Procedures to be followed

• The Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure govern civil cases. In addition, many county courts also develop rules to govern cases in their local courts. You can obtain copies from the Clerk’s Office.
• Some judges like particular procedures to be followed. Check with the Clerk’s Office to determine if the judge in your case has published a list of such procedures.

Deadlines

• Keep track of all deadlines and make sure you meet them.
• Make sure the Court gets your papers on time. The deadlines set by the Court are times that your responses must be submitted to the Court. You also must send a copy to the opposing side, but please note that it only counts if the Court gets the papers on time.
• Sometimes, even calculating the timeline can be tricky because court rules make distinctions between calendar days and court days. Do not hesitate to contact the Clerk’s Office if you have any questions about calculating the deadlines applicable to your case.
• You can try to make an agreement with the opposing party about extending deadlines, but you must notify the Court of such an agreement. If an agreement with the opposing party about deadline extension cannot be reached, you may request an extension from the Court. Make such requests in writing, well before the original due date for the filing. Never assume you have received an extension unless and until you receive notice of such extension from the Court.
• Remember that in meeting deadlines or with other court procedures, the usual rule is that papers must be filed with the Clerk, not directly with the Judge. You may miss a deadline by not filing your papers correctly.

How do I deal with all this paperwork?

• Keep copies of everything!
• If you don't understand something, don't sign it.
• Sometimes, you will be required to file multiple copies, and some things may need to be notarized. Check with the Clerk’s Office to find out what is required.
• File documents with the proper office and keep a copy of anything you file with the Court or send to the opposing party or opposing counsel.
• You can get a list of documents pertaining to your case that have been filed with the Court and even obtain permission to copy them. Contact the Clerk’s Office to find out how they handle requests for copies.

 
 Disclaimer: PMC does not provide legal advice or represent clients in court or other legal proceedings. This guide is created solely to help individuals navigate the courts. It does not serve as a substitute for legal advice and should not be interpreted as such.
 
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