Lancaster Cnty. C.P. Judge Leonard G. Brown III - Judge's Procedures 5

Trial will not ordinarily be continued because of the unavailability of a

witness, particularly an expert witness. If a witness's availability for trial is doubtful,

counsel will be expected to arrange for a written or videotaped trial deposition.

VIII. Trial Procedure – Civil Cases

A. Overview

1. Scheduling Cases.

A date for trial will be determined at the scheduling conference or pretrial conference if

not set at the scheduling conference. Questions relating to scheduling matters should be

directed to Judge Brown’s judicial assistant or law clerk.

2. Cases Involving Out-Of-Town Parties or Witnesses.

Judge Brown schedules the trial of cases involving out-of-town counsel, parties, or

witnesses in the same manner as all other cases. Counsel are responsible for the

scheduling of witnesses.

3. Conflicts of Counsel.

Counsel should notify the court immediately upon hearing of any unavoidable and

compelling professional or personal conflicts affecting the trial schedule.

4. Note Taking by Jurors.

Pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. No. 223.2, Judge Brown permits jurors to take notes in trials lasting

multiple days.

5. Voir Dire

In most cases Judge Brown permits counsel to conduct limited voir dire in civil cases.