Delaware Cnty. C.P. CommonPleasAdminOrders_AOD THIS 22

MARY J. WALK, ESQUIRE, DIRECTOR

Lisa Fmoly

OFFICE OF JUDICIAL SUPPORT

Rule 5103 Custody of Exhibits. General Provisions.

(A)Court Proceedings before Common Pleas Court.

A "custodian" will either be a member of court staff, e.g., court reporter, Judicial Support

Information Officer, Office of Judicial Support (hereinafter "OJS"), Court Information Officer,

District Attorney Evidence Custodian, Domestic Relations Court Unit, the Register of

Wills/Orphans' Court, or the proponent of the exhibit. See Pa.R.J.A. 5101(a)(2) (definition of

custodian). When the proponent is designated as the custodian, the proponent will fulfill all

the responsibilities of a custodian in accordance with Pa.R.J.A. 5102.

A local court security committee shall make recommendations to the President Judge on

protocols, policies, and procedures that should be implemented to protect the public, court

personnel, and court facilities in the event of an emergency as deemed necessary. See

Pa.R.J.A. 1954 (Court Security).

The appropriate entity, as designated below, shall be the custodian of all documentary

exhibits and photographs of non-documentary exhibits accepted or rejected during and

after court proceedings.

(1)A "custodian" will either be a member of court staff, e.g., court reporter, Judicial Support

Information Officer, Office of Judicial Support (hereinafter "OJS"), Court Information Officer,

District Attorney Evidence Custodian, Domestic Relations Court Unit, the Register of

Wills/Orphans' Court, or the proponent of the exhibit. See Pa.R.J.A. 5101(a)(2) (definition of

custodian). When the proponent is designated as the custodian, the proponent will fulfill all

the responsibilities of a custodian in accordance with Pa.R.J.A. 5102.

(2)A local court security committee shall make recommendations to the President Judge on

protocols, policies, and procedures that should be implemented to protect the public, court

personnel, and court facilities in the event of an emergency as deemed necessary. See

Pa.R.J.A. 1954 (Court Security).

(3)The appropriate entity, as designated below, shall be the custodian of all documentary

exhibits and photographs of non-documentary exhibits accepted or rejected during and

after court proceedings.

(B)Custody of Documents before and after Common Pleas Court Proceedings.

Civil and Criminal Proceedings before the Court of Common Pleas.

Unless directed otherwise herein, the Judicial Support Information Officer on

behalf of OJS shall:

retain or take custody of all documentary exhibits, photographs, and

photographs of non-documentary exhibits accepted or rejected during the court

proceedings.

formally designate all documentary exhibits, photographs, and

photographs of non-documentary exhibits with the Office of Judicial Support Public

Access System within five (5) business days of the conclusion of the court proceedings;

and

secure and maintain all other non-documentary exhibits as directed by the

Court or agreed to by the parties.

Unless directed otherwise herein, OJS shall be designated as the custodian of

all documentary exhibits and photographs of non-documentary exhibits after court

proceedings have concluded.

Civil Arbitration Proceedings.

In Civil Arbitration proceedings, neither OJS nor the arbitrators are required

to retain any exhibits. The documentary and non-documentary exhibits shall not be a

matter of record.

Juvenile Criminal Matters before a Hearing Officer or Judge.

If an exhibit is admitted into evidence, the Hearing Officer or Judge, in

conjunction with the Juvenile Court Information Officer, shall file the documents in an

envelope marked with the appropriate case ID. The envelope shall be placed in the Juvenile

Court file.

The Hearing Officer or Judge, in conjunction with the Juvenile Court Information

Officer, shall retain all documentary exhibits, photographs, and photographs of non-documentary

(1)Civil and Criminal Proceedings before the Court of Common Pleas.

Unless directed otherwise herein, the Judicial Support Information Officer on

behalf of OJS shall:

retain or take custody of all documentary exhibits, photographs, and

photographs of non-documentary exhibits accepted or rejected during the court

proceedings.

formally designate all documentary exhibits, photographs, and

photographs of non-documentary exhibits with the Office of Judicial Support Public

Access System within five (5) business days of the conclusion of the court proceedings;

and

secure and maintain all other non-documentary exhibits as directed by the

Court or agreed to by the parties.

Unless directed otherwise herein, OJS shall be designated as the custodian of

all documentary exhibits and photographs of non-documentary exhibits after court

proceedings have concluded.

(a)Unless directed otherwise herein, the Judicial Support Information Officer on

behalf of OJS shall:

retain or take custody of all documentary exhibits, photographs, and

photographs of non-documentary exhibits accepted or rejected during the court

proceedings.

formally designate all documentary exhibits, photographs, and

photographs of non-documentary exhibits with the Office of Judicial Support Public

Access System within five (5) business days of the conclusion of the court proceedings;

and

secure and maintain all other non-documentary exhibits as directed by the

Court or agreed to by the parties.

(i)retain or take custody of all documentary exhibits, photographs, and

photographs of non-documentary exhibits accepted or rejected during the court

proceedings.

(ii)formally designate all documentary exhibits, photographs, and

photographs of non-documentary exhibits with the Office of Judicial Support Public

Access System within five (5) business days of the conclusion of the court proceedings;

and

(iii)secure and maintain all other non-documentary exhibits as directed by the

Court or agreed to by the parties.

(b)Unless directed otherwise herein, OJS shall be designated as the custodian of

all documentary exhibits and photographs of non-documentary exhibits after court

proceedings have concluded.

(2)Civil Arbitration Proceedings.

In Civil Arbitration proceedings, neither OJS nor the arbitrators are required

to retain any exhibits. The documentary and non-documentary exhibits shall not be a

matter of record.

(a)In Civil Arbitration proceedings, neither OJS nor the arbitrators are required

to retain any exhibits. The documentary and non-documentary exhibits shall not be a

matter of record.

(3)Juvenile Criminal Matters before a Hearing Officer or Judge.

If an exhibit is admitted into evidence, the Hearing Officer or Judge, in

conjunction with the Juvenile Court Information Officer, shall file the documents in an

envelope marked with the appropriate case ID. The envelope shall be placed in the Juvenile

Court file.

The Hearing Officer or Judge, in conjunction with the Juvenile Court Information

Officer, shall retain all documentary exhibits, photographs, and photographs of non-documentary

(a)If an exhibit is admitted into evidence, the Hearing Officer or Judge, in

conjunction with the Juvenile Court Information Officer, shall file the documents in an

envelope marked with the appropriate case ID. The envelope shall be placed in the Juvenile

Court file.

(b)The Hearing Officer or Judge, in conjunction with the Juvenile Court Information

Officer, shall retain all documentary exhibits, photographs, and photographs of non-documentary

exhibits accepted or rejected during the court proceedings, such shall be a matter of record.

(c)The Juvenile Court Information Office shall act as the custodian of all

documentary and non-documentary exhibits unless otherwise directed herein.

(4)Domestic Relations Proceedings before a Judge.

During Domestic Relations proceedings before a Judge, the Domestic Relations Court

Unit shall be the custodian of the documentary exhibits, and such shall be a matter of record.

In Domestic Relations proceedings before a Judge, the Domestic Relations Court Unit

shall retain all documentary exhibits, photographs, and photographs of non-documentary

exhibits accepted or rejected during the court proceedings unless otherwise directed herein.

In Domestic Relations proceedings before a Judge, the Domestic Relations Court Unit,

shall prepare the Index of Exhibits and file the Index of Exhibits within the court file.

After Domestic Relations proceedings before a Judge, the Domestic Relations Court

Unit shall secure and maintain all exhibits and shall act as the custodian of records.

The Domestic Relations Court Unit shall comply with any and all requirements of the

PACSES systems.

(a)During Domestic Relations proceedings before a Judge, the Domestic Relations Court

Unit shall be the custodian of the documentary exhibits, and such shall be a matter of record.

(b)In Domestic Relations proceedings before a Judge, the Domestic Relations Court Unit

shall retain all documentary exhibits, photographs, and photographs of non-documentary

exhibits accepted or rejected during the court proceedings unless otherwise directed herein.

(c)In Domestic Relations proceedings before a Judge, the Domestic Relations Court Unit,

shall prepare the Index of Exhibits and file the Index of Exhibits within the court file.

(d)After Domestic Relations proceedings before a Judge, the Domestic Relations Court

Unit shall secure and maintain all exhibits and shall act as the custodian of records.

(e)The Domestic Relations Court Unit shall comply with any and all requirements of the

PACSES systems.

(5)Proceedings before Divorce/Custody/Support/Mental Health Hearing Officers.

In proceedings before the Divorce/Custody/Support/Mental Health Hearing

Officer, neither OJS nor the Hearing Officer are required to retain any exhibits. The

documentary and non-documentary exhibits shall not be a matter of record.

(a)In proceedings before the Divorce/Custody/Support/Mental Health Hearing

Officer, neither OJS nor the Hearing Officer are required to retain any exhibits. The

documentary and non-documentary exhibits shall not be a matter of record.

(6)Proceedings before Orphans' Court.

During proceedings before the Orphans' Court, the Register of Wills, in conjunction

with the Judicial Support Information Officer on behalf of OJS, shall be the custodian of the

documentary exhibits, and such shall be a matter of record.

In proceedings before the Orphans' Court, the Register of Wills, in conjunction with

the Judicial Support Information Officer on behalf of OJS, shall retain all documentary

exhibits, photographs, and photographs of non-documentary exhibits accepted or rejected

during the court proceedings unless otherwise directed herein.

In proceedings before the Orphans' Court, the Judicial Support Information Officer

on behalf of OJS shall prepare the Index of Exhibits and file the Index of Exhibits with the

exhibits in the Register of Wills File.

After proceedings before the Orphans' Court, the Register of Wills shall secure

and maintain all exhibits and shall act as the custodian of records.

After proceedings before the Orphans' Court relating to Termination of Parental

Rights, OJS shall secure and maintain all exhibits and shall act as the custodian of records.

(a)During proceedings before the Orphans' Court, the Register of Wills, in conjunction

with the Judicial Support Information Officer on behalf of OJS, shall be the custodian of the

documentary exhibits, and such shall be a matter of record.

(b)In proceedings before the Orphans' Court, the Register of Wills, in conjunction with

the Judicial Support Information Officer on behalf of OJS, shall retain all documentary

exhibits, photographs, and photographs of non-documentary exhibits accepted or rejected

during the court proceedings unless otherwise directed herein.

(c)In proceedings before the Orphans' Court, the Judicial Support Information Officer

on behalf of OJS shall prepare the Index of Exhibits and file the Index of Exhibits with the

exhibits in the Register of Wills File.

(d)After proceedings before the Orphans' Court, the Register of Wills shall secure

and maintain all exhibits and shall act as the custodian of records.

(e)After proceedings before the Orphans' Court relating to Termination of Parental

Rights, OJS shall secure and maintain all exhibits and shall act as the custodian of records.

(7)Children and Youth Services ("CYS")/Dependency Proceedings before a Hearing Officer

or a Judge

In proceedings involving CYS or Dependency before a Hearing Officer or a

Judge, the Judicial Support Information Officer on behalf of OJS shall maintain all exhibits

and records.

(a)In proceedings involving CYS or Dependency before a Hearing Officer or a

Judge, the Judicial Support Information Officer on behalf of OJS shall maintain all exhibits

and records.

Rule 5104 Custody of Exhibits. Special Provisions.

(a) Any custodian accepting exhibits shall maintain the Index of Exhibits during court proceedings.

Such custodian shall use the form supplied by Court Administration which shall be in the following

format:

Index of Exhibits

Sealed by Confidential Information

Exhibit Number/Description/Title Proponent Admitted Rejected Court Sheet (If required)

(b)If statutorily required, the proponent shall include a Confidential Information Form or

Confidential Document Form for any exhibit offered into evidence that contains

confidential information or confidential documents as defined in the Case Records Public

Access Policy of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania. These forms shall be given

by the proponent to the applicable custodian at the time the evidence is introduced and

maintained by the custodian in the file.

(c)Documentary Exhibits: Generally

(1)If a document is larger than 8-1/2 X 11 inches, the Judicial Support Information Officer on

behalf of the Office of Judicial Support (hereinafter "OJS") 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 proceedings.

(2)Media depositions presented at trial shall remain in the proponent's possession. The

proponent shall simultaneously submit a transcript of the deposition as an exhibit in the

form of a zip drive, flash drive, or compacted disc.

(3)Any digital exhibit that cannot be printed (i.e., audio or video recording) shall be

entered into the record in OJS public access system, flash drive, or other format if

expressly approved by the court. If one party has multiple digital exhibits, they may

be submitted together on one USB flash drive.

(d)Non-documentary Exhibits: Generally

(1)If the exhibit is bulky, oversized, or contains contraband including but not limited to controlled

substances, narcotics, or weapons, either OJS, the District Attorney Evidence Custodian, Court

Information Office for Juvenile matters, Orphans' Court and Domestic Relations Unit, or the

proponent shall retain custody of the exhibit as directed by the Court.

(2)If any Exhibits are weapons, narcotics, controlled substances, or other contraband, it shall be

placed in the evidence room where the District Attorney Evidence Custodian signs an evidence log

form acknowledging receipt of same. Thereafter, the form shall remain in the file.

(3)Bulky, oversized Exhibits that do not require the services of the District Attorney Evidence

Custodian shall be retained by the Judicial Support Information Officer on behalf of OJS, or Court

Information Office for Juvenile matters. Thereafter, such evidence shall be identified on an

evidence log form and placed in the file.

Rule 5105 Confidentiality. Exhibits Under Seal.

(a)The Proponent of an exhibit containing confidential information or confidential documents, as

defined in the Case Records Access Policy of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania

(Policy), shall include a confidential document form, prepared in compliance with the Policy, SO

the exhibit may be sealed by the Records Office.

(b)Exhibits sealed by the Court during the Court proceedings shall not be accessible by the public.

(c)The Custodian or Records/filing Office, as may be applicable, shall maintain all non-documentary evidence

in a Civil, Orphans' Court or Domestic Relations matter until the later of the expiration of

the appeal period from the final disposition of the case, as otherwise required by any

applicable retention schedule, law, rule, regulation or policy, or as directed by the Court;

in Criminal and Juvenile Court proceedings until the later of the expiration of any

applicable retention schedule, law, rule, regulation or policy, or as otherwise directed by the

Court.

(1)in a Civil, Orphans' Court or Domestic Relations matter until the later of the expiration of

the appeal period from the final disposition of the case, as otherwise required by any

applicable retention schedule, law, rule, regulation or policy, or as directed by the Court;

(2)in Criminal and Juvenile Court proceedings until the later of the expiration of any

applicable retention schedule, law, rule, regulation or policy, or as otherwise directed by the

Court.

Effective Date: This Rule shall be effective April 1, 2024.

IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF DELAWARE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

IN RE: MENTAL HEALTH HEARING

EXAMINERS

: NO. 2022-003777

:

:

PRESIDENT JUDGE ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER

AND NOW, this 28th day of December, 2023, it is hereby ORDERED and

DECREED that at a rate of seventy-five ($75.00) dollars per such hearing Eugene A.

Bonner, Esquire is appointed by this court to serve as a mental health hearing

examiner for a one (1) year term, effective January 1, 2024.

Linda CartisoroLINDA A. CARTISANO,

President Judge

IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF DELAWARE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

IN RE: MENTAL HEALTH HEARING: NO. 2022-003777

EXAMINERS:

:

PRESIDENT JUDGE ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER

AND NOW, this 28th day of December 2023, it is hereby ORDERED and

DECREED that at a rate of seventy-five ($75.00) dollars per such hearing Michael S.

Dugan, Esquire is appointed by this court to serve as a mental health hearing

examiner for a one (1) year term, effective January 1, 2024.

LINDA A. CARTISANO,

Cartisore

President Judge

IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF DELAWARE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

IN RE: MENTAL HEALTH HEARING: NO. 2022-003777

EXAMINERS:

:

PRESIDENT JUDGE ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER

AND NOW, this 28th day of December, 2023, it is hereby ORDERED and

DECREED that at a rate of seventy-five ($75.00) dollars per such hearing Patrick A.

Scanlon, Esquire is appointed by this court to serve as a mental health hearing

examiner for a one (1) year term, effective January 1, 2024.

Lido Id. Cartesoro

LINDA A. CARTISANO,

President Judge

IN RE: EQUITABLE DISTRIBUTION

DISCOVERY CONFERENCE LIST DAY

: NO: 2020-0003777

:

:

AMENDED ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER

Now this 28th day of November, 2023, it is hereby ORDERED and DECREED that,

effective December 1, 2023, all Equitable Distribution Motions to Compel Discovery shall be

addressed at a conference conducted by a hearing officer.

It is further ORDERED as follows:

1.Upon filing of an Equitable Distribution Motion to Compel Discovery, Delaware

County Court Administration shall schedule the Motion for a Discovery Conference

List Day on the third Friday of the following month.

2.All applications for continuance shall follow the established Court Administration

procedure.

3.

If either party fails to appear at the conference as directed by the Court, the officer may

conduct or reschedule the conference or submit an Order to the Court recommending

dismissal of the Motion.

4.Stipulations (with accompanying order) and agreed upon orders may be provided to the

hearing officer prior to the conference or in person at the conference. The officer shall

submit the stipulation and/or order to the court together with the officer's

recommendation for approval or disapproval and the Court shall enter an order in

accordance with the parties' agreement.

5.

If an agreement is reached at the conference, the hearing officer shall prepare a written

order in conformity with the agreement and submit to the Court together with the

officer's recommendation for approval or disapproval and the Court shall enter an order

in accordance with the parties' agreement.

6.

If the parties are unable to agree to terms that resolve the Motion, the officer shall make

inquiry of counsel and/or parties relative to the discovery issues.

7.

Within five (5) days after the conference, the hearing officer shall file with the court a

proposed recommended discovery order.

8.

The hearing officer will not address contempt, sanctions, or any non-discovery related

issues, all of which shall require a separate subsequent motion.

Linda A. Cartisano,

President Judge

cc: Family Section Liaison Judge

Gerard Montella, Court Administration

IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF DELAWARE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

IN RE: Rule 1915.11-1

Parenting Coordination

:

: No.: 2022-003777

:

ADMINSTRATIVE ORDER

JulyAND NOW, this 12th day of 2023, the above rule having been

published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin on July 8th, 2023, in accordance with Administrative

Office of Pennsylvania Courts rules and regulations. it is hereby ORDERED and DECREED

that the above aforementioned rule is hereby in full force and effective as of July 28th, 2023.

Lisda R. CartisonLinda

President Judge

Rule 1915.11-1 Parenting Coordination

Appointment of a Parenting Coordinator

A.Parties may make a request to the Family Section Trial Judge for the appointment

of a Parenting Coordinator.

B.Said request may be made by written Petition for Special Relief or by oral motion.

C.The Family Section Trial Judge may on its motion make a request to the FamilySection Liason Judge for the appointment of a Parenting Coordinator.

D.The Family Section Líaison Judge shall maintain a roster of approved parent

coordinators and shall select a Parenting Coordinator from same. Whenever

appropriate, selection will be on a rotating basis.

E.All Parenting Coordinator appointment requests shall be referred in writing by

the Family Section Trial Judge to the Family Section Liaison Judge through form

as set forth by the Family Section Liaison Judge.

Both the parties and the Family Section Trial Judge may

recommend three-specific Parenting Coordinators, in the order of

their preference, however selection shall be at the discretion of the

Family Section Liaison Judge,

i.Both the parties and the Family Section Trial Judge may

recommend three-specific Parenting Coordinators, in the order of

their preference, however selection shall be at the discretion of the

Family Section Liaison Judge,

F.Upon assignment, the Family Section Liaison Judge shall issue an Order for

Parenting Coordinator pursuant to Pa.R.C.P 1915.22 which shall be distributed to

all parties and made an Order of the Court:

G.The Family Section Liaison Judge shall assign one (1) pro-bono appointment to

each Parenting Coordinator for every two (2) fee-generating appointments in

Delaware County.

II. Approved Parent Coordinators

An attorney or mental health professional seeking to be included on the

Delaware County Court's roster of qualified individuals to serve as a

Parenting Coordinator shall submit an affidavit to the Family Section

Liaison Judge or his/her designee together with the following:

An affidavit attesting the applicant has qualifications found in

Pa.R.C.P. 1915.11-1;

An acknowledgment that the applicant has read the Association of

Family and Conciliation Courts (AFCC) Parenting Coordinator

guidelines and the American Psychological Association (APA)

Parenting Guidelines respectively found atwww.afccnet.organd

www.apa.org.

A.An attorney or mental health professional seeking to be included on the

Delaware County Court's roster of qualified individuals to serve as a

Parenting Coordinator shall submit an affidavit to the Family Section

Liaison Judge or his/her designee together with the following:

An affidavit attesting the applicant has qualifications found in

Pa.R.C.P. 1915.11-1;

An acknowledgment that the applicant has read the Association of

Family and Conciliation Courts (AFCC) Parenting Coordinator

guidelines and the American Psychological Association (APA)

Parenting Guidelines respectively found atwww.afccnet.organd

www.apa.org.

i.An affidavit attesting the applicant has qualifications found in

Pa.R.C.P. 1915.11-1;

ii.An acknowledgment that the applicant has read the Association of

Family and Conciliation Courts (AFCC) Parenting Coordinator

guidelines and the American Psychological Association (APA)

Parenting Guidelines respectively found atwww.afccnet.organd

www.apa.org.

iii.An acknowledgment that for every two (2) fee generating Parenting

Coordination assignments, each Parent Coordinator must accept

one pro bono assignment, up to 12 hours per pro bono case.

III. Parenting Coordinator Recommendations

Parenting Coordinators shall file their Summary and Recommendations

pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1915.23 with the Office of Judicial Support within

two (2) business days after the last communication with the parties on the

issues in accordance with Pa.R.C.P. 1915.11-1 (f)(2) and promptly forward

a copy of same. via regular mail and email to the parties and the Family

Section Trial Judge.

Parenting Coordinator shall state the manner of service of the Summary

and Recommendations to the parties.

Parenting Coordinator shall include the rationale for their

Recommendations in the Summary.

Objections to Parenting Coordinator's Recommendation(s) and Petition

for a Record Hearing

A party objecting to the Recommendations must file with the Office

of Judicial Support an original and copy of their Objections and a

Petition for a Record Hearing before the Court within five (5) days

of service of the Summary and Recommendations together with

Proof of Service upon all parties and the Parenting Coordinator.

The Office of Judicial Support shall promptly forward the original

Objections and Petition to the Court Administrator's Office for assignment

to the parties' Family Section Trial Judge to promptly schedule a record

hearing.

Court Review of Parenting Coordinator's Recommendations

If no objections to the Parenting Coordinator's Recommendations

are filed with the Office of Judicial Support within five (5) days of

service of the Summary and Recommendation, the Family Section

Trial Judge assigned to the case shall review the Recommendation

in accordance with the time set forth in Pa.R.C.P. 1915.11-1(f)(4)

and pursuant to PaR.C.P. 1915.23

A.Parenting Coordinators shall file their Summary and Recommendations

pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1915.23 with the Office of Judicial Support within

two (2) business days after the last communication with the parties on the

issues in accordance with Pa.R.C.P. 1915.11-1 (f)(2) and promptly forward

a copy of same. via regular mail and email to the parties and the Family

Section Trial Judge.

B,Parenting Coordinator shall state the manner of service of the Summary

and Recommendations to the parties.

C.Parenting Coordinator shall include the rationale for their

Recommendations in the Summary.

D.Objections to Parenting Coordinator's Recommendation(s) and Petition

for a Record Hearing

A party objecting to the Recommendations must file with the Office

of Judicial Support an original and copy of their Objections and a

Petition for a Record Hearing before the Court within five (5) days

of service of the Summary and Recommendations together with

Proof of Service upon all parties and the Parenting Coordinator.

i.A party objecting to the Recommendations must file with the Office

of Judicial Support an original and copy of their Objections and a

Petition for a Record Hearing before the Court within five (5) days

of service of the Summary and Recommendations together with

Proof of Service upon all parties and the Parenting Coordinator.

E.The Office of Judicial Support shall promptly forward the original

Objections and Petition to the Court Administrator's Office for assignment

to the parties' Family Section Trial Judge to promptly schedule a record

hearing.

F.Court Review of Parenting Coordinator's Recommendations

If no objections to the Parenting Coordinator's Recommendations

are filed with the Office of Judicial Support within five (5) days of

service of the Summary and Recommendation, the Family Section

Trial Judge assigned to the case shall review the Recommendation

in accordance with the time set forth in Pa.R.C.P. 1915.11-1(f)(4)

and pursuant to PaR.C.P. 1915.23

i.If no objections to the Parenting Coordinator's Recommendations

are filed with the Office of Judicial Support within five (5) days of

service of the Summary and Recommendation, the Family Section

Trial Judge assigned to the case shall review the Recommendation

in accordance with the time set forth in Pa.R.C.P. 1915.11-1(f)(4)

and pursuant to PaR.C.P. 1915.23

IV. Fees

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:

His or her hourly rate which may be up to $300 per hour.

Absent good cause, parties shall pay. the initial retainer which shall

not exceed the equivalent of five (5) hours at the parenting

Coordinator's hourly rate.

If a party has previously filed and been granted In Forma Pauperis

status by the Court specifically for the appointment of a Parenting

Coordinator, the Parenting Coordinator so appointed shall serve on

a pro bono (no fee) basis, up to 12 hours.

A Parenting Coordinator must accept one pro bono appointment for

every two fee generating appointments.

V, Parent Coordinators are not funded by the County.

A.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:

His or her hourly rate which may be up to $300 per hour.

Absent good cause, parties shall pay. the initial retainer which shall

not exceed the equivalent of five (5) hours at the parenting

Coordinator's hourly rate.

If a party has previously filed and been granted In Forma Pauperis

status by the Court specifically for the appointment of a Parenting

Coordinator, the Parenting Coordinator so appointed shall serve on

a pro bono (no fee) basis, up to 12 hours.

A Parenting Coordinator must accept one pro bono appointment for

every two fee generating appointments.

V, Parent Coordinators are not funded by the County.

i.His or her hourly rate which may be up to $300 per hour.

ii.Absent good cause, parties shall pay. the initial retainer which shall

not exceed the equivalent of five (5) hours at the parenting

Coordinator's hourly rate.

iii.If a party has previously filed and been granted In Forma Pauperis

status by the Court specifically for the appointment of a Parenting

Coordinator, the Parenting Coordinator so appointed shall serve on

a pro bono (no fee) basis, up to 12 hours.

iv.A Parenting Coordinator must accept one pro bono appointment for

every two fee generating appointments.

v.

V, Parent Coordinators are not funded by the County.

V. Miscellaneous

A Parenting Coordinator shall not be required to make a

Recommendation to the Court, at their discretion, on every disputed issue

raised by the parties.

The appointing Judge may reject a Recommendation from a Parenting

Coordinator without a proceeding, at their discretion, if the disputed issue

exceeds the authority set forth in Pa.R.C.P.1915.11-1(f)(4).

Unless the parties consent and appropriate safety measures are in place to

protect the participants, including the parenting coordinator and other

third parties, a parenting coordinator shall not be appointed if:

The parties to the custody action have a protection from abuse

order in effect;

The court makes a finding that a party has been a victim of

domestic violence perpetrated by a party to the custody action,

either during the pendency of the custody action or within 36

months preceding the filing of the custody action; or

The court makes a finding that a party to the custody action has

been the victim of a personal injury crime, as defined in 23 Pa.C.S.

3103, which was perpetrated by a party to the custody action.

A.A Parenting Coordinator shall not be required to make a

Recommendation to the Court, at their discretion, on every disputed issue

raised by the parties.

B.The appointing Judge may reject a Recommendation from a Parenting

Coordinator without a proceeding, at their discretion, if the disputed issue

exceeds the authority set forth in Pa.R.C.P.1915.11-1(f)(4).

C.Unless the parties consent and appropriate safety measures are in place to

protect the participants, including the parenting coordinator and other

third parties, a parenting coordinator shall not be appointed if:

The parties to the custody action have a protection from abuse

order in effect;

The court makes a finding that a party has been a victim of

domestic violence perpetrated by a party to the custody action,

either during the pendency of the custody action or within 36

months preceding the filing of the custody action; or

The court makes a finding that a party to the custody action has

been the victim of a personal injury crime, as defined in 23 Pa.C.S.

3103, which was perpetrated by a party to the custody action.

i.The parties to the custody action have a protection from abuse

order in effect;

ii.The court makes a finding that a party has been a victim of

domestic violence perpetrated by a party to the custody action,

either during the pendency of the custody action or within 36

months preceding the filing of the custody action; or

iii.The court makes a finding that a party to the custody action has

been the victim of a personal injury crime, as defined in 23 Pa.C.S.

3103, which was perpetrated by a party to the custody action.

D.

If a party objects to the appointment of a parenting coordinator based on

an allegation that the party has been the victim of domestic violence

perpetrated by a party to the custody action, the court shall have a hearing

on the issue and may consider abuse occurring beyond the 36 months

provided in subdivision (a)(2)(ii).

E.

The length of appointment of a Parenting Coordinator shall be pursuant

to Pa.R.C.P. 1915.11-1(a)(3) and Pa.R.C.P. 1915,11-1(a)(4).

F.

Procedures and forms can be found on the County of Delaware and

Delaware County Bar Association websites.

Rev. 6/2023

FILED

06-14-2023 03:19 PM

OFFICE OF JUDICIAL SUPPORT

DELAWARE COUNTY, PA

IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF DELAWARE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

NO:

PLAINTIFF

VS.

DEFENDANT

ORDER FOR PARENTING COORDINATION

AND NOW, this day of ,20, it is hereby

ordered as follows:

1. APPOINTMENT AND TERM:

Pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. No. 1915.11-1,

is appointed as the parties' parenting coordinator for a term of months (not exceeding

12 months).

Legal counsel for, , or either party, if unrepresented, shall provide

copies of all orders, pleadings and custody evaluations in this case to the parenting coordinator

within ten (10) days of the date of this order.

2. ROLE OF THE PARENTING COORDINATOR:

(a)The parenting coordinator shall attempt to resolve issues arising out of the custody

order by facilitating an agreement between the parties and, if unable to reach an

agreement, recommend a resolution to the court.

(b)The parenting coordinator shall not function as the attorney, advocate, counselor, or

psychotherapist for the parties, the parties' child(ren), or family. However, the parenting

coordinator is permitted and encouraged to facilitate communication and agreement

between the parties when conflicts arise and shall always act in a manner conducive to

the best interests of the child(ren).

3. PARENTING COORDINATOR'S SCOPE OF AUTHORITY:

To implement the custodial arrangement set forth in the custody order and resolve related

parenting issues about which the parties cannot agree, the parenting coordinator is authorized to

recommend resolutions to the court about issues that include, but are not limited to:

(a)places and conditions for transitions between households;

(b)temporary variation from the schedule for a special event or particular circumstance;

(c)school issues, apart from school selection;

(d)the child(ren)'s participation in recreation, enrichment, and extracurricular activities,

including travel;

(e)child-care arrangements;

(f)clothing, equipment. toys, and personal possessions of the child(ren);

(g)information exchanges (e.g., school, health, social) and communication with or about

the child(ren);

(h)coordination of existing or court-ordered services for the child(ren) (e.g.,

psychological testing, alcohol or drug monitoring/testing, psychotherapy, anger

management);

(i)behavioral management of the child(ren); and

(j)other related custody issues that the parties mutually have agreed in writing to submit

to the parenting coordinator, which are not excluded in Paragraph 4.

4. EXCLUSIONS FROM PARENTING COORDINATOR'S AUTHORITY:

(a)The following specific issues are excluded from the parenting coordinator's scope of

authority:

a change in legal custody as set forth in the custody order;

a change in primary physical custody set forth in the custody order;

other than as set forth in Paragraph 3(b), a change in the court-ordered

custody schedule that reduces or expands the child(ren)'s time with a party;

a change in the residence (relocation) of the child(ren);

(1)a change in legal custody as set forth in the custody order;

(2)a change in primary physical custody set forth in the custody order;

(3)other than as set forth in Paragraph 3(b), a change in the court-ordered

custody schedule that reduces or expands the child(ren)'s time with a party;

(4)a change in the residence (relocation) of the child(ren);

(5)determination of financial issues, other than allocation of the parenting

coordinator's fees as set forth in Pa.R.C.P. 1915.11-l(g)(I);

major decisions affecting the health, education, or religion of the child(ren);

Other:

(6)major decisions affecting the health, education, or religion of the child(ren);

(7)Other:

(b)Unless the parties consent, the parenting coordinator shall not contact collateral

sources or speak with the child(ren). The parties shall execute releases, as necessary,

authorizing the parenting coordinator to communicate with the appropriate individuals.

Any communication with the collateral sources or child(ren) shall be limited to the

issue(s) currently before the parenting coordinator.

5. COMMUNICATIONS

(a)The parenting coordinator shall determine the protocol of all communications,

interviews, and sessions, including who shall attend the sessions (including the children),

and whether the sessions will be conducted in person or by other means. The protocols

should include measures addressing the safety of all participants.

(b)Communication between the parties or their attorneys and the parenting coordinator

is not confidential.

(c)The parties and their attorneys shall have the right to receive, but not initiate, oral ex

parte communication with the parenting coordinator. The parenting coordinator shall

promptly advise the other party or the other party's attorney of the communication. A

party or a party's attorney may communicate in writing with the parenting coordinator,

but shall contemporaneously send a copy of the written communication to the other party

or the other party's attorney. Documents, recordings, or other material that one party

gives to the parenting coordinator must be promptly made available to the other party or

the other party's attorney for inspection and copying.

(d)Communication between the parenting coordinator and the court shall be in writing

and copies of the written communication shall be sent contemporaneously to the parties

or the parties' attorneys.

(e)A party cannot compel the testimony of a parenting coordinator without an order of

court.

6. PARENTING COORDINATION PROCESS:

(a)The parenting coordinator shall provide to the parties notice and an opportunity to be

heard on the issues.

(b)The parenting coordinator's recommendation shall be in writing on the Summary and

Recommendation of the Parenting Coordinator form set forth in Pa.R.C.P. No. 1915.23

Lbl

and sent to the court for review within two days after hearing from the parties on the

issues. The parenting coordinator shall serve a copy of the Summary and

Recommendation on the parties or the parties' attorneys.

(c)A party objecting to the recommendation shall file a petition for a record hearing

before the court within five days of service of the Summary and Recommendation of the

Parenting Coordinator form. The petition must specifically state the issues to be reviewed

and include a demand for a record hearing. A copy of the recommendation shall be

attached to the petition. In accordance with Pa.R.C.P. No. 440, the objecting party shall

serve the petition upon the other party or the party's attorney and the parenting

coordinator.

7. RECORD HEARING:

(a)If the parties do not file an objection within five days of service of the parenting

coordinator's recommendation, the court shall:

approve the recommendation;

approve the recommendation in part and conduct a record hearing on issues

not approved:

remand the recommendation to the parenting coordinator for more specific

information; or

not approve the recommendation and conduct a record hearing on the issues.

(1)approve the recommendation;

(2)approve the recommendation in part and conduct a record hearing on issues

not approved:

(3)remand the recommendation to the parenting coordinator for more specific

information; or

(4)not approve the recommendation and conduct a record hearing on the issues.

(b)As soon as practical. the court shall conduct a record hearing on the issues

specifically set forth in the petition. The court shall render a decision within the time set

forth in Pa.R.C.P. No. 1915.4(d).

(c)If a party makes a timely objection, the recommendation shall become an interim

order of court pending further disposition by the court.

8. ALLOCATION OF FEES:

(a)The parties will share the obligation to pay the fees of the parenting coordinator as

follows:

% Mother % Father,

Lbl

% Mother % Father,

Lbl% Third party

% Third partyLbl% Third party

% Mother % Father,

% Third party

% Third party

Fees may be reallocated by the court or the parenting coordinator if a party has

disproportionately caused the need for the services of the parenting coordinator.

(b)The judicial district's established hourly rate for parenting coordinators shall be set

forth in a separate written agreement entered into between the parties and the parenting

coordinator.

The parties will pay a joint retainer to the parenting coordinator in the percentages set

forth above in an amount to be set forth in a separate agreement between the parties and

the parenting coordinator. After each session, or at least once monthly, the parenting

coordinator shall provide the parties with an invoice of charges incurred. The retainer

may be replenished as services are rendered. Funds remaining at the conclusion of the

parenting coordinator's appointment shall be returned to the parties.

(c)The parties will pay a joint retainer to the parenting coordinator in the percentages set

forth above in an amount to be set forth in a separate agreement between the parties and

the parenting coordinator. After each session, or at least once monthly, the parenting

coordinator shall provide the parties with an invoice of charges incurred. The retainer

may be replenished as services are rendered. Funds remaining at the conclusion of the

parenting coordinator's appointment shall be returned to the parties.

9.TERMINATION/WTTIDRAWA OF PARENTING COORDINATOR:

The parties may not terminate the parenting coordinator's services without court

approval.

A party seeking the termination of the parenting coordinator's services shall serve the

other party or the party's attorney and parenting coordinator with a copy of the petition

for termination.

If the parenting coordinator seeks to withdraw from service in a case, the parenting

coordinator shall petition the court and provide a copy of the petition to the parties or the

parties' attorneys.

(a)The parties may not terminate the parenting coordinator's services without court

approval.

(b)A party seeking the termination of the parenting coordinator's services shall serve the

other party or the party's attorney and parenting coordinator with a copy of the petition

for termination.

(c)If the parenting coordinator seeks to withdraw from service in a case, the parenting

coordinator shall petition the court and provide a copy of the petition to the parties or the

parties' attorneys.

10.APPEAL:

If there is an appeal of the underlying custody order or this order, then this order shall be

stayed during the pendency of the appeal.

DATE:

J.

PLAINTIFF

VS.

DEFENDANT

SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATION OF THE PARENTING COORDINATOR

The undersigned, the duly appointed Parenting Coordinator in the above-captioned

matter, pursuant to the Order of Court dated, after submission of

the issue(s) described below, and after providing the parties with an opportunity to be heard on

the issue(s), the Parenting Coordinator sets forth the following:

SUMMARY OF THE ISSUES

1. Description of the issue(s):

: The respective parties' position on the issue(s):

PLAINTIFF:

DEFENDANT:

RECOMMENDATION/RATIONALE

Within five days of the date set forth below, a party may object to this Recommendation

by filing a Objections with the Court and requesting a record hearing before the judge as set forth

in Pa.R.C.P. No. 1915.11-l(t)(3) and Local Rule (Form provided).

The undersigned Parenting Coordinator certifies that this Summary and Recommendation

of the Parenting Coordinator has been served on the Court and the parties or the parties'

attorneys on the date set forth above. The date and manner of services was as follows:

a

Date Parenting Coordinator

7/11/23

OBJECTIONS TO RECOMMENDATION OF PARENTING COORDINATOR

AND REQUEST FOR RECORD HEARING

Date of Recommendation:

Parenting Coordinator:

Copy of the Recommendation is attached.

Attorney for Plaintiffor Pro Se Party Attorney for Defendant or Pro Se Party

Name Name

Address Address

Phone No. Phone No.

Email Email

Name of Party filing Objections:

Circle one: Plaintiff Defendant

NOTICE:

YOU MUST FILE THE ATTACHED AFFIDAVIT OF SERVICE WITH THESE

OBJECTIONS VERIFYING THAT THIS DOCUMENT WAS SERVED ON ALL

PARTIES/COUNSEL AND THE PARENTING COORDNATOR. THE FILING

PARTY MUST SERVE A FULL COPY OF THIS DOCUMENT UPON THE OPPOSING

PARTY, ATTORNEYS (IF ANY) AND THE PARENTING COORDINATOR.

I object to the Recommendation of the Parenting Coordinator for the following reasons:

(Failure to cite a valid reason as to the Recommendation may result in a dismissal of the

Objections).

I verify that the statements made in these Objections to Recommendation of the Parenting

Coordinator are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief. I understand that false

statements made herein are subject to the penalties of 18 Pa. C.S., Subsection 4904, relating to

unsworn falsification to authorities.

Date: Signature:

7/13/23

CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE OF

OBJECTIONS TO RECOMMENDATION OF THE PARENTING COORDINATOR

AND REQUEST FOR RECORD HEARING

I certify that on, 20, a true and complete copy of the

foregoing Objections to Recommendation of the Parenting Coordinator and Request for Record

Hearing has been served upon:

Name

Address

City/State/Zip

Telephone Number and Email Address

AND

Parenting Coordinator

Address

Telephone Number and Email Address

Manner of Service: Reg. First Class Mail Certified Mail Other

Signed:

Dated:

PLEASE MAIL THIS COMPLETED FORM TO: Delaware County Court of

Common Pleas

Office of Judicial Support

201 West Front Street

Media, PA 19063

PARENTING COORDINATION

PROGRAM DELAWARE COUNTY

INTERNAL OPERATING PROCEDURES

Qualifications of Parenting Coordinator

An attorney or mental health professional seeking to be included on the roster of qualified

individuals to serve as a Parenting Coordinator in Delaware County shall submit a letter

to the Liaison Judge of the Family Section together with the following:

1.Completion of the approved Form Affidavit attesting the applicant has the

qualifications as set forth in Pa.R.Civ.P. 1915.11-1 (b) "Qualifications of the Parenting

Coordinator".

2.The following criteria shall apply to the qualifications:

Five hours in the Parenting Coordination process since August 9, 2018;

provided that at least 2 of the 5 hours must be specific to Pennsylvania

Parenting Coordination practice and procedure;

Ten hours of family mediation training within the last 10 years (an

applicant with 40 hours of mediation training beyond 10 years may

satisfy this requirement by verifying the 40 hours of training and

significant family mediation practice within the last 10 years);

Five hours of training in domestic violence within the past 2 years;

Verification of current professional liability insurance via copy of said

policy's coversheet/declaration page (which includes the provision of

Parenting Coordination services);

Acknowledgement of responsibility to accept one (1) pro bono

assignment for every two (2) paid assignments;

Acknowledgement that the applicant has read the Association of Family

and Conciliation Courts (AFCC) Parenting Coordination Guidelines

and the American Psychological Association (APA) Parenting

Coordination Guidelines.

A.Five hours in the Parenting Coordination process since August 9, 2018;

provided that at least 2 of the 5 hours must be specific to Pennsylvania

Parenting Coordination practice and procedure;

B.Ten hours of family mediation training within the last 10 years (an

applicant with 40 hours of mediation training beyond 10 years may

satisfy this requirement by verifying the 40 hours of training and

significant family mediation practice within the last 10 years);

C.Five hours of training in domestic violence within the past 2 years;

D.Verification of current professional liability insurance via copy of said

policy's coversheet/declaration page (which includes the provision of

Parenting Coordination services);

E.Acknowledgement of responsibility to accept one (1) pro bono

assignment for every two (2) paid assignments;

F.Acknowledgement that the applicant has read the Association of Family

and Conciliation Courts (AFCC) Parenting Coordination Guidelines

and the American Psychological Association (APA) Parenting

Coordination Guidelines.

and APA Parenting Coordinator Guidelines are posted at:AFCC

inationn

https:/www.apa.org/pubs/journals/features/parenting-

https://www.afccnet.org/Portals/0/AFCCGuidelinesforParentingcoord

ew.pdf

coordination.pdf

H. Acknowledgment that for every two (2) fee generating Parenting

Coordination assignments, the applicant shall accept one pro bono

assignment, up to 12 hours per pro bono case.

3.Completed Parenting Coordinator application packets shall be submitted to the

Family Section Liaison Judge who will notify applicant of his or her approval and,

upon approval, list applicant's name on Delaware County Parenting Coordinator

Roster.

4.A Parenting Coordinator who is on the roster of Philadelphia, Chester or Bucks

County (hereinafter, "Associated Counties**") may be added to the roster of

Delaware County by submitting a letter requesting same with a copy of the approval

that was obtained from the other county.

Parenting Coordinator Appointments

1.Parenting Coordinator appointments requests may be made by written Petition for

Special Relief, oral motion by parties or by written request by a Family Section Liaison

Judge.

2.All Parenting Coordinator appointment requests shall be referred to the Liaison Judge

who, upon approval, will make assignments. Whenever appropriate, the Family

Section Liaison Judge will select Parenting Coordinator assignments on a rotating

basis. The Liaison Judge may honor specific Parenting Coordinator requests made by

the Court, the attorneys or the parties if requests recommend three specific Parenting

Coordinators, in the order of their preference.

3.Upon approval and assignment, the Liaison Judge shall issue an Order for Parenting

Coordinator pursuant to Pa.R.C.P 1915.22 which shall be distributed to all parties and

made an Order of the Court.

4.The Liaison Judge shall maintain a roster of Parent Coordinator assignments.

5.The Liaison Judge shall assign pro-bono appointments on a rotating basis and may do

so following every two (2) fee-generating appointments.

6.Each pro bono assignment shall be limited to (12) hours.

7. The failure to by a Parenting Coordinator to accept a pro bono assignment may subject

them to removal from the roster. If a Parenting Coordinator is removed from the

roster of a ember County for this purpose, they shall share this information with the

other associated counties.

Parenting Coordinator Written Agreement with Parties:

Upon assignment to a case, the Parenting Coordinator shall set forth in a separate written

agreement with the parties:

1.The amount of any retainer, the hourly rate to be charged, the process for

invoices and payments for services;

2.Information about the Parenting Coordination process including the scope of

authority of the Parenting Coordinator, the process for requesting a Parenting

Coordinator Recommendation, and the process for court review and appeal of

the Parenting Coordinator Recommendation; and

3.Information about communication between parties, their attorneys, the court

and any other involved parties, including the child(ren).

Parenting Coordinator Fees

A.The hourly rate of the Parent Coordinator shall not exceed

$300.00 per hour subject to the following exceptions:

If the parties combined monthly net income exceeds the

mandatory minimum set forth in the Support Guidelines at

1910.16-2 (e) (2) (currently $30,000 per month), the Court may

adjust the hourly rate; or

If a party is granted In Forma Pauperis (IFP) status by the Court

for the Parenting Coordination process.

a.If the parties combined monthly net income exceeds the

mandatory minimum set forth in the Support Guidelines at

1910.16-2 (e) (2) (currently $30,000 per month), the Court may

adjust the hourly rate; or

b.If a party is granted In Forma Pauperis (IFP) status by the Court

for the Parenting Coordination process.

B.The maximum initial retainer that may be requested shall be $1,000.

C.Parent Coordinators are not funded by the County.

Parenting Coordinator Recommendations and Procedures

a. Parenting Coordinators shall follow all procedures outlined in Local Rule 1915

Lbl

11-1 and the summary and recommendation forms shall be written pursuant to

Pa.R.C.P. 1915.23.

b.Sample forms shall be available on the Delaware County Court of Common

Pleas Website.

c.A roster of approved Parent Coordinators shall be updated regularly and shall

be available on the Delaware County Court of Common Pleas Website.

Miscellaneous

A.A Parenting Coordinator shall not be required to make a Recommendation

to the Court, at their discretion, on every disputed issue raised by the

parties.

B.The appointing Judge may reject a Recommendation from a Parenting

Coordinator without a proceeding, at their discretion, if the disputed issue

exceeds the authority set forth in Pa.R.C.P. 1915.11-1(f)(4).

C.Unless the parties consent and appropriate safety measures are in place to

protect the participants, including the Parenting Coordinator and other third

parties, a Parenting Coordinator shall not be appointed if:

The parties to the custody action have a protection from abuse order

in effect;

The court makes a finding that a party has been a victim of domestic

violence perpetrated by a party to the custody action, either during

the pendency of the custody action or within 36 months preceding

the filing of the custody action; or

The court makes a finding that a party to the custody action has been

the victim of a personal injury crime, as defined in 23 Pa.C.S. 3103,

which was perpetrated by a party to the custody action.

i.The parties to the custody action have a protection from abuse order

in effect;

ii.The court makes a finding that a party has been a victim of domestic

violence perpetrated by a party to the custody action, either during

the pendency of the custody action or within 36 months preceding

the filing of the custody action; or

iii.The court makes a finding that a party to the custody action has been

the victim of a personal injury crime, as defined in 23 Pa.C.S. 3103,

which was perpetrated by a party to the custody action.

D.If a party objects to the appointment of a Parenting Coordinator based on an

allegation that the party has been the victim of domestic violence

perpetrated by a party to the custody action, the court shall have a hearing

on the issue and may consider abuse occurring beyond the 36 months

provided in subdivision (a)(2)(ii).

Parenting Coordinator Complaints

All complaints received about a Parent Coordinator shall be reviewed and considered by

the Family Court Liaison Judge who may recommend removal of a Parenting

Coordinator from a specific case or from the roster or for good cause. All complaints

received resulting in removal of a Parenting Coordinator from the roster shall be shared

with the other associated Counties.

*Associated Counties: Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Philadelphia

7/13/23

IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF DELAWARE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

FAMILY SECTION

NO:

PLAINTIFF

VS.

DEFENDANT

ORDER-PARENTING COORDINATOR RECOMMENDATION

And now, this day of, 20,

Upon review of the Recommendation submitted by the Parenting Coordinator in the above

Captioned matter dated, the Recommendation is hereby:

Approved.

Approved in part. A hearing is scheduled on:

Remanded to the Parenting Coordinator for additional information on the

following issue:

Not approved and a hearing is scheduled on:

7/13/23

APPLICATION TO BE CONSIDERED FOR APPOINTMENT AS A PARENTING

COORDINATOR FOR DELAWARE COUNTY

AFFIDAVIT - ATTORNEY

I, , the undersigned applicant,

hereby certify that I possess the minimum qualifications to serve as a Parenting

Coordinator as established by Pa.R.C.P. 1915.11-1(b) as follows:

,

5. My hourly rate for Parenting Coordination is:

$ .

6. I understand that Parenting Coordinators are encouraged to provide

reduced rates for low income families in accordance with Rule 1911.11-1

(g).

7. I may change my hourly rate upon 60 days written notice to the

Administrative Judge. A change in rate shall be prospective and shall not

apply to existing assignments.

8. I understand that my initial retainer shall not exceed the equivalent of five

(5) hours of my hourly rate.

I do not require an initial retainer.

Lbl

I do not require an initial retainer.

9. I acknowledge that I must accept one pro bono PC appointment for every

two paid appointments, up to 12 hours.

10. I have read Pa. R.C.P 1915.11-1 and understand the scope (and limits) of

my authority and the procedures which I must follow when appointed as a

Parenting Coordinator.

11. I acknowledge that I have read the Guidelines for Parenting Coordination

promulgated by the American Psychological Association and Association

of Family and Conciliation Courts.

https://www.apa.org/practice/guidelines/parenting-coordination

https://www/afccnet.org/Portals/0/PublicDocuments/AFCCGuidelinesforP:a

renting Coordinationnew.pdf.

I swear or affirm that the foregoing statements are true and correct.

APPLICANT:

Name (printed)

Signature,

Date:

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

Recommendation to Place Application on Roster:

Yes No

If No, state reasons:

L.J.

Approved:

LIAISON J.

Denied:

LIAISON J.

7/11/23

APPLICATION TO BE CONSIDERED FOR APPOINTMENT AS A PARENTING

COORDINATOR FOR DELAWARE COUNTY

AFFIDAVIT - MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL

I, , the undersigned applicant,

hereby certify that I possess the minimum qualifications to serve as a Parenting

Coordinator as established by Pa.R.C.P. 1915.11-1(b) as follows:

1. I have the following professional

degree:

From (institution and date

granted):

2. I am licensed to practice in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as a

& My license number is

.

My license is in good standing.

I have never been subject to professional discipline. (If Applicant has

been subject to discipline, provide details on separate sheet).

I have years of experience in dealing with families involved in child

custody matters, as follows (or attach CV):

3. I have obtained the special training required by the Rule, and have

attached verification for each training:

hours in the Pennsylvania Parenting Coordination process.

Date of training:

Provider:

hours of Family mediation training.

Date of training:

Provider:

hours of Domestic Violence training.

Date of training:

Provider:

4. I understand that to remain qualified as a Parenting Coordinator in each 2

year period after March 1, 2019, I must take a minimum of 10 additional

continuing education credits, of which at least 2 must be on domestic

violence.

5. I maintain Professional Liability insurance of $ ,

which coverage expressly covers me for serving as a Parenting

Coordinator. The Declaration page showing the foregoing is attached.

6. My hourly rate for Parenting Coordination is:

$ *

7. I understand that Parenting Coordinators are encouraged to provide

reduced rates for low income families in accordance with Rule 1911.11-1

(g).

8. I may change my hourly rate upon 60 days written notice to the

Administrative Judge. A change in rate shall be prospective and shall not

apply to existing assignments.

9. I understand that my initial retainer shall not exceed the equivalent of five

(5) hours of my hourly rate.

I do not require an initial retainer.

10. I acknowledge that I must accept one pro bono PC appointment for every

two PC appointments, up to 12 hours.

11. I have read Pa. R.C.P 1915.11-1 and understand the scope (and limits) of

my authority and the procedures which I must follow when appointed as a

Parenting Coordinator.

12. I acknowledge that I have read the Guidelines for Parenting Coordination

promulgated by the American Psychological Association and Association

of Family and Conciliation Courts.

https://www.apa.org/practice/guidelines/parenting-coordination

https://www/afccnet.org/Portals/0/PublicDocuments/AFCCGuidelinesforP

arenting Coordinationnew.pdf.

I swear or affirm that the foregoing statements are true and correct.

APPLICANT:

Name (printed)

Signature,

Date:

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

Recommendation to Place Application on Roster:

Yes No

If No, state reasons:

L.J.

Approved:

LIAISON J.

Denied:

LIAISON J.

THE COURTS

Title 255-LOCAL COURT RULES

DELAWARE COUNTY

Rule 1915.11-1 Parenting Coordination; No. 2022-003777

[53 Pa.B. 3572]

[Saturday, July 8, 2023]

Administrative Order

And Now, this 14th day of June, 2023, it is hereby Ordered and Decreed that the following Rule

1915.11-1 regarding Appointment of Parenting Coordination is hereby adopted and effective 20

days after publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.

By the Court

LINDA A. CARTISANO,

President Judge

Rule 1915.11-1. Parenting Coordination.

I.

Appointment of a Parenting Coordinator

A.

Parties may make a request to the Family Section Trial Judge for the appointment of a

Parenting Coordinator.

B.

Said request may be made by written Petition for Special Relief or by oral motion.

C.

The Family Section Trial Judge may on its motion make a request to the Family Section

Liaison Judge for the appointment of a Parenting Coordinator.

D. The Family Section Liaison Judge shall maintain a roster of approved parent coordinators and

shall select a Parenting Coordinator from same. Whenever appropriate, selection will be on a

rotating basis.

E.All Parenting Coordinator appointment requests shall be referred in writing by the Family

Section Trial Judge to the Family Section Liaison Judge through form as set forth by the Family

Section Liaison Judge.

i.

Both the parties and the Family Section Trial Judge may recommend three specific Parenting

Coordinators, in the order of their preference, however selection shall be at the discretion of the

Family Section Liaison Judge.

F.

Upon assignment, the Family Section Liaison Judge shall issue an Order for Parenting

Coordinator pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1915.22 which shall be distributed to all parties and made an

Order of the Court.

G.The Family Section Liaison Judge shall assign one (1) pro-bono appointment to each

Parenting Coordinator for every two (2) fee-generating appointments in Delaware County.

II.Approved Parent Coordinators

A.An attorney or mental health professional seeking to be included on the Delaware County

Court's roster of qualified individuals to serve as a Parenting Coordinator shall submit an affidavit to

the Family Section Liaison Judge or his/her designee together with the following:

i.An affidavit attesting the applicant has qualifications found in Pa.R.C.P. 1915.11-1;

ii.An acknowledgment that the applicant has read the Association of Family and Conciliation

Courts (AFCC) Parenting Coordinator guidelines and the American Psychological Association

(APA) Parenting Guidelines respectively found atwww.afccnet.organdwww.apa.org.

iii.An acknowledgment that for every two (2) fee generating Parenting Coordination

assignments, each Parent Coordinator must accept one pro bono assignment, up to 12 hours per pro

bono case.

III.Parenting Coordinator Recommendations

A.Parenting Coordinators shall file their Summary and Recommendations pursuant to Pa.R.C.P.

1915.23 with the Office of Judicial Support within two (2) business days after the last

communication with the parties on the issues in accordance with Pa.R.C.P. 1915.11-1(f)(2) and

promptly forward a copy of same via regular mail and email to the parties and the Family Section

Trial Judge.

B.Parenting Coordinator shall state the manner of service of the Summary and

Recommendations to the parties.

C.Parenting Coordinator shall include the rationale for their Recommendations in the Summary.

D.Objections to Parenting Coordinator's Recommendation(s) and Petition for a Record Hearing

i.A party objecting to the Recommendations must file with the Office of Judicial Support an

original and copy of their Objections and a Petition for a Record Hearing before the Court within

five (5) days of service of the Summary and Recommendations together with Proof of Service upon

all parties and the Parenting Coordinator.

E.The Office of Judicial Support shall promptly forward the original Objections and Petition to

the Court Administrator's Office for assignment to the parties' Family Section Trial Judge to

promptly schedule a record hearing.

F.Court Review of Parenting Coordinator's Recommendations

i.If no objections to the Parenting Coordinator's Recommendations are filed with the Office of

Judicial Support within five (5) days of service of the Summary and Recommendation, the Family

Section Trial Judge assigned to the case shall review the Recommendation in accordance with the

time set forth in Pa.R.C.P. 1915.11-1(f)(4) and pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1915.23.

IV.Fees

A.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:

i.His or her hourly rate which may be up to $300 per hour.

ii.Absent good cause, parties shall pay the initial retainer which shall not exceed the equivalent

of five (5) hours at the parenting Coordinator's hourly rate.

iii.If a party has previously filed and been granted In Forma Pauperis status by the Court

specifically for the appointment of a Parenting Coordinator, the Parenting Coordinator SO appointed

shall serve on a pro bono (no fee) basis, up to 12 hours.

iv.A Parenting Coordinator must accept one pro bono appointment for every two fee generating

appointments.

v.

V, Parent Coordinators are not funded by the County.

V.Miscellaneous

A.A Parenting Coordinator shall not be required to make a Recommendation to the Court, at

their discretion, on every disputed issue raised by the parties.

B.The appointing Judge may reject a Recommendation from a Parenting Coordinator without a

proceeding, at their discretion, if the disputed issue exceeds the authority set forth in Pa.R.C.P.

1915.11-1(f)(4).

C.Unless the parties consent and appropriate safety measures are in place to protect the

participants, including the parenting coordinator and other third parties, a parenting coordinator

shall not be appointed if:

i.The parties to the custody action have a protection from abuse order in effect;

ii.The court makes a finding that a party has been a victim of domestic violence perpetrated by a

party to the custody action, either during the pendency of the custody action or within 36 months

preceding the filing of the custody action; or

iii.The court makes a finding that a party to the custody action has been the victim of a personal

injury crime, as defined in 23 Pa.C.S. 3103, which was perpetrated by a party to the custody action.

D.If a party objects to the appointment of a parenting coordinator based on an allegation that the

party has been the victim of domestic violence perpetrated by a party to the custody action, the court

shall have a hearing on the issue and may consider abuse occurring beyond the 36 months provided

in subdivision (a)(2)(ii).

E.The length of appointment of a Parenting Coordinator shall be pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1915.11-

1(a)(3) and Pa.R.C.P. 1915.11-1(a)(4).

F.Procedures and forms can be found on the County of Delaware and Delaware County Bar

Association websites.

[Pa.B. Doc. No. 23-885. Filed for public inspection July 7, 2023, 9:00 a.m.]

No part of the information on this site may be reproduced for profit or sold for profit.

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to the limitations of HTML or differences in display capabilities of different browsers, this version

may differ slightly from the official printed version.

IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF DELAWARE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

IN RE: Reasonable Accommodations for: No. 17-5120

Public Under Title II of the:

Americans with Disability Act in:

Accordance with Pennsylvania Rule:

of Judicial Administration (Pa.R.J.A.):

No. 252:

PRESIDENT JUDGE ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER

AND NOW, this 18th day of June, 2019, upon consideration of the Reasonable

Accommodations provisions set forth by Pa.R.J.A. No. 252 and relatedly, Title II of the

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), it is hereby ORDERED and DECREED that NICOLE

M. BRUNGARD, ESQUIRE of the Court Administrator's Office is APPOINTED the 32ⁿᵈ

Judicial District's (Delaware County, Pennsylvania) ADA Coordinator, I EFFECTIVE

IMMEDIATELY.²

This court's past such administrative order dated June 11, 2019, SHALL be VACATED,

also EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY.³

KEVIN F. KELLY

President Judge

IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF DELAWARE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

IN RE: DELAWARE COUNTY LOCAL

ORPHANS' COURT RULES NOS.

14.2 - 14.13

:

Guardianships:

ORPHANS' COURT NO. 497-19

JUDICIAL SUPPORT CIVIL NO. 17-5120:

:

:

ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER

AND NOW, this 21st day of June, 2019, it is hereby ORDERED and DECREED that

Delaware County Local Orphans' Court Rules Nos. 14.2 through and including 14.13 (related to

guardianships) having been reviewed and allowed by the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania's

Orphans' Court Procedural Rules Committee are ADOPTED.

These local Orphans' Court Rules (Nos. 14.2 **** 14.13 related to guardianships) SHALL be

effective thirty (30) days subsequent to publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.

K

KEVIN F. KELLY

President Judge

CERTIFIED A TRUE AND CORRECT

COPY FROM THE RECORD