Lyc Cnty. Pa. 1915.4-3

As amended through July 1, 2023

Rule 1915.4-3 - Initial Conference

A. The parties and their respective counsel shall appear at the initial conference before the family court hearing officer.

B. If the parties reach an agreement resolving all of the issues raised, the hearing officer shall forward an order to the court for approval setting forth the terms of such agreement.

C. If the parties do not reach an agreement resolving all issues raised, the hearing officer will conduct a non-record proceeding to establish a recommended interim order as to custody, partial custody or visitation, which will govern pending further proceedings. This non-record proceeding may be a conference with attorneys, conference with parties, and/or the taking of testimony under oath and receipt of other evidence and arguments of counsel as the hearing officer deems appropriate, based upon the particular issues raised.

D. At the conclusion of the proceeding, the hearing officer shall:

1) give the parties oral notice of the essential aspects of the recommended interim order and reasons for the recommendation;

2) make an initial determination as to the use of mediation, psychological evaluations or home studies, in accordance with Rules L1915.7 and L1915.8;

3) shall set a date for the pretrial conference.

E. No exceptions may be filed to an interim order entered in a custody action.

F. Any recommended interim order of the hearing officer shall be submitted to the court for approval and upon court approval shall have the effect of a pre-trial order.

G. The hearing officer may refer the parties to mediation and, if so, may direct a date by which the parties must commence the mediation process. The date set for the pre-trial conference shall allow sufficient time for completion of the mediation process. If mediation terminates prior to the anticipated completion date, the mediator shall notify the court administrator who may then reschedule the pre-trial conference for an earlier date. The expense of mediation shall be paid by the parties in accordance with the agreement between Lycoming County and the mediator as the same may exist from time to time.

Lyc Cnty. Pa. 1915.4-3

Adopted effective 3/24/2023.