman’s sworn affidavit to the Clerk of Courts.

Any District Justice accepting bail from a professional bondsman must forward a copy of said bail to the Clerk of Courts together with the bondsman’s sworn affidavit.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Legal paper

If a legal paper contains a proposed order of court, the filing party shall separately file only the proposed order in a Microsoft Word format.

If a legal paper contains a proposed order of court, the filing party shall separately file only the proposed order in a Microsoft Word format.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Deed

The plaintiff must furnish the sheriff a complete property description, including improvements and a brief title recital, and that description must be included in full in the deed.

The Plaintiff causing the issuance of the writ of execution for the sale of real property shall furnish to the sheriff: (1) a complete description of the property to be sold and the improvements, if any, with a brief recital of title, shall be included, in full, in the deed executed pursuant to a sale;

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Case record purge attestation

Before purging a case record, the clerk must file an attestation that the electronic documents are a full and complete copy, in addition to any other applicable requirements.

To purge a case record, the clerk must file an attestation that the electronic documents represent a full and complete copy of the papers in the case file, in addition to any requirements that may be required by Pa.R.J.A. 507 or the County Records Committee (16 P.S. § 13001, et seq.).

CRITICAL

Applies to

Custody consent agreement

Must include

proposed order

The complaint and agreement, with a proposed order attached, must be presented to the assigned judge for approval.

the complaint and the Custody Consent Agreement with proposed order attached shall be presented to the judge to whom the case is assigned for approval;

CRITICAL

Applies to

Custody complaint

A custody count must proceed by filing a custody complaint or petition and scheduling order with the Prothonotary under the divorce case number.

(b) The custody count shall follow the practice and procedures governing custody by filing a custody complaint or petition and scheduling order at the divorce case number with the Prothonotary.

CRITICAL

Before the specified destruction, a court order authorizing destruction must be obtained and filed.

Prior to destruction, thirty (30) days notice shall be given to all interested parties, and a court order authorizing the destruction shall be obtained and filed.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Continuance motion

A continuance motion must be in writing and include the specified information, with notice or an order attached when a conflicting court appearance is the reason.

(2) A motion for continuance shall be set forth in writing and contain the following information: (i) A clear, concise, and certain reason for the request; (ii) A statement that opposing counsel or the opposing party, if unrepresented, has no objection to the request for continuance, if applicable; (iii) A statement of the number of prior continuances, if any; and (iv) If another court appearance is the reason for the request, a copy of the notice or Order of the conflicting hearing shall be attached.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Subsequent appeal

Must include

case number

A subsequent appeal in the same case must use the original appeal's docketing number, and the Prothonotary must docket and file it under that number.

Whenever an appeal is taken from a decision of a zoning hearing board and the record is returned by the Court to the zoning hearing board for further proceedings, and a subsequent appeal from a decision of the zoning hearing board is taken in the same case, the docketing number of the original appeal shall identify the subsequent appeal filed with the Prothonotary who shall docket and file such subsequent appeal at the docketing number of the original appeal.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Post trial motion

A post-trial motion must be filed with the Prothonotary together with a transcript request form identifying the record portion to be transcribed.

Any post-trial motions shall be filed with the Prothonotary in accordance with Pa.R.C.P. 227.1, together with a transcript request form designating that portion of the record to be transcribed.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Certificate of compliance

The Certificate of Compliance form states that the signer complied with the cited rule and conferred in an attempt to resolve the motion, while providing options to report an unsuccessful or omitted conference and its reason.

2. I certify that I have complied with Wash.L.R.C.P. 208.2(3)(a) and conferred with [opposing counsel or the opposing party] in an attempt to resolve the subject matter of this motion as noted below: 🗌 Talked by phone: [date] 🗌 Met in person: [date] 🗌 Other: [type of communication] [date] 🗌 I attempted to confer on [date(s)], but was unable to [state reason(s)]. 🗌 I did not confer for the following reason(s): 🗌 I did not confer because this case, or another case at docket No. , involves an allegation of domestic violence.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Praecipe to settle discontinue and end

When a praecipe to settle, discontinue, and end an action is filed, the filing party must deliver a copy to the Court Administrator for transmittal to the assigned judge.

Upon the filing of a praecipe to settle, discontinue, and end an action, the filing party shall deliver a copy of same to the Court Administrator for transmittal to the assigned judge.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Notice of selection

Replacement lead counsel must promptly file a notice of selection with the Prothonotary.

Replacement lead counsel shall promptly file a notice of his or her selection with the Prothonotary.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Appointment order

An order appointing a special presiding officer must state the officer’s authority and, if applicable, the manner of remuneration.

The order appointing a special presiding officer shall set forth the scope of the authority of the officer, and the manner of remuneration if applicable.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Appearance

An appearance must be entered by praecipe and filed with the Prothonotary, or with the Domestic Relations Section in support cases.

All appearances shall be entered by praecipe and filed with the Prothonotary, or, in cases involving support, the Domestic Relations Section.

CRITICALCriminal cases

Applies to

Professional bondsman surety bond

A professional bondsman who uses a surety must file a surety bond annually; the text is truncated while stating the bonding company's licensing qualification.

The professional bondsman who uses a surety must file annually a surety bond by a bonding company licensed to do business in the

CRITICAL

Applies to

Pretrial memorandum

A Pretrial Memorandum must state the contended assessed value, hearing witnesses, intended exhibits, pretrial motions and supporting authority, legal issues, and any appraisal to be presented.

Each party of record shall file a Pretrial Memorandum within one hundred and eighty (180) days of the filing of the appeal. The Pretrial Memorandum shall set forth (1) the contended assessed value of the subject real estate; (2) the names of all witnesses to be called at the hearing; (3) a list of all exhibits intended to be introduced at the hearing; (4) any pre-trial motions, with supporting legal authority; (5) a summary of any legal issues; and (6) a copy of any appraisal to be presented at the hearing.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Recommended decision

Accompanying the recommended decision shall be a summary of the provisions of paragraph (6) of this subsection, relating to review by the President Judge.

Accompanying the recommended decision shall be a summary of the provisions of paragraph (6) of this subsection, relating to review by the President Judge.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Exceptions

A party filing exceptions must order the testimony transcript unless the party's attorney certifies in writing that it is not required.

(c) Any party filing exceptions shall order from the court reporter the transcript of testimony unless the attorney for the party filing exceptions certifies in writing that the transcript is not required.

CRITICALCriminal cases

Applies to

Criminal complaint and arrest warrant affidavit

For the specified criminal complaints and arrest warrant affidavits, approval by an attorney for the Commonwealth is required before filing and may be obtained by telephone or electronic means.

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. As used in this Rule, “approval by an attorney for the Commonwealth” may be through the use of telephone, advanced communication technology, or other electronic methods.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Custody complaint

The specified Custody Complaint must be prepared for filing with the Prothonotary’s Office when using this consent-agreement procedure.

A Custody Complaint is substantial compliance with Pa.R.C.P. 1915.15(a) shall be prepared for filing with the Prothonotary’s Office,

CRITICAL

Applies to

Telephone participation request

A party requesting telephone participation must submit the opposing party’s written consent to the Civil Division of the Court Administrator’s Office.

A party requesting to participate by telephone shall submit written consent from the opposing party(parties) to the Civil Division of the Court Administrator’s Office.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Parenting coordinator roster application

A roster applicant must acknowledge responsibility to accept a reduced-fee assignment for every three full-fee appointments taken.

(4) An acknowledgement of responsibility to accept reduced fee assignments for every three (3) full fee appointments taken.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Parenting coordinator roster application

A parenting coordinator roster applicant must submit an affidavit attesting to the qualifications in Pa.R.Civ.P. 1915.11.

(1) An affidavit attesting the applicant has the qualifications found in Pa.R.Civ.P. 1915.11;

CRITICALCriminal cases

Applies to

Subpoena

A subpoena may be issued only for a proceeding scheduled at a specified date and time before the court.

A subpoena is an order of court and may only be issued attendant to a proceeding at a specified date and time before the court.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Appeal

An appeal from the Register must be filed in duplicate with the Register as a petition containing the specified procedural, factual, party, and jurisdictional information.

Appeals taken from the judicial acts or proceedings of the Register shall be addressed to the Court, and filed in duplicate with the Register. The appeal shall be in the form of a petition, setting forth the nature of the proceedings before the Register, specifying the material points upon which it is based, and containing a concise statement of the relevant facts, and shall set forth the names of all interested parties and the necessary jurisdictional facts.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition for payment into court

A petition to pay money into court must state the reasons for the request and the exact amount.

A petition for the payment of money into court shall set forth the reasons for requesting such action and the exact amount to be paid.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Brief

Must include

certificate of service

All briefs filed under this rule must be accompanied by a certificate of service.

A certificate of service shall accompany all briefs filed hereunder.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Certification of service

Must include

certificate of service

The petitioner's attorney must file a certification of service with the Prothonotary.

The attorney for the petitioner shall file a certification of service as aforesaid with the Prothonotary within twenty (20) days after the appointment of viewers.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Continuance order

The order granting or denying a continuance must be filed with the Prothonotary, with a copy contemporaneously provided to the Civil Division of the Court Administrator’s Office.

The order granting or denying the continuance shall be filed with the Prothonotary, and copy contemporaneously provided to the Office of the Court Administrator – Civil Division.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

A motion requesting or requiring expedited consideration must state the reason for expedited consideration.

If expedited consideration by the Court is requested or required by statute, rule of procedure, or other controlling authority, the reason for such consideration shall be set forth in the motion.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Proceeding and subsequent papers

Must include

case number

The Clerk assigns each proceeding a prescribed filing number, and all later papers in the matter must bear that number.

Each proceeding of the Orphans' Court Division shall be assigned a filing number by the Clerk, which number shall consist of three groups of numbers separated by hyphens, the first group to be "63", the second to be the last two digits of the year of filing, and the third, the number of the proceeding, in numerical order, in the year in which filed. All papers subsequently filed relating to that matter shall bear the same number.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Custody consent agreement

If the Court approves the agreement, the agreement with the signed court order attached must be filed with the Prothonotary.

if approved by the Court, the Custody Consent Agreement with signed order of court attached shall be filed with the Prothonotary;

CRITICAL

Applies to

Report of viewers

A report of viewers presented for confirmation must be marked “Confirmed Nisi.”

the same shall be marked “Confirmed Nisi,”

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Complaint

A residential mortgage foreclosure complaint must include the Mortgage Foreclosure Diversion Program Notice in the prescribed format.

(a) In all residential mortgage foreclosure actions, the complaint shall include a "Mortgage Foreclosure Diversion Program Notice," in the format set forth below:

CRITICAL

Applies to

Custody complaint and custody consent agreement

File the Custody Complaint and Custody Consent Agreement with the signed Order attached after paying the required filing fees and costs.

The Custody Complaint and the Custody Consent Agreement with signed Order attached shall be filed with the Prothonotary's Office after paying the appropriate filing fees and costs, and

CRITICAL

Applies to

Pleading exhibit or other document

A filer submitting a pleading, exhibit, or other document containing confidential information must file the applicable CIF or CDF with the custodian.

Pursuant to Sections 7.0 and 8.0 of the Case Records Public Access Policy of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania, persons who file a pleading, exhibit, or other document that contains confidential information as defined by the policy shall utilize and file with the applicable custodian a confidential information form ("CIF") or a confidential document form ("CDF"), as applicable, in order to comply with the Policy.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Settlement letter

If the case is resolved by agreement, the mediator must send a letter to the Judge and provide copies to counsel and the Court Administrator.

If the case is resolved and a settlement agreed upon, the mediator shall send a letter to the Judge, with copies to counsel and the Court Administrator.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Mediation statement

Each mediation statement must address liability and damages, unresolved legal issues, applicable medical and expert reports, itemized damages, and settlement posture and rationale.

At least seven (7) days prior to the mediation, each party shall file, with the mediator, a mediation statement which must include the following: (1) a succinct explanation of liability and damages; (2) significant legal issues that remain unresolved; (3) a summary of medical and expert reports (if applicable); (4) an itemized list of damages; and (5) settlement posture and rationale.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

A motion must include a concise statement of applicable authority unless all parties consent to the requested relief.

A concise statement of applicable authority shall be included in any motion, unless all parties have consented to the relief sought by the motion.

CRITICALCriminal cases

Applies to

Subpoena

A subpoena must identify the party seeking it and provide the requesting attorney’s identity, address, and phone number, if any.

The subpoena must state the name of the party seeking the order and the identity, address, and phone number of the attorney, if any, who requested the issuance of the subpoena.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition for appointment of viewers

An additional confirmed copy of such petition shall be filed with the Prothonotary for use in certifying the record to the appointed viewers.

An additional confirmed copy of such petition shall be filed with the Prothonotary for use in certifying the record to the appointed viewers.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Petition for adjudication

For a qualifying decedent, the petition for adjudication must include either the notice sent to the Department of Human Services and its response or the specified fiduciary affidavit.

(a) For decedents who died after August 15, 1994, and were over 55 years of age upon their demise, the provisions of 62 P.S. §1412(b) apply. Attached to the petition for adjudication shall be either: (1) the notice sent to the Department of Human Services and the Department's response; or (2) the Affidavit of the Fiduciary, that he has reason to know the financial affairs of the decedent prior to decedent’s death, and the Fiduciary affirmatively represents that decedent did not receive any medical assistance during the five years preceding decedent’s death.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Custody action

Custody actions must be commenced by a verified complaint, or, for a custody count in a divorce action, by a petition and a separate scheduling order.

(a) All actions raising custody, partial custody, or modification of an existing order for a minor child shall be commenced by the filing of a verified complaint or, in the case of a custody count in an action for divorce, a petition and a separate scheduling order as set forth in subsection of this rule.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Pre trial statement

The pre-trial statement must list the names and addresses of expected trial witnesses and classify them as liability or damage witnesses.

(3) the names and addresses of all witnesses the party expects to call at trial. The witnesses shall be classified as liability or damage witnesses.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Discovery motion

A Certificate of Compliance must be filed for discovery motions as required by the referenced rule.

For all discovery motions, see Wash. L. R. Civ. P. 208.2(3)(a) for the requirements to confer with all interested parties and the filing of a Certificate of Compliance.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Exhibit index

A copy of the exhibit index must be filed with the records office, and its docket description must identify where the exhibits are stored.

A copy of the index shall be filed with the records office. The records office shall docket and accept the index for filing. The docket description shall be in a manner as directed by the Court, or its designee, and must include a location describing where the exhibit(s) are being stored.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Post trial brief

Must include

certificate of service

Every brief filed under this rule must include a certificate of service.

A certificate of service shall accompany all briefs filed hereunder.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Supplemental pre trial statement

Supplemental pre-trial statements must include additional damages claims, liability or damage witnesses, expert witnesses, and exhibits intended for trial.

Counsel shall file supplemental pre-trial statements up to the time of trial. Supplemental statements shall include, but not be limited to, additional claims for damages, additional liability witnesses, damage witnesses, expert witnesses, and/or exhibits intended to be used at trial.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Appearance

An attorney must enter an appearance on behalf of a party before appearing in any court proceeding.

No attorney shall be permitted to appear before the Court in any conference, motion, hearing, trial, or other proceedings without first entering an appearance on behalf of a party.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Filed complaint

The moving party shall attach copies of each to the filed, time-stamped copies of the complaint

The moving party shall attach copies of each to the filed, time-stamped copies of the complaint

CRITICAL

Applies to

Scheduling order

If the agreement is not approved, the moving party must prepare a scheduling order for assignment of the Initial Custody Meeting date and time.

if the agreement is not approved by the Court, the moving party shall pay any additional filing fees within thirty (30) days and prepare a scheduling order for an assignment of a date and a time for the Initial Custody Meeting in accordance with Wash.L.R.C.P. 1915.3(b). The failure to comply with this rule shall result in dismissal of the action without further notification to the parties.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

The moving party must attach a Certificate of Compliance to the motion, substantially in the prescribed form.

The moving party shall attach a Certificate of Compliance to the motion. The Certificate of Compliance shall substantially be in the following form:

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Caption

A caption for a case involving real estate must include a tax identification number.

a tax identification number is required in all cases involving real estate.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Discovery response

If the answer is yes, the response must include a separate sheet listing treatment dates and reasons and the chiropractor’s name and address.

(e) If you answered yes, attach a separate sheet which lists the dates of the treatment, the reasons for the treatment, and the chiropractor’s name and address.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion to permit filing

A party whose petition is refused may present a motion to permit filing of the modification using forms provided by the Domestic Relations Section.

(d) A party whose petition has been refused may present to the judge to whom the case is assigned a motion to permit the filing of the modification, on forms provided by the Domestic Relations Section.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Oath or affirmation

Before taking office, each Board member must take and subscribe to an oath or affirmation to perform the duties faithfully and file it with the Prothonotary.

Each member of said Board shall, before assuming the duties of their office, take and subscribe to an oath or affirmation to perform faithfully all the duties imposed upon him/her by law, which shall be filed with the Prothonotary.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Pre trial statement

Pre-trial statements must include a narrative, intended expert witnesses and their reports, a damages assessment, and any presently known motions in limine with supporting legal research or briefing.

The pre-trial statements shall contain a narrative statement, a list of any expert witnesses intended to be called at trial, all expert reports, and an assessment of damages. The pre- trial statement shall also include any presently known motions in limine and any legal research, memorandum, or briefin support thereof.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition

If the parties cannot agree on any listed counseling issue, the moving party must petition the Court to decide it.

(b) In the event the parties cannot agree on any or all of the following issues, the moving party shall petition the Court to determine: (1) Which party shall pay for counseling or how the payments for counseling shall be apportioned; (2) The counselor or agency to be utilized; and (3) The number of counseling sessions pursuant to §3302 of the Divorce Code.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Complaint

A duplicate complaint must be filed with the Prothonotary, who forwards it to the Civil Division Court Administrator for assignment to a judge.

(a) A duplicate copy of the complaint shall be filed with the Prothonotary who shall forward it to the Office of the Court Administrator – Civil Division. Upon receipt of the complaint, the Court Administrator shall assign the case to a judge pursuant to Wash.L.R.C.P. 200.1.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Consent support order

order is being filed, the consent support order shall include along with filing the current intake information sheet and a properly completed complaint for support.

order is being filed, the consent support order shall include along with filing the current intake information sheet and a properly completed complaint for support.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Legal paper

An electronically filed legal paper must include a signature block naming the authorized filer.

A legal paper filed electronically must include a signature block for the name of the authorized filer.

CRITICALCriminal cases

Applies to

Subpoena request

An individual requesting a subpoena from the issuing authority must provide the information required by paragraph (C)(1).

(1) The individual requesting the subpoena shall provide the issuing authority with the information required in paragraph (C)(1

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Post trial motion

A post-trial motion must specify the grounds relied upon.

All post-trial motions must specify the grounds relied upon as provided by Pa. R. C. P. 227.l(b)(2).

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Schedule of distribution

A schedule awarding real estate must describe it with deed-level detail, state how title was acquired, list the tax parcel identification number, and identify the person and address for real-estate tax notices.

(b) The real estate so awarded shall be described in the same detail and with the same particularity as is commonly required to be included in deeds, must recite how title was acquired, list the tax parcel identification number and the name and address of the individual who is to received real estate tax notices.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Points for charge

The parties must jointly submit points for charge to the Special Master 48 hours before mini-jury selection.

The points for charge shall be submitted jointly by the parties to the Special Master forty-eight (48) hours prior to the selection of the mini-jury.

CRITICALCriminal cases

Applies to

Revised certification

A professional bondsman must notify the Clerk of Courts by filing a revised certification within 10 days after a change in ownership, encumbrance, or surety.

Within 10 days after any change in ownership, encumbrance, or surety, the professional bondsman shall notify the Clerk of Courts by filing a revised certification as set forth above.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Custody consent agreement

The parties must prepare and sign a Custody Consent Agreement with the appropriate order attached.

The parties shall prepare and sign a Custody Consent Agreement with the appropriate order attached,

CRITICAL

Applies to

Parenting coordinator summary and recommendations

Copies of the Summary and Recommendations and the Proof of Service must also be provided to the Court.

Copies of both documents shall also be provided to the Court

CRITICAL

Applies to

Legal paper

A required signature must be supplied by a scanned paper bearing the filer’s original signature, a digitalized signature, or the filer’s name preceded by “Isl” and the attorney’s printed name.

A required signature shall be supplied either by filing a scanned image of the legal paper that bears the original signature of the filer, or, by affixing the digitalized signature, or the name of the filer preceded by Isl, and the printed name of the attorney, to the electronically filed legal paper.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Divorce filing

For divorce grounds under Section 3301(d), at least one party must file a 3301(d) affidavit and proof that the counter affidavit was served on the other party.

(1) When the grounds for the divorce are based on Section 3301(d) of the Divorce Code, at least one of the parties shall have filed a 3301(d) affidavit and shall have filed proof of service of a section 3301(d) counter affidavit upon the other party.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Complaint

A complaint must use the prescribed written form, be signed by the complainant, and describe the matter in detail.

(1) A complaint by or against a constable must be in writing on the form set forth below and shall be signed by the complainant and specify in detail the alleged misconduct, financial dispute, or other matter related to the performance of judicial duties.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Affidavit

Before a decree or judgment is entered against a party who appeared and later defaulted, the opposing party must file an affidavit stating that the party is not in military service or, if that information is unavailable, describing efforts to obtain it.

In all cases in which a party to an action has appeared but subsequently defaults, before any decree or judgment shall be entered, the opposing party shall file an affidavit stating that the defaulting party is not in the military service of the United States, or if the information is not available, the affidavit shall state what efforts have been made to obtain the facts.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

Every motion must contain a cover sheet in the form prescribed by Wash.L.R.C.P. 205.2(b).

All motions shall contain a cover sheet in the form prescribed by Wash.L.R.C.P. 205.2(b).

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

All motions, including motions to continue a master’s hearing, must be presented to the assigned judge.

All motions must be presented to the judge to whom the case is assigned including motions to continue master’s hearings.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Motion petition or preliminary objection

Must include

proposed order

Every motion, petition, or preliminary objection must include a proposed court order attached before the certificate of service.

Every motion, petition, or preliminary objection shall include a proposed order of court which shall be attached before the certificate of service.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Complaint

Each item of relief in the original or an amended complaint must appear in a separate numbered count.

Each item of relief requested in the original complaint or any future amended complaints shall be designated in a separate numbered count.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Continuance order

The moving party must provide the Civil Division Court Administrator a copy of any order granting a continuance before a master.

(g) A copy of any order granting a continuance of a proceeding before a master must be provided by the moving party to the Office of the Court Administrator – Civil Division.

CRITICALCriminal cases

Applies to

Bail surety certificate

When out-of-state real estate is used as bail surety, the defendant or bail provider must file an oath-supported certificate with the required deed, valuation, and encumbrance information.

Whenever real estate is used as a surety for bail, the defendant or the party placing bail for the defendant shall file a certificate, under oath, which lists the real estate owned anywhere outside of the Commonwealth but within the United States by the person placing the bail. Such certification shall include: A certified copy of the original deed for each tract of real estate being used as bail surety. Attached to the certification shall be an appraisal of the fair market value of the real estate as certified by a licensed real estate broker in the county in which the real estate is located; or a document from the Tax Assessment Office listing owner(s) name and market value and appraised value. A certification by an attorney who practices in the jurisdiction where the real estate is owned, or a certificate of a duly qualified/certified title searcher listing the encumbrances, mortgages, and liens against the real estate, and the unpaid balance of each encumbrance as of the date of the statement, at a minimum, from the date of the deed to the person(s) desiring to become surety.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Parent plan and parenting program certification

The completed Parent Plan form must be submitted, the mandated parenting program must be completed, and certification must be presented; a finder of fact may draw a negative inference for failure to submit the form.

(3) The Child Custody Conference Officer will insure that the parties have submitted the completed Parent Plan form. The finder of fact may draw a negative inference against the party who fails to comply with this requirement. The Child Custody Conference Officer shall also insure that the mandated parenting program has been completed by the parties and certification presented.

CRITICALCriminal cases

Applies to

Subpoena

A subpoena must be signed by and bear the seal of the issuing authority.

The subpoena shall be signed by and under the seal of the issuing authority.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Mediation report

For an unresolved case, the mediator's report must include the specified assessments, opinions, demands, offer, and recommendation, and a copy must be provided to the Court Administrator for retention until the case closes.

If the case has not been resolved, within ten ( 10) days from the date of the mediation, the mediator shall send the Court a report setting forth the following information: (a) the mediator's assessment of liability; (b) the mediator's assessment of damages; (c) the mediator's opinion regarding the potential range of a verdict and the settlement value of the case; (d) the Plaintiffs final settlement demand; (e) the Defendant's final settlement offer; and (t) the mediator's recommendation regarding settlement of the case. A copy of the report shall be provided to and maintained by the Court Administrator until the case is closed.

CRITICALCriminal cases

Applies to

Pretrial assessment report

At the preliminary hearing, the Magisterial District Judge must provide copies of the pretrial assessment report to the Commonwealth’s attorney, defense counsel, and any unrepresented defendant.

The Magisterial District Judge shall provide copies of the report to the Commonwealth’s attorney, defense counsel, and to any unrepresented defendant at the preliminary hearing.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Filing

Each filing must include a certification in substantially the specified form affirming compliance with the Case Records Public Access Policy.

(C) ) Certification of Compliance. A party, or their attorney, shall attach a certification to each filing to attest to their compliance with this policy. The certification shall be substantially in the following form: I certify that this filing complies with the provisions of the Case Records Public Access Policy of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania that require filing confidential information and documents differently than non-confidential information and documents. Date: _____________________ Signature: _______________ (Name)

CRITICAL

Applies to

Settlement agreement

Each settlement must be confirmed in a written agreement signed by a party or an authorized representative.

Each settlement is to be confirmed in a written settlement agreement, signed by a party or a party representative with authority to sign. A party representative who signs is presumed to have full authority to bind the party.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Real estate tax appeal

The petition must identify the property and its municipality and school district, and attach the tax-record property card as an exhibit.

Identification of the subject real estate, including the street address and tax parcel identification number, and a designation of the municipality and school district wherein the real estate is located. A copy of the property card from the tax records shall be attached as an exhibit to the petition.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Transcript cost waiver application

(1) The waiver application shall be filed with the standardized request form and any other documentation as provided for in subsection (A) of this rule.

(1) The waiver application shall be filed with the standardized request form and any other documentation as provided for in subsection (A) of this rule.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Non documentary exhibit

A proponent offering a non-documentary exhibit must provide a photograph no larger than 8.5 by 11 inches.

If a proponent offers into evidence a non-documentary exhibit, the proponent shall provide a photograph of the exhibit that does not exceed a size of 8.5 by 11 inches

CRITICAL

Applies to

Pre trial statement

Attach reports of healthcare providers expected to testify; if a report is not produced timely, the provider’s testimony is excluded unless the parties consent or the Court expressly orders otherwise.

There shall be attached to the pre-trial statement: (1) a copy of all reports containing findings or conclusions of any healthcare provider who has treated or examined a party or has been consulted in connection with any injuries complained of and whom a party expects to call as a witness at the trial of the case. If timely production of any report is not made, the testimony of such healthcare provider shall be excluded at the trial except upon consent of the party or parties or upon express order of the Court;

CRITICAL

Applies to

Pre trial statement

Attach reports of experts expected to testify; if a report is not produced timely, the expert’s testimony is excluded unless the parties consent or the Court expressly orders otherwise.

(2) a copy of all reports containing findings and conclusions of any expert who has been consulted in connection with the matters involved in the case and whom the party expects to call at trial. If timely production of any such report is not made, the testimony of such expert shall be excluded at the trial, except upon consent of the party or parties or upon express order of Court;

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion, petition, or preliminary objection

Must include

proposed order

Every motion, petition, or preliminary objection must include a proposed court order attached before the certificate of service.

(3) Proposed Order. Every motion, petition, or preliminary objection shall include a proposed order of court which shall be attached before the certificate of service.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Exhibit

Exhibits containing confidential information or qualifying as confidential documents under the Policy must have the appropriate Policy-required form affixed.

Exhibits that contain confidential information or are a confidential document as defined in the Case Records Public Access Policy of the Unified Judicial System shall be affixed with the appropriate form required by the Policy.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Discovery response

If the answer is yes, the response must include a separate sheet listing the hospital, treatment dates and reasons, and hospitalization length.

(c) If you answered yes, attach a separate sheet which lists the name of the hospital, the date of each treatment, the reason for the treatment, and the length of the hospitalization.

CRITICALCriminal cases

Applies to

Probation or parole order

When sentencing a defendant to probation or granting parole, the Court must state in its order that Washington County’s general probation and parole rules and conditions apply in addition to statutory requirements.

The Court, whenever sentencing a defendant to probation or granting parole, shall state in its order that, in addition to the statutory requirements, the general rules, regulations, and conditions governing probation and parole in Washington County apply to the sentenced offender.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Notice of presentation

A Notice of Presentation for a continuance motion must comply with Wash.L.R.C.P. 208.2 and 208.3(a).

(d) The Notice of Presentation shall comply with Wash.L.R.C.P. 208.2 and 208.3(a).

CRITICAL

Applies to

Settlement letter

If the case settles, the mediator must send a letter to the Judge and copy counsel and the Court Administrator.

If the case is resolved and a settlement agreed upon, the mediator shall send a letter to the Judge, with copies to counsel and the Court Administrator.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Recommended decision

Accompanying the recommended decision shall be a summary of the provisions of paragraph (6) of this subsection, relating to review by the President Judge.

Accompanying the recommended decision shall be a summary of the provisions of paragraph (6) of this subsection, relating to review by the President Judge.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Real estate tax assessment appeal petition

Must include

caption

A real estate tax assessment or exemption appeal must use one of the specified petition captions, be filed with the Prothonotary, and have a copy provided to the Court Administrator.

Real Estate Tax Assessment Appeal from a decision of the Board as to the amount of the assessment for real estate tax purposes, or as to exemption of real estate from payment of real estate taxes, shall be captioned “Petition for Real Estate Tax Assessment Appeal” or “Petition for Real Estate Tax Exemption Appeal” and filed with the Prothonotary within the time prescribed by statute. A copy of the appeal shall be provided to the Court Administrator.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Complaint

Every residential mortgage foreclosure complaint must include the Mortgage Foreclosure Diversion Program Notice in the prescribed format.

(a) In all residential mortgage foreclosure actions, the complaint shall include a “Mortgage Foreclosure Diversion Program Notice,” in the format set forth below:

CRITICAL

Applies to

Complaint

If the moving party seeks immediate court action on a custody count, the complaint containing that count or the separately filed custody count must include a proposed scheduling order.

(a) All complaints containing a custody count and all counts of custody filed separately must be accompanied with a proposed scheduling order if the moving party is seeking to have the custody count immediately addressed by the Court.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition for minor settlement

A petition to settle a case involving a minor must state the case facts and why the settlement is proper, and include the specified supporting documents and statements.

(b) The petition for settlement shall contain the following: (1) the factual circumstances of the case; (2) the reasons why the settlement is a proper one; and (3) be accompanied by the following: (i) a proposed order of distribution; (ii) a written report of a physician; (iii) a statement under oath by the guardian certifying (1) the present physical or mental condition of the minor, and (2) approval of the proposed settlement and distribution of proceeds; (iv) a statement of the professional opinion of counsel as to the reasonableness of the proposed settlement and the basis for such opinion; (v) in the event that the minor is sixteen years of age or over, his or her written approval of the proposed settlement and distribution thereof; and (vi) a copy of the written fee agreement.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Certificate of presentation

The Certificate of Presentation must substantially identify the judge, presentation date, time and courtroom; state whether all parties consent; and list applicable authority.

The Certificate of Presentation shall substantially be in the following form: 2. The attached motion will be presented to the Hon. [Judge’s name], on [date] at [time] in Courtroom No. . 3. The attached motion is 🗌 consented / 🗌 not consented to by all parties. [If not a consented to motion] A Certificate of Compliance is attached to this motion. [If consented to] A Certificate of Consent is attached to this motion. 4. The applicable authority [ties] on which the Court may rely to provide the relief sought are as follows: __________.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Special verdict questions

Counsel must submit a joint statement or proposed special verdict questions, with the Special Master selecting the questions if counsel cannot agree.

Counsel shall submit to the Special Master, forty-eight (48) hours prior to the selection of the jury, a joint statement or proposed special verdict questions, for use at trial. If counsel cannot agree on a joint statement, the Special Master will select the special verdict questions to be used.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Praecipe to decertify in forma pauperis status

A party whose improved financial circumstances enable payment of costs must file a praecipe to decertify in forma pauperis status.

If there is an improvement in the financial circumstances of a party which will enable the party to pay costs, the party must immediately file a praecipe to decertify in forma pauperis status.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Discovery response

If the answer is yes, the response must include a separate sheet listing treatment dates and reasons and the treatment provider’s name and address.

(g) If you answered yes, attach a separate sheet which lists the dates of treatment, the reasons for the treatment, and the name and address of the treatment provider.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion or petition

Motions or petitions concerning a person's physical or mental examination must be presented directly to the assigned judge.

All motions or petitions concerning the physical and/or mental examination of a person shall be presented directly to the judge to whom the case is assigned in accordance with Wash.L.R.C.P. 1932.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Order of distribution

The order of distribution must award counsel fees, which must be reasonable under Rule 1.5 of the Pennsylvania Rules of Professional Conduct.

(c) The order of distribution shall include an award of counsel fees. The standard for the award of counsel fees in the representation of minors is that such fees must be reasonable in accordance with the guidelines set forth in Rule 1.5 of the Pennsylvania Rules of Professional Conduct.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Praecipe

The praecipe must direct future notices to the client and state the client’s last known address, unless there is a substitute attorney.

The praecipe shall direct the Prothonotary to send all future notices directly to the client and shall set forth the client’s last known address unless there is a substitute attorney.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Proposed order

Must include

proposed order

A legal paper filed electronically must have a separately filed proposed court order in Microsoft Word format.

If a legal paper is filed electronically, there shall be a separately filed proposed order of court in a Microsoft Word format in accordance with Wash. L. R. C. P. 205.4(b)(2).

CRITICAL

Applies to

Notice of ripeness

The objecting party must file a notice stating that the matter is ripe for decision, substantially following Form 5000.9(a).

Within five (5) days after the filing date set for the Briefs in Opposition to Objections has passed, the objecting party shall notify the Court that the matter is ripe for decision by filing a notice that the matter is ripe for decision as substantially set forth in FORM 5000.9(a).

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Brief

Briefs must be filed of record and conform to Wash.L.R.C.P. 210.

Briefs shall be filed of record and conform to the requirements of Wash.L.R.C.P. 210.

CRITICALCriminal cases

Applies to

Certificate of disposal

When a matter is disposed of at the District Justice level, the District Justice must send a certificate of disposal to the Clerk forthwith.

If the matter is disposed of at the District Justice level, a certificate of disposal shall be sent by the District Justice to the Clerk forthwith.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Petition for confirmation of sale

Must include

proposed order

A fiduciary’s petition seeking court approval or confirmation of a real-property sale must provide the listed sale and notice information, attach the written sale agreement, and include a proposed final order.

Returns of public or private sales of real property for the purpose of an approvalor confirmation by the Court shall be in the form of a petition by the fiduciary which shall set forth: (1) the manner in which notice was given; (2) the price obtained; (3) the name and address of the purchaser and that such purchaser was the highest bidder; (4) a complete copy of the written agreement of sale shall be attached; (5) whether any exceptions to the confirmation have been filed; and (6) a proposed final order of Court approving or confirming the sale.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Mediator report

If the case is unresolved, the mediator must send the Court a report with the specified assessments and settlement information within ten days after mediation, and a copy is maintained by the Court Administrator until the case closes.

If the case has not been resolved, within ten (10) days from the date of the mediation, the mediator shall send the Court the following information: (a) The mediators assessment of liability; (b) the mediators assessment of damages; (c) he mediators opinion regarding the potential range of a verdict and the settlement value of the case; (d) the Plaintiff’s settlement offer; and (e) the mediator's recommendation regarding settlement of the case. A copy of the report shall be provided to and maintained by the Court Administrator until the case is closed.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Praecipe for writ of execution

A mortgage-foreclosure praecipe for a writ of execution must have a description of the subject property attached.

The praecipe for the writ of execution in an action of mortgage foreclosure shall have attached to it a description of the subject property.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

Must include

proposed order

Every motion must have an attached proposed order granting the requested relief.

A proposed order granting the relief requested shall be attached to every motion.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Praecipe to proceed in forma pauperis

Counsel must present an endorsed Praecipe to Proceed in Forma Pauperis to the Prothonotary with a Certificate of Eligibility attached.

Counsel representing these individuals shall present to the Prothonotary a Praecipe to Proceed in Forma Pauperis which shall be endorsed by counsel and which shall have attached to it a Certificate of Eligibility.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Transcript request

Requests for daily, expedited, same-day, or rough-draft transcripts must be made in writing on the Transcript Request Form.

(C) Requests for daily, expedited, same day, or rough draft transcripts shall be made in writing on the Transcript Request Form available in the office of Court Administration, or at www.washingtoncourts.us .

CRITICAL

Applies to

Existing support case modification

In the specified existing support cases, counsel for either party must file the marriage settlement agreement and a copy of the divorce decree with the Domestic Relations Section.

In existing support cases where a marriage settlement agreement is signed following the entry of the support order which modifies the terms of the current support obligation, counsel for either party shall file the marriage settlement agreement and a copy of the divorce decree with the Domestic Relations Section.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Summary report

The Summary Report must include any evaluation and home-study results, findings on disputed jurisdiction or venue, and custody or visitation recommendations.

The Summary Report will include the following: a. The results of mental and physical evaluations and home studies, if any. b. Findings of fact on jurisdiction or venue issues, if in question. c. Recommendations for custody/visitation.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition for leave to proceed in forma pauperis

Except as provided by Wash.L.R.C.P. 1915.37, when an attorney who filed a Pa.R.C.P. 240(d) praecipe withdraws, the party must file a petition for leave to proceed in forma pauperis to continue the litigation-cost waiver.

Except as provided in Wash.L.R.C.P. 1915.37, upon withdraw of an attorney who has filed a praecipe on behalf of a client pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 240(d), the party must file a petition to for leave to proceed in forma pauperis to continue to have the costs of litigation waived as set forth in Pa.R.C.P. 240(f).

CRITICAL

Applies to

Notice of change of ownership

If ownership of the property changes during the appeal, the owner of record must file notice with the Prothonotary identifying the new owners, the type of change, and its date.

If at any time during the course of an appeal filed pursuant to Local Rule 5000, et seq., ownership of the property at issue is transferred, changed, or altered in any way, the property owner listed of record in the appeal is required to file notice of the transfer/change/alteration with the Prothonotary. The notice shall provide the following information: (1) The name(s) and addresses(es) of the new owner(s) of the property; (2) The type of transfer/change/alteration (e.g., property sold); and (3) The date of the transfer/change/alteration.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Petition for leave to proceed in forma pauperis

Except for the stated rule-based exception, after the attorney who filed the client's praecipe withdraws, the party must file a petition for leave to proceed in forma pauperis to continue the cost waiver.

Except as provided in Wash.L.R.C.P. 1915.37, upon withdrawal of an attorney who has filed a praecipe on behalf of a client pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 240(d), the party must file a petition to for leave to proceed in forma pauperis to continue to have the costs of litigation waived as set forth in Pa.R.C.P. 240(t).

CRITICAL

Applies to

Exhibit index

The records office must docket and accept the index, using a court-directed docket description that identifies where the exhibits are stored.

The records office shall docket and accept the index for filing. The docket description shall be in a manner as directed by the Court, or its designee, and must include a location describing where the exhibit(s) are being stored.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion, petition, or pleading

Must include

certificate of service

Every motion, petition, or pleading must include a certificate of service stating the service manner for each party, any represented party’s attorney of record, and the address where service was made, substantially in the prescribed form.

(x.) every motion, petition, or pleading must include a "Certificate of Service" which sets forth the manner of service upon each party including the name of an attorney of record for each party that is represented and the address at which service was made. The "Certificate of Service" shall be substantially in the following form:

CRITICAL

Applies to

Notice of presentation

A Notice of Presentation must state the dates the continuance motion was served on opposing counsel or an unrepresented opposing party and on the Domestic Relations Section.

(c) The Notice of Presentation shall include the date of service of the motion upon the opposing counsel or the opposing party, if unrepresented, and the date of service of the motion upon the Domestic Relations Section.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Praecipe to decertify in forma pauperis status

A party whose improved financial circumstances enable payment of costs must file a praecipe to decertify in forma pauperis status.

If there is an improvement in the ~ancial circumstances of a party which will enable the party to pay costs, the party must immediately file a praecipe to decertify in forma pauperis status.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Mediation statement

The mediation statement must address liability and damages, unresolved legal issues, applicable medical and expert reports, itemized damages, and settlement posture and rationale.

At least seven (7) days prior to the mediation, each party shall file, with the mediator, a mediation statement which must include the following: (1) a succinct explanation of liability and damages; (2) significant legal issues that remain unresolved; (3) a summary of medical and expert reports (if applicable); (4) an itemized list of damages; and (5) settlement posture and rationale.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Brief

Every brief must contain a case history, the issues, pertinent materials, an argument with authority, relevant Court or agency opinions, and a conclusion.

(2) Every brief shall contain the following: (a) a brief history of the case; (b) a statement of the issue(s) involved; (c) a copy of, or reference to, the pertinent parts of any relevant document, report, recommendation, order, and/or transcript; (d) an argument with citations of the authority relied upon; (e) a citation or copy to any opinion of the Court or an agency involved in the case; and (f) a conclusion.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Real estate tax assessment appeal petition

Must include

caption

The appeal petition must include the specified parties, property and appeal details, supporting exhibits, and a verification when it alleges facts not of record.

The appeal shall contain the following: (a) Caption designating the named party taking the appeal as Appellant, the Board as Appellee, and if Appellant is a taxing authority it shall join the owner of the real estate involved as a matter of course as a party in the assessment appeal by designating such named owner in the caption as an Appellee. All taxing authorities shall be named as parties in the appeal. The tax parcel identification number for the real estate in question shall appear in the caption. (b) Identification of the subject real estate, including the street address and tax parcel identification number, and a designation of the municipality and school district wherein the real estate is located. A copy of the property card from the tax records shall be attached as an exhibit to the petition. (c) Name and address of the taxpayer(s), and any other party to the appeal. (d) Nature of and reasons for the appeal. (e) Reference to the decision of Washington County Board of Assessment Appeals (Board) from which the appeal is taken. The date of notification shall be provided. A copy of the Board's notice of decision shall be attached as an exhibit to the petition. (f) Reason(s) for the appeal. The petition shall identify whether the challenge is based on fair market value, base year value, or a constitutional challenge based on uniformity. (g) A verification in accordance with Pa. R. Civ. P. 206.3, if the petition contains an allegation of fact which does not appear of record.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Certificate of consent

The Certificate of Consent form identifies the moving party’s representative, states the parties’ consent and requested relief, and includes signatures and dates.

1. The undersigned, , represents [name of party], the moving party herein. 2. As evidenced by the below signatures, the parties have consented to the relief sought by this motion, and request that the Court enter the proposed order. Respectfully submitted, Signature [date] Consented to by: [name, party name, and signature] [date]

CRITICAL

Applies to

Trial de novo and pretrial conference request

The request must be presented to the assigned judge to schedule the Pretrial Conference.

The request must be presented to the judge to whom the case is assigned for the scheduling of the Pretrial Conference.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Discovery response

The response must attach complete records or authorizations for the identified providers concerning the injuries or conditions for which damages are sought.

h. Attach complete hospital and office records covering the injuries or other medical conditions for which you seek damages for each hospital, chiropractor, and other medical provider identified in 4(b), and 4(f) or authorizations for these records.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Brief

Issues raised but not briefed are deemed abandoned.

Issues raised, but not briefed, shall be deemed abandoned.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Order

When the Court transfers exhibits to a proponent, it must enter an order reflecting the transfer and docket that order in the applicable case.

If exhibits are transferred from the possession of the Court to a proponent, the Court shall enter an order reflecting the transfer. The order shall be docketed at the number for the applicable case.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Ordinary transcript request

To obtain a no-cost ordinary transcript, a legal-aid client must show that an attorney has appeared in the case, and the legal-aid service must submit an eligibility and case-status letter to the District Court Administrator.

To receive a no-cost ordinary transcript, clients of a free legal service must demonstrate that a legal aid service attorney has entered an appearance on their behalf in the case for which a transcript is requested. Legal aid services shall provide the District Court Administrator with a letter certifying that the client meets financial eligibility and that the matter is under appeal or is necessary to advance the current litigation.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Supplemental brief

Supplemental briefs may not be filed unless the Court orders otherwise; this rule does not apply to briefs supporting or opposing a motion for post-trial relief under Pa. R. C. P. 227.1.

(3) No supplemental brief(s) shall be filed, absent an order of court.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Objections

Objections must include a certification by counsel or an unrepresented party that the transcript, or necessary portions, have been requested from the Court Administrator.

Objections must be accompanied by a certification of counsel, or a party if unrepresented, that a transcript of all proceedings before the master, or necessary portions of the transcript, have been requested from the Court Administrator.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Confidential information form

The filer must separately e-file a Confidential Information Form and mark it confidential through the portal prompts when submitting it.

The electronic filer shall separately electronically file a Confidential Information Form and shall indicate that the form is a confidential filing at the time of their filing submission through the prompts on the C-Track E-Filing Portal.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Deposition rule

The rule must be provided to each witness before the deposition begins.

Prior to the commencement of any deposition, this rule shall be provided to every witness so that he or she understands the parameters of permissible testimony and may have the opportunity to question his or her counsel regarding same.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Pleading and proposed order

Must include

caption

All pleadings and proposed orders in asbestos cases must include the specified Washington County Court of Common Pleas asbestos caption.

(2) All pleadings and proposed orders shall include a caption as follows: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA CIVIL DIVISION – ASBESTOS

CRITICAL

Applies to

Exhibits

For confidential or sealed exhibits filed in C-Track, the records office must mark the docket and maintain the exhibit as directed by the Court or its designee.

To the extent any confidential and/or sealed exhibit is filed within the C-Track case management system, the records office shall mark the docket and maintain the exhibit in a manner prescribed by the Court, or its designee

CRITICAL

Applies to

Request for injunctive relief

Requests for injunctive relief must be presented to the assigned judge, not the divorce master.

Requests for injunctive relief shall be presented to the judge to whom the case is assigned and not to the master in divorce.

CRITICALCriminal cases

Applies to

Subpoena

A subpoena may issue only for a proceeding scheduled at a specified date and time and must identify the requesting party and, if applicable, the requesting attorney and the attorney’s contact information.

A subpoena is an order of court and may only be issued attendant to a proceeding at a specified date and time before the court. The subpoena must state the name of the party seeking the order and the identity, address, and phone number of the attorney, if any, who requested the issuance of the subpoena.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Affidavit of service

An affidavit of service must identify with particularity the pleadings, attachments, and documents that were served.

The affidavit of service must set forth with particularity the pleadings, attachments and documents so served.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

Every motion must include a concise statement of the authority supporting the requested relief.

Every motion shall include a concise statement of the applicable authority on which the Court may rely to provide the relief sought by the moving party.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Parent plan form

Each parent must file the Washington County Parent Plan form, available at Appendix F; the finder of fact may draw a negative inference for noncompliance.

(a) Each parent shall file a Washington County Parent Plan form with the Civil Division of the Court Administrator’s Office no later than thirty (30) days from the filing of the Custody Complaint or Modification Petition. The Parent Plan form may be found at Appendix F. The finder of fact may draw a negative inference against the party who fails to comply with this requirement.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Exceptions

Exceptions to a master's report must be filed with the Prothonotary, with a copy delivered to the Office of the Court Administrator – Civil Division.

Exceptions to the report and recommendations of the master shall be filed with the Prothonotary and a copy shall be delivered to the Office of the Court Administrator – Civil Division.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Notice of selection

Lead defense counsel must promptly file a notice of selection with the Prothonotary.

Lead defense counsel shall promptly filea notice of his or her selection with the Prothonotary.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Points for charge

The parties must jointly submit points for charge to the Special Master.

The points for charge shall be submitted jointly by the parties to the Special Master forty-eight (48) hours prior to the selection of the mini-jury.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Preliminary objections

All preliminary objections must be filed with the Prothonotary.

All preliminary objections shall be filed with the Prothonotary.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Custody action filing

The moving party must immediately file the complaint or petition with the Prothonotary and provide the scheduling order to the Office of the Court Administrator – Civil Division.

The moving party shall immediately file the complaint or petition with the Prothonotary, and provide a copy of the scheduling order to the Office of the Court Administrator – Civil Division. A copy of the scheduling order will then be delivered by the moving party to Office of the Court Administrator– Civil Division.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition

An indigent party's petition in a divorce or annulment proceeding must request that the Court require the other party to bear the action's costs.

provided, however, that the petition shall include a request that the Court require the other party to bear the costs of the action.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition

A request for a stay or other emergency relief must appear in the body of the petition, and the Court may order that relief upon presentation of the petition.

A request for a stay of execution, or any other form of emergency relief, shall be addressed in the body of the petition, and may be ordered by the Court upon presentation of said petition.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Written appearance and defenses

The defendant must enter a written appearance personally or through an attorney and file any defenses or objections in writing.

the defendant shall have twenty (20) days in which to take action by entering a written appearance personally or by an attorney and filing in writing with the court his or her defenses or objections to the claims set forth against him or her

CRITICALCriminal cases

Applies to

Bail submission

Before writing bail before a District Justice, a professional bondsman must provide a copy of the specified certification and an affidavit stating the bail amount for which the bondsman is responsible; the statements must also state the bond charge or premium.

When a professional bondsman desires to write bail before a District Justice, he shall provide to said District Justice a copy of the certification described in paragraph d-1 above, and shall further provide an affidavit setting forth the amount of bail offered and accepted for which his is responsible. Further, the statements shall contain the amount or premium the bondsman is charging for the bond about to be written.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Alimony pendente lite claim

A claim for alimony pendente lite must be raised by filing a complaint with the domestic relations section under Pa.R.C.P. No. 1920.31(a)(2).

A claim for alimony pendente lite shall be raised by filing a complaint with the domestic relations section pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. No. 1920.31(a)(2).

CRITICALCriminal cases

Applies to

Records of subpoenas issued in this fashion

Records of electronically issued subpoenas must be produced when directed by the court, filed if ordered, and retained for the same period as the underlying criminal case record.

(1) Records of subpoenas issued in this fashion must be produced upon direction of the court, and may be filed if so ordered. The records shall be maintained for the same period as the case record for the underlying criminal matter is required to be retained by the custodian of the record.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Order

The moving party must file all original orders with the Prothonotary.

It is the responsibility of the moving party to file all original Orders with the Prothonotary.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Confidential document form

The filer must separately file a publicly accessible Confidential Document Form identifying the confidential documents and the type of pleading.

The electronic filer shall separately file a publicly accessible Confidential Document Form indicating the confidential documents and the type of pleading.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Exhibit index

The custodian must maintain an exhibit index containing the specified case and exhibit information.

The member of court staff designated as the custodian shall maintain create an index of all exhibits offered as evidence. The index shall set forth the name and docket number of the case, the number or letter of the exhibit, the proponing party, whether the exhibit was admitted or denied, and a description of the exhibit

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Real estate tax appeal

The petition must state the name and address of the taxpayer or taxpayers and any other party to the appeal.

Name and address of the taxpayer(s), and any other party to the appeal.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Filing

A party or attorney must attach a substantially prescribed policy-compliance certification to each filing.

A party, or their attorney, shall attach a certification to each filing to attest to their compliance with this policy. The certification shall be substantially in the following form: I certify that this filing complies with the provisions of the Case Records Public Access Policy of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania that require filing confidential information and documents differently than non-confidential information and documents. Date: _____ Signature: _____ (Name)

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Notice to defend

A notice to defend accompanying a complaint must name the Lawyer Referral Service and Summit Legal Aid with their listed addresses and phone numbers.

The organizations to be named in the notice to defend accompanying a complaint filed in the Court of Common Pleas of Washington County, Pennsylvania shall be Lawyer Referral Service 119 South College Street Washington PA 15301 (724 225-6710 Summit Legal Aid 10 West Cherry Avenue Washington, PA 15301 (724) 225-6170

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Electronically filed legal paper

Electronically filed legal papers must include the authorized filer’s signature block and a required signature in one of the stated forms.

A legal paper filed electronically must include a signature block for the name of the authorized filer. (3) A required signature shall be supplied either by filing a scanned image of the legal paper that bears the original signature of the filer, or, by affixing the digitalized signature, or the name of the filer preceded by /s/, and the printed name of the attorney, to the electronically filed legal paper.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

A motion to which all parties consent must include a Certificate of Consent in substantially similar form to the provided form.

Every motion that has the consent of all parties shall contain a “Certificate of Consent” in a substantially similar form:

CRITICAL

Applies to

Master report

A master’s report must be divided into separate sections, one for each claim for relief raised in the proceedings.

(a) The master shall subdivide the report into separate sections, one for each claim for relief raised in the proceedings.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Electronically filed legal paper

An electronically filed legal paper must include a signature block naming the authorized filer.

(1) A legal paper filed electronically must include a signature block for the name of the authorized filer.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

Unless another local rule provides otherwise, a motion presented in Motions Court must include a Certificate of Presentation as its first page.

Except as set forth in any other local rule, all motions that are to be presented in Motions Court shall contain a “Certificate of Presentation,” which shall be the first page of the motion.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

In forma pauperis application

An in forma pauperis application presented to the Court must comply with Local Rule 208.3(a).

Note: The affidavit fonn is set forth in Pa.R.C.P. 240; application forms are available in the County Law Library. Presentation of the application to the Court must comply with the requirements of Local Rule 208.3(a).

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

In forma pauperis application

A party seeking in forma pauperis status must apply to the Court and attach an affidavit demonstrating inability to pay litigation costs.

A party seeking leave to proceed in forma pauperis shall apply to the Court for such status. The application shall include as an attachment the affidavit of the party demonstrating an inability to pay the costs of litigation.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Original transcript request

An original transcript request must use the Court Administrator of Pennsylvania's standardized form and be filed in the filing office where the underlying matter is of record.

(A) All original transcript requests shall be made on the standardized form promulgated by the Court Administrator of Pennsylvania, and filed in the filing office in which the matter being transcribed is filed of record.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Post trial motion

Every post-trial motion must specify the grounds relied upon.

All post-trial motions must specify the grounds relied upon as provided by Pa.R.C.P. 227.1(b)(2).

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Pleading petition motion or other legal paper

Must include

caption

The first page of every pleading, petition, motion, or other legal paper must be a cover sheet containing the specified information and substantially following the caption-sheet form.

The first page of any pleading, petition, motion or other legal paper shall be a cover sheet setting forth the items of information specified below, according to the format presented in Form of Caption Sheet below.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Special verdict questions

Counsel must submit a joint statement or proposed special verdict questions to the Special Master for use at trial.

Counsel shall submit to the Special Master, forty-eight (48) hours prior to the selection of the jury, a joint statement or proposed special verdict questions, for use at trial.

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to

Real estate tax appeal

The petition must state the nature of the appeal and the reasons for it.

Nature of and reasons for the appeal.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Email or facsimile filing

Email or facsimile filings must be followed by the original document with original signatures sent by mail or private delivery service.

Email and/or facsimile filings will need to be followed by the original document (with original signatures) via mail or private delivery service, and include any applicable filing fee.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Notice of sale

The notice of sale must include the terms and conditions of sale.

The notice of sale provided in Subdivisions (a) and (b) of Pa.R.C.P. 3129.1 and 3129.2 shall also include a notice of the terms and conditions of sale.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Mediation report

If the case does not settle, the mediator must provide the Court a detailed report with the listed assessments and settlement information, and provide a copy to the Court Administrator for maintenance until the case closes.

(j) Report. If the case is not settled, the mediator shall provide the Court with a detailed report outlining: (1) the mediator’s assessment of liability; (2) the mediator’s assessment of damages; (3) the mediator’s opinion regarding the potential range of a verdict and the settlement value of the case; (4) Plaintiff’s final settlement demand; (5) Defendant’s final settlement offer; and (6) the mediator’s recommendation regarding settlement of the case. A copy of the report shall be provided to and maintained by the Court Administrator until the case is closed.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion to appoint master

Proof of payment of the master fee must accompany the motion and proposed order unless the Court waives the fee.

Proof of payment of the master fee shall accompany the motion and proposed order, unless the fee is waived by the Court.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Pleading

A duplicate of other pleadings and substantive documents, including petitions and orders to bifurcate, must be filed with the Prothonotary for forwarding to the Civil Division Court Administrator.

(b) A duplicate copy of other pleadings and other substantive documents shall be filed with the Prothonotary who shall forward it to the Office of the Court Administrator – Civil Division, specifically including petitions and orders to bifurcate proceedings.

CRITICALCriminal cases

Applies to

Subpoena

A subpoena must specify the witness’s required appearance and production, the party on whose behalf testimony is sought, the applicant’s contact information, and the consequences of noncompliance.

The subpoena shall: (a) order the witness named to appear before the court at the date, time, and place specified to give testimony and to bring any records, books, papers, documents, data, or other items identified or described in the subpoena; (b) state on whose behalf the witness is being ordered to testify; (c) state the name, address, and phone number of the individual who applies for the subpoena; and (d) inform the witness that the failure to comply with the subpoena may be considered by the court as grounds for contempt and that a bench warrant may be issued for the arrest of the witness.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Notice of intervention

Must include

caption

A Notice of Intervention must identify the intervenor in the caption, state that the party is intervening, and provide an address unless counsel’s entry of appearance is filed simultaneously.

(b) Notice of Intervention shall contain the name of the intervening party as an additional party designated as “Intervenor” in the caption, and shall set forth that such identified party is intervening. The notice shall provide an address for the intervenor, unless simultaneously filed with an entry of appearance for counsel.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Completed forms

The completed listed forms must be delivered to the Clerk of Courts, and the arresting officer may deliver them.

(f) The Magisterial District Judge shall cause the following completed forms to be delivered to the Clerk of Courts: (1) criminal complaint; (2); probable cause affidavit; (3) certificate of bail, if required, and discharge of commitment; and (4) receipts for notice of hearing. The documents shall be delivered by 9:00 a.m. on the morning of the hearing. Delivery may be made by the arresting officer.

CRITICAL

Applies to

Proposed case management order

A proposed case management order must state the actual completion dates for each stage of litigation.

The proposed CMO shall set forth the actual dates in which each stage of the litigation must be completed.

WARNING

Applies to

Transcript request

The requesting party may be required to provide additional information or documentation required by the judicial district.

(2) The requesting party may be required to provide additional information or documentation as required by the judicial district.

WARNING

Applies to

Recommended decision

The CRB should submit its recommended decision to the President Judge.

A recommended decision by the CRB should be submitted to the President Judge.

WARNING

Applies to

Bill of costs

A bill of costs should be verified by the filing party’s or attorney’s affidavit confirming the named witnesses attended court and, in the affiant’s opinion, were material witnesses.

The bills should be verified by the affidavit of the party filing them or by the attorney of the party that the witness named were actually present in Court, and in the opinion of the affiant, that the individual was a material witness.

WARNING

Applies to

Proposed order

Must include

case number

If the custody issue arises from a count in a divorce complaint or counterclaim, there is no need to draft and file a custody complaint as outlined in (a) above or L-1930.27(a). Rather, the party(parties) should include the divorce case number on the proposed Order attached to the Custody Consent Agreement before presenting it to the Family Court Judge to whom the case is assigned.

If the custody issue arises from a count in a divorce complaint or counterclaim, there is no need to draft and file a custody complaint as outlined in (a) above or L-1930.27(a). Rather, the party(parties) should include the divorce case number on the proposed Order attached to the Custody Consent Agreement before presenting it to the Family Court Judge to whom the case is assigned.

WARNING

Applies to

Master appointment order

The Court may refer a divorce case to a master, and the appointment order must specify the matters referred.

(a) Any divorce case may be referred to a master appointed by the Court. The order appointing the master shall specify the matters which are referred to the master.

WARNING

Applies to

Special relief motion

Motions for special relief should be for matters of an emergency nature and shall be presented to the judge to whom the case is assigned.

Motions for special relief should be for matters of an emergency nature and shall be presented to the judge to whom the case is assigned.

WARNINGCivil cases

Applies to

Mediation statement

A previously filed pre-trial statement satisfies the mediation-statement requirement, and the mediation statement need only provide updated or additional information.

This requirement shall be deemed satisfied if a party has previously filed a pre- trial statement pursuant to rule of court, in which case the mediation statement shall only provide updated or additional information.

WARNING

Applies to

Proof of registration

The Prothonotary must provide the plaintiff a copy bearing proof of registration for filing with the appropriate law enforcement agency.

Upon receiving a certified order for registration, the Prothonotary shall provide the plaintiff with a copy bearing proof of registration to be filed with the appropriate law enforcement agency.

WARNING

Applies to

Proposed order

For a custody issue arising from a divorce case, the parties should include the divorce docket number on the proposed order before presenting it for review.

Rather, the parties should include the docket number for the divorce case on the proposed Order attached to the Custody Consent Agreement before presenting it to the judge to whom the case is assigned for review.

WARNING

Applies to

Brief in support of objections

The Brief in Support of Objections should refer to transcript page numbers where possible.

The Brief in Support of Objections shall refer to transcript page numbers where possible.

WARNING

Applies to

Mediation statement

A previously filed pre-trial statement satisfies the mediation-statement requirement, but the mediation statement must then provide updated or additional information.

This requirement shall be deemed satisfied if a party has previously filed a pre- trial statement pursuant to rule of court, in which case the mediation statement shall only provide updated or additional information.

WARNING

Applies to

Out of state order registration

A plaintiff may register a valid out-of-state order by filing and presenting to Washington County’s Prothonotary a certified copy endorsed by the issuing court’s Prothonotary.

A valid order may be registered by the plaintiff by obtaining a certified copy of the order of the issuing court endorsed by the Prothonotary of that court and filing and presenting that certified order to the Prothonotary of Washington County.

WARNING

Applies to

Transcript request

To obtain a no-cost ordinary transcript through a free legal service, the client must show that the legal aid attorney entered an appearance, and the service must provide the District Court Administrator a letter certifying eligibility and the matter's qualifying status.

To receive a no-cost ordinary transcript, clients of a free legal service must demonstrate that a legal aid service attorney has entered an appearance on their behalf in the case for which a transcript is requested. Legal aid services shall provide the District Court Administrator with a letter certifying that the client meets financial eligibility and that the matter is under appeal or is necessary to advance the current litigation.

WARNING

Applies to

Attestation

To purge a case record, the clerk must file an attestation that the electronic documents are a full and complete copy of the case-file papers.

To purge a case record, the clerk must file an attestation that the electronic documents represent a full and complete copy of the papers in the case file, in addition to any requirements that may be required by Pa.R.J.A. 507 or the County Records Committee (16 P.S. § 13001, et seq.).

WARNING

Applies to

Pre trial statement

A motion in limine not filed with the pretrial statement cannot be filed later unless it could not have been anticipated before that statement was filed.

Failure to file a motion in limine shall bar a future filing, unless said motion could not be anticipated prior to the filing of the pre-trial statement.

WARNING

Applies to

Appearance

In a case with several plaintiffs or defendants, an appearance applies to all unless it expressly restricts its scope.

Where there are several plaintiffs or defendants, an appearance shall be deemed for all unless expressly restricted.

WARNING

Applies to

Joint praecipe

The parties may seek an earlier arbitration hearing by filing a joint praecipe with the Prothonotary.

The parties may seek to schedule an arbitration hearing earlier than the limits listed above in subsection (b) upon the filing of a joint praecipe with the Prothonotary.

WARNINGCivil cases

Applies to

Argument list

The argument list must state the amount of argument time set aside for each party.

The argument list shall state the amount of time set aside for argument for each party.

WARNING

Applies to

Consent custody order

The parties may present a Consent Custody Order to the assigned Family Court Judge at any time; if a conciliation meeting or conference has already been scheduled, the party must provide the Civil Division with a copy of the signed order so it can be cancelled.

(b) The parties may also at any time present a Consent Custody Order to the Family Court Judge to whom the case is assigned. If a Pre-Custody Conciliation Meeting or Custody Conciliation Conference has been previously scheduled at the time a party presents the Consent Custody Order to the Family Court Judge, the party shall provide a copy of the signed Consent Custody Order to the Civil Division of the Court Administrator’s Office to ensure the Pre-Custody Conciliation Meeting or Custody Conciliation Conference is cancelled.

WARNINGCivil cases

Applies to

Case file purge attestation

Before purging a case file, the Prothonotary must file an attestation that the electronic documents are a full and complete copy of the case-file papers.

To purge a case file, the Prothonotary must file an attestation that the electronic documents represent a full and complete copy of the papers in the case file.

WARNINGCivil cases

Applies to

Civil cover sheet

A cover sheet under Pennsylvania Rule of Civil Procedure 205.5 is not required in the C-Track E-Filing Portal.

(h) Civil Cover Sheet. The filing of a cover sheet pursuant to Pennsylvania Rule of Civil Procedure 205.5 is not required in the C-Track E-Filing Portal.

WARNING

Applies to

Objection list

Counsel should present the judge with a list identifying by page and line number the objections requiring rulings.

Counsel should present to the judge a list setting forth by page and line numbers the objections that need rulings.

WARNINGCivil cases

Applies to

Brief

Issues raised in preliminary objections must be briefed or they will be deemed abandoned.

Issues raised, but not briefed, shall be deemed abandoned.

WARNING

Applies to

Complaint

The complaint form asks whether the complainant tried to resolve the issue before filing and requests a brief explanation if so.

Was an attempt made to resolve this issue before filing the request for review? YES NO If yes, briefly explain:

WARNINGCivil cases

Applies to

Supplemental brief

Supplemental briefs may not be filed unless the Court orders otherwise.

No supplemental brief(s) shall be filed, absent an order of court.

INFO

Applies to

Civil cover sheet

A cover sheet under Pennsylvania Rule of Civil Procedure 205.5 is not required in the C-Track E-Filing Portal.

The filing of a cover sheet pursuant to Pennsylvania Rule of Civil Procedure 205.5 is not required in the C-Track E-Filing Portal.

INFO

Applies to

Custody complaint

When custody arises from a count in a divorce complaint or counterclaim, a separate custody complaint need not be drafted or filed.

If the custody issue arises from a count in a divorce complaint or counterclaim, there is no need to draft and file a custody complaint as outlined in subsection (a) above or Wash.L.R.C.P. 1930.27(a).

INFO

Applies to

Scheduling order

If immediate court action is not sought, the party may later seek action on the custody count by presenting a scheduling order to the Civil Division Court Administrator.

If the moving party does not seek to have the custody count immediately addressed by the Court, the party may subsequently seek Court action on the custody count by presenting a scheduling order to the Office of the Court Administrator – Civil Division.

INFO

Applies to

Notice of intervention

An unnamed taxing authority may intervene during the appeal by filing a Notice of Intervention with the Prothonotary.

(a) Any taxing authority not named as a party may intervene as a matter of course during pendency of the appeal by filing a Notice of Intervention with the Prothonotary.

INFOCivil cases

Applies to

Joint praecipe

Parties seeking an earlier arbitration hearing may file a joint praecipe with the Prothonotary.

The parties may seek to schedule an arbitration hearing earlier than the limits listed above in subsection (b) upon the filing of a joint praecipe with the Prothonotary.

INFO

Applies to

Verified petition

A person or a constable’s surety may file a verified petition under 44 Pa. Con. Stat. §7172 alleging that the constable is incompetent to discharge official duties.

Nothing contained herein shall preclude any person or surety of a constable from filing a verified petition in accordance with 44 Pa. Con. Stat. §7172 alleging that a constable is incompetent to discharge official duties.

INFO

Applies to

Response pleading

A respondent is not required to file a pleading in response to the petition.

No pleading need be filed in response to the petition.

INFO

Applies to

Proposed order

If custody or visitation issues are resolved before or at the meeting, the parties may draft a proposed order under Pa.R.C.P. No. 1915.7 and submit it through the Child Custody Conference Officer for court approval, or follow L-1915.30(b).

(a) The parties shall make a good faith effort to resolve the custody and/or visitation issues prior to the meeting. If resolution occurs prior to or at the time of the meeting, a proposed order may be drafted in accordance with Pa.R.C.P. No. 1915.7 and submitted to the Court for approval through the Child Custody Conference Officer, or the parties may follow L-1915.30(b).