Blog Posts

The Delaware County Register of Wills and Orphan’s Court will remain closed to the public until at least June 15, 2020.  Orphan’s Court is accepting emergency petitions by fax (610-891-4812) and U.S. mail only.  In addition to submitting an emergency petition by fax or U.S. mail, Petitioners should email Kristi Dick at DickK@co.delaware.pa.us as well as the office via telephone (610-891-4400) and follow the prompts so that the reduced staff on site is made aware of a potential emergency.  The Register of Wills is now scheduling virtual probate appointments for emergency situations that cannot wait.  Attorneys in these situations should email Julie Everett at RossiJ@co.delaware.pa.us to submit the appropriate materials and set up an appointment.  Additionally, the Register of Wills is now scheduling virtual marriage license appointments for Delaware County, Pennsylvania residents only.

A third emergency order extension for the civil section in the Court of Common Pleas of Delaware County, Pennsylvania has been ordered effective immediately and will continue through and including July 31, 2020.  All civil jury trials remain suspended until further notice.  The four judge civil section has been temporarily structured into two subgroups as follows: Judges Dozor and Whelan; and Judges Angelos and Eckel.  On any day of a week, no more than two civil judges will be simultaneously in session, unless there is an emergent need for another courtroom to be operational.  Judge Dozor will utilize courtroom No.7 while Judge Whelan will utilize courtroom No. 8.  For those every other weeks they are listed to sit, Judge Angelos will utilize courtroom No. 7 and Judge Eckel will utilize courtroom No.8.  Various hearings as the assigned civil judge believes appropriate will once more be scheduled, including but not limited to arguments, contested pre-trial evidentiary hearings, and/or non-jury trials.  Assigned civil judges may also schedule pre-trial and/or case management conferences, as believed appropriate.

Musi, Merkins, Daubenberger & Clark – this law firm was invaluable in helping me through the loss of my husband in a tragic car accident. I felt very comfortable with this firm throughout. They walked me through the process and made it easy for me to handle.  They answered my questions rapidly even on weekend.  They didn’t only build a strong case but also they followed up and supported me throughout.  My opinions were valued and my doubts were always reassured. They went above and beyond and did everything they could to ensure a great outcome. I couldn’t have asked for a better law firm or attorney.  May God bless you all.  Thanks a million. Sincerely,  Vivianne J.

110% satisfaction is what Rich and his firm delivered! 5.0 stars Posted by Jeff May 26, 2020 Found Rich on Avvo on a Tuesday night AFTER 10:30pm. He called me personally within 10 mins of my Avvo message. I instantly liked him on the phone and went to bed feeling much better after our conversation. His secretary was kind and made paying and signing our agreement super easy. He returned texts I sent promptly and made himself available on the phone as well. He reassured me (even though my situation was complicated) that he would handle it as we discussed and when the time came, he delivered!!! Everything he told me was right on! He delivered me the exact result I needed and asked for. I’ve hired many lawyers over the years. With mixed results. Rich is my favorite. Both personally and professionally I recommend Rich and would definitely call him first if I have another problem. Spend your money wisely and have this guy represent you. I did. And would’ve paid more if he asked. Which he did NOT. Fees were 100% reasonable and money well spent!!!!!!!

At least one local court has issued a policy statement in light of Covid-19 regulations: Policy of the Chester County Court of Common Pleas, Family Division, regarding custody exchanges and COVID-19 regulations. Effective March 23, 2020 at 8:00 p.m. Governor Wolf has issued a ‘Stay at Home’ Orders to Chester County and 6 other counties* to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Guidelines issued with the Governor’s Order provide that allowable activities and essential travel include “travel to care for … minors, dependents … ”; and “travel required by law enforcement or court order. “[emphasis added]. In addition, the Governor’s Office of General Counsel has confirmed to the President Judges of Pennsylvania’s Judicial Districts that the Governor’s order does not prohibit necessary travel to effectuate existing custody orders. Accordingly, it is the policy of the Chester County Family Court that existing custody orders which provide for custodial exchanges of children are to be complied with, absent true exigent or emergency circumstances. If the exchange is to occur in a public place that may create an elevated risk, the parties should consider exchanging at their respective residences (curbside, if necessary) or such other location as they may agree. If a party believes…