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Rule L1930 Seminar for Separating Parents in Contested Custody Matters

1. In all divorce and custody proceedings filed on or after February 1, 2000, and in such other cases as the Court shall direct, where the interest of children under the age of eighteen years are involved and the issue of custody and/or visitation remains in dispute and unresolved following a custody conference, the parties shall complete a seminar entitled "Children in the Middle" or a comparable program.

2. The Court Hearing Officer in conjunction with the provider shall establish the dates the parties shall attend the seminar and shall provide a recommended order to the Court for signature.

3. Both parties shall attend the seminar prior to the date of the custody hearing.

4. Any requests for an extension of time within which to complete the seminar shall be made to the Court Hearing Officer.

5. The fee for the seminar shall be determined by the provider and must be paid prior to attendance. Any request for waiver or reduction of the fee shall be filed with the Court Hearing Officer and shall be accompanied by a verified affidavit of indigency or other proof of economic hardship in accordance with Pa. R.C.P. No. 240, at least five days prior to the scheduled seminar.

6. The requirements to attend the seminar may be waived if:

(a) the Court, on motion, determines that participation is not necessary or,
(b) the parties select and participate in a comparable parenting education program.

7. No hearing or trial shall be delayed or court action withheld because of the failure of one party to attend the seminar.

8. Failure to comply with this rule may result in the dismissal of the action, striking of pleadings, or other appropriate remedy including sanction for contempt and attorney fees.

9. Should a party fail to attend the seminar, the Court may sua sponte bring a contempt action against a non-complying party. A party who has complied with the rules shall not be required to either bring the contempt action or appear at any contempt proceedings.

10. Copies of this rule and program description shall be available in the office of the Prothonotary, the Court Hearing Officer's office, and the office of the Court Administrator.