Updated Protocol for Contested Discovery Motions

FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT OF PENNSYLVANIA

PHILADELPHIA COURT OF COMMON PLEAS

DATE: November 4, 2020

TRIAL DIVISION – CIVIL

NOTICE TO THE BAR

PROTOCOL FOR CONTESTED DISCOVERY MOTIONS

DURING JUDICIAL EMERGENCY CREATED BY COVID-19

In order to facilitate the prompt resolution of contested discovery motions, the Court hereby Orders that parties follow this Protocol for Contested Discovery Motions until further Notice to the Bar.

This Protocol applies to any civil matter currently pending or to be filed in which a party has filed a Praecipe for Contested Discovery Motion in accordance with the June 2, 2020 NOTICE TO THE BAR OF PROTOCOL FOR DISCOVERY MOTIONS DURING JUDICIAL EMERGENCY CREATED BY COVID-19 and any extensions or amendments thereto.

The court hereby orders the following protocol:

• All discovery motions for which a Praecipe for Contested Discovery Motion and response thereto have been filed with the Court will be assigned to a Judicial Team Leader for adjudication.

• Oral Argument on Contested Discovery Motions will be at the Court’s discretion.

• If oral argument is necessary, the court will utilize telephonic means or advanced communication technology (i.e., Zoom, etc.). The date, time and manner of the hearing will be communicated and confirmed to all counsel and unpresented parties.

• Questions regarding this protocol should be directed to Mr. Peter J. Divon, Manager of the Discovery Court Program by e-mail to Divon@courts.phila.gov.

Honorable Lisette Shirdan-Harris

Administrative Judge

Trial Division

Honorable Daniel J. Anders

Supervising Judge

Trial Division – Civil

Honorable Gary S. Glazer

Supervising Judge

Trial Division – Commerce