HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-2352
LAURA RICKABAUGH,
Plaintiff
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
v.
: CIVIL ACTION - LAW
~ No.o3-~3~ CIVIL TERM
RICHARD L. RICKABAUGH,
Defendant
: IN DIVORCE
NOTICE
You have been sued in court. If you wish to defend against the claims set forth in the
following pages, you must take prompt action. You are warned that if you fail to do so, the case
may proceed without you and a decree of divorce or annulment may be entered against you by the
court. A judgment may also be entered against you for any other claim or relief requested in
these papers by the Plaintiff. You may lose money or property or other rights important to you,
including custody or visitation of your children.
When the ground for the divorce is indignities or irretrievable breakdown of the marriage,
you may request marriage counseling. A list of marriage counselors is available in the Office of
the Prothonotary at the Cumberland County Court House, High and Hanover Streets, Carlisle.
IF YOU DO NOT FaE A CLAIM FOR ALIMONY, DMSION OF PROPERTY,
LAWYER'S FEES OR EXPENSES BEFORE A DIVORCE OR ANNULMENT IS GRANTED,
YOU MAY LOSE THE RIGHT TO CLAIM ANY OF THEM.
YOU SHOULD TAKE TIllS 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
32 South Bedford Street
Carlisle, P A 17013
Phone: (717) 249-3166
LAURA RICKABAUGH,
Plaintiff
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYL VANIA
v.
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
RICHARD L. RICKABAUGH,
Defendant
: NO. ()J-..2.lr:J- CIVIL TERM
: IN DIVORCE
COMPLAINT UNDER SECTION 3301(d)
OF THE DIVORCE CODE
1. Plaintiff is Laura Rickabaugh, who currently resides at 160 Elm Street, Carlisle,
Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, since March 1, 2003.
2. Defendant is Richard L. Rickabaugh, who is currently incarcerated at SCI Smithfield,
1120 Pike Street, P,O. Box 999, Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, since approximately 1998-1999.
3. Plaintiff and Defendant have both been bona fide residents in the Commonwealth for at
least six months immediately previous to filing of this Complaint.
4. Plaintiffand Defendant were married on November 25, 1989, in Weirton, Hancock
County, West Virginia.
5. There have been no prior actions of divorce or for annulment between the parties
hereto in this or any other jurisdiction.
6. The marriage is irretrievably broken.
7. Plaintiff has been advised that counseling is available, and that Plaintiff may have the
right to request that the Court require the parties to participate in counseling.
8. Plaintiff requests the Court to enter a Decree in Divorce.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiff respectfully requests this Honorable Court to enter a Decree in
Divorce and such other Orders as may be just and appropriate.
Respectfully submitted,
ROMINGER & BAYLEY
1)~~e.. r.; \S'"., 0>,
t:1~!El vJ-
Attorney for Plaintiff
155 South Hanover Street
Carlisle, P A 17013
(717) 241-6070
LAURA RICKABAUGH,
Plaintiff
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
v.
: CIVIL ACTION - LAW
RICHARD L. RICKABAUGH,
Defendant
: NO.
CIVIL TERM
: IN DIVORCE
VERIFICATION
I verify that the statements made in this Complaint are true and correct. I understand that
false statements herein are made subject to the penalties of 18 Pa.C.S. ~ 4904, relating to unsworn
falsification to authorities.
Date: 5- \ S-- D S
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Laura Rickabaugh, Plaintiff ({ ,
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LAURA RICKABAUGH,
Plaintiff
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYL VANIA
v,
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
: No.03-2.35.2 CIVIL TERM
RICHARD L. RICKABAUGH,
Defendant
: IN DIVORCE
DEFENDANT'S COUNTER-AFFIDAVIT UNDER
SECTION 330Hd) OF THE DIVORCE CODE
1. Check either (a) or (b):
(a) I do not oppose the entry of a divorce decree.
~
(b)
I oppose the entry of a divorce decree because:
Check (i), (ii) or both):
(i) The parties to this action have not lived separate and apart
for a period of at least two years,
/
(ii)
The marriage is not irretrievably broken.
2. Check either (a) or (b):
(a)
I do not wish to make any claims for economic relief I
understand that I may lose rights concerning alimony,
division of property, lawyer's fees or expenses ifI do not
claim them before a divorce is granted,
/
(b)
I wish to claim economic relief which may include alimony,
division of property, lawyer's fees or expenses or other
important rights.
I understand that in addition to checking (b) above, I must also file all of my economic
claims with the prothonotary in writing and serve them on the other party. IfI fail to do so before
the date set forth on the Notice ofIntention to Request Divorce Decree, the divorce decree may
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LAURA RICKABAUGH,
Plaintiff
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
v.
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
RICHARD 1. RICKABAUGH,
Defendant
. .,.~~
: NO. 03,:}j5o<, CIVIL TERM
: IN DIVORCE
NOTICE
You have been sued in court, If you wish to defend against the claims set forth in the
following pages, you must take prompt action. You are warned that if you fail to do so, the case
may proceed without you and a decree of divorce or annulment may be entered against you by the
court. A judgment may also be entered against you for any other claim or relief requested in
these papers by the Plaintiff. You may lose money or property or other rights important to you,
including custody or visitation of your children.
When the ground for the divorce is indignities or irretrievable breakdown of the maniage,
you may request marriage counseling. A list ofmaniage counselors is available in the Office of
the Prothonotary at the Cumberland County Court House, High and Hanover Streets, Carlisle.
IF YOU DO NOT FILE A CLAIM FOR ALIMONY, DMSION OF PROPERTY,
LAWYER'S FEES OR EXPENSES BEFORE A QIVORCp OR ANNULMENT IS GRANTED,
YOU MAY LOSE THE RIGID TO CLAIM A1jY OF THE~-'
YOU SHOULD TAKE TillS PAPER TO YOUR LAWYER AT ONCE, IF YOU DO
NOT HA VB A LAWYER OR CANNOT AFFORD ONE, GO TO OR TELEPHONE TIfE
OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW TO FIND OUT WHERE YOU CAN GET LEGAL HELP.
Cumberland County Bar Association
32 South Bedford Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
Phone: (717) 249-3166
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8. Plaintiff requests the Court to enter a Decree in Divorce.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiff respectfully requests this Honorable Court to enter a Decree in
Divorce and such other Orders as may be just and appropriate.
D,,~e..
Respectfully submitted,
ROMINGER & BAYLEY
r~ \)Jo3
/V1 r-zA} C V).
~chiclJ.~e,EsJ.
Attorney for Plaintiff
155 South Hanover Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 241-6070
LAURA RICKABAUGH,
Plaintiff
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYL VANIA
v.
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
RICHARD L. RICKABAUGH,
Defendant
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: NO. Q3 d3$:( CIVIL TERM
: IN DIVORCE
NOTICE
If you wish to deny any of the statements set forth in this Affidavit, you must file a
counter-affidavit within twenty (20) days after this Affidavit has been served on you or the
statements will be admitted.
(..
AFFIDAVIT UNDER
SECTION 33011d) OF THE DIVORCE CODE
1. The parties to this action separated in December of 1995, and have continued to live
separate and apart for a period of at least two years.
2. The marriage is irretrievably broken,
3, I understand that I may lose rights concerning alimony, division of property, lawyer's
fees or expenses ifl do not claim them before a divorce is granted,
I verify that the statements made in this Affidavit are true and correct. I understand that
false statements herein are made subject to the penalties of IS Pa. C.S, ~ 4904 relating to unsworn
falsification to authorities.
Date: 5"- i 5- -c .s
. -Ll I .0-,.. ijj; eke. bCi...<..J v i-I
Laura Rickabaugh, Plaintiff:::'
LAURA RICKABAUGH,
Plaintiff
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
v.
: CIVll.. ACTION - LAW
RICHARD L. RICKABAUGH,
Defendant
: NO. 03- 2352
CIVll.. TERM
: IN DIVORCE
AFFIDAVIT OF SERVICE
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA )
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND )
I, Michael 1. Whare, Esquire, did serve by a Process Server to Richard L. Rickabaugh, a
Complaint under Section 3301(d) ofthe Divorce Code at his address in Huntingdon, Pennsylvania
16652. Service was executed on May 22,2003. Affidavit of Service is attached.
Dated: June 3, 2003
Respectfully submitted,
ROMINGER & BAYLEY
du~sqtvA
155 South Hanover Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717)241- 6070
Supreme Court ill # 89028
Attorney for Plaintiff
AFFIDAVIT. OF SERVICE
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
County of Cumberland
Common Pleas Court
Case Number: 03-2352
Plaintiff:
Laura Riekabaugh
vs.
Defendant:
Richard L. Rickabaugh
For: Mike Whare
Rominger & Bayley
ReceNed by ROMINGER LEGAL on the 19th day of May, 2003 at 4:08 pm to be~Mld OJ! ~HARD L.
RICKABAUGH AT: SCI Smithfield, 1120 Pike St.. Huntindon, PA 16652. I, )5f( I AN H/J/( ~ R .
being duly sworn, depose and say that on the.9J",L day of ;11 ,4, V .20& at 11 ::so 1..4m., eJCeCuted _r '\V\o
service bv delivering a true copy of the No-\-ic~ - t::>1 \l DfG't' J A~\ de-\J \-\;. LVN:.\-e < 'Sec.A..\<Y'\ 3~::>I(d ') lfr
b ~Q(t-( Cod~ 4- (A\s:, in accordance w~h state statutes in the manner marked below:. d "r"\\M S)\\.lO\(-e..
D.,. -4x0.&rA;S CJ:::u,.......,\-t> {- ~l.c.\CJ..Ni -\:.. ~oQJ( S-<>e'>;'Xl'Y' 3"? D \ ( ,Cl"'<- (Cf-\f
y(INDMDUAL SERVICE: SeMld the within-named person.
( ) SUBSTITUTE SERVICE: By serving as
( ) POSTED SERVICE: After attempting service on _'_ at _ and on ----1_ at_ to a conspicuous
place on the property described herein.
( ) NON SERVICE: For the reason detailed in the Comments below.
MHitary Status: ( ) Yes or ( ) No If yes, what branch?
Marital Status: ( ) Married or ( ) Single Name of Spouse
COMMENTS:
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Age I Se~F Race
HeiQirt/j;/Cld -- Weight /J" otHai~j;'1 I i ~ G'asse0-.-
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I certify that I have no interest in the above action, am of legal age and have proper authority in the jurisdiction in
which this service was made.
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Subscribed and Sworn to before me on the ..2drd day
of f'rl':tn' ;?OO3 by the afflllnt who is
personally kn to me.
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OTARY P BLlC
NOTARIAL SEAL
I<Imbra J. DruclcemIDer, Notary
Borough of 1..ewIatown, MrIIin County,
My Commission expires Julv '1 .
PROCESS SERVER #
Appointed in accordance
with State Statutes
ROMINGER LEGAL
155 S. Hanover St.
O. Box 1148
arlisle, PA 17013
17) 960-9260
ur Job Serial Number: 2003000100
CopyrlghtC 1992-2001 Database SeMce9, Inc. - Process Server's TooIboxV5.5f
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LAURA RICKABAUGH,
Plaintiff
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYL VANIA
v.
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
RICHARD L.
RICKABAUGH,
Defendant
NO. 03-2352 CIVIL TERM
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this 19th day of August, 2003, upon consideration of! Plaintiff's
Petition To Bifurcate, a hearing is scheduled for Monday, October 27, 2003, at 9:30 a.m.,
in Courtroom No.1, Cumberland County Courthouse, Carlisle, Pennsylvapia. This
hearing will be cancelled and the bifurcation ordered in the event that the paries file a
,
stipulation to that effect and that the divorce is agreed upon.
BY THE COURT,
~ichael J. Whare, Esq.
155 S. Hanover Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
Attorney for Plaintiff
(J
~chard L. Rickabaugh, DB-6288
SCI-Smithfield
P.O. Box 999
Huntingdon, PA 16652
Defendant, Pro Se
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LAURA RICKABAUGH,
Plaintiff
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYL VANIA
v.
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
RICHARD L.
RICKABAUGH,
Defendant
NO. 03-2352 CIVIL TERM
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, his 27th day of October, 2003, it is hereby ordered and directed that
the Prothonotary of umberland County, Pennsylvania, issue a Writ of Habeas Corpus ad
Prosequendum directing the Warden of the State Correctional Institution at Huntingdon,
to deliver the body f RICHARD L. RICKABAUGH to the Sheriffs Department of
Cumberland County Pennsylvania, for the purpose of a hearing on a petition to bifurcate
scheduled for Mon ay, November 24, 2003, at 1:30 p.m., at the Cumberland County
For the purp se of his release from the said institution and his return thereto
den of the State Correctional Institution at Huntingdon.
Courthouse. The S riffs Department of Cumberland County is hereby directed to serve
the Writ upon the
following the heari g, unless otherwise ordered by the Court, this order to constitute
sufficient warrant.
BY THE COURT,
Cumberland Count
Sheriff's Office
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LAURA RICKABAUGH,
Plaintiff
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
v.
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
RICHARD L.
RICKABAUGH,
Defendant
NO. 03-2352 CIVIL TERM
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this 17th day of November, 2003, it is hereby ordered and directed
that the Prothonotary of Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, issue a Writ of Habeas
Corpus ad Prosequendum directing the Warden of the State Correctional Institution at
Smithfield, to deliver the body of RICHARD L. RICKABAUGH to the Sheriffs
Department of Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, for the purpose of a hearing on a
petition to bifurcate scheduled for Monday, November 24, 2003, at 1 :30 p.m., at the
Cumberland County Courthouse. The Sheriffs Department of Cumberland County is
hereby directed to serve the Writ upon the Warden of the State Correctional Institution at
Smithfield.
For the purpose of his release from the said institution and his return thereto
following the hearing, unless otherwise ordered by the Court, this order to constitute
sufficient warrant.
BY THE COURT,
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r:Wesley Ol~;)
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Cumberland County
Sheriffs Office
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IN THE COURT OF COMMONPLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL DIVISION
Laura Rickabaugh
Plaintiff,
Vs.
Richard L. Rickabaugh
Defendant,
File No. 03-2352 Civil Term
WRIT OF HABEAS CORPUS
TO: Sheriff of Cumberland County
By an Act of Assembly of 1785, we command you to have the body or
bodies of Richard L. Rickabaul!h before the Honorable J. Wesley Oler, Jr.,
Judge of our Court of Common Pleas of Cumberland County, at the
Courthouse, in the city of Carlisle, Pennsylvania, on Monday the 24th day of
November, 2003, at 1 :30 o'clock, P.M. in Courtroom Number 1.
WITNESS, the Honorable J. Wesley Oler, Jr., Judge, of our said court,
at Carlisle, this 17th day of November, 2003.
CURTIS R. LONG
Prothonotary, Civil Division
BY'~")). DOPU'
LAURA RlCKABAUGH,
Plaintiff
v.
RlCHARD L.
RlCKABAUGH,
Defendant
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYL VANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LA W
NO. 03-2352 CIVIL TERM
PLAINTIFF'S PETITION TO BIFURCATE
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this 17th day of November, 2003, upon consideration of the attached
letter from Defendant requesting appointment of an attorney and a postponement of the
hearing on Plaintiff's Petition To Bifurcate "until the matter of the attorney can be
resolved," Defendant's request for appointment of counsel is deniedl and the request for a
postponement of the hearing in this regard is denied.
Michael J. Whare, Esq.
155 S. Hanover Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
Attorney for Plaintiff
~chard L. Rickabaugh, DB-6288
SCI -Smithfield
P.O. Box 999
Huntingdon, PA 16652
Defendant, Pro Se
:rc
BY THE COURT,
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I See Rich v, Acrivos, 815 A.2d 1106, 1108 (Pa. Super. Ct. 2003),
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Richard L. Rickabaugh, DB-6288
SCI-Smithfield
P.O. Box 999. 1120 pike Street
Huntingdon, Pa. 16652
November 6,2003
In the Court Of Common Pleas
Of Cumberland County, pennsylvania
J. Wesley Oler, Jr.
Judge
One Courthouse Square
carlisle. Pa. 17013
Re:Laura Rickabauqh V. Richard Rickabauqh
No. 03-22352 civil Term
Your Honor, I respectfully ask that an attorney be appointed
to the defendant. Richard Rickabaugh on these matters. The reason
for this request is because. I can not afford an attorney. I
respectfully ask that the hearing be postpone, until the matter
of the attorney can be resolved.
Respectfully Submitted.
Q~~h~ ~
RICHARD RICKABAUGH
LAURA RICKABAUGH,
Plaintiff
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
v,
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
RICHARD L. RICKABAUGH,
Defendant
No. 03-235;' CIVIL TERM
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this 24th day of November, 2003,
upon consideration of Plaintiff's Petit~ion To Bifurcate, and
pursuant to an agreement of the parties reached in open
court and on the record, the Plaintiff's Petition To
Bifurcate is granted, and the Plaintiff is authorized to
proceed with the litigation as it relates to grounds for
divorce without at the same time litigating economic issues.
The sheriff is requested to expedite the
Defendant's return to the state prison.
By the Court,
cI/e-
Michael J. Whare, Esquire
155 S. Hanover Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
For the Plaintiff
Richard L. Rickabaugh,
SCI-Smithfield
P.O. Box 999
Huntingdon, PA 16652
Defendant, Pro Se
DB-6288
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Laura Rickabaugh,
Plaintiff
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYL VANIA
v.
Richard L. Rickabaugh,
Defendant
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
NO. 03-2352
IN DIVORCE
CIVIL TERM
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 prompt action. You are warned that if you fail to do so, the case
may proceed without you and a decree of divorce or annulment may be entered against you by the
Court. A judgment may also be entered against you for any other claim or relief requested in these
papers by the Plaintiff. You may lose money or property or other rights important to you, including
custody or visitation of your children.
When the ground for the divorce is indignities or irretrievable breakdown of the marriage,
you may request marriage counseling. A list of marriage counsdors is available in the Office of the
Prothonotary at the Cumberland County Court House, High and Hanover Streets, Carlisle, P A.
IF YOU DO NOT FILE A CLAIM FOR ALIMONY, DIVISION OF PROPERTY,
LAWYER'S FEES OR EXPENSES BEFORE A DIVORCE OR ANNULMENT IS GRANTED,
YOU MAY LOSE THE RIGHT TO CLAIM ANY OF THEM.
YOU SHOULD TAKE THIS PAPER TO YOUR LAWYER A T 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, P A 17013
Phone: (717) 249-3166 or (800) 990-9108
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,
Laura Rickabaugh,
Plaintiff
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYL VANIA
v.
Richard L. Rickabaugh,
Defendant
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
NO. 03-2352
IN DIVORCE
CIVIL TERM
AMENDED COMPLAINT FOR DIVORCE
I. Plaintiff is Laura Rickabaugh, an adult individual, who currently resides at 160 Elm
Street, Carlisle, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania 17013.
2, Defendant is Richard L. Rickabaugh, an adult individlual, who is currently incarcerated at
SCI Smithfield, 1120 Pike Street, P. O. Box 999, Huntingdon, Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania
16654, since approximately 1998-1999.
3. Plaintiff and Defendant have both been bona fide residents in the Commonwealth for at
least six months immediately previous to filing of this Complaint.
COUNT I - DIVORCE UNDER SECTION 3301(0)
4. Plaintiff and Defendant were married on November 25, 1989, in Weirton, Hancock
County, West Virginia.
5, There have been no prior actions of divorce or for annulment between the parties hereto in
this or any other jurisdiction.
6. The marriage is irretrievably broken,
7. Plaintiff has been advised that counseling is available, and that Plaintiff may have the
right to request that the Court require the parties to participate in counseling.
8. Plaintiff requests the Court to enter a Decree in Divorce.
COUNT II - UNDER SECTION 3301(A)(S)
9. The prior paragraphs of this Complaint are incorporated by reference,
10. On July 23, 1996, the Defendant was sentenced to a term of imprisonment in excess of
two (2) years for various drug-related offenses.
II. Defendant was sentenced to serve 40 to 64 years befl)re the Honorable Hiram A.
Carpenter, III, in Blair County, Pennsylvania.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiff respectfully requests this Honorable Court to enter a Decree in
Divorce and such other Orders as may be just and appropriate.
Respectfully submitted,
I/-/?- 0 <(
fV/~U /jW~
Michael 1. Whare, Es2l'iire
155 South Hanover Street
Carlisle, PAl 7013
(7 17) 241-6070
Supreme Court ID # 89028
Attorney for Plaintiff
Date:
VERIFICATION
I verify that the statements made in this Complaint are true and correct. I understand that
false statements herein are made subject to the penalties of 18 Pa. c.s. 94904, relating to unsworn
falsification to authorities.
Date: 4- I':' -()L.f
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Laura Rickabaugh, Plamtiff
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Richard L. Rickabaugh, DB-6288
P.O. Box 999, 1120 PIke St.
Huntingdon, Pa. 16652
May 13,2004
Office Of The Prothonotary
At The Cumberland County Court House
High and Hanover Streets
Carlisle, Pa. 17013
Re: No. 03-2352 Divorce
I am notifying the said office, that I am refusing to sign the
following documents, Affidavit Of Consent: and Waiver Of Intention
To request Entry Of A Divorce Decree Undler Y330l( c) The Divorce
Code.
I don't feel as though that my marlriage was irretrievably
broken.
I am also requesting a hearing in front of a jUdge, so that I
may object to the divorce.
I'm also sending you a copy of the letter that I sent to,
Michael J. Whare, Esquire, at 155 S. Hanover Street.-Carlile,
Pa. 17013.
Respectfully,
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Richard L. Rickabaugh, DB-6288
P.O. Box 999, 1120 Pike St.
Huntingdon, Pa. 16652
May 13,2004
Michael J. Whare, Esquire
Rominger, Bayley & Whare
155 S. Hanover St.
Carlisle, Pa. 17013
Re: No. 03-2352 Divorce
Mr. Whare,
I'm responding to the letter that your office sent me dated
April 30,2004.
I am notifying your office that I am refusing to sign the
fOllowing documents, Affidavit Of Consent and Waiver Of Intention
To Request Entry Of A Divorce Decree Under Y3301( c) The Divorce
Code.
I don't feel that my marriage is
I am in within days of getting a
my appeal.
I am requesting a hearing in
matters.
I am sending a copy of this letter to the, Office of
Prothonotary of Cumberland County. I will notifying the Office of
the Prothonotary, that I am requesting a hearing to object to the
divorce.
irretrievably broken.
decision from the court about
front of the jUdge on these
Respectfully,
RICHARD L. RICKABAUGH
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LAURA RICKABAUGH,
Plaintiff
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO, 03 - 2352 CIVIL
RICHARD L. RICKABAUGH,
Defendant
IN DIVORCE
NOTICE OF FILING MASTER'S REPORT
The report of the Master has been filed this date and
copies have been sent with this notice to counsel of record and
the parties.
In accordance with P.R.C.P. 1920.55 within ten (10) days
after the mailing of this notice and report exceptions may be
filed to the report by any party.
If no exceptions are filed
within the ten (10) day period, the Court shall receive the
report, and if approved, shall enter a final decree in
accordance with the recommendations contained in the report,
Date: 10/22/04
E. Robert Elicker, II
Divorce Master
NOTE: If exceptions are filed, file the original with the
Prothonotary and a copy with the Master's office. At
that time, the party filing the exceptions should
notify the court reporter in the Master's office so
arrangements can be made for a transcript. Upon
completion of the transcript and receipt of payment,
the entire file will be returned to the
Prothonotary's office for transmittal to the Court at
time of argument on the exceptions.
If no exceptions are filed, counsel shall prepare an
order of Court consistent with the recommendations
and provide a proposed order of Court to the Master.
Counsel shall also prepare and provide with the
*
proposed order of Court a praecipe* to the
Prothonotary directing the Prothonotary to submit the
case to the Court for final disposition. The Master
will then transfer the file with the proposed order
of Court and praecipe to the Prothonotary's Office
for docketing and transmittal by the Prothonotary to
the Court.
Form available in the Prothonotary's office and the
Master's office. (NOT the praecipe to transmit the
record form as set out in P.R.C.P. 1920.73(b).)
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LAURA RICKABAUGH,
Plaintiff
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
vs.
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
NO. 03 - 2352 CIVIL
RICHARD L. RICKABAUGH,
Defendant
IN DIVORCE
MASTER'S REPORT
Proceedings held before
E. Robert Elicker, II, Divorce Master
9 North Hanover Street, Carlisle, PA 17013
proceedings held on October 21, 2004,
commencing at 9:30 a.m.
APPEARANCES:
Michael J. Whare
Attorney for Plaintiff
Richard L. Rickabaugh (Pro Se - Testified by phone)
Defendant
PROCEDURAL HISTORY
A complaint in divorce was filed on May 16,
2003, raising grounds for divorce of irretrievable breakdown
of the marriage. The complaint did net raise any economic
issues. On May 16, 2003, an affidavit was also filed under
Section 3301(d) of the Divorce Code averring that the
parties separated in December of 1995, a period in excess of
two years.
An amended complaint was filed on April 23,
2004, raising grounds for divorce under Section 3301(a) (5)
averring a term of imprisonment of the Defendant in excess
of two years for related drug offenses.
This matter went before Judge Oler for a
hearing on a request to bifurcate on Monday, November 24,
2003, at which time Mr. Whare, counsel for the Plaintiff,
and both parties appeared before the Court.1 Because the
Defendant, Richard L. Rickabaugh, filed a counter-affidavit
averring that the marriage is "not irretrievably broken",
Judge 01er bifurcated any economic iE:sues to be raised from
the divorce and sent the matter to the Master to resolve the
question of whether or not the marriage is irretrievably
1. Arrangements had been made to have Mr. Rickabaugh
transported from prison for the Court hearing.
1
broken. The Master was appointed June 11, 2004, and
following a conference on August 13, 2004, the Master
scheduled a hearing for October 21, 2004, to take the
testimony of the parties, Mr. Rickabaugh's testimony was
arranged to be taken by telephone. No order was requested
to the Court directing that he be transferred to Cumberland
County for the hearing.
The hearing occurred as scheduled on October
21, 2004, beginning around 9:30 p.m. Present in the hearing
room were the Plaintiff and her counsel.
The Defendant was notified by letter from
Michael J. Whare, attorney for wife, that a hearing would
occur by telephone on October 21, 2004, around 9:30 a.m. The
Master's office also sent a hearing notice to the Defendant.
Mr. Rickabaugh participated by phone as arranged and he was
given the opportunity to testify. We also permitted an off
the record discussion between Mr. Rickabaugh and his wife,
Mr. Rickabaugh offered his reasons on the record why the
marriage was not irretrievably broken, and then Mrs.
Rickabaugh offered her testimony.
The parties were married on November 25,
1989, and there were no children born of the marriage.
Immediately following the hearing the Master
proceeded to prepare his report and recommendation.
2
ISSUE PRESENTED
The issue before the Master is whether or not
the marriage existing between Laura Rickabaugh and Richard
L. Rickabaugh is irretrievably broken.
DISCUSSION
Mr. Rickabaugh is 50 years of age and
currently is a resident of the Smithfield State Correctional
Institution in Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, where he has been
incarcerated since December of 1995. According to records
that were attached to Plaintiff's petition to bifurcate, Mr.
Rickabaugh received consecutive sentences on drug possession
and intent to deliver cocaine charges accumulating to
approximately 40 to 60 years.
Mrs. Rickabaugh is 37 years of age and
resides at 160 Elm Street, Carlisle, Pennsylvania, where she
resides with her male companion and two children who are the
children of her friend, William Carter.
Mrs. Rickabaugh has not seen her husband
since 1996 when he was incarcerated in Somerset County,
Pennsylvania. Although there has been occasional
correspondence between the parties, there has been no direct
personal contact. After hearing what purported to be the
testimony of Mr. Rickabaugh, the Master concluded that the
Defendant wished that the marriage not be dissolved because
3
he still loves his wife and wants her to visit him in the
prison.
The Master is satisfied that after listening
to wife she has no intention of wanting to visit her husband
nor does she have any desire to continue in this marital
relationship. It is the Master's further observation and
recommendation that there is no possibility that these
parties can resume any kind of marital relationship in the
future.
The matter has been heard based on the fact
that Mr. Rickabaugh checked the block on the
counter-affidavit stating that the marriage is not
irretrievably broken. However, the Master does take notice
that Mr. Rickabaugh has been incarcerated for a period in
excess of two years, since 1995 and that with the
appropriate documentation and witnesses, Mr. Whare could
have presented testimony specifically showing grounds for
divorce under that section. However, the Master does not
believe that it is necessary that we put Mr. Whare and his
client to the test of having to prove an obvious situation
regarding the incarceration of Mr. Rickabaugh. The evidence
that would need to be provided would be certified copies of
records and having the custodian of those records appear to
testify which the Master did not feel was a necessary burden
to place on the Plaintiff and her counsel considering the
4
issue involving irretrievable breakdown of the marriage was
a direct and less cumbersome way of resolving the divorce
claim.
Mr. Rickabaugh also checked the block
indicating he wished to raise economic claims. However, no
economic claims have been raised in the action.
RECOMMENDATIClN
The Master recommends that the wife be
granted a decree in divorce based on the separation of the
parties in excess of two years under Section 3301(d) of the
Domestic Relations Code. The Master further finds that the
marriage between the parties is irretrievably broken.
Respectfully submitted,
~-;;d4J~-~
E. Robert Elicker, II
Divorce Master
5
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Laura Rickabaugh
Plaintiff
vs.
No,
Richard L. Rickabauqh
Defendant
Civil 2003 - 2352
It appearing that the Master's report in the above stated case has
been filed for ten (10) days, that no exceptions have been filed thereto,
that the costs have been fully paid and that all the requirements of law
and Rules of Court have been met, you are hereby directed to submit th
said case to the Court of Common Pleas of Cumberland County,
Pennsylvania, at the next sitting thereof.
TO:
I /j
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&:: Prothon t ry
DATED:
I, I~. ()
Common Pleas of Cumberland
that the costs in the above state
Master's fee.
, Prothonotary of the Court of
unty, Pennsylvania, do hereby certify
case, have all been paid, including the
~m *<cl J? ~
Prothonotary
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LAURA RICKABAUGH,
Plaintiff
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEA OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLV IA
vs,
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
NO. 03 - 2352 CIVIL
RICHARD L, RICKABAUGH,
Defendant
IN DIVORCE
MASTER'S REPORT
Proceedings held before
E. Robert Elicker, II, Divorce Master
9 North Hanover Street, Carlisle, PA 17013
proceedings held on October 21, 2004,
commencing at 9:30 a.m.
APPEARANCES:
Michael J. Whare
Attorney for Plaintiff
Richard L. Rickabaugh (Pro Se - Testified by phone)
Defendant
PROCEDURAL HISTORY
A complaint in divorce was filed on May 16,
2003, raising grounds for divorce of irretrievable brea down
of the marriage. The complaint did not raise any econo ic
issues. On May 16, 2003, an affidavit was also filed u der
Section 3301(d) of the Divorce Code averring that the
parties separated in December of 1995, a period in exce s of
two years.
An amended complaint was filed on April 2 ,
2004, raising grounds for divorce under Section 3301(a) (
averring a term of imprisonment of the Defendant in exce s
of two years for related drug offenses.
This matter went before Judge Oler for a
hearing on a request to bifurcate on Monday, November 24,
2003, at which time Mr. Whare, counsel for the Plaintiff,
and both parties appeared before the Court.l Because the
Defendant, Richard L. Rickabaugh, filed a counter-affidav t
averring that the marriage is "not irretrievably broken",
Judge Oler bifurcated any economic issues to be raised fr m
the divorce and sent the matter to the Master to resolve he
question of whether or not the marriage is irretrievably
1, Arrangements had been made to have Mr. Rickabaugh
transported from prison for the Court hearing.
1
broken. The Master was appointed June 11, 2004, and
following a conference on August 13, 2004, the Master
scheduled a hearing for October 21, 2004, to take the
testimony of the parties. Mr. Rickabaugh's testimony w s
arranged to be taken by telephone, No order was reques ed
to the Court directing that he be transferred to Cumber and
County for the hearing.
The hearing occurred as scheduled on Oct ber
21, 2004, beginning around 9:30 p.m. Present in the hear'ng
room were the Plaintiff and her counsel.
The Defendant was notified by letter from
Michael J. Whare, attorney for wife, that a hearing woul
occur by telephone on October 21, 2004, around 9:30 a.m. The
Master's office also sent a hearing notice to the Defend nt.
Mr. Rickabaugh participated by phone as arranged and he s
given the opportunity to testify. We also permitted an 0 f
the record discussion between Mr. Rickabaugh and his wife
Mr, Rickabaugh offered his reasons on the record why the
marriage was not irretrievably broken, and then Mrs.
Rickabaugh offered her testimony.
The parties were married on November 25,
1989, and there were no children born of the marriage.
Immediately following the hearing the Maste
proceeded to prepare his report and recommendation.
2
ISSUE PRESENTED
The issue before the Master is whether or not
the marriage existing between Laura Rickabaugh and Richa d
L. Rickabaugh is irretrievably broken.
3
DISCUSSION
Mr. Rickabaugh is 50 years of age and
currently is a resident of the Smithfield State Correction 1
Institution in Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, where he has been
incarcerated since December of 1995. According to records
that were attached to Plaintiff's petition to bifurcate, Mr
Rickabaugh received consecutive sentences on drug possession
and intent to deliver cocaine charges accumulating to
approximately 40 to 60 years.
Mrs. Rickabaugh is 37 years of age and
resides at 160 Elm Street, Carlisle, Pennsylvania, where she
resides with her male companion and two children who are the
children of her friend, William Carter.
Mrs. Rickabaugh has not seen her husband
since 1996 when he was incarcerated in Somerset County,
Pennsylvania. Although there has been occasional
correspondence between the parties, there has been no direct
personal contact. After hearing what purported to be the
testimony of Mr. Rickabaugh, the Master concluded that the
Defendant wished that the marriage not be dissolved because
he still loves his wife and wants her to visit him in t e
prison.
4
The Master is satisfied that after listen ng
to wife she has no intention of wanting to visit her hus and
nor does she have any desire to continue in this marital
relationship, It is the Master's further observation and
recommendation that there is no possibility that these
parties can resume any kind of marital relationship in the
future.
The matter has been heard based on the fact
that Mr. Rickabaugh checked the block on the
counter-affidavit stating that the marriage is not
irretrievably broken, However, the Master does take notice
that Mr. Rickabaugh has been incarcerated for a period in
excess of two years, since 1995 and that with the
appropriate documentation and witnesses, Mr. Whare could
have presented testimony specifically showing grounds for
divorce under that section. However, the Master does not
believe that it is necessary that we put Mr. Whare and his
client to the test of having to prove an obvious situation
regarding the incarceration of Mr, Rickabaugh. The evidence
that would need to be provided would be certified copies of
records and having the custodian of those records appear to
testify which the Master did not feel was a necessary burden
to place on the Plaintiff and her counsel considering the
,
issue involving irretrievable breakdown of the marriage was
a direct and less cumbersome way of resolving the divor e
claim.
Mr. Rickabaugh also checked the block
indicating he wished to raise economic claims. However, no
economic claims have been raised in the action,
RECOMMENDATION
The Master recommends that the wife be
granted a decree in divorce based on the separation of th
parties in excess of two years under Section 330l(d) of t e
Domestic Relations Code. The Master further finds that t e
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marriage between the parties is irretrievably broken.
Respectfully submitted,
E. Robert Elicker, II
Divorce Master
5
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IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEA
OFCUMBERLANDCOUNTY
STATE OF
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Plaintiff
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VERSUS
Richard L.
Rickabaugh
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Defendant
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AND NOW,
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DECREED THAT
AND
PENNA.
No.
2003
23 2
DECREE IN
DIVORCE
'D e-L t
2bb't, IT IS ORDERED AND
7
Laura Rickabaugh
, PLAINTIFF,
Richrd L. Rickabaugh
, DEFENDANT
ARE DIVORCED FROM THE BONDS OF MATRIMONY.
+:+:+::+:+++++....,
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THE COURT RETAINS JURISDICTION OF THE FOLLOWING CLAIMS WHICH HAVE
++:+++ ++++++:f.+++ ++++++++++++++++++
BEEN RAISED OF RECORD
YET BEEN ENTERED;
IN THIS ACTION FOR WHICH A FINAL ORDER HAS NOT
None
ATT
PROTHONOT RY
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