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VEL VA J. MENTZER and
RICHARD N. YORLETS,
PLAINTIFFS
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
v.
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Ja:o- &jqg
: NO. CIVIL TERM
MARTHA M. RAUDABAUGH,
DEFENDANT
IN PARTITION
NOTICE TO DEFEND
You have been sued in court, If you wish to defend against the claims set forth in the
following pages, you must take action within twenty (20) days after this complaint, order and
notice are served, by entering a written appearance personally or by attorney and filing in writing
with the court your defenses or objections to the claims set forth against you. You are warned
that if you fail to do so the case may proceed without you and a judgment may be entered against
you by the court without further money claimed in the complaint or for any other claim or relief
requested by the plaintiff. You may lose money or property or other rights important to you,
YOU SHOULD TAKE THIS PAPER TO YOUR LAWYER AT ONCE. IF YOU DO NOT
HAVE A LAWYER, OR CANNOT AFFORD ONE, GO TO OR TELEPHONE THE
OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW TO FIND OUT WHERE YOU CAN GET LEGAL HELP.
Cumberland County Bar Association
2 Liberty Avenue
Carlisle, Pennsylvania 17013
717-249-3166
1-800-990-9108
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Americans with Disabilities
Act of 1990
The Court of Common Pleas of Cumberland County is required by law to comply with the
Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. For information about accessible facilities and reasonable
accommodations available to disabled individuals having business before the court, please contact our
office. All arrangements must be made at least 72 hours prior to any hearing or business before the
court. You must attend the scheduled conference or hearing.
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VELV A J. MENTZER and
RICHARD N. YORLETS,
PLAINTIFFS
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
v.
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
tI'O-G.39i'
NO. CIVIL TERM
MARTHA M. RAUDABAUGH,
DEFENDANT
IN PARTITION
COMPLAINT
AND NOW, this 18th day of September 2000, comes the plaintiffs, Velva 1. Mentzer and
Richard N. Y orIets, and make the following Complaint against the defendant, Martha
Raudabaugh.
1.
The plaintiff, Velva 1. Mentzer, is an adult individual residing at 940 Longs Gap Road,
Carlisle, Pennsylvania 17013.
2.
The plaintiff, Richard N. YorIets, is an adult individual who residing at 41 Yorwick
Road, Carlisle, Pennsylvania 17013.
3.
The defendant, Martha M. Raudabaugh, is an adult individual residing at 980 Longs Gap
Road, Carlisle, Pennsylvania 17013.
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4,
The parties acquired real estate by deed dated January 14, 1975, from the estate of Rosie
Jane YorIets, and a copy of said deed is incorporated by reference and is marked as Exhibit "A".
The property at issue is Tract Number One (1) on said deed,
5,
The parties are the owners of an undivided one-third (1/3) interest in Tract # I of the deed
recorded in Deed Book X, Vol. 25, Page 67 I. They are owners as tenants in common,
6.
The parties have failed to reach any agreements regarding the division of the real property
or its use.
7,
The defendant, Martha M. Raudabaugh, has made use of the property without the consent
of the plaintiffs. The defendant has earned income from the property and has not accounted for
said income or divided it with the plaintiffs.
8,
The plaintiffs now seek an Order of Court which provides for the sale and division of said
land which is believed to contain approximately forty-two (42) acres. The proceeds from the sale
would be divided equally by the parties, The plaintiffs have secured the services of Rodger
Deihl to be the listing agent for the sale of the property.
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9.
The plaintiffs also seek an accounting and the equal division of any income earned by the
defendant from the use of the real estate.
10.
The plaintiffs seek the payment of their legal fees and all costs required to bring this
action as well as any other appropriate relief granted by the Court,
WHEREFORE, the plaintiffs seek a hearing and the sale of the real estate, an accounting
of income earned from the land and payment of their costs and legal fees from the defendant,
Martha M. Raudabaugh.
Respectfully submitted,
IRWIN, M;~& HUGHES
By: Marcus A. ght, II ,
60 W omfret Street
C lisle, Pennsylvania 170 I3
(7 49-2353
Supreme Court I.D. No. 25476
Attorney for plaintiffs,
Velva 1. Mentzer and
Richard N. YorIets
Date: September 18, 2000
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IN '111E OIU'IIMIS I COURT OF ClffIJlI:HlJ\t1Ll COlltn'Y, I'EmISYlNMIIA
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pursll:1l11; to Socti.oIl3~311 of tilt! l't'ohnb'", Lutntt\s f\nd l'iducillr1ea
Cod", th,,' fo1totline tkuel'l\,,',d rcnt t\!Jt[\t" in' m'J;\rd(\d to l\ichn1'<l'
't., , lIctcon YOl-tutu, Hm.'~hn llClrl." Rautlnb'l\ll:h and VeJ,vl\ J\11\1\ Hcnl:zcr,
their heit.u l\l\d IIDS1.0\(',. no equlll tC\lIllntn in cOlllnon:
. 'l'r\AC1' !lO. 11 AU, thnt eOl'tnin trnct of finld nnd.
. ~ ,",oodlllntl eontnining. 39 nCl"<,U, III0t'(, or lens, /In<l lJitunte
, nlone the Ilonte1-n :ll.de oj: L.\~. 21072(1.()1l1~'D enr nand)
. In 110x.th .llJe.l<llcton 'l'CltJllGhIp, (:u,.ll,ol'lnllel COUllt;'. Pcnnsyl~ '
vnllin; beint: the snme pre)[Wl.ty "hieh '"W conveycd to .
".~, CeOr[(1l S.. Yorlots, IIho <lJ.(:(' on J:;nllnry 2/l, 196'!. nnd Ronia
.'t:!l:,,:S deed clntctl Sept"",bor 26, J.9116, nntl rec'wtlod in the office
tA~?:, of: the Hecordct' of lk~cds for CU!llb(n~li\ncl County i.n Dead.
E~~~,:r,l BO~]'.'~~. Vol. ~. PJ1~~c. 33. lea!!, houever, out cOllvcyancco
X~=1;:~~ ..nO'lX:cordcd i.n the o[fiCt;~-llfol~eHni.d In need nook liP", Vol..
"'rj~ 1 1
~;;:::tl~ 20, Plll.~n 1~9L~, Deed Hook uF", Vol. 21, PllaC 10 ~5. D~cd non,;
.3icl~.l:. ~ "I", Vo 1. 2? P ngc tl91. n1'ld nel~d Bool~ "U", Vol. 22, FllgO
#i if ,Jj 6711 nndooJ.ng tile. l'l'ntudc ll!l(1 reUl[ll.llder of soid trcct.
1'RAC1't1o. 21 ALL thnt certl1in tr[\ct of Olountllin
'll1n" contailllnl~ 12 [\C1''' 9 , Inore Ill' leu:], (lnd cituntc in '
1.tH/or P'rnnkford '1'o~'n8hipt Clllui>el"lnnd Count}', l'cnn!1}'lvllniut
bcill!( the UlUlle prope rty whIch \l[W conv',~'''rl to Coor~" S.
YOl'J.cto, by I:l1sHorth I,:"nllcely, ct. ,,1., hy deed tlntcd !-lurch
19,193!l, ,,"cJ reconlcll in tl,c n(,I'ICe! nftH'c9td,cJ in necd
nool: ~' ,\'ol.-l.l,I.l'nl'.c J12U.; pnl.t ~f lJhIch ''''0. conveyed to
tln\,d.c'c'.l\,' 1'/lvJo1I\nc1, ^ticn r:. P'lVl.ol1 hIa wlt~l by deed
dntdINL1vcmhe!t' :l;"'1:')I,l, nnd t-"col'dcd ln th\1 ofLl.en l\fot'C-
1~,1I."n 1~1 (l,lir...IO,il.ll ~iil oC\id., in ne\',d Dook "VI t Vo 1., 12, Pi1r..\~ 3l!~. bttt \1!\5 rccou...
, ....'. .\i.W'~) ~...oynd to 'G(!Ol'gC,~:. ,'lol'l"tn by clc,;'cl <lilted Hnl'ch 27, 19/12,
"\'\\ ~ ",:'\' , l.!In<l \','cl'1Xkd ;tnt1le. office nforC!!lnj,c1 in ne~,cl nook "au,
'~~'''l.'l'~''. ' ,""'j',"",<>112'; ''Page.,d:lJj9;'ind hdl\[\ all 1'1' uaitl I:l'nct. Geor(:e
'., ., I', ,e."~i,,tv ('" Ir. ~orlnt!l' tI:ted on J1nllflt'y 28, 196'.1, nntl by hill Ln~t '.'ill
.:}:.l __.\d \i\:.'\\~;'\\ Illr\d','l'~:Jt(\:lll\ntdlul.~' probntm\ in the office of tl,e ner,i otor
. '\ . ''.'''' '", \', 'of HUb for CllI.lberlnllc1 County in \1ill Ilook (,1, P/lge 532,
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VERIFICATION
The foregoing Complaint is based upon information which has been gathered by
counsel and us in the preparation of this action, We have read the statements made in this
document and they are true and correct to the best of our knowledge, information and belief, We
understand that false statements herein made are subject to the penalties of 18 Pa. C.S,A. Section
4904, relating to unsworn falsification to authorities,
d.t~_J~~
VEL VA J, MENTZER
~~
HARDN, ETS
Date: September 18 ,2000
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VELVA J. MENTZER and
RICHARD N. YORLETTS,
PLAINTIFFS
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 2000-6398 CIVIL TERM
v
MARTHA M. RAUDABAUGH,
DEFENDANT
IN PARTITION
PRAECIPE TO REINSTATE COMPLAINT
TO: THE PROTHONOTARY:
Please reinstate the complaint originally filed on September 19, 2000 in the above
captioned matter.
FREY & TILEY
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B St phen D, Tiley, Esquire
5 South Hanover St.
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 243-5838
Supreme Court ID# 32318
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VELVA J. MENTZER and
RICHARD N. YORLETlS,
PLAINTIFFS
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 2000-6398 CIVIL TERM
v.
MARTHA M. RAUDABAUGH,
DEFENDANT
IN PARTITION
PRAECIPE
TO THE PROTHONATARY:
Please withdraw my appearance on behalf of the Plaintiffs of Velva J, Mentzer and Richard
N. Yorletts.
Date: lit!J/
IRWIN, cKNIGHT & HUGHES
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Marcus A. McKnight I Es
60 West Pomfret Street
Carlisle, PA. 17013,
(717) 249-2353.
Supreme Court ID# 25476.
TO: THE PROTHONOTARY:
Please enter my appearance on behalf of the Plaintiffs Velva J. Mentzer and Richard N,
Yorletts.
Date: l:;ItJ i
FREY & TilEY,
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By Stephen J. Tiley Esquire,
5 South Hanover St.
Carlisle, PA. 17013.
(717) 243-5838.
Supreme Court ID# 32318.
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VELVA J. MENTZER and
RICHARD N. YORLETTS,
PLAINTIFFS
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 2000-6398 CIVIL TERM
v
MARTHA M. RAUDABAUGH,
DEFENDANT
IN PARTITION
PRAECIPE TO REINSTATE COMPLAINT
Please reinstate the complaint originally filed on September 19, 2000 in the above
captioned matter.
FREY & TILEY
Date: fii~
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y Stephen 0, Tiley, Esquire
5 South Hanover St.
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 243-5838
Supreme Court 10# 32318
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SHERIFF'S RETURN - REGULAR
CASE NO: 2000-06398 P
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA:
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
MENTZER VELVA J ET AL
VS
RAUDABAUGH MARTHA M
PATRICIA SHATTO
Sheriff or Deputy Sheriff of
Cumberland County,Pennsylvania, who being duly sworn according to law,
says, the within COMPLAINT & NOTICE
was served upon
RAUDABAUGH MARTHA M
the
DEFENDANT
at 1645:00 HOURS, on the 9th day of February, 2001
at 980 LONGS GAP ROAD
CARLISLE, PA 17013
by handing to
DALE RAUDABAUGH
HUSBAND
a true and attested copy of COMPLAINT & NOTICE
together with
and at the same time directing His attention to the contents thereof.
Sheriff's Costs:
Docketing
Service
Affidavit
Surcharge
So
Answers:
r~"'~~~~
18.00
3.10
.00
10,00
.00
31.10
R. Thomas Kline
02/12/2001
FREY & TILEY
Sworn and Subscribed to before
me this j:b~ day of
BY:$~_L _~
Deputy Sheriff
3':tt .2&a I A. D .
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Prothonotary'
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VELVAJ.MENTZERandRlCHARD
N. YORLETS,
Plaintiffs,
vs.
MARTHA M, RAUDABAUGH,
Defendant.
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IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNA.
No. 2000 - 6398
CIVIL TERM
IN PARTITION
NOTICE TO PLEAD
TO THE WlTH][N NAMED PARTIES:
You are hereby notified to file a written response to the within NEW MATTER AND
COUNTERCLAIM within twenty (20) days of service hereof, or judgment may be entered
against you.
DATED: March 27, 2001
IRA H. WEINSTOCK, P.C.
800 North Second Street
Harrisburg, P A 17102
Phone: 717-238-1657
By:
JLCl-H. ~to~
IRA H. WEINSTOCK
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VELVAJ.MENTZERandRlCHARD
N. YORLETS,
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLANDCOUNTY,PENN~
Plaintiffs,
vs.
No. 2000 - 6398
MARTHA M. RAUDABAUGH,
Defendant.
CIVIL TERM
IN PARTITION
ANSWER WITH NEW MATTER AND COUNTERCLAIM
AND NOW, the Defendant, Martha M, Raudabaugh, by and through her attorneys, IRA
H. WEINSTOCK, P,C., respectfully submits this Answer with New Matter and Counterclaim
and in support thereof avers the following:
1. Admitted,
2. Admitted,
3. Admitted,
4. Admitted,
5. Admitted,
6. Admitted.
7, Denied. It is specifically denied that the Defendant has made use ofthe property
without the consent of the Plaintiffs, To the extent that Defendant has made use of the property,
the use has been for the purpose of increasing the value of the property.
8, Admitted in pact and Denied in pact. It is admitted that Plaintiffs have made a
claim for the sale and division of the subject property and division of the proceeds of the sale, It
is denied that Plaintiffs are entitled to a sale and division of the subject property. After
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reasonable investigation, the Defendant is without sufficient information to either admit or deny
the remaining averments of the paragraph.
9. Admitted in part and Denied in part. It is admitted that Plaintiffs have made a
claim for an accounting and division of income earned from the use of the subject property. It is
denied that Plaintiffs are entitled to an accounting and division of any income derived from the
use of subject property,
10, Admitted in part and Denied in part. It is admitted that Plaintiffs have made a
claim for legal fees and costs. It is denied that they are entitled to payment of legal fees and
costs.
WHEREFORE, Defendant respectfully requests that a judgment be entered in favor of
the Defendant and against the Plaintiffs together with costs, attorney's fees and such other relief
the Court deems just and appropriate.
NEW MATTER
11. Plaintiffs' claims are barred by the defense of accord and satisfaction.
12. Plaintiffs' claims are barred by consent.
13, Plaintiffs' claims are barred by the defense of estoppel.
14. Plaintiffs' claims are barred by the defense ofIaches,
15. Plaintiffs' claims are barred by the defense of license.
16, Plaintiffs' claims are barred by the defense of statute of limitations,
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WHEREFORE, Defendant respectfully requests that a judgment be entered in favor of
the Defendant and against the Plaintiffs together with costs, attorney's fees and such other relief
the Court deems just and appropriate.
COUNTERCLAIM
COUNT I - ASSUMPSIT
17. Defendant incorporates by reference paragraphs 1 through 16 as though set forth
herein at length,
18. Defendant and Plaintiffs are owners as tenants in common of an undivided one-
third interest in tract number one of the deed recorded in deed book X, Volume 25, Page 671.
19, It is believed that the aforementioned parcel contains approximately forty-two
(42) acres.
20, For over twenty-six (26) years, Defendant has been responsible for maintaining
the aforementioned property including but not limited to mowing the property.
21. For over twenty-six (26) years, Plaintiffs have been aware of Defendant's care
and maintenance of the property,
22. Plaintiffs have a duty to contribute to the care and maintenance of the
aforementioned property, however, have neglected to do so.
23, By Plaintiffs' failures to act, they have impliedly promised to reimburse
Defendant for its care and maintenance of the aforementioned property.
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WHEREFORE, Defendant respectfully requests that a judgment be entered in her favor
against the Plaintiffs in the amount of $8,900,00 together with costs, interest and reasonable
attorney's fees.
Respectfully Submitted,
IRA H. WEINSTOCK, P.C.
800 North Second Street
Harrisburg, PA 17102
Phone: (717) 238-1657
By:
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IRA H. WEINSTOCK
BY:~ 6. ~~~
. JOHNB.D GHE Y
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COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA )
) ss.
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND )
I verify that the statements made in the attached ANSWER WITH NEW
MATTER AND COUNTERCLAIM are true and correct. I understand that false statements
herein are made subject to the penalties set forth in 18 Pa, C, S. S4904 relating to unsworn
falsification to authorities,
DATED: 3-;;<..1/01
/ffltVdv /;Vl. ~~cwi
. . (-.:. MARTHA M, RAUDABAUGH
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CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
AND NOW, this 27th day of March, 2001, I, Ira H, Weinstock, Esquire, attorney
for Defendant, Martha M. Raudabaugh, hereby certify that I served the within ANSWER WITH
NEW MATTER AND COUNTERCLAIM this day by depositing the same in the United
States mail, postage prepaid, in the post office at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, addressed to:
By First Class Mail:
Stephen D. Tiley, Esquire
FREY & TILEY
5 South Hanover Street
Carlisle, P A 17013
By:
.Jha H. ~fucL
IRA H, WEINSTOCK
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VELVA J. MENTZER and
RICHARD N. YORLETIS,
PLAINTIFFS
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO, 2000-6398 CIVIL TERM
v.
MARTHA M. RAUDABAUGH,
DEFENDANT
IN PARTITION
NOTICE TO PLEAD
TO MARTHA M. RAUDABAUGH, DEFENDANT:
You are hereby notified to file a written response to the enclosed Preliminary
Objections to New Matter within twenty (20) days from service thereof or a judgment
may be entered against you.
Dated: JAYI 15; ,2@J)/
FREY & TILEY
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By St phen D. Tiley Esquire,
5 South Hanover Street
Carlisle, Pa, 17013
(717) 243-5838
Supreme Court ID# 32318
II
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VELVAJ.MENTZERand
RICHARD N. YORlETTS,
PLAINTIFFS
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 2000..6398 CIVIL TERM
v.
MARTHA M. RAUDABAUGH,
DEFENDANT
IN PARTITION
PRELIMINARY OBJECTIONS TO NEW MA TIER
AND NOW, come the Plaintiffs, Velva J, Mentzer and Richard N, Yorlets, by and
through their council, Stephen D, Tiley, Esquire, and file these Preliminary Objections
to the New Matter filed by Defendant Martha M. Raudabaugh, pursuant to Pa,R.C,P.
1028(a)(2) & (3), of which the following is a statement:
(Paragraph numbers refer to Defendant's Answer with New Matter and Counterclaim,)
11, Defendant has failed to provide any facts upon which the defense of
accord and satisfaction is raised. (Pa. RC.P,1019(a))
12, Defendant has failed to provide any facts upon which the defense of
consent is raised, (Pa, RC,P, 1019(a))
13. Defendant has failed to provide any facts upon which the defense of
estoppel is raised, (Pa, RC,P,1019(a))
14, Defendant has failed to provide any facts upon which the defense of
laches is raised. (Pa. RC,P,1019(a))
15. Defendant has failed to provide any facts upon which the defense of
license is raised. (Pa, RC.P.1019(a))
16, Defendant has failed to provide any facts upon which the defense of the
statute of limitations is raised. (Pa, R,C.P,1019(a))
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs Pray Your Honorable Court for an order granting their
preliminary objections and striking Defendant's New Matter.
Dated: /ftA / ~ ;JOgl
FREY & TILEY
~'~-4~ '~A
By St phen D. Tiley Esquire,
5 South Hanover Street
Carlisle, Pa, 17013
(717) 243-5838
Supreme Court 10# 32318
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VELVAJ.MENTZERand
RICHARD N. YORLETTS,
PLAINTIFFS
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 2000-6398 CIVIL TERM
v,
MARTHA M. RAIUDABAUGH,
DEFENDANT
IN PARTITION
NOTICE TO PLEAD
TO MARTHA M. RAUDABAUGH, DEFENDANT:
You are hereby notified to file a written response to the enclosed New Matter,
filed by Plaintiffs in connection with Defendant's Counterclaim, within twenty (20) days
from service thereof or a judgment may be entered against you,
FREY & TILEY
Dated: j::::A- /.s: 02:J.0/
,
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By St hen D, Tiley Esquir ,
5 South Hanover Street
Carlisle, Pa. 17013
(717) 243-5838
Supreme Court ID# 32318
II
VELVA J. MENTZER and
RICHARD N. YORLETS,
PLAINTIFFS
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 2000-6398 CIVIL TERM
v.
MARTHA M, RAUDABAUGH,
DEFENDANT
IN PARTITION
ANSWER TO DEFENDANT'S COUNTERCLAIM
ANO NOW, come the Plaintiffs, Velva J. Mentzer and Richard N, Yorlets, by and
through their council, Stephen D, Tiley, Esquire, and file this Answer to Defendant's
counterclaim, of which the following is a statement:
(Paragraph numbers refer to Defendant's Answer with New Matter and Counterclaim)
17, Paragraph 17 of Defendant's counterclaim incorporates paragraphs 1
through 16 of Defendant's Answer with New Matter.
Paragraphs 1 through 6 of Defendant's Answer admit
Complaint paragraphs and therefore set forth no
counterclaim to which a responsive pleading is required.
Paragraph 7 of Defendant's Answer is denied to the
extent that it avers, or may aver, that Defendant has made
use of the property for the purpose of increasing the
value of the property. Defendant and Plaintiffs have
reached no agreement concerning the use of the
property and the Defendant has admitted this by
admitting paragraph 6 of Plaintiffs Complaint.
Defendant has not made any use of the property for the
purpose of increasing its value, Defendant has made
PlainJfffsAmwenwhNew M= IDDtfrndant's01unJmfajm
Page 1
use of the property, or a portion of it, by farming it solely
for Defendant's own gain, Instead of increasing the
value of the property, Defendant has used the property in
manner which significantly decreases its value by storing
trash, junk, and dilapidated structures on the property.
By way of further Answer to these averments, Plaintiffs
state that after reasonable investigation they are without
knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to
the truth of the averment that the Defendant has used
the property for the intent or purpose of increasing the
properties value therefore the averments are denied.
Paragraph 8 is admitted to the extent that it admits that
the Plaintiffs have made a claim for the sale and division
of the subject property and division of the proceeds of
sale. To all other extents paragraph 8 of Defendant's
Answer sets forth no averments of fact to which a
responsive pleading is required and is therefore denied,
Paragraph 9 of Defendant's Answer is admitted to the
extent that it avers that the Plaintiffs have made a claim
for an accounting and division of income earned from
the use of the subject property, To all other extents
paragraph 9 of Defendant's Complaint sets forth no
averments of fact to which a responsive pleading is
required and is therefore denied,
Paragraph 10 of Defendant's Answer is admitted to
the extent that it avers that the Plaintiffs have made a
claim for legal fees and costs, To all other extents
paragraph 10 of Defendant's Complaint sets forth no
PlainJijfsAnswerwilhNew M~kJDifendant's01un1en:1aim
II
Page 2
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averments of fact to which a responsive
pleading is required and is therefore denied,
Paragraphs 11 through 16, which set forth
Defendant's New Matter, aver no facts to which a
responsive pleading is required. Furthermore the
averments of these paragraphs set forth conclusions
of law to which no responsive pleading is required,
By way of further Answer Plaintiffs Preliminary
Objections to Defendant's New Matter are
incorporated herein and referenced thereto as if fully
set forth herein. For the foregoing reasons,
Defendant's averments set forth in her New Matter
are denied to the extent that they are incorporated
into Defendant's Counterclaim,
18. Admitted,
19. Admitted,
20, Denied, For over 26 years Defendant has treated all or most of the
property as her own (or that of her and her spouse) and Plaintiffs have been harassed
whenever they have attempted to make use of the property. Rather than being
"responsible for maintaining" the property, Defendant has treated the property as her
own. The parties were never able to reach any agreements as to the use of the
property, nor were there any agreements concerning its care or maintenance.
Defendant, and her spouse, were simply volunteers doing whatever they wanted with
co-owned property which they treated as their own. The southeastern portion of the
land was not mowed for many years, This was satisfactory to Plaintiffs. For some
reason last year Defendant, or her spouse, chose to mow it. Plaintiff Velva J, Mentzer
has paid a contractor to mow the area immediately around her house a number of
times over the years. However, at times, Defendant, or her spouse, would mow this
P!aUdjffsA1mverwilhNew MaJJers rvlJt;fi3ndmu'sCounJen:laim
Page 3
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area, without being asked, and before Plaintiffs would have done so, On one
occasion, Defendant, or her spouse, discovered that Plaintiff Richard N. Yorlets
desired to hunt deer in the overgrown field in the southwestern area of the property
and then mowed that area, presumably to impend such hunting.
21, Admitted in part, Denied in part, For 26 years Plaintiffs have been unable
to reach an agreement with the Defendant concerning the care, maintenance and use
of the property, Plaintiffs have been aware of Defendant's use of the property, but are
not aware of any care or maintenance alleged to be for their benefit. Plaintiffs have
had no control over Defendant's use of the property for over 26 years, and, during that
time, had no knowledge that Defendant considered her use of the property to be care
or maintenance, For roughly 26 years neither Defendant nor her spouse made any
request, claim, demand, or even comment to Plaintiffs to the effect that she, or they,
considered themselves to be maintaining the properly for the benefit of Plaintiffs, nor
to the effect that she, or they, expected any compensation for any alleged scenarios,
22, Denied, The subject property is woodland, scrubland, and due to
Defendants continued use farmland. Other than the dilapidated structures placed
upon the property by Defendant, without the permission or consent of Plaintiffs, there
are no structures to maintain, There being no structures to maintain, the land
requires no maintenance. If there was a desire to maintain the land as farmland it
could have and should have been rented to a third party willing to pay rent for the use.
Plaintiffs have requested but never been paid rent by Defendant for Defendant's use
of a portion of the land as farmland, By way of further Answer, the averments of this
paragraph set forth conclusions of law to which no responsive pleading is required.
Strict proof at trial is demanded.
23. Denied, Plaintiffs have previously sought to have the pr~perty sold and
to reach an agreement with Defendant concerning Defendant's use of the property but
have been unable to do so. Plaintiffs did not fail to act but rather Defendant failed to
reach any reasonable accord with Plaintiffs concerning the use of the property,
Defendant or her spouse, has simply made whatever use of the property which
PitPnJjjfsAnlwerwithNewMaJJerslDDefendantsCoun/eJdaim
Page 4
II
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,
Defendant desired and Plaintiffs have no financial duty to Defendant for Defendant's
activities for personal pleasure or profit. To the extent of the averment of this
paragraph set forth a conclusion of law no responsive pleading is required and the
averments are Denied, strict proof at trial is demanded.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs respectfully request Your Honorable Court to enter a
judgment in favor of Plaintiffs and against Defendant, together with costs, attorney's
fees and such other relief as to the Court may seem just and proper.
NEW MATTER
24, The averments of paragraph 17 through 23 of Plaintiffs Answer to
Defendant's Counterclaim are incorporated herein by reference hereto as if fully set
forth herein,
25. Defendant's Counterclaim is barred by consent. Plaintiffs repeatedly
attempted to work out an arrangement for the sale of the property, or for the use of the
property by the Defendant and Plaintiffs but Defendant would agree to no reasonable
arrangements other than that Defendant used any and all of the property in such a
manner as Defendant desired and Defendant, or her spouse, repeatedly harassed
Plaintiffs when they attempted to make any use of the property. There was no
agreement for any maintenance or care of the property and to the extent that
Defendant may have maintained or cared for the property Defendant was a volunteer.
As Defendant knew that Plaintiff demanded payment for Defendant's profit making
use of the property, Defendant must have k~own that Plaintiffs would not pay for
Defendant's use of the property. Defendant's use of the property was therefore with
the knowledge and consent of Defendant that the use was that of an unpaid volunteer.
26, Defendant's Counterclaim is barred by the defense of the estoppel,
laches and statute of limitations. Never, until a letter from Defendant's prior counsel
dated February 2, 2001, was there any mention of, request, or demand for any
Plainti!fsAnswerwithNew MaJJers 1iJD<fr.ndant'sCowuerr:Ioim
Page 5
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compensation for any care or maintenance of the property which Defendant may have
made. The averments of paragraphs 24 and 25 of the New Matter are incorporated
herein by reference thereto,
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs pray Your Honorable Court for a judgment in their favor,
and against Defendant, on the Defendant's Counterclaim, and Your such other and
further relief as to the Court may seem just and proper,
Date: f}/~ 1 /--r oMttJl
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED,
FREY & TILEY
/O.<7~
B St phen 0, Tiley Esquire,
5 South Hanover Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 243-5838
Supreme Court 10# 32318
PlainJilfsAmwen<i1hNew MaJtersfO/Afrndant'sCoun1erc/aim
II
Page 6
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VERIFICATION
We Velva J, Mentzer and Richard N. Yorlets, depose and say that we are the
Plaintiffs in the above matter; and that the facts set forth in the forgoing Answer with
New Matter are true and correct based partly upon personal knowledge and the
remainder upon information and belief; We understand that this Verification is made
subject to the penalties of 18 Pa.C.S. ~4904, relating to unsworn falsification to
authorities,
Dated: ~,1 / S; .;2c)O(
rJ.RJ~.j (j/~f/7/
Velva J. Mentzer
e.~,~
PlainJiffsAnswerwithNewMuum IDDifenOant'sCounJerc/aim
Page 7
,II
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VELVA J. MENTZER and
RICHARD N. YORLETS,
PLAINTIFFS
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO, 2000-6398 CIVIL TERM
v.
MARTHA M. RAUDABAUGH,
DEFENDANT
IN PARTITION
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that I have this day served a copy of Plaintiff's Preliminary
Objections to New Matter and Answer with New Matter upon the persons, and in the
manner, indicated below, by depositing a copy of the same with the United States
Post Office, first class mail, post prepaid and addressed as follows:
IRA H. WEINSTOCK, P.C.
800 North Second Street
Harrisburg, PA 17102
Phone: 717-238-1657
Dated: April /b, 2001
~-f). 74
S~h n D. Tiley, Esquire
Attorney for Plaintiffs
5 South Hanover Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 243-5838
Attorney 1.0. #32318
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VELV A J. MENTZER and
RICHARD N. YORLETS,
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNA.
Plaintiffs,
vs.
No. 2000 - 6398
MARTHA M. RAUDABAUGH,
Defendant.
CIVIL TERM
IN PARTITION
DEFENDANT'S ANSWER TO PLAINTIFFS' NEW MATTER
24. Defendant incorporates by reference paragraphs 17 through 23 of
Defendant's Counterclaim as though set forth at length herein,
25. Denied, Plaintiffs' averment contains a conclusion of law to which no
response is required. To the extent an answer is required, Defendant denies the same and
demands strict proof thereof.
26. Denied, Plaintiffs' averment contains a conclusion of law to which no
response is required. To the extent an answer is required, Defendant denies the same and
demands strict proof thereof.
WHEREFORE, Defendant respectfully request that the Court enter Judgment in her
favor and against the Plaintiffs on Defendant's Counterclaim together with costs, interest,
reasonable attorneys fees and such other relief the COlJrt deems just and appropriate.
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Respectfully Submitted,
IRA H. WEINSTOCK, P.C.
800 North Second Street
Harrisburg, PA 17102
Phone: (717) 238-1657
By:
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IRA H. WEINSTOCK
BY:~ {J ~
OHN B. DOUG TY
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II
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
AND NOW, this 2nd day of May, 2001, I, John B, Dougherty, Esquire, attorney
for Plaintiff, hereby certify that I served the within DEFENDANT'S ANSWER TO
PLAINTIFFS' NEW MATTER this day by depositing the same in the United States
mail, postage prepaid, in the post office at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, addressed to:
By First Class Mail:
Steven D. Tiley, Esquire
FREY & TILEY
5 South Hanover Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
By: ~rI. lA.~~
IRA H. WEINSTOCK
BY:~ 6. tY~
HN B. DOUGHE
I
VEL VA J. MENTZER and RICHARD
N. YORLETS,
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNA.
Plaintiffs,
vs.
No. 2000 - 6398
MARTHA M. RAUDABAUGH,
Defendant.
CIVIL TERM
IN PARTITION
FIRST AMENDED ANSWER WITH NEW MATTER AND COUNTERCLAIM
AND NOW, the Defendant, Martha M. Raudabaugh, by and through her attorneys, IRA
H. WEINSTOCK, P,C., respectfully submits this Answer with New Matter and Counterclaim
and in support thereof avers the following:
1. Admitted.
2, Admitted,
3. Admitted,
4, Admitted,
5. Admitted,
6. Admitted,
7. Denied. It is specifically denied that the Defendant has made use of the property
without the consent ofthe Plaintiffs. To the extent that Defendant has made use of the property,
the use has been for the purpose of increasing the value of the property,
8. Admitted in part and Denied in part, It is admitted that Plaintiffs have made a
claim for the sale and division of the subject property and division of the proceeds of the sale. It
is denied that Plaintiffs are entitled to a sale and division of the subject property. After
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reasonable investigation, the Defendant is without sufficient information to either admit or deny
the remaining averments ofthe paragraph.
9, Admitted in part and Denied in part. It is admitted that Plaintiffs have made a
claim for an accounting and division of income earned from the use of the subject property. It is
denied that Plaintiffs are entitled to an accounting and division of any income derived from the
use of subject property.
10. Admitted in part and Denied in part. It is admitted that Plaintiffs have made a
claim for legal fees and costs, It is denied that they are entitled to payment of legal fees and
costs.
WHEREFORE, Defendant respectfully requests that a judgment be entered in favor of
the Defendant and against the Plaintiffs together with costs, attorney's fees and such other relief
the Court deems just and appropriate,
NEW MATTER
11. Defendant incorporates by reference paragraphs 1 through 10 of Defendant's First
Amended Answer With New Matter and Counterclaim, as though set forth at length herein.
12. Plaintiffs' claims are barred by the defense of accord and satisfaction.
13, Plaintiffs' claims are barred by consent.
14, Plaintiffs' claims are barred by the defense of estoppel.
15. Plaintiffs' claims are barred by the defense oflaches,
16. Plaintiffs' claims are barred by the defense of license,
17. Plaintiffs' claims are barred by the defense of statute of limitations,
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WHEREFORE, Defendant respectfully requests that a judgment be entered in favor of
the Defendant and against the Plaintiffs together with costs, attorney's fees and such other relief
the Court deems just and appropriate.
COUNTERCLAIM
COUNT I - ASSUMPSIT
18. Defendant incorporates by reference paragraphs 1 through 16 as though set forth
herein at length.
19. Defendant and Plaintiffs are owners as tenants in common of an undivided one-
third interest in tract number one of the deed recorded in deed book X, Volume 25, Page 671.
20, It is believed that the aforementioned parcel contains approximately forty-two
(42) acres.
21. For over twenty-six (26) years, Defendant has been responsible for maintaining
the aforementioned property including but not limited to mowing the property.
22. For over twenty-six (26) years, Plaintiffs have been aware of Defendant's care
and maintenance of the property.
23, Plaintiffs have a duty to contribute to the care and maintenance of the
aforementioned property, however, have neglected to do so.
24. By Plaintiffs' failures to act, they have impliedly promised to reimburse
Defendant for its care and maintenance of the aforementioned property.
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WHEREFORE, Defendant respectfully requests that a judgment be entered in her favor
against the Plaintiffs in the amount of $8,900.00 together with costs, interest and reasonable
attorney's fees.
Respectfully Submitted,
IRA H. WEINSTOCK, P.C.
800 North Second Street
Harrisburg, PA 17102
Phone: (717) 238-1657
By: ~ l-l-~ LAJ..k~ -1~
IRA H. WEINSTOCK
By:
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JOHN'B. DO G TY
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COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA )
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COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND )
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I verify that the statements made in the attached FIRST AMENDED ANSWER
WITH NEW MATTER AND COUNTERCLAIM are true and correct. I understand that false
statements herein are made subject to the penalties set forth in 18 Pa. C. S. g4904 relating to
unsworn falsification to authorities.
DATED: S'~-O)
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MARTHA M. RAUDABAUGH
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CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
AND NOW, this 2nd day of March, 2001, I, Ira H. Weinstock, Esquire, attomey
for Defendant, Martha M, Raudabaugh, hereby certify that I served the within FIRST
AMENDED ANSWER WITH NEW MATTER AND COUNTERCLAIM this day by
depositing the same in the United States mail, postage prepaid, in the post office at Harrisburg,
Pennsylvania, addressed to:
By First Class Mail:
Stephen D. Tiley, Esquire
FREY & TILEY
5 South Hanover Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
By:
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IRA H. WEINSTOCK -
By:4L f3. L~.
JOHNB.DO HE TY
VELVAJ,MENTZERand
RICHARD N. YORLETIS,
PLAINTIFFS
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 2000-6398 CIVIL TERM
v.
MARTHA M. RAUDABAUGH,
DEFENDANT
IN PARTITION
NOTICE TO PLEAD
TO MARTHA M. RAUDABAUGH, DEFENDANT:
You are hereby notified to file a written response to the enclosed Plaintiffs'
New Matter, filed by Plaintiffs in connection with Defendant's Counterclaim, within
twenty (20) days from service thereof or a judgment may be entered against you,
Dated: IJ'I~ ~ d2f'/f) /
FREY&'L. ._
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Y S phen D, Tiley EsqUire,
5 South Hanover Street
Carlisle, Pa, 17013
(717) 243-5838
Supreme Court ID# 32318
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VELVA J. MENTZER and
RICHARD N. YORLETS,
PLAINTIFFS,
V.
MARTHA M. RAUDABAUGH,
DEFENDANT
IN THE COURT OF COMMON
PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 2000-6398 CIVIL TERM
IN PARTITION
ANSWER TO DEFENDANTS
FIRST AMEN,DED ANSWER WITH NEW MATTER AND COUNTERCLAIM
WITH PLAINTIFFS' NEW MA ITER
AND NOW, come the Plaintiffs, Velva J. Mentzer and Richard N. Yorlets, by and
through their council, Stephen D. Tiley, Esquire, and file this Answer to Defendant's
First Amended Answer With New Matter and Counterclaim With Plaintiffs' New Matter,
of which the following is a statement:
(Paragraph numbers refer to Defendant's First Amended Answer with New Matter and
Counterclaim)
ANSWER TO NEW MATTER
11. Paragraph 11 of Defendant's New Matter incorporates paragraphs 1
through 10 of Defendant's Answer.
Paragraphs 1 through 6 of Defendant's Answer admit
Complaint paragraphs 1 through 6 and therefore set forth
no counterclaim to which a responsive pleading is
required.
Paragraph 7 of Defendant's Answer is denied to the extent
that it avers, or may aver, that Defendant has made use of
the property for the purpose of increasing the value of the
Plaintiff's Answer with New Matter to Defendant's First Amended New Matter and Counterclaim
Page 1
n_
.
property. Defendant and Plaintiffs have reached no
agreement concerning the use of the property and the
Defendant has admitted this by admitting paragraph 6 of
Plaintiffs Complaint. Defendant has not made any use of
the property for the purpose of increasing its value.
Plaintiffs have not consented to any use of the property by
Defendant or her spouse. Defendant has made use of the
property, or a portion of it, by farming it solely for
Defendant's own gain. Instead of increasing the value of
the property, Defendant has used the property in manner
which significantly decreases its value by storing trash,
junk, and dilapidated structures on the property. By way of
further Answer to these averments, Plaintiffs state that after
reasonable investigation they are without knowledge or
information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the
averment that the Defendant has used the property for the
intent or purpose of increasing the property's value
therefore the averment is denied.
Paragraph 8 is admitted to the extent that it admits that the
Plaintiffs have made a claim for the sale and division of
the subject property and division of the proceeds of sale.
To all other extents paragraph 8 of Defendant's Answer
sets forth no averments of fact to which a responsive
pleading is required and is therefore denied.
Paragraph 9 of Defendant's Answer is admitted to the
extent it avers that the Plaintiffs have made a claim for an
accounting and division of income earned from the use of
the subject property. To all other extents paragraph 9 of
Defendant's Answer sets forth no averments of fact to
which a responsive pleading is required and is therefore
Plaintiff's Answer with New Matter to Defendant's First Amended New Matter and Counterclaim
II
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Page 2
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denied.
Paragraph 1 0 of Defendant's Answer Is admitted to the
extent that it avers that the Plaintiffs have made a claim for
legal fees and costs. To all other extents paragraph 10 of
Defendant's Answer sets forth' no averments of fact to
which a responsive pleading is required and is therefore
denied.
12. Denied. Defendant has averred no facts upon which to base the
conclusion set forth in this paragraph and in fact by admitting paragraph 6 of Plaintiffs
Complaint has admitted that there have been no such agreements which could be
construed as an accord and satisfaction. By way of further Answer, the averments of
this paragraph set forth conclusions of law to which no responsive pleading is
required. Strict proof at trial is demanded.
13. Denied. Defendant has averred no facts upon which to base the
conclusion set forth in this paragraph and in fact by admitting paragraph 6 of
Plaintiff's Complaint has admitted that there have been no such agreements which
could be construed as consent. By way of further Answer, the averments of this
paragraph set forth conclusions of law to which no responsive pleading is required.
Strict proof at trial is demanded.
14. Denied. The averments of this paragraph set forth conclusions of law to
which no responsive pleading is required. Strict proof at trial is demanded.
15. Denied. The averments of this paragraph set forth conclusions of law to
which no responsive pleading is required. Strict proof at trial is demanded.
16. Denied. Defendant has averred no facts upon which to base the
conclusion set forth in this paragraph and in fact by admitting paragraph 6 of Plaintiff's
Complaint has admitted that there have been no such agreements which could be
Plaintiff's Answer with New Matter to Defendant's First Amended New Matter and Counterclaim
Page 3
construed as a license. By way of further Answer, the averments of this paragraph set
forth conclusions of law to which no responsive pleading is required. Strict proof at
trial is demanded.
17. Denied. The averments of this paragraph set forth conclusions of law to
which no responsive pleading is required. Strict proof at trial is demanded.
ANSWER TO COUNTERCLAIM
18. Paragraph 18 incorporates paragraphs 1 through 16 of Defendant's
Answer with New Matter.
Paragraphs 1 through 6 of Defendant's Answer admit
Complaint paragraphs 1 through 6 and therefore set forth
no counterclaim to which a responsive pleading is
required.
Paragraph 7 of Defendant's Answer is denied to the
extent that it avers, or may aver, that Defendant has
made use of the property for the purpose of increasing
the value of the property. Defendant and Plaintiffs have
reached no agreement concerning the use of the
property and the Defendant has admitted this by
admitting paragraph 6 of Plaintiffs Complaint.
Defendant has not made any use of the property for the
purpose of increasing its value. Plaintiffs have not
consented to any use of the property by Defendant or her
spouse. Defendant has made use of the property, or a
portion of it, by farming it solely for Defendant's own gain.
Instead of increasing the value of the property, Defendant
has used the property in manner which significantly
Plaintiff's Answer with New Matter to Defendant's First Amended New Matter and Counterclaim
Page 4
decreases its value by storing trash, junk, and
dilapidated structures on the property. By way of further
Answer to these averments, Plaintiffs state that after
reasonable investigation they are without knowledge or
information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the
averment that the Defendant has used the property for
the intent or purpose of increasing the property's value
therefore the averments are denied.
Paragraph 8 is admitted to the extent that it admits that
the Plaintiffs have made a claim for the sale and division
of the subject property and division of the proceeds of
sale. To all other extents paragraph 8 of Defendant's
Answer sets forth no averments of fact to which a
responsive pleading is required and is therefore denied.
Paragraph 9 of Defendant's Answer is admitted to the
extent that it avers that the Plaintiffs have made a claim
for an accounting and division of income earned from
the use of the subject property. To all other extents
paragraph 9 of Defendant's Answer sets forth no
averments of fact to which a responsive pleading is
required and is therefore denied
Paragraph 10 of Defendant's Answer is admitted to the
extent that it avers that the Plaintiffs have made a claim
for legal fees and costs. To all other extents paragraph
10 of Defendant's Answer sets forth no averments of
fact to which a responsive pleading is required and is
therefore denied.
Paragraphs 11 through 16 (which set forth Defendant's
Plaintiffs Answer with New Matter to Defendant's First Amended New Matter and Counterclaim
Page 5
--~,
,
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New Matter with the inclusion of paragraph 17 which
was not referenced) are denied for the reasons set forth
in paragraphs 11 through 17 of this Answer to the extent
that they aver facts to which a responsive pleading is
required. Furthermore the averments of these
paragraphs set forth conclusions of law to which no
responsive pleading is required. For the foregoing
reasons, Defendant's averments set forth in her New
Matter are denied to the extent that they are incorporated
into Defendant's Counterclaim.
19. Admitted.
20. Admitted.
21. Denied. For over 26 years Defendant has treated all or most of the
property as her own (or that of her and her spouse) and Plaintiffs have been harassed
whenever they have attempted to make use of the property. Rather than being
"responsible for maintaining" the property, Defendant has treated the property as her
own. The parties were never able to reach any agreements as to the use of the
property, nor were there any agreements concerning its care or maintenance.
Defendant, and her spouse, were simply volunteers doing whatever they wanted with
co-owned property which they treated as their own. The southeastern portion of the
land was not mowed for many years. This INas satisfactory to Plaintiffs. For some
reason last year Defendant, or her spouse, chose to mow it. Plaintiff Velva J. Mentzer
has paid a contractor to mow the area immediately around her house a number of
times over the years. However, at times, Defendant, or her spouse, would mow this
area, without being asked, and before Plaintiffs would have done so. On one
occasion, Defendant, or her spouse, discovered that Plaintiff Richard N. Yorlets
desired to hunt deer in the overgrown field in the southwestern area of the property
and then mowed that area, preslJmably to impend such hunting.
Plaintiffs Answer with New Matter to Defendant's First Amended New Matter and Counterclaim
Page 6
.-
22. Admitted in part, Denied in part. For 26 years Plaintiffs have been unable
to reach an agreement with the Defendant concerning the care, maintenance and use
of the property. Plaintiffs have been aware of Defendant's use of the property, but are
not aware of any care or maintenance alleged to be for their benefit. Plaintiffs have
had no control over Defendant's use of the property for over 26 years, and, during that
time, had no knowledge that Defendant considered her use of the property to be care
or maintenance. For roughly 26 years neither Defendant nor her spouse made any
request, claim, demand, or even comment to Plaintiffs to the effect that she, or they,
considered themselves to be maintaining the property for the benefit of Plaintiffs, nor
to the effect that she, or they, expected any compensation for any alleged care or
maintenance.
23. Denied. The subject property is woodland, scrubland, and due to
Defendants continued use, farmland. Other than the dilapidated structures placed
upon the property by Defendant, without the permission or consent of Plaintiffs, there
are no structures to maintain. There being no structures to maintain, the land
requires no maintenance. If there was a desire to maintain the land as farmland it
could have and should have been rented to a third party willing to pay rent for the use.
Plaintiffs have requested but never been paid rent by Defendant for Defendant's use
of a portion of the land as farmland. By way of further Answer, the averments of this
paragraph set forth conclusions of law to which no responsive pleading is required.
Strict proof at trial is demanded.
24. Denied. Plaintiffs have previously sought to have the property sold and
to reach an agreement with Defendant concerning Defendant's use of the property but
have been unable to do so. Plaintiffs did not fail to act but rather Defendant failed to
reach any reasonable accord with Plaintiffs concerning the use of the property.
Defendant or her spouse, has simply made whatever use of the property which
Defendant desired and Plaintiffs have no financial duty to Defendant for Defendant's
activities for personal pleasure or profit. To'the extent of the averment of this
paragraph set forth a conclusion of law no responsive pleading is required and the
averments are Denied, strict proof at trial is demanded.
Plai1lliff's Answer with New Matter to Defendant's First Amended New Matter and Counterclaim
Page 7
- ~, ""
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs respectfully request Your Honorable Court to enter a
judgment in favor of Plaintiffs and against Defendant, together with costs, attorney's
fees and such other relief as to the Court may seem just and proper.
PLAINTIFFS' NEW MATTER
25. The averments of paragraph 11 through 24 of Plaintiffs Answer to
Defendant's Counterclaim are incorporated herein by reference hereto as if fully set
forth herein.
26. Defendant's Counterclaim is barred by consent. Plaintiffs repeatedly
attempted to work out an arrangement for the sale of the property, or for the use of the
property by the Defendant and Plaintiffs but Defendant would agree to no reasonable
arrangements other than that Defendant used any and all of the property in such a
manner as Defendant desired and Defendant, or her spouse, repeatedly harassed
Plaintiffs when they attempted to make any use of the property. There was no
agreement for any maintenance or care of the property and to the extent that
Defendant may have maintained or cared for the property Defendant was a volunteer.
As Defendant knew that Plaintiff demanded payment for Defendant's profit making
use of the property, Defendant must have known that Plaintiffs would not pay for
Defendant's use of the property. Defendant's use of the property was therefore with
the knowledge and consent of Defendant that the use was that of an unpaid volunteer,
but that Defendant's continued use constituted consent to pay for the use of the
property or share the profits from such use with Plaintiffs.
27. Defendant's Counterclaim is barred by the defense of the estoppel,
laches and statute of limitations. Never, until a letter from Defendant's prior counsel
dated February 2, 2001, was there any mention of, request, or demand for any
compensation for any alleged care or maintenance of the property which Defendant
may have made. The averments of paragraphs 25 and 26 of the New Matter are
incorporated herein by reference thereto.
Plaintiffs Answer with New Matter to Defendant's First Amended New Matter and Counterclaim
Page 8
WHEREfORE, Plaintiffs pray Your Honorable Court for a judgment in their favor,
and against Defendant, on the Defendant's Counterclaim, and Your such other and
further relief as to the Court may seem just and proper.
RE;SPECTFULL Y SUBMITTED,
Date: m~ /dj cZDO(
FREY & TILEY
~{)-~
By Step en D. Tiley Esquire,
5 South Hanover Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 243-5838
Supreme Court ID# 32318
VERIFICATION
We Velva J. Mentzer and Richard N. Yorlets, depose and say that we are the
Plaintiffs in the above matter; and that the facts set forth in the forgoing Answer with
Plaintiffs' New Matter are true and correct based partly upon personal knowledge and
the remainder upon information and belief; We understand that this Verification is
made subject to the penalties of 18 Pa.C.S. ~4904, relating to unsworn falsification to
authorities.
Dated:/71,fy /5'/ d<e)t!J/
/!~ J 9%J)/74~/l/
Velva J. Mentzer
&kt/!/~
ich rd N. Yorets
Plaintiff's Answer with New Matter to Defendant's First Amende~ New Matter and Counterclaim
Page 9
II
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VELVAJ.MENTZERand
RICHARD N. YORLETS,
PLAINTIFFS
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 2000-6398 CIVIL TERM
v.
MARTHA M. RAUDABAUGH,
DEFENDANT
IN PARTITION
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that I have this day served a copy of Plaintiffs Answer to
Defendant's First Amended Answer With New Matter and Counterclaim With Plaintiffs'
New Matter upon the persons, and in the manner, indicated below, by depositing a
copy of the same with the United States Post Office, first class mail, post prepaid and
addressed as follows:
IRA H. WEINSTOCK, P.C.
800 North Second Street
Harrisburg, PA 17102
Phone: 717-238-1657
/'J1 ~ .:2 '2
Dated: ~ #, 2001
~))-?
Stephen . Tiley, Esquire ~
Attorney for Plaintiffs
5 South Hanover Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 243-5838
Attorney I.D. #32318
. . --~ -- -
;,~
1_
VEL V A J. MENTZER and
RICHARD N. YORLETS,
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNA.
Plaintiffs,
vs.
No. 2000 - 6398
MARTHA M. RAUDABAUGH,
Defendant.
CIVIL TERM
IN PARTITION
DEFENDANT'S ANSWER TO PLAINTIFFS' NEW MATTER
25. Defendant incorporates by reference paragraphs 1-24 of Plaintiffs' First Amended
Answer with New Matter and Counterclaim as though set forth at length herein.
26. Denied. Plaintiffs' allegation contains a conclusion of law to which no answer is
required. To the extent an answer is required, Defendant denies the same and demands strict
proof thereof at trial.
27. Denied. Plaintiffs' allegation contains a conclusion of law to which no answer is
required. To the extent an answer is required, Defendant denies the same and demands strict
proof thereof at triaL
WHEREFORE, Defendant respectfully request that judgment be entered in her favor and
against the Plaintiffs and in favor of the Defendant on Defendant's Counterclaim together with
such other relief the Court deems just and proper.
Respectfully Submitted,
IRA H. WEINSTOCK, P.c.
800 North Second Street
Harrisburg, P A 17102
Phone: (717) 238-1657
BY:~.{J~
HN B. DOUGH TY
I I
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CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
AND NOW, this 2nd day of November, 2001, I, John B. Dougherty, Esquire,
attorney for Defendant, Martha M. Raudabaugh, hereby certify that I served the within
DEFENDANT'S ANSWER TO PLAINTIFFS' NEW MATTER this day by depositing the
same in the United States mail, postage prepaid, in the post office at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania,
addressed to:
By First Class Mail:
Stephen D. Tiley, Esquire
FREY & TILEY
5 South Hanover Street
Carlisle, P A 17013
By: ~6,~~
. JOHN B. DO GHE Y
.
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VELVA J. MENTZER and
RICHARD N. YORLETTS,
PLAINTIFFS
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 2000-6398 CIVIL TERM
v.
MARTHA M. RAUDABAUGH,
DEFENDANT
IN PARTITION
PRAECIPE
TO: CUMBERLAND COUNTY PROTHONOTARY:
Please mark the above cap,tioned matter settled and discontinued as to both
the original Complaint and the Counterclaims.
Date: January /~ , 2002
~ ,(),~
Stephe D. Tiley, Esquire
5 South Hanover Stteet
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 243-5838
Supreme Court ID #32318
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Ira H. Weinstock, Esquire
800 North Second Street
Harrisburg, PA 17102
(717) 238-1657
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