|
CHILD SUPPORT PROCEDURE
IN THE CHESTER COUNTY FAMILY COURT
The support procedure in Chester County is a multi-step process. First, the party who wants support or an increase of an existing support order must file a Complaint for Support or a
Petition to Modify Support with the Domestic Relations Office at the Chester County Justice Center. The court will schedule a support conference with a conference officer, who will take financial information from
both parties and compute a Temporary Order. If either party is not satisfied with the amount of the Temporary Order, the next step is for that party to request a hearing before a Master. The hearing held before the
Master is a record proceeding, which means it is a full evidentiary trial, with sworn testimony by both parties that is recorded by a Court Reporter. The Master will listen to the testimony of both parties and any
witnesses, rule on evidence and make a decision, either at the hearing, or within 30 days after the hearing. If either party is not satisfied with the outcome, the next step is for that party to file exceptions (an
appeal) to the Master's report. The review by the Court of Common Pleas Judge is on the record that was already made in front of the Master. There is no additional evidence heard by the Court. Either party may
request oral argument. The Judge will enter an Order deciding the issues raised on exceptions to the trial record.
See also:
Divorce
Equitable Distribution of Property
Custody
Child Support
Spousal Support
Alimony
|
