Dauphin County Court of Common Pleas
Court-Level Rules, Filing Procedures & Policies
- Rules last changed:
Limits & Logistics
Courtesy Copies
Application For Continuance
Brief, Memoranda, Pleadings, Filings
- 1 copy • When Fully Briefed
Courtesy copies
Pleadings, Briefs, Memoranda
Adjournments
- A continuance application must be served concurrently on all other parties, is generally barred when filed fewer than ten days before the arbitration term except in extraordinary circumstances, and must be copied to the Arbitration Chair.
- For a nonconcurred continuance request in a case less than two years old, the panel Chair must hold a telephone conference, decide the application, and ask whether an aggrieved party wants to appeal to the Arbitration Judge.
- Cases less than two years old may receive only one granted continuance request, and cases over two years old may receive no continuance except with leave of court for cause shown.
- Failure to complete videotaped trial testimony is not a proper basis for a continuance request absent extraordinary and compelling circumstances.
- +3 more
Request must include
Communication
Phone
Phone
Phone
Document Format Requirements41 rules
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
The size and physical characteristics of every filed paper or document must conform to the standards established by the Pennsylvania Rules of Appellate Procedure.
The size and other physical characteristics of all papers or other documents filed shall conform to standards set and established by the Pennsylvania Rules of Appellate Procedure for papers or other documents filed in an appellate court.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
Petitions and motions, except motions made during the actual trial, must be in writing and the original must be filed with the Clerk before presentation to the Court.
Petitions and motions, other than those made during the actual trial of a case, shall be: (a) made in writing, and the original thereof filed with the Clerk of Court before presentation to the Court;
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
A private criminal complaint filed with the Office of the District Attorney must use a court-approved form.
The Plaintiff may file with the Office of District Attorney a private criminal complaint on a form approved by the Court.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
A private criminal complaint filed with the Magisterial District Judge must use a court-approved form.
The Plaintiff may file with the Magisterial District Judge in the district where the violation occurred a private criminal complaint on a form approved by the court.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
Documents filed with the Prothonotary must be on 8½-inch by 11-inch paper.
All documents filed in the Office of Prothonotary shall be on 8½ inch by 11-inch paper and shall comply with the following requirements:
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
The first sheet of every filing must leave a 3-inch space at the top for court stampings and filing notices.
The first sheet shall contain a 3-inch space from the top of the paper for all court stampings, filing notices, etc.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
Backers may not be used on originals or copies of pleadings or legal papers filed with the Prothonotary.
No backers shall be used on the original or any copies of pleadings or other legal papers filed with the Prothonotary.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
Pages must be consecutively numbered starting with page 2, with each number at the bottom center of the pleading.
Pages shall be consecutively numbered beginning with page 2 and said number shall appear on the bottom center of the pleading.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
Filings must use double spacing, except that quotations longer than two lines may be indented and single spaced.
The text must be double spaced, but quotations more than two lines long may be indented and single spaced.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
Exhibits or attachments smaller than 8½ by 11 inches must be attached with adhesive tape to regular-size paper.
Exhibits or attachments smaller than 8½ inches by 11 inches shall be attached to a regular size paper by using adhesive tape.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
Filing text must be clear and legible and may not be smaller than 12-point Arial.
The lettering shall be clear, legible and no smaller than Arial 12 point.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
All exhibit tabs must appear at the bottom of the pleading.
All exhibit tabs shall appear at the bottom of the pleading.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
The Request for Assignment must use the latest available format.
When the issuance of a citation is requested, or when any petition, account, objection, preliminary objection, exception to an auditor’s or master’s report, or motion is ready to be scheduled for a hearing, argument, or disposition by the Court, or when a conference with the Court is requested, a party must file a “Request for Assignment” using the latest format, together with a proposed citation, rule, or order which contain a distribution legend.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
The Administrative Application for Status Conference must use paragraph form and include the case's complete factual and procedural history and the reasons the conference is necessary.
The Administrative Application for Status Conference shall be in paragraph form and shall set forth the complete factual and procedural history of the case and the reasons necessitating the conference.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
The judge-appointment application must be submitted as an original and a copy.
After service of the complaint, any party may file with the Prothonotary an original and copy of an Application for Appointment of a Judge for All Pretrial Matters and Trial.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
A motion requiring expedited disposition must be designated as an Emergency Motion in the title on its first page.
Motions that genuinely require an expedited disposition shall be designated as Emergency Motions by the filing party and clearly indicated as such in the title of the motion contained on the first page thereof.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
Lettering may appear on only one side of each page.
The lettering shall be on only one side of a page.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
Lettering must be clear, legible, and in Arial 12-point type or larger.
The lettering shall be clear, legible and no smaller than Arial 12 point.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
Text must be double-spaced, although quotations longer than two lines may be indented and single-spaced.
The text must be double spaced, but quotations more than two lines long may be indented and single spaced.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
Except as otherwise provided, all four margins must be at least one inch.
Except as provided in subsection b, margins must be at least one inch on all four sides.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
Exhibits or attachments smaller than 8½-by-11 inches must be attached to regular-size paper with adhesive tape.
Exhibits or attachments smaller than 8½ inches by 11 inches shall be attached to a regular size paper by using adhesive tape.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
The first sheet must leave a three-inch space at the top for court stampings and filing notices.
The first sheet shall contain a 3-inch space from the top of the paper for all court stampings, filing notices, etc.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
All exhibit tabs must be positioned at the bottom of the pleading.
All exhibit tabs shall appear at the bottom of the pleading.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
Backers may not be used on originals or copies of pleadings or legal papers filed with the clerk.
No backers shall be used on the original or any copies of pleadings or other legal papers filed with the Clerk of Courts.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
Documents filed with the Office of Clerk of Courts must be on 8½-by-11-inch paper.
All documents filed in the Office of Clerk of Courts shall be on 8½ inch by 11 inch paper and shall comply with the following requirements:
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
An Emergency Petition for Custody must be filed as a document separate from the Custody Complaint.
The Emergency Petition for Custody must be a separate document apart from the Custody Complaint.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Important
All forms must be printed clearly and legibly so the court can read them.
For all forms: 1. Print clearly. 2. Make sure the court will be able to read what you write.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Important
Filings must be prepared on good-quality white paper, while the use of recycled paper is encouraged.
The document shall be prepared on white paper of good quality and the use of recycled paper is encouraged.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Important
The document must be prepared on good-quality white paper, and the use of recycled paper is encouraged.
The document shall be prepared on white paper of good quality and the use of recycled paper is encouraged.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Important
A digital-format exhibit entered into the record must be provided to the Court Crier on a portable external hard drive.
The proponent shall ensure that an exhibit in digital format entered into the record is provided to the Court Crier using a portable external hard drive such as a thumb drive.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Important
For oversized documentary exhibits, the Court Crier must receive an 8-1/2 x 11-inch copy, while the larger item may be used for illustration during the proceeding.
If a document is larger than 8-1/2 x 11 inches, the Court Crier shall be provided with a copy of the same sized 8-1/2 x 11 inches. Items larger than 8-1/2 x 11 may be used for illustration during the court proceeding.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Note
The original pleading or legal paper should be stapled in the upper-left corner.
The original of pleadings or other legal papers should be stapled in the top left corner.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Note
A document exceeding one-half inch in thickness should be secured with a binder clip.
If the document is over one-half inch thick, it should be secured with a binder clip.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Note
The original should be paper-clipped in the upper-left corner and, if more than one-half inch thick, secured with a binder clip.
The original of pleadings or other legal papers should be paper clipped in the top left corner. If the document is over one-half inch thick, it should be secured with a binder clip.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Note
Copies furnished to the court, opposing parties, or clients may use backers.
Backers may be used for copies provided to the court, opposing parties or clients.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Important?
G. The Clerk of Courts Office shall convert legal papers in paper format to an electronic PDF or PDF-A version except for those listed in Rule 576.1 (B). Once converted to PDF or PDF-A, the PDF or PDF-A version shall be deemed to be the original legal paper and 10-4-21 ===== PAGE 2 ===== shall be used as such for all purposes. The Clerk of Courts or the Court is not required to maintain a hard copy of any legal paper filed electronically.
Summary: The Clerk of Courts Office must convert paper-format legal papers to PDF or PDF-A, except for papers listed in Rule 576.1(B); the converted version is the original and a hard copy is not required.
Document Filing Requirements247 rules
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
All papers filed with the Clerk of Courts must identify the filing attorney or party and provide an address for service.
All papers filed with the Clerk of Courts shall bear the name of the attorney or party filing them, and the address at which service can be made.
Requirement
Document requirement
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
A judicial officer must not issue the search warrant unless an attorney for the Commonwealth approved the application before filing.
shall not hereafter be issued by any judicial officer unless the search warrant application has the approval of an attorney for the Commonwealth prior to filing.
Document Type
Search Warrant Application
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
Any court-required amendment or supplement to the petition must be filed of record.
(4) Any amendments or supplements to the petition required by the court shall be filed of record.
Document Type
Amendment Or Supplement
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
Counsel must provide an Affidavit of Deposit of Minor’s Funds within ten days after the order, substantially in the form prescribed by local rule 2039B.
A provision that counsel shall provide the court with an Affidavit of Deposit of Minor’s Funds within ten days from the date of the order. Said affidavit shall be substantially in the form found in local rule 2039B.
Document Type
Affidavit Of Deposit Of Minors Funds
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
If all parties concur in the discovery motion, the moving party must file a stipulation signed by every party together with a proposed order.
If the motion is concurred in by all parties, the moving party shall file a stipulation, which must include the signature of all parties, together with a proposed order for consideration by the court.
Document Type
Stipulation
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
A motion for a protective order, or an objected-to motion to compel discovery, must certify counsel’s conference or attempt to confer and identify every party that did not concur.
A party who files a motion for a protective order or a motion to compel discovery that has been objected to by the opposing party, shall certify, in the motion, that counsel has conferred or attempted to confer with all interested parties in order to resolve the dispute. The moving party shall identify the parties who have not concurred in the motion.
Document Type
Discovery Motion
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
An attorney removing papers from the Clerk's Office with court permission must give a signed receipt identifying the case caption and number, the removed papers, and the removal date.
When an attorney removes papers from the Office of the Clerk of Court with permission of the Court she/he shall give a receipt therefore, setting forth the caption and number of the case, a description of the papers removed and the date of removal, which receipt shall be signed by the attorney removing the papers.
Document Type
Receipt
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
Parties filing a Certificate of Readiness must use the most current form, and the Prothonotary will reject an outdated form.
(9) The Certificate of Readiness form is available in the Prothonotary’s Office, in the Court Administrator’s Office and online at the Dauphin County website (www.dauphincounty.org). Parties filing a Certificate of Readiness form must ensure that the most current form is utilized. Failure to utilize the most current form shall result in the rejection of the Certificate of Readiness.
Document Type
Certificate Of Readiness
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
The pre-trial statement must list the types and amounts of all claimed damages.
(b) a list of the types and amounts of all damages claimed;
Document Type
Pretrial Statement
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
The pre-trial statement must include a brief narrative statement of the case and the legal issues.
(a) a brief narrative statement of the case and legal issues;
Document Type
Pretrial Statement
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
The pre-trial statement must certify that counsel discussed mediation in good faith with clients, opposing counsel, and any unrepresented parties in accordance with Dauphin County Local Rule 1001.
(g) a certification that counsel discussed mediation in good faith with his or her client(s) and with opposing counsel and with all unrepresented parties, if any, in accordance with Dauphin County Local Rule 1001.
Document Type
Pretrial Statement
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
The pre-trial statement must include a realistic settlement offer or demand.
(f) a realistic settlement offer or demand;
Document Type
Pretrial Statement
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
An abuse victim who does not want contact information disclosed to the other party must complete the Confidential Information Form Abuse Victim Addendum, file it with the Prothonotary, and not send it to the other parties.
If you are the plaintiff and a victim of abuse and the other party is the abuser and you do not want the other party to know your contact information, you must also complete the Confidential Information Form (CIF) Abuse Victim Addendum. This form is to be filed with the Prothonotary and should not be sent to the other party(ies).
Document Type
Confidential Information Form Abuse Victim Addendum
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
All blank lines on each form must be completed.
Fill in ALL blank lines.
Document Type
Forms
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
The Confidential Information Form must contain each child’s full name, full date of birth, address, and year of birth.
You must complete the Confidential Information Form found in this packet and include the full name and full date of birth of CHILD 1, CHILD 2, etc. Complete the addresses of the child(ren) for whom you are seeking custody and year of birth.
Document Type
Confidential Information Form
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
Any children identified in the explanation of willful noncompliance must be labeled CHILD 1, CHILD 2, and so on rather than named.
IF YOU NEED TO IDENTIFY THE CHILD(REN) IN THIS PARAGRAPH, USE CHILD 1, CHILD 2, ETC. DO NOT USE THEIR NAMES.
Document Type
Petition For Contempt Explanation
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
The petitioner must file a verification of the petitioner’s and household members’ criminal and abuse history.
The petitioner must file a verification regarding any criminal or abuse history of the petitioner or anyone living in the petitioner’s household.
Document Type
Criminal Record Abuse History Verification
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
An abuse victim who withholds contact information must complete and simultaneously file a CIF Abuse Victim Addendum when filing the Petition for Civil Contempt.
If you are an abuse victim and do not want to reveal your contact information, you are not required to list your address, telephone number and email address but you must complete a Confidential Information Form (CIF) Abuse Victim Addendum and file this form with the Prothonotary at the same time you file the Petition for Civil Contempt.
Document Type
Confidential Information Form Abuse Victim Addendum
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
Before filing the petition, the petitioner must complete the Confidential Information Form, conditionally the Abuse Victim Addendum, the Criminal Record/Abuse History Verification, and the Self-Represented Party Entry of Appearance, and file the forms with the petition.
BEFORE YOU FILE THIS PETITION FOR CIVIL CONTEMPT OF A CUSTODY ORDER WITH THE PROTHONOTARY, MAKE SURE YOU HAVE COMPLETED THE FOLLOWING FORMS: • Confidential Information Form. • Confidential Information Form Abuse Victim Addendum if you are an abuse victim and do not want to disclose your contact information to anyone but the Court. • Criminal Record/Abuse History Verification. • Self-Represented Party Entry of Appearance. These forms must be filed with the Prothonotary at the same time as the Petition for Civil Contempt of a Custody Order.
Document Type
Petition For Civil Contempt Of Custody Order
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
A self-represented party must file a new entry form and, if applicable, a new Confidential Information Form Abuse Victim Addendum whenever the party's address or phone number changes.
I UNDERSTAND I MUST FILE A NEW FORM AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION FORM ABUSE VICTIM ADDENDUM (IF APPLICABLE) EVERY TIME MY ADDRESS OR PHONE NUMBER CHANGES.
Document Type
Address Or Phone Change Update
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
Every Custody Agreement or Parenting Plan must include the specified paragraph directing the relocating party to follow the procedures under 23 Pa.C.S. §5337 and Rule of Civil Procedure 1915.17.
All Custody Agreements/Parenting Plans must contain a paragraph that states the following: “A party proposing to change the residence of a child which significantly impairs the ability of a non-relocating party to exercise custody rights shall follow the procedures required by 23 Pa.C.S. §5337 and Rule of Civil Procedure 1915.17 as set forth in Exhibit A attached to this Custody Agreement/Parenting Plan.”
Document Type
Custody Agreement Or Parenting Plan
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
Exhibit A must be attached to every Custody Agreement or Parenting Plan and is available on the Dauphin County Self-Help Center webpage.
Exhibit A must be attached to all Custody Agreements/Parenting Plans and is available at the Dauphin County Website on the Self-Help Center page.
Document Type
Custody Agreement Or Parenting Plan
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
The first page of every filing must show the attorney's or party's name, service address, telephone number, and email address in the upper-left corner.
The name of the attorney or party, the address at which service can be made, a telephone number and email address of the attorney or party shall appear on the top left-hand corner of the first page of all papers filed in the Office of the Prothonotary.
Document Type
Legal Paper
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
In medical-malpractice cases, every caption in the initiating and all later filings must include the specified notation directly beneath the docket number.
With the initiating filing and all subsequent filings, in cases where medical malpractice is or will be alleged, the notation “Civil Action – Medical Professional Liability Action” shall appear on all captions directly underneath the docket number.
Document Type
Caption
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
Each proposed order and Rule to Show Cause must include a distribution legend identifying represented parties and providing their names, mailing addresses, telephone numbers, facsimile numbers, and email addresses, if any.
The proposed order(s) and any Rule to Show Cause shall contain a distribution legend which shall include the name(s) and mailing address(es), telephone number(s), facsimile number(s) and e-mail address(es), if any, of all attorneys and self-represented parties to be served. The distribution legend shall identify which party each person represents.
Document Type
Proposed Order Or Rule To Show Cause
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
A petition must include a proposed Rule to Show Cause unless it is a Petition in Forfeiture filed under 42 Pa. C.S.A. § 5805.
Except for Petitions in Forfeiture filed pursuant to 42 Pa. C.S.A. §5805, Petitions shall also include a proposed Rule to Show Cause.
Document Type
Petition
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
Filings already of record may be cited in later filings but may not be attached to them.
Filings of record may be referenced in any subsequent filing but shall not be attached thereto.
Document Type
Subsequent Filing
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
Civil motions, petitions, administrative applications, and their answers or responses must be accompanied by a proposed order or alternative orders.
All civil motions, petitions, administrative applications and answers or responses thereto shall be accompanied by a proposed order (or alternative orders).
Document Type
Civil Motion Petition Or Administrative Application And Answer Or Response
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
The distribution legend must accurately identify all attorneys and self-represented parties and their available contact information.
An accurate distribution legend naming all attorneys and self-represented parties and their addresses, telephone numbers, facsimile numbers and e-mail addresses, if any, is essential since the court is now assuming the responsibility for service of its orders.
Document Type
Proposed Order
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
The notice must explain that the report and recommendation will be submitted to the court for review and confirmation if no timely exceptions are filed under Rule 9.7(a)(1).
The notice shall state that the report and recommendation will be submitted to the court for review and confirmation if no timely exceptions are filed in accordance with Rule 9.7(a)(1).
Document Type
Notice Of Filing Report
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
Any designation of Dauphin County Pre-Trial Services Agency as supervisory surety must appear on the Bail Certificate as a condition of bail.
Any designation of Dauphin County Pre-Trial Services Agency as supervisory surety shall be listed on the Bail Certificate as a Condition of Bail pursuant to Rule 526 of the Pennsylvania Rules of Criminal Procedure.
Document Type
Bail Certificate
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
Briefs must include a procedural history, accurate and unbiased facts, concise legal and factual questions, a legal discussion with verified citations including contra authority, and a concise statement of requested relief and its application to the facts.
(1) Briefs shall contain the following: (a) a full and accurate procedural history of the case; (b) a full, accurate and unbiased statement of the facts; (c) a concise statement of the pertinent legal and factual question(s) involved; (d) a legal discussion, with accurate and verified citations to legal authority, including contra authority; and (e) a concise statement indicating the requested relief and its specific application to the facts of the case.
Document Type
Brief
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
The Request for Assignment must identify the case, matters ready for assignment, responsive-pleading status, requested hearing or argument length, related cases, and the names and complete contact information of all counsel and self-represented parties.
The Request for Assignment must state: (a) the name and docket number of the case; (b) the title and date of the matter(s) ready for assignment; (c) whether all responsive pleadings have been filed or the time for responsive pleadings has elapsed; (d) if a hearing or argument is requested, the anticipated length of the hearing or argument; (e) a list of any related cases; and (f) the names, addresses, telephone numbers, and email addresses of all counsel and self-represented parties.
Document Type
Request For Assignment
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory
A party must file a Request for Assignment using the latest format, together with a proposed citation, rule, or order containing a distribution legend, when the specified event occurs.
When the issuance of a citation is requested, or when any petition, account, objection, preliminary objection, exception to an auditor’s or master’s report, or motion is ready to be scheduled for a hearing, argument, or disposition by the Court, or when a conference with the Court is requested, a party must file a “Request for Assignment” using the latest format, together with a proposed citation, rule, or order which contain a distribution legend.
Document Type
Request For Assignment
Filing & Service rules
Electronic Filing Rules
Attorneys and self-represented parties filing electronically must establish a PACFile account through the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania Web Portal, and doing so constitutes consent to electronic filing and service.
C. Attorneys or self-represented parties who file legal papers electronically must establish a PACFile account using the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania Web Portal. Pursuant to Pennsylvania Rule of Criminal Procedure 576.1(D)(2), the establishment of a PACFile account constitutes consent to participate in electronic filing, including acceptance of service electronically of any document filed using PACFile.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Criminal cases
Page 1 | Rule 576.1 ELECTRONIC FILING IN CRIMINAL DOCKETS
Certain defined criminal legal papers must be filed electronically through PACFile, subject to the listed exceptions.
A. The Dauphin County Clerk of Courts Office and the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts (AOPC) agreed upon an implementation plan for PACFile in Dauphin County for certain criminal filings. Legal papers shall be filed electronically using the PACFile electronic filing system pursuant to Pa.R.Crim.P. 576.1. Electronic filing is mandatory. B. Legal Papers Defined. “legal papers” shall include all written motions, written answers and any notices or documents for which filing is required or permitted, including orders, exhibits and attachments, except for the following: (1) Applications for search warrants. (2) Applications for arrest warrants. (3) Grand jury materials, except the indicting grand jury indictment or the investigating grand jury presentment. (4) Submissions filed ex parte as authorized by law. (5) Submissions filed or authorized to be filed under seal. (6) Notice of Appeals. (7) Any matter requiring the assignment of a Miscellaneous Docket (MD) number including but not limited to expungements filed pursuant to Pa.R.Crim.P. 490 or petitions for modification of bail in matters still pending in the Magisterial District Judge Court. (8) Initial filings for Summary Appeals (SA).
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Criminal cases
Page 1 | Rule 576.1 ELECTRONIC FILING IN CRIMINAL DOCKETS
Electronic legal papers must be submitted through the Clerk of the Orphans’ Court’s Electronic Filing System, accessible through a link on the Clerk’s webpage.
All legal papers that are filed electronically shall be filed through the Clerk of the Orphans’ Court’s Electronic Filing System. General access to the Electronic Filing System shall be provided through a link found on the Clerk of the Orphans’ Court’s webpage at www.dauphincounty.org.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026
Page 1 | RULE 4.7. ELECTRONIC FILING (d) FILING (1)
All filings must comply with the Case Records Public Access Policy of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania.
F. All filings shall comply with the Case Records Public Access Policy of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Criminal cases
Page 1 | Rule 576.1 ELECTRONIC FILING IN CRIMINAL DOCKETS
Attorneys and self-represented parties unable to participate in electronic filing may file and serve legal papers in physical paper format.
H. Service of Legal Papers. (a) Attorneys or self-represented parties who are unable to participate in electronic filing of documents are permitted to file and serve the legal papers in a physical paper format.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Criminal cases
Page 2 | Rule 576.1 ELECTRONIC FILING IN CRIMINAL DOCKETS — Service of Legal Papers
Legal papers may be filed electronically through the Prothonotary's CountySuite Portal beginning on the date set by Administrative Order.
All legal papers may be filed electronically with the Prothonotary through its Electronic Filing System (EFS), CountySuite Portal, beginning on a date set by Administrative Order of the President Judge.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | General Provisions
Electronic filing is electronic transmission of legal papers through the Prothonotary's system, excluding facsimile transmission and e-mail.
As used in this rule, electronic filing (e-filing) shall mean the electronic transmission of legal papers by means other than facsimile transmission or e-mail using the system made available by the Prothonotary.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | General Provisions
Electronic filing of legal papers with the Clerk of the Orphans’ Court is permitted.
The Dauphin County Court of Common Pleas permits the electronic filing of legal papers with the Clerk of the Orphans’ Court using their electronic filing system.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026
Page 1 | RULE 4.7. ELECTRONIC FILING (a)
Electronic legal papers generally include written motions, petitions, notices, documents, orders, exhibits, and attachments, subject to five enumerated exceptions.
“Legal papers” shall include all written motions, written petitions, and any notices or documents for which filing is required or permitted, including orders, exhibits, and attachments except for the following: (1) Petitions, exhibits, or related filings under Title 23, Part III (Termination and Adoption) (2) Petitions to Disinter (3) Petitions filed under Title 20, Chapter 57 (Presumed Decedents) (4) Formal Accounts (5) Minor’s Applications for Judicial Authorization of an Abortion
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026
Page 1 | RULE 4.7. ELECTRONIC FILING (b) Legal Papers Defined
All Protection from Abuse petitions must be generated through PFAD and filed with the Prothonotary.
All petitions and motions shall be generated by the PFAD system and subsequently filed with the Prothonotary.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 1901.3 – Protection from Abuse Filings
A Request for Transcript must be filed in the appropriate filing office.
(B) (1) The Request for Transcript of a court proceeding shall be filed in the appropriate filing office (Prothonotary, Clerk of Courts, Register of Wills/Clerk of the Orphans’ Court and/or Domestic Relations).
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | RULE 4007 – REQUEST FOR TRANSCRIPTS
Only individual users may register; law firms, agencies, corporations, government entities, and other entities may not register.
All registered users must be individuals and not entities, including but not limited to law firms, agencies, corporations, or government entities.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases
Page 1 | Registration
Electronic filers must register with CountySuite Portal according to its user manual.
Electronic filers must register with CountySuite Portal in accordance with the CountySuite Portal User Manual.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases
Page 1 | Registration
Once all briefing requirements are met or the briefing periods have expired, either party may file an original and one copy of a Certificate of Readiness with the Prothonotary.
(9) The Preliminary Objections are ready for assignment to a judge when all briefing requirements set forth in subparagraphs (3), (4) and (5) above have been met or the time permitted for the filing of briefs has elapsed. At that point, either party may file an original and one copy of a Certificate of Readiness with the Prothonotary.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 1028(c) – PRELIMINARY OBJECTIONS—PROCEDURES FOR DISPOSITION
The Prothonotary must forward the original Certificate of Readiness to the Court Administrator's Office and retain the copy in the case file.
(10) The Prothonotary shall forward the original Certificate of Readiness to the Court Administrator’s Office and retain the copy in the file.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases
Page 2 | RULE 1028(c) – PRELIMINARY OBJECTIONS—PROCEDURES FOR DISPOSITION
Registered users must update address or other contact information in CountySuite Portal within ten days after a change.
Registered users shall change their address or other contact information with the CountySuite Portal within ten (10) days of any change.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases
Page 1 | Registration
Filing Timing and Cure Windows
When probable cause is found, the court must schedule a hearing within ten days after filing the private criminal complaint.
The court shall schedule a hearing within ten (10) days of the filing of the private criminal complaint if the Judge finds the probable cause exists.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026
Page 1 | RULE 1905B. PRIVATE CRIMINAL COMPLAINT FOR VIOLATION OF ORDER OR AGREEMENT (a)(1) With the Office of District Attorney
A response with an opposition brief must be filed within thirty days after service of the motion and supporting brief.
(2) A response with brief in opposition shall be filed within thirty days after service of the Motion for Judgment on the Pleadings and brief in support.
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Page 1 | RULE 1034(a) – MOTION FOR JUDGMENT ON THE PLEADINGS — PROCEDURES FOR DISPOSITION
The documents required for previously raised economic claims must be filed within ten days after the order if they have not already been filed.
If economic claims have been raised of record in this case, to the extent not already filed, the non-moving party shall have ten (10) days from the date of this Order to file the documents required by Pa.R.C.P. 1920.31(a) and Pa.R.C.P. 1920.33(a).
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Page 1 | ORDER
An updated verification form must be filed with the Prothonotary within 14 days after a change in circumstance or five days before a court proceeding, whichever occurs first.
The updated Criminal Record/Abuse History Verification form shall be filed with the Prothonotary within fourteen (14) days of any change in circumstance, or five (5) days prior to any court proceeding, whichever occurs first.
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Page 3 | (c) Agreements reached after the complaint or petition for modification of a custody order is assigned to a Custody Conference Officer
A response with an opposition brief must be filed within thirty days after service of the summary-judgment motion.
(2) A response with brief in opposition to the Motion for Summary Judgment shall be filed within thirty days after service of the Motion for Summary Judgment.
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Page 1 | RULE 1035.2(a) – MOTION FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT — PROCEDURES FOR DISPOSITION
In cases estimated to last longer than five days, the Administrative Application for Status Conference is mandatory once it is known or believed the trial may exceed five days and must be filed as soon as that is known or believed.
An Administrative Application for Status Conference shall be filed in all cases that are estimated to last longer than five days (jury selection through a reasonable period of jury deliberation) as soon as it is known or believed that the trial of the case may exceed that period of time.
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Page 1 | RULE 215.3 – STATUS CONFERENCES
Each party in a case listed for civil jury trial must file its pre-trial statement no later than seven days before the pre-trial conference.
Each party to an action which has been listed for civil jury trial shall file a pre-trial statement pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 212.2 no later than seven days prior to the date set for the pre-trial conference.
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Page 1 | RULE 212.1. NOTICE OF EARLIEST TRIAL DATE. FILING OF PRE-TRIAL STATEMENTS
A request for a trial-list preference must be made by application and filed with the Prothonotary at least three weeks before the first day of the trial session.
Such preference shall be presented in the form of an application for preference. The application must be filed with the Prothonotary at least three weeks prior to the first day of the trial session.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 214. PREFERENCES
A response to Preliminary Objections must be filed within twenty days after service.
(2) Any response shall be filed within twenty days after service of the Preliminary Objections.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 1028(c) – PRELIMINARY OBJECTIONS—PROCEDURES FOR DISPOSITION
When a response is filed, the supporting brief is due within twenty days after service of the response, and failure to timely file it results in deemed withdrawal upon the responding party's praecipe.
(3) (i) If a response is filed, a brief in support of the Preliminary Objections shall be filed within twenty days after service of the response. If a brief in support is not filed within twenty days after service of the response, the Preliminary Objections shall be deemed withdrawn by the Prothonotary upon praecipe of the responding party.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 1028(c) – PRELIMINARY OBJECTIONS—PROCEDURES FOR DISPOSITION
When no response is filed, the supporting brief is due within forty days after service, and failure to timely file it results in deemed withdrawal upon the responding party's praecipe.
(ii) If no response is filed, a brief in support of the Preliminary Objections shall be filed within forty days after service of the Preliminary Objections. If no response is filed and a brief in support of the Preliminary Objections is not filed within forty days after service of the Preliminary Objections, the Preliminary Objections shall be deemed withdrawn by the Prothonotary upon praecipe of the responding party.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 1028(c) – PRELIMINARY OBJECTIONS—PROCEDURES FOR DISPOSITION
Requests for daily, expedited, or same-day transcripts must be filed at least ten days before the scheduled proceeding.
(C) A request for daily, expedited, or same-day transcripts shall be filed in the appropriate filing office (Prothonotary, Clerk of Courts, Register of Wills/Clerk of the Orphans’ Court and/or Domestic Relations) at least ten (10) days before the scheduled proceeding.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026
Page 1 | RULE 4007 – REQUEST FOR TRANSCRIPTS
The supporting statement is due within ten days after filing the Praecipe.
Within ten (10) days after filing the Praecipe for Writ of Certiorari, the party filing the writ shall file and serve on all other parties a concise statement of those specific jurisdictional and/or gross irregularities relied upon in support of the issuance of the writ and the relief sought.
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Page 1 | RULE 1009 PRAECIPE FOR WRIT OF CERTIORARI
When a party or nonparty fails to appear for a duly noticed deposition and no protective order exists, a sanctions motion may be filed immediately without further notice.
When a party or nonparty fails to appear for a duly noticed deposition, and no Protective Order has been obtained, a Motion for Sanctions may be filed immediately and without further notice.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 4 | DEPOSITIONS
Documents filed electronically are due by 11:59:59 p.m. EST/EDT on their deadline date.
The filing deadline for any document filed electronically shall be 11:59:59 p.m. EST/EDT on the date it is due.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 4 | Miscellaneous
A registered user who believes EFS unavailability prevented timely filing may file a motion within 10 days of the attempted filing, stating the first unsuccessful attempt’s date and time and why the delay was prejudicial.
If a registered user believes the unavailability of the EFS prevented a timely filing, the registered user may file a motion within ten (10) days of the registered user’s attempt to file the document. The motion shall state the date and time of the first unsuccessful attempt to file the document electronically and why the delay was prejudicial.
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Page 4 | Miscellaneous
An accepted legal paper is deemed filed when it was received by the EFS, not when the Prothonotary approved it.
If a legal paper is accepted for filing by the Prothonotary, it shall be deemed to have been filed the date and time it was received by the EFS.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 4 | Filing
Appellant’s counsel must file the statement of matters complained of on the record immediately upon taking the appeal.
appellant’s counsel shall, immediately upon taking the appeal, file of record a concise statement of the matters complained of and intended to be argued on appeal
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Page 1 | APPEALS
After 30 days from expiration of applicable appeal rights, unused escrow funds are refunded upon a praecipe that has been duly filed and served.
Any portion of the escrowed funds not used for such purpose shall, after thirty (30) days from the date of the expiration of the any applicable appeal rights, be refunded to the tenant upon praecipe duly filed and served.
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Page 1 | RULE 1013B WRIT OF CERTIORARI AS SUPERSEDEAS
The updated Pre-Trial Statement must be filed no later than five days before a judge’s Custody Trial.
No later than five (5) days prior to a Custody Trial before a Judge, the parties shall file an updated Pre-Trial Statement and serve copies on all other parties or their legal counsel which shall include the items listed above and any additional items as directed by the Judge.
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Page 1 | RULE 1915.4-4 PRE-TRIAL CONFERENCES AND TRIAL
The Pre-Trial Statement must be filed no later than five days before the judge’s Pre-Trial Conference.
No later than five (5) days prior to the Pre-Trial Conference with a Judge, all parties shall file a Pre-Trial Statement and serve copies on all other parties or their legal counsel.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 1915.4-4 PRE-TRIAL CONFERENCES AND TRIAL
The local agency must submit its entire record within 20 days after the later of receiving the writ of certiorari or the transcripts.
The local agency shall submit its entire record within twenty (20) days after receipt of the writ of certiorari or receipt of the transcript(s), whichever is later
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Page 3 | Certiorari to the Local Agency
If the appellant does not provide the transcript within 45 days after filing the appeal, the local agency must submit the record with a certification explaining that the transcript was not provided and why.
In the event that the appellant has not provided the local agency with a transcript within forty- five (45) days of the filing of the appeal, the local agency shall submit its record to the Prothonotary with a certification that a transcript has not been provided and the reason.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 3 | Certiorari to the Local Agency
The appellant must file the opening brief within 60 days after service of notice that the local agency’s complete record was filed.
The appellant shall file a brief within sixty (60) days after service of notice of the filing of the local agency’s complete record.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 4 | Disposition
Each other party must file a responsive brief within 30 days after service of the appellant’s brief.
Each other party shall file a responsive brief within thirty (30) days after service of appellant’s brief.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 4 | Disposition
Exceptions to the appointed special-capacity officer’s report may be filed within ten days after service on the parties.
(c) upon filing his report with the Court, serve a copy thereof forthwith on the parties, to which exceptions may be filed within ten (10) days after service.
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Page 1 | RULE 5004. AUDITORS, REFEREES AND MASTERS
The statement of matters complained of must be filed within 14 days after filing the notice of appeal.
In every appeal from an order or decree of this Court taken directly to an appellate court, appellant shall file of record a concise statement of the matters complained of on appeal no later than 14 days after filing notice of appeal.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026
Page 1 | RULE 720A. APPEALS
Exceptions to the report and recommendation must be filed with the Clerk of the Orphans’ Court within twenty days after receipt of the Rule 9.6(a) notice.
Any exceptions to the report and recommendation shall be filed with the Clerk of the Orphans’ Court within twenty days after receipt of the notice required by Rule 9.6(a) and served on the attorney for each interested party and the master or auditor.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026
Page 1 | Confirmation of Report
When the District Attorney determines that the allegations support contempt, the complaint must be docketed by 11:00 a.m. on the next business day.
the District Attorney shall docket the complaint with the Prothonotary by 11:00 a.m. of the next business day
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | RULE 1905B. PRIVATE CRIMINAL COMPLAINT FOR VIOLATION OF ORDER OR AGREEMENT (a)(1) With the Office of District Attorney
Service and Proof of Service Rules
A copy of the Report and Recommendation and Proposed Order must be mailed to counsel and self-represented parties with written notice of the right to file Exceptions.
(11) A copy of the Report and Recommendation and Proposed Order shall be mailed to counsel and self-represented parties with written notice of the right to file Exceptions.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026
Page 2 | 1920.51 EQUITABLE DISTRIBUTION, DIVORCE, ANNULMENT, ALIMONY, COUNSEL FEES, COSTS AND EXPENSES
A warrant issued by the Magisterial District Judge must be forwarded to the appropriate police agency for service.
If the Magisterial District Judge issues a warrant, the Magisterial District Judge shall cause the warrant to be forwarded to the appropriate police agency for service.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026
Page 1 | RULE 1905B. PRIVATE CRIMINAL COMPLAINT FOR VIOLATION OF ORDER OR AGREEMENT (a)(2) With the Magisterial District Judge in the district where the violation occurred
If the court issues a warrant, it must forward the warrant to the Dauphin County Sheriff.
If the court issues a warrant, the court shall forward the warrant to the Sheriff of Dauphin County.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026
Page 1 | RULE 1905B. PRIVATE CRIMINAL COMPLAINT FOR VIOLATION OF ORDER OR AGREEMENT (a)(1) With the Office of District Attorney
If service cannot be made, the Sheriff's Office must give the court an accounting of its attempted service steps.
If service is not made, the Sheriff’s Office must provide the court with an accounting of the steps taken to attempt sevice.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026
Page 2 | RULE 1905B. PRIVATE CRIMINAL COMPLAINT FOR VIOLATION OF ORDER OR AGREEMENT (b) Service by the Dauphin County Sheriff's Office
The motion for judgment on the pleadings must be filed with the Prothonotary together with a supporting brief and served on all other parties.
(1) The Motion for Judgment on the Pleadings with brief in support shall be filed with the Prothonotary and served on all other parties.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 1034(a) – MOTION FOR JUDGMENT ON THE PLEADINGS — PROCEDURES FOR DISPOSITION
When notice of entry of an order, decree, or judgment is required, the prevailing party must prepare two notices, place them in a first-class postage envelope addressed to the person entitled to notice, and deliver them to the Prothonotary before or at entry.
In connection with the entry of any order, decree, or judgment where notice is required, the party in whose favor the order, decree, or judgment is to be entered shall prepare the necessary notice and deliver it to the Prothonotary in an envelope addressed to the party or person entitled to notice under said rule, which envelope shall contain first class postage. The applicable notice shall be submitted in duplicate to the Prothonotary prior to or at the time the order, decree, or judgment is to be entered
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 236. NOTICE BY PROTHONOTARY OF ENTRY OF ORDER, DECREE OR JUDGMENT
The CIF Abuse Victim Addendum must not be included when the petition is served on the opposing parties.
When you serve the opposing party(ies), do not include the CIF Abuse Victim Addendum.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026
Page 8 | PETITION FOR CIVIL CONTEMPT OF A CUSTODY ORDER
The filer must provide a copy of the form to the attorney listed above at the stated address.
I have provided a copy of this form to that attorney listed above at the following address:
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026
Page 19 | INSTRUCTIONS FOR EACH FORM
At the time the report is filed, the auditor or master must give written notice to each interested party's attorney stating the report's filing date and recommendation.
At the time of filing of the report, the auditor or master shall notify, in writing, the attorney for each interested party of the date of filing of the report and recommendation.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 9.6. Notice of Filing Report
Except for forfeiture petitions, an original petition and one copy must be filed with the Prothonotary, and a copy must be served on all other parties.
Except for Petitions in Forfeiture under 42 Pa. C.S.A. §5805, an original and one copy of a Petition shall be filed with the Prothonotary and a copy shall be served on all other parties.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 206.4(c) APPLICATIONS DESIGNATED TO PROCEED AS PETITIONS – RULES TO SHOW CAUSE
If the proposed guardian is not the petitioner, the petitioner must serve the Citation with Notice on the proposed guardian and file a proof of that service with the Clerk of the Orphans’ Court.
(2) The Petitioner shall serve the Citation with Notice on the proposed guardian if the guardian is not the petitioner and shall file a proof of service of the Citation with Notice with the Clerk of the Orphans’ Court.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 14.2 PROOF OF SERVICE
When publication is required but the manner is unspecified, service must be made once in both a county newspaper of general circulation and the Dauphin County Reporter, unless the Court directs otherwise.
(b)(1) Whenever a statute or rule of Court specifies that service of original process or of other petitions, motions, applications, rules, orders or notices is to be made by publication, but does not specify the manner thereof, it shall be made once in both a newspaper of general circulation in this County and the Dauphin County Reporter, unless the Court shall otherwise direct.
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Page 1 | RULE 430. SERVICE PURSUANT TO SPECIAL ORDER OF COURT. PUBLICATION.
The agreement must state that each party will complete, sign, and serve an updated verification form on the other parties within five days after a relevant change or no later than one day before a proceeding, whichever occurs first.
Agreements shall specifically state the parties’ responsibilities to complete, sign, and serve on other parties an updated Criminal Record/Abuse History Verification form either five days after any change in circumstances of themselves or their household members or no less than one day prior to any proceeding, whichever occurs first.
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Page 3 | (c) Agreements reached after the complaint or petition for modification of a custody order is assigned to a Custody Conference Officer
A motion for summary judgment must be filed with the Prothonotary together with a supporting brief and served on all other parties.
(1) A Motion for Summary Judgment with brief in support shall be filed with the Prothonotary and served on all other parties.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 1035.2(a) – MOTION FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT — PROCEDURES FOR DISPOSITION
The court must issue and serve a rule to show cause on the tenant or the tenant’s counsel and all other parties of record.
The court shall issue a rule to show cause why the Petition should not be granted and serve the rule on the tenant, or tenant’s counsel if the tenant is represented, and any other parties of record.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 1008C INDIGENT TENANTS
The landlord must immediately serve the Petition on the tenant and all other parties of record, with proof of service, and the Petition must state the reasons for the requested sums.
a copy of the Petition, which shall state the reason(s) for the sums desired, shall immediately be served on the tenant and any other parties of record, with a proof of service.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 1008C INDIGENT TENANTS
Copies of civil post-trial motions must be filed with the Prothonotary, delivered to the trial judge, and served upon all adverse parties.
Copies of post-trial motions in civil cases shall be filed with the Prothonotary, delivered to the trial judge, and served upon all adverse parties.
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Page 1 | RULE 227.1. MOTIONS AFTER TRIAL
The original pre-trial statement must be filed with the Prothonotary, and a copy must be served on the pre-trial conference judge.
The original statement shall be filed with the Prothonotary and a copy shall be served on the pre-trial conference judge.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 212.1. NOTICE OF EARLIEST TRIAL DATE. FILING OF PRE-TRIAL STATEMENTS
Dauphin County Social Services for Children and Youth is designated to serve Juvenile Dependency Court Orders and Court Notices upon all parties under Pennsylvania Rule of Juvenile Court Procedure 1167 B(2).
Dauphin County Social Services for Children and Youth is hereby designated to effectuate service of Juvenile Dependency Court Orders and Court Notices upon all parties pursuant to the Pennsylvania Rules of Juvenile Court Procedure Pa. R.J.C.P. 1167 B(2).
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Page 1 | RULE 1167 B(2). SERVICE OF COURT ORDERS AND NOTICES
Preliminary Objections must be filed with the Prothonotary and served on every other party.
(1) Preliminary Objections shall be filed with the Prothonotary and served on all other parties.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 1028(c) – PRELIMINARY OBJECTIONS—PROCEDURES FOR DISPOSITION
A responding party that files a withdrawal praecipe must serve Notice of the Praecipe by first-class mail on counsel of record or, for an unrepresented party, the party's last known address of record.
(6) If the responding party filed a praecipe to have the Preliminary Objections deemed withdrawn pursuant to paragraph (3) above, the responding party shall serve Notice of the Praecipe by first class mail to the attorneys of record, or, if a party is unrepresented, to the party’s last known address of record.
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Page 1 | RULE 1028(c) – PRELIMINARY OBJECTIONS—PROCEDURES FOR DISPOSITION
The requesting party must immediately provide transcript-request copies to the presiding judge, court reporter, Court Administrator’s Office, and opposing counsel or opposing party if self-represented.
(B) (2) The requesting party (attorney or self-represented party) shall immediately provide copies of the Request for Transcript to: (a) The presiding judge; (b) The court reporter; (c) The Court Administrator’s Office; (d) Opposing counsel or the opposing party if self-represented.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026
Page 1 | RULE 4007 – REQUEST FOR TRANSCRIPTS
The party filing the writ must serve the concise supporting statement on all other parties.
Within ten (10) days after filing the Praecipe for Writ of Certiorari, the party filing the writ shall file and serve on all other parties a concise statement of those specific jurisdictional and/or gross irregularities relied upon in support of the issuance of the writ and the relief sought.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 1009 PRAECIPE FOR WRIT OF CERTIORARI
A party that fails to concur must file a response within 20 days after service of the motion.
A party who fails to concur MUST file a response within twenty (20) days after service of the motion.
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Page 1 | COMMENT
A party that does not concur must file a response and proposed alternative order within 20 days after service, subject to stated extensions or modifications.
(2) Any party who fails to concur to the motion and/or the proposed order shall file an original and one copy of a response and a proposed alternative order within twenty (20) days after service of the motion, unless the time for filing the response is modified by written agreement of counsel, court order, or enlarged by another local or state rule of court.
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Page 1 | RULE 208.3(b) -- CONTESTED MOTIONS
The filing party must immediately deliver a copy of a properly captioned Class Action Complaint to the Court Administrator’s Office when filing it with the Prothonotary.
When a Class Action Complaint, which is properly captioned as such, is filed with the Prothonotary, a copy of the Complaint shall be immediately brought to the Court Administrator’s Office by the filing party.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 1703 CLASS ACTIONS
Parties must provide copies of all subsequent pleadings, filings, briefs, and memoranda to the assigned judge at the same time they are filed with the Prothonotary.
Parties shall provide a copy of all subsequent pleadings, filings, briefs and memoranda to the assigned judge simultaneously with the filing thereof with the Prothonotary.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 1703 CLASS ACTIONS
The sanctions-seeking party must ensure that actual notice of the deposition was personally served on the person who failed to appear.
However, it shall be the firm responsibility of the party seeking sanctions to ensure, to a certainty, that actual notice of the deposition was personally served on the person failing to appear.
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Page 4 | DEPOSITIONS
The Divorce Hearing Officer must file the Memorandum with the Prothonotary and mail a copy to all legal counsel and self-represented parties.
(8) The Divorce Hearing Officer shall file the Memorandum with the Prothonotary and mail a copy of the Memorandum to all legal counsel and self-represented parties in accordance with Pa.R.C.P. 1920.51.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 2 | 1920.51 EQUITABLE DISTRIBUTION, DIVORCE, ANNULMENT, ALIMONY, COUNSEL FEES, COSTS AND EXPENSES
Filing Fees and Waivers
The plaintiff must pay a $125 administrative fee, plus any required Prothonotary filing fees, when filing a divorce complaint.
(1) DIVORCE COMPLAINT: The plaintiff shall pay a $125.00 administrative fee plus any filing fees required by the Prothonotary at the time the divorce complaint is filed.
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Page 1 | 1920.51A. ADMINISTRATIVE FEES FOR DIVORCE MATTERS
A party filing a Motion for Appointment of Hearing Officer under Local Rule 1920.43 must pay a $75 administrative fee plus any required Prothonotary filing fees.
(a) The party filing the Motion for Appointment of Hearing Officer shall pay a $75.00 administrative fee plus any filing fees required by the Prothonotary if proceeding under Dauphin County Local Rule 1920.43.
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Page 1 | 1920.51A. ADMINISTRATIVE FEES FOR DIVORCE MATTERS — (2)(a) MOTION FOR APPOINTMENT OF HEARING OFFICER
A $75 administrative fee, plus any filing fees required by the Prothonotary, applies when remaining issues are assigned to a Divorce Hearing Officer previously appointed for pretrial or discovery matters.
I file this motion in accordance with Dauphin County Local Rule 1920.51. I request that all remaining issues raised be decided by the Divorce Hearing Officer. I paid the $75.00 administrative fee plus any filing fees required by the Prothonotary. The Divorce Hearing Officer was previously appointed for pre-trial or discovery matters.
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Page 1 | Motion for Appointment of Hearing Officer
A $75 administrative fee, plus any filing fees required by the Prothonotary, applies when discovery, special relief, or other pretrial or post-divorce issues are assigned to the Divorce Hearing Officer, excluding exceptions to the Hearing Officer’s Report.
I file this motion in accordance with Dauphin County Local Rule 1920.43 and request that discovery, special relief matters, or other pre-trial or post-divorce issues excluding Exceptions to Hearing Officer’s Report be decided by the 1-1-22 ===== PAGE 2 ===== Divorce Hearing Officer. I paid the $75.00 administrative fee plus any filing fees required by the Prothonotary.
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Page 1 | Motion for Appointment of Hearing Officer
Court costs may be waived or reduced for an indigent defendant only upon proof of indigence, and a written waiver application must be filed as a public record.
Court costs may be waived or reduced for indigent defendants only upon proof of indigence. Any defendant seeking waiver of court costs must make written application and such application shall be a public record.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Criminal cases
Page 2 | Rule 301 — Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition in Summary Cases
When accepting an applicant into summary ARD, the issuing authority charges a fee of up to $50.00, court costs, and any restitution.
Upon accepting an applicant into summary ARD, issuing authority will charge a fee of up to $50.00, court costs, and any restitution.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Criminal cases
Page 2 | Rule 301 — Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition in Summary Cases
Except for the Commonwealth, county or court offices and their subdivisions, the requesting party and other applicable parties must make a non-refundable 95% estimated-cost deposit within seven calendar days after notification, using cash, money order, certified check, or law firm check payable to the County of Dauphin.
(D) (2) The requesting party (attorney or self-represented party) and any other part(ies) (attorney or self-represented party) other than the Commonwealth, a County or Court office or a subdivision thereof shall make a non-refundable deposit in the amount of 95% of the estimated cost of the transcript. The deposit shall be paid by cash, money order, certified check, or law firm check made payable to the County of Dauphin and delivered to the Court Administrator’s Office within seven (7) calendar days from the date the parties are notified.
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Page 1 | RULE 4007 – REQUEST FOR TRANSCRIPTS
A party appealing a Board of Arbitrators decision must repay the Board members' fees to the County, and those fees are nonrefundable and nonrecoverable by the appellant under any circumstances.
When an appeal is filed to a decision of the Board of Arbitrators, any party appealing shall repay to the County the fees of the members of the Board of Arbitration, which shall not thereafter be refundable to or recoverable by the said party under any circumstances, under the following schedule:
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Page 1 | RULE 1308. APPEAL. COMPENSATION.
The appeal fee is calculated using the amount of the award rendered by the Board of Arbitration as the amount in controversy.
For purposes of determining the appeal fee, “amount in controversy” shall be defined as the amount of the award rendered by the Board of Arbitration.
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Page 1 | RULE 1308. APPEAL. COMPENSATION.
The Parenting Coordinator's fee may be up to $300 per hour.
Up to $300.00 an hour;
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Page 2 | (h) FEES
Parties requesting or benefiting from appointment of a Parenting Coordinator must pay the Parenting Coordinator under the stated fee schedule.
Parties who request the appointment of a Parenting Coordinator or who are identified by the Court as benefiting from the appointment of a Parenting Coordinator shall pay the Parenting Coordinator as follows:
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Page 2 | (h) FEES
The reduced-fee scale assigns 100 percent of the allocated fee at or above median income, 75 percent for 1–25 percent below median income, 50 percent for 26 percent below median income through above 150 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, and $15 per hour below 150 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
Equal to or above median income 100% of allocated fee 1% - 25% below median income 75% of allocated fee 26% below median income - above 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines 50% of allocated fee Below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines $15 per hour
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Page 2 | (h) FEES
Absent good cause, each party must pay 50 percent of the hourly fee, which may be reallocated by the Parenting Coordinator or the Court.
Absent good cause, each party shall pay fifty (50) percent of the hourly fee which may be reallocated as deemed appropriate by the Parenting Coordinator or the Court.
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Page 2 | (h) FEES
Applicable filing fees for electronically filed legal papers must be paid electronically to the Clerk of Courts at the same time as filing.
D. Applicable filing fees for the electronically filed legal papers shall be paid electronically to the Clerk of Courts simultaneously with the filing.
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Page 1 | Rule 576.1 ELECTRONIC FILING IN CRIMINAL DOCKETS
A $150 administrative fee is due to the Prothonotary simultaneously with the filing of a custody action, in addition to the assessed complaint filing fees.
In addition to the filing fees assessed for the filing of complaints, an additional administrative fee in the amount of $150.00 shall be paid to the Prothonotary simultaneously with the filing of the Custody action.
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Page 1 | (a) Commencement of Custody Actions
After receiving a Notice of Fee, the filing party must pay any required fee using the link in that notice and will then receive a Notice of Filing upon payment.
A filing party shall pay any required filing fee after receipt of the Notice of Fee by following the link in the Notice of Fee. Upon receipt of payment, the filing party will receive a Notice of Filing.
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Page 1 | RULE 4.7. ELECTRONIC FILING (f) FEES (1)
When the Family Law Judge refers a matter to the Divorce Hearing Officer, the moving party must file an original and one copy of a Motion for Appointment of Hearing Officer with a $75.00 administrative fee, together with any other filing fee required by the Prothonotary.
(3) If the Family Law Judge refers the matter to the Divorce Hearing Officer, the moving party shall file an original and one copy of a Motion for Appointment of Hearing Officer with the Prothonotary together with the $75.00 administrative fee in accordance with Dauphin County Local Rule 1920.51 plus any other filing fee required by the Prothonotary.
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Page 2 | RULE 1920.43(d)(3)
A party filing a Motion for Appointment of Hearing Officer after the Divorce Complaint must provide an original and one copy and pay a $75 administrative fee plus any additional discovery-related filing fee required by the Prothonotary.
A party may file an original and one copy of a Motion For Appointment of Hearing Officer with the Prothonotary together with the administrative fee of $75.00 plus any other filing fee required by the Prothonotary to address discovery at any point after the filing of the Divorce Complaint.
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Page 3 | RULE 1920.43 PRE-HEARING DIVORCE MATTERS, SPECIAL RELIEF, ADVANCE DISTRIBUTION, DISCOVERY, POST-DIVORCE ISSUES (OTHER THAN EXCEPTIONS TO HEARING OFFICER’S REPORT)
Relief from special or unusual expenses requires an application under Pa.R.C.P. 240 even when the applicant qualifies for automatic in forma pauperis treatment under Rule 240(2).
Although otherwise eligible for automatic forma pauperis states under Rule 240(2), a party shall nonetheless make application as prescribed in Pa.R.C.P. 240 where relief is sought from payment of special or unusual expenses (that is, from costs not attributable to filing and service of process).
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Page 1 | RULE 240. IN FORMA PAUPERIS – CIVIL CASES
Any party may apply for leave to proceed in forma pauperis under Pa.R.C.P. No. 240 or the Protection From Abuse Act.
Any party may apply to the Court for leave to proceed in forma pauperis according to the procedure set forth in Pa.R.C.P. No. 240 or pursuant to the Protection From Abuse Act, 35 P.S.
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Page 1 | RULE 240. IN FORMA PAUPERIS – CIVIL CASES
The Prothonotary must immediately grant an in forma pauperis application without an affidavit when qualifying counsel certifies the applicant’s indigence and pro bono or court-appointed representation.
As an alternative to requesting relief by the means referred to in Rule 240(1), where any applicant for leave to proceed in forma pauperis is represented by counsel who certifies on the application or by separate document that the applicant is indigent, and that such counsel is acting as Court-appointed counsel, or on behalf of a nonprofit legal services organization or Bar Association pro bono program providing free legal services to the applicant, then the Prothonotary shall forthwith grant the application without an accompanying affidavit.
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Page 1 | RULE 240. IN FORMA PAUPERIS – CIVIL CASES
Parties in any civil action commenced in the minor judiciary may apply for leave to proceed in forma pauperis.
The right to apply for leave to proceed in forma pauperis shall likewise be available to parties in any civil action commenced before the minor Judiciary.
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Page 1 | RULE 240. IN FORMA PAUPERIS – CIVIL CASES
Payment errors must be reported to the Prothonotary’s Office as soon as possible and no later than 45 days after the payment date.
alert the Prothonotary’s Office of any payment errors as soon as possible and not later than forty-five (45) days of the payment date.
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Page 3 | Fees
An original ordinary transcript costs $2.50 per page electronically, with a $0.25 per-sheet surcharge for the paper copy filed in the filing office.
(a) Ordinary transcript, $2.50 per page for electronic format with a $0.25 per sheet surcharge for paper copy filed in the filing office;
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Page 1 | (A) Costs
An electronic copy of an ordinary transcript costs $0.50 per page, with a $0.25 per-sheet surcharge when a paper copy is ordered.
(a) Ordinary transcript, $0.50 per page for electronic format with $0.25 per sheet surcharge for paper copy when ordered;
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Page 1 | (A) Costs
An electronic copy of an expedited transcript costs $0.75 per page, with a $0.25 per-sheet surcharge when a paper copy is ordered.
(b) Expedited transcript, $0.75 per page for electronic format with $0.25 per sheet surcharge for paper copy when ordered;
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Page 1 | (A) Costs
An original same-day transcript costs $6.50 per page electronically, with a $0.25 per-sheet surcharge for the paper copy filed in the filing office.
(d) Same Day delivery, $6.50 per page for electronic format with a with a $0.25 per sheet surcharge for paper copy filed in the filing office.
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Page 1 | (A) Costs
A secure electronic feed of translated, unedited courtroom notes delivered to the parties by Wi-Fi costs $1.00 per page.
(2) Secure electronic feed which instantaneously delivers the translated unedited notes from the court reporter in the courtroom proceeding to an electronic device via Wi-Fi to the parties, $1.00 per page.
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Page 1 | (A) Costs
When a Hearing Officer was previously appointed for pretrial or discovery matters, a $75 administrative fee plus any Prothonotary filing fee must be paid.
If a Hearing Officer was previously appointed because of pretrial or discovery matters, the administrative fee of $75.00 plus any filing fee required by the Prothonotary shall be paid to the Prothonotary.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | 1920.51 EQUITABLE DISTRIBUTION, DIVORCE, ANNULMENT, ALIMONY, COUNSEL FEES, COSTS AND EXPENSES
Courtesy Copy Requirements
When a judge is assigned, courtesy copies of all pleadings, briefs, or memoranda must also be filed with that judge’s chambers.
In all cases where a judge has been assigned to the matter in dispute, a courtesy copy of all pleadings, briefs or memoranda filed with the Clerk of Courts shall also be filed with the chambers of the assigned judge.
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Page 1 | RULE 576 FILING
Courtesy copies furnished to a judge and served on opposing parties must be firmly bound, with all metal fasteners or staples securely covered and free of sharp or protruding edges.
Any courtesy copies of filings that are provided to a judge and served on opposing parties must be firmly bound and any metal fasteners or staples must be securely covered with no sharp or protruding edges of any kind.
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Page 2 | RULE 205.2(a) PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF PLEADINGS AND OTHER LEGAL PAPERS
Each party must give the assigned judge one copy of all later sanctions-related pleadings, filings, briefs, and memoranda simultaneously with filing them with the Prothonotary.
Parties shall provide a copy of all subsequent pleadings, filings, briefs and memoranda related to the motion for sanctions to the assigned judge simultaneously with the filing thereof with the Prothonotary.
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Page 3 | RULE 4019 DISCOVERY
Parties must provide one copy of each subsequent pleading, filing, brief, and memorandum related to the petition to the Court Administrator’s Office, without a cover letter.
Parties shall provide a copy of all subsequent pleadings, filings, briefs and memoranda related to the petition to the Court Administrator’s Office for distribution to the assigned judge. No cover letter is necessary.
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Page 1 | RULE 206.4(c) APPLICATIONS DESIGNATED TO PROCEED AS PETITIONS – RULES TO SHOW CAUSE
A courtesy copy of the pre-trial statement must be served on the judge’s chambers.
A courtesy copy shall be served on the judge’s chambers.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 212.2. CONTENTS OF PRE-TRIAL STATEMENTS
Parties must provide the Court Administrator’s Office with copies of all subsequent pleadings, filings, briefs, and memoranda related to the summary-judgment motion; no cover letter is required.
(8) Parties shall provide a copy of all subsequent pleadings, filings, briefs and memoranda related to the Motion for Summary Judgment to the Court Administrator’s Office for distribution to the assigned judge. No cover letter is required.
We could not find this wording in the court's document. Open the source before relying on it. · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 1035.2(a) – MOTION FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT — PROCEDURES FOR DISPOSITION
A courtesy copy of the Application for Continuance must be sent to the Arbitration Chair.
A courtesy copy of the Application shall be sent to the Arbitration Chair.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 2 | RULE 1303 LISTING OF A CASE. NOTICE. LOCATION. CONTINUANCES.
Sealing & Redaction Procedures
After a judge signs the Divorce Decree, the Prothonotary must remove the Divorce Information Sheet from the public file and keep it confidential.
After the Divorce Decree is signed by a judge, the Divorce Information Sheet shall be removed from the public file by the Prothonotary and shall be kept confidential in accordance with 23 Pa.C.S. Section 4304.1 (a)(3).
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Page 1 | 1920.77 DIVORCE INFORMATION SHEET
The confidential-document procedure applies to financial source documents, minors’ educational records, medical or psychological records, Children and Youth Services records, marital property inventories and pre-trial statements, income and expense statements, and agreements between parties used under 23 Pa.C.S. §3105.
1. Financial Source Documents; 2. Minors’ educational records; 3. Medical/Psychological records; 4. Children and Youth Services’ records; 5. Marital Property Inventory and Pre-Trial Statement as provided in Pa.R.C.P. 1920.33; 6. Income and Expense Statements as provided in Pa.R.C.P. 1910.27(c); and 7. Agreements between parties as used in 23 Pa.C.S. §3105.
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Page 1 | RULE 102 – PUBLIC ACCESS – CONFIDENTIAL DOCUMENTS
Attorneys and self-represented parties must file the listed confidential documents with the appropriate filing office using the prescribed cover sheet.
A. In accordance with the Public Access Policy of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania: Case Records of the Appellate and Trial Courts, attorneys and self- represented parties shall file the following confidential documents with the appropriate filing office (Prothonotary, Clerk of Courts, and Clerk of the Orphans’ Court) under a cover sheet titled “Confidential Document Form” designed and published by the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts.
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Page 1 | RULE 102 – PUBLIC ACCESS – CONFIDENTIAL DOCUMENTS
Minors’ names and dates of birth may not appear in a filing except when the minor is charged as a defendant in a criminal matter.
5. Minors’ names and dates of birth except when a minor is charged as a defendant in a criminal matter (see 42 Pa.C.S. §6355); and
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Page 1 | RULE 101 – PUBLIC ACCESS – CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION
Attorneys and self-represented parties must exclude confidential information from filed documents, except on the Confidential Information Form published by the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts.
A. In accordance with the Public Access Policy of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania: Case Records of the Appellate and Trial Courts, attorneys and self- represented parties shall not include the following confidential information in any document filed with the appropriate filing office (Prothonotary, Clerk of Courts, and Clerk of the Orphans’ Court), except on the Confidential Information Form designed and published by the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts.
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Page 1 | RULE 101 – PUBLIC ACCESS – CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION
Financial account numbers generally may not appear in a filing, but the last four digits may be used when the active account is the subject of the case and cannot otherwise be identified.
2. Financial Account Numbers, except an active financial account number may be identified by the last four digits when the financial account is the subject of the case and cannot otherwise be identified;
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Page 1 | RULE 101 – PUBLIC ACCESS – CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION
Confidential Information Forms and documents properly filed with a Confidential Document Form are sealed automatically without a motion to seal.
Confidential Information Forms and documents properly filed with a Confidential Document Form pursuant to Case Records Public Access Policy of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania will be sealed without motion.
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Page 3 | Filings Under Seal
Documents intended to be sealed must be designated as sealed in the CountySuite Portal and accompanied by a simultaneous Motion to Seal stating the reasons for sealing and following Local Rule 208.3(a) and (b).
Documents intended to be filed under seal shall be designated by the filing party as “sealed” in the CountySuite Portal. However, designation of documents as “sealed” does not seal the documents. In addition to making the designation in the CountySuite Portal, the filing party must also submit a Motion to Seal at the same time as the legal paper intended to be sealed. The motion shall outline the reasons why the legal paper should be sealed and shall follow motion procedure set forth in Local Rule of Civil Procedure 208.3(a) and (b).
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Page 3 | Filings Under Seal
The court and appropriate filing offices are not required to review or redact filed documents for compliance with the Public Access Policy.
E. The court or appropriate filing office (Prothonotary, Clerk of Courts, and Clerk of the Orphans’ Court), is not required and will not review or redact any filed document for compliance with the Public Access Policy of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania: Case Records of the Appellate and Trial Courts.
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Page 1 | RULE 102 – PUBLIC ACCESS – CONFIDENTIAL DOCUMENTS
The court and filing offices are not required to review filed documents for Public Access Policy compliance and will not redact them.
E. The court or appropriate filing office (Prothonotary, Clerk of Courts, and Clerk of the Orphans’ Court), is not required and will not review or redact any filed document for compliance with the Public Access Policy of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania: Case Records of the Appellate and Trial Courts.
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Page 1 | RULE 101 – PUBLIC ACCESS – CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION
The confidential-document rule does not apply to cases already sealed or exempt from public access under applicable authority, including juvenile cases, child support cases, and adoptions.
C. This section is not applicable to cases that are sealed or exempted from public access pursuant to applicable authority. Examples of such cases are juvenile cases, child support cases, and adoptions.
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Page 1 | RULE 102 – PUBLIC ACCESS – CONFIDENTIAL DOCUMENTS
Confidential documents submitted with the required form are not publicly accessible unless the court orders otherwise, while the form itself is publicly accessible.
B. Confidential documents submitted with the Confidential Document Form shall not be accessible to the public, except as ordered by the court. The Confidential Document Form shall be accessible to the public.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | RULE 102 – PUBLIC ACCESS – CONFIDENTIAL DOCUMENTS
Social security numbers may not be included in a filing except on the designated Confidential Information Form.
1. Social Security Numbers;
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | RULE 101 – PUBLIC ACCESS – CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION
Driver’s license numbers may not be included in a filing except on the designated Confidential Information Form.
3. Driver’s License Numbers;
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | RULE 101 – PUBLIC ACCESS – CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION
In covered family-court actions, an abuse victim’s address and other contact information, including employer information, may not appear in a filing, but the victim’s name is excepted.
6. Abuse victim’s address and other contact information, including employer’s name, address and work schedule, in family court actions as defined by Pa.R.C.P. 1931(a), except for victim’s name.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | RULE 101 – PUBLIC ACCESS – CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION
State identification numbers may not be included in a filing except on the designated Confidential Information Form.
4. State Identification (SID) Numbers;
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | RULE 101 – PUBLIC ACCESS – CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION
The confidential-information section does not apply to sealed cases, cases exempt from public access, juvenile cases, child-support cases, or adoptions.
C. This section is not applicable to cases that are sealed or exempted from public access pursuant to applicable authority. Examples of such cases are juvenile cases, child support cases, and adoptions.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | RULE 101 – PUBLIC ACCESS – CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION
Filing Bundling Requirements
A filing of record may be cited in a later filing but may not be attached to it.
Filings of record may be referenced in any subsequent filing but shall not be attached to the filing.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | RULE OF CRIMINAL PROCEDURE 575 -- PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF PLEADINGS AND OTHER LEGAL PAPERS
Pre-Motion Conference Requirements
If the assigned judge determines that three-judge panel argument is advisable, the assigned judge and Court Administrator’s Office must make the necessary scheduling arrangements.
(8) If the Assigned Judge determines that argument is advisable before a three-judge panel, the Assigned Judge and the Court Administrator’s Office will make the necessary scheduling arrangements for such panel argument.
We could not find this wording in the court's document. Open the source before relying on it. · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 1035.2(a) – MOTION FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT — PROCEDURES FOR DISPOSITION
Oral argument may be requested under Local Rule 211.
(4) Oral argument may be requested as set forth in Local Rule 211.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases
Page 1 | RULE 1035.2(a) – MOTION FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT — PROCEDURES FOR DISPOSITION
A party having difficulty complying with discovery may request a discovery conference by motion before sending a Notice of Intention to Seek Sanctions.
Nothing in this section shall prohibit a party(ies), who is having difficulty in complying with a discovery request, from requesting a Discovery Conference with the Court by filing a Motion for Discovery Conference before a Notice of the Intention to Seek Sanctions is sent by the requesting party(ies).
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases
Page 3 | RULE 4019 DISCOVERY
Adjournment & Extension Requirements
Cases less than two years old may receive only one granted continuance request, and cases over two years old may receive no continuance except with leave of court for cause shown.
Only one request for continuance will be granted for cases less than two years old, and none shall be granted for those over two years old, except with leave of court for cause shown.
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Page 2 | RULE 1303 LISTING OF A CASE. NOTICE. LOCATION. CONTINUANCES.
A continuance application must be served concurrently on all other parties, is generally barred when filed fewer than ten days before the arbitration term except in extraordinary circumstances, and must be copied to the Arbitration Chair.
Applications for Continuance shall be served concurrently upon all other parties. No continuance shall be granted if filed less than ten days prior to the beginning of the arbitration term except in the most extraordinary circumstances. A courtesy copy of the Application shall be sent to the Arbitration Chair.
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Page 2 | RULE 1303 LISTING OF A CASE. NOTICE. LOCATION. CONTINUANCES.
A written continuance motion must be filed with the Clerk and served on opposing counsel by 4:00 p.m. on the Tuesday before the week of the scheduled criminal jury trial.
All contested motions for a continuance shall be in writing and filed with the Clerk of Courts no later than 4:00 p.m. on the Tuesday prior to the week of criminal jury trials during which the case is scheduled for trial. A copy of the motion shall be served on opposing counsel by the same deadline.
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Page 1 | RULE 106. CONTINUANCES
Failure to complete videotaped trial testimony is not a proper basis for a continuance request absent extraordinary and compelling circumstances.
Absent extraordinary and compelling circumstances, the failure to complete videotaped testimony for use at trial shall not be a proper basis for a request for a continuance.
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Page 1 | RULE 215.1 JURY TRIALS (1) LISTING
A continuance based on a scheduling or attachment order from another court requires that the foreign order be earlier in time, the party with the conflict to move timely for a continuance, and a copy of the foreign order to be attached.
The foreign order is earlier in time; and (b) The party with the scheduling conflict timely moves for a continuance and attaches a copy of the foreign order.
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Page 2 | RULE 215.1 JURY TRIALS (2) ATTACHMENT
Requests to reschedule the seminar must be directed to the seminar provider, and the requesting party must attend the next available seminar.
Any requests for rescheduling must be directed to the provider of the Seminar and you will be required to attend the next available Seminar.
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Page 1 | Educational Seminar Attendance and Custody Conference Scheduling Order
For cases neither permanently assigned nor on the priority list, a continuance agreed to by the District Attorney and defense may proceed without a formal motion when all three execute an administrative continuance form in the District Attorney’s Office.
Notwithstanding subsections (a) – (d), cases that are neither permanently attached to a judge nor on the priority list may be continued upon mutual agreement of the District Attorney and defense counsel without the filing of a formal motion. Such continuances shall be effectuated by execution by the District Attorney, defense counsel, and defendant of an administrative continuance form in the District Attorney’s Office.
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Page 1 | RULE 106. CONTINUANCES
Mediation ordinarily may not delay required pleadings, ordered return dates, or court hearings unless all interested parties jointly request relief and the court orders it.
Mediation shall not delay the required filing of any pleading or ordered return dates, or the scheduling of Court hearings, unless specifically requested by joinder of the interested parties and so ordered by the Court.
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Page 1 | RULE 1.6. Mediation by Agreement, Local Rule, or Court Order
For a nonconcurred continuance request in a case less than two years old, the panel Chair must hold a telephone conference, decide the application, and ask whether an aggrieved party wants to appeal to the Arbitration Judge.
If a party does not concur, and the case is less than two years old, the panel Chair shall convene a telephone conference among all parties, and shall make a decision on the Application for Continuance. The Chair shall then inquire if any aggrieved party wishes to appeal the matter to the Arbitration Judge.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.
Page 2 | RULE 1303 LISTING OF A CASE. NOTICE. LOCATION. CONTINUANCES.
A late continuance motion must be presented in open court before the business court judge or trial judge, with reasonable advance notice to opposing counsel.
A later motion shall be presented only in open court before the business court judge or the judge assigned to the case for trial. Reasonable notice shall be afforded opposing counsel prior to the presentation of the motion in open court.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Criminal cases
Page 1 | RULE 106. CONTINUANCES
A continuance motion must include the case’s procedural history beginning with the criminal complaint’s filing date, all prior requested continuances, whether opposing counsel was contacted, and opposing counsel’s position.
The motion shall contain a procedural history of the case, beginning with date of filing of the criminal complaint, and a recitation of any prior continuances sought. The motion shall aver whether opposing counsel has been contacted concerning the motion and shall state counsel’s position thereon.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Criminal cases
Page 1 | RULE 106. CONTINUANCES
A late continuance motion may be entertained only if the opportunity to seek it did not previously exist, the defendant was unaware of its grounds, or the interests of justice require consideration.
A later motion shall be entertained only when the opportunity therefore did not previously exist, or the defendant was not aware of the grounds for the motion, or the interests of justice require it.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Criminal cases
Page 1 | RULE 106. CONTINUANCES
A continuance motion must disclose previously imposed limits and scheduling provisions, including prior orders denying further continuances or fixing a trial date and time.
The subsection’s language also requires that a continuance motion will include any limiting or scheduling provisions previously dictated. For example, provisions in a prior court order that no further continuances will be granted or that trial will commence on a certain date/time must be disclosed.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Criminal cases
Page 2 | COMMENT TO RULE 106. CONTINUANCES
Chambers Communication Rules
For emergency search or arrest warrants outside regular business hours, the Duty Judge is responsible for immediate handling, and the police may contact the Duty Judge through the schedule provided to Emergency Management.
Any emergency situations necessitating the issuance of search warrants and arrest warrants between 4:00 P.M. – 8:00 A.M. Monday – Thursday and from 4:00 P.M. Friday until 8:00 A.M. Monday shall be the responsibility of the Duty Judge and the Duty Judge shall be available to immediately handle such matters. The Deputy Court Administrator for Magisterial District Judges shall provide the Duty Judge schedule to Emergency Management so that contact can be made by the police to the Duty Judge.
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Page 2 | (2)(d)
The filing attorney or self-represented party must promptly telephone the Deputy Civil Court Administrator’s Office when an emergency filing is determined and provide the expected filing time, motion background, and requested relief.
The attorney or self-represented party shall promptly notify the Deputy Civil Court Administrator’s Office by telephone as soon as it is determined that an Emergency Motion will be filed, and shall give the Deputy Civil Court Administrator’s Office a realistic estimate of the date and time of the intended filing, a description of the background of the motion, and the requested relief.
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Page 2 | Emergency Motions
The filing attorney or self-represented party must promptly notify the Deputy Civil Court Administrator’s Office by telephone or email once a special-relief or emergency-custody petition will be filed and provide an estimated filing date and time.
The attorney or self-represented party shall promptly notify the Deputy Civil Court Administrator’s Office by telephone or email as soon as it is determined that a Petition for Special Relief or Emergency Petition for Custody will be filed and shall give the Deputy Civil Court Administrator’s Office a realistic estimate of the date and time of the intended filing.
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Page 2 | e. Attorney or self-represented party notification
An incarcerated party who believes telephone or video participation has not been arranged should contact the Court Administrator’s office at the stated telephone number.
If you, as an incarcerated party, do not think such arrangements have been made, please contact the Court Administrator’s office at (717) 780-6624
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026
Page 2 | Incarcerated Parties and Interpreter Requests
A party needing an interpreter for a custody conference or trial must contact the Court Administrator as soon as possible by telephone at the stated number or by the stated email address.
If any party needs an interpreter at either the custody conference or trial, please contact the Court Administrator’s office at (717) 780-6640 or email interpreterrequest@dauphinc.org as soon as possible.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026
Page 2 | Incarcerated Parties and Interpreter Requests
Contact the Court Administrator’s Office at the stated telephone number to arrange accessible facilities or reasonable accommodations, and make all arrangements at least 72 hours before the hearing or conference.
The Court of Common Pleas of Dauphin County is required by law to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. For information about accessible facilities and reasonable accommodations available to disabled individuals having business before the court, please contact the Court Administrator’s Office at (717) 780-66[30]08. All arrangements must be made at least 72 hours prior to any hearing or conference.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026
Page 3 | AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF 1990