Ind. Porter Cnty. Local Rule LR64-SC00-1200

1200.10 General Procedure. Upon the filing of a notice of claim, the Clerk shall schedule

an initial hearing for the purpose of determining whether the matter is settled, contested,

uncontested or to be dismissed. If uncontested, the Court or parties shall prepare Agreed Judgment

forms. If contested, the Court shall set the matter for trial or mediation. The parties need not bring

their exhibits or witnesses to the initial hearing, except in eviction hearings. Failure to appear at the

Initial Hearing by Plaintiff shall result in dismissal without prejudice pursuant to Indiana Small

Claims Rule 10(A). If the Defendant fails to appear at initial hearing and proof of service is

established, a default judgment shall be entered against the Defendant.

1200.20 Change of Calendar. Should any party file a motion to continue the initial

hearing, the Court may grant or deny the motion, or strike the initial hearing and set the matter for

bench trial at a later date. The moving party must notify the other party of the continuance motion

and serve notice thereon.

1200.30 Alternative Dispute Resolution in SC Cases. The Court may order Alternative

Dispute Resolution (ADR) in the form of mediation at the request of either party or in the

discretion of the Court.