HomeMy WebLinkAbout09-0985Lj
Leelawattie Jagdeo,
Plaintiff
V
DIVORCE, EQUITABLE DISTRIBUTION,
ALIMONY,CUSTODY
Rohan Dookharan,
Defendant
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION-LAW
NO. 09- '? ?s CIVIL TERM
NOTICE TO DEFEND AND CLAIM RIGHTS
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 right 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, Cumberland County Courthouse, Carlisle, Pennsylvania.
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 AT ONCE. IF YOU DO
NOT HAVE LAWYER, GO TO OR TELE PHONE THE OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW.
THIS OFFICE CAN PROVIDE YOU WITH INFORMATION ABOUT HIRING A LAWYER.
IF YOU CANNOT AFFORD TO HIRE A LAWYER, THIS OFFICE MAY BE ABLE TO
PROVIDE YOU WITH INFORMATION ABOUT AGENCIES THAT MAY OFFER LEGAL
SERVICES TO ELIGIBLE PERSONS AT A REDUCED FEE OR NO FEE.
Cumberland County Bar Association
32 South Bedford St.
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) - 249-3166
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.
JUL 10 2009(,
LEELAWATTIE JAGDEO
Plaintiff
vs.
ROHAN DOOKHARAN
Defendant
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
2009-985 CIVIL ACTION LAW
IN CUSTODY
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this ~ ~ day of ~ 2009, upon
consideration of the attached Custody Conciliation Report, it is ordered d directed as follows:
The prior Order of this Court dated April 14, 2009 shall continue in effect as modified by
this Order.
2. During the summer school break, beginning on Saturday, July 11, 2009, and immediately
following the last day of school in future years, the Mother shall have partial physical custody of the
Children on alternating Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. through 3:00 p.m. During the weeks following the
Mother's period of Saturday custody, the Mother shall also have custody of the Children on Tuesday
and Thursday from 10:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. During weeks preceding the Mother's Saturday period
of custody, the Mother shall have custody of the Children on Wednesday from 10:30 a.m. until 4:00
p.m. The summer partial physical custody schedule shall end on the last day before the beginning of
the school year.
3. The transportation for the Mother's periods of partial custody shall continue to be by public
transportation unless otherwise agreed between the parties.
4. The parties acknowledge that it is in the Children's best interests to maintain a cooperative
and respectful co-parenting relationship at all times. Therefore, the parties agree to focus on their
common goal of establishing sufficient communication, cooperation and mutual respect to enable them
to effectively co-parent the Children.
7. The parties may modify the provisions of this Order by mutual consent. In the absence of
mutual consent, the terms of this Order shall control. , ~ -~ /
BY THE COUR'
Edgar B. Bay
cc: ~ystal MacIntyre and
Anne MacDonald-Fox, Esquire -Counsel for Mother
Linda A. Clotfelter, Esquire -Counsel for Father
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J.
LEELAWATTIE JAGDEO
Plaintiff
vs.
ROHAN DOOKHARAN
Defendant
Prior Judge: Edgar B. Bayley
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
2009-985 CIVIL ACTION LAW
IN CUSTODY
CUSTODY CONCILIATION SUMMARY REPORT
IN ACCORDANCE WITH CUMBERLAND COUNTY RULE OF CIVIL
PROCEDURE 1915.3-8, the undersigned Custody Conciliator submits the following report:
1. The pertinent information concerning the Children who are the subjects of this litigation is as
follows:
NAME DATE OF BIRTH CURRENTLY IN CUSTODY OF
Dillon Dookharan November 24, 1996 Father
Brandon Dookharan January 14, 2000 Father
2. A custody conciliation conference was held on June 10, 2009, with the following individuals
in attendance: the Mother Leelawattie Jagdeo, with her counsel, Crystal MacIntyre, and Anne
MacDonald-Fox, Esquire, and the Father, Rohan Dookharan, with his counsel, Linda A. Clotfelter,
Esquire.
3. The parties discussed several options at the conciliation conference after which the
conciliator agreed to hold the matter open for a period of time following the conference to enable the
parties and their counsel to continue the discussions. The parties agreed to entry of an Order in the
form as attached.
~.~.~, ~ goo ~
Date Dawn S. Sunday, Esquire
Custody Conciliator
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Leelawattie Jagdeo,
Plaintiff
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
V. CIVIL ACTION-LAW
DIVORCE, EQUITABLE DISTRIBUTION, ALIMONY,
CUSTODY
Rohan Dookharan,
Defendant
NO. 09- CIVIL TERM
DIVORCE COMPLAINT WITH EQUITABLE DISTRIBUTION, ALIMONY AND
CUSTODY
The plaintiff, Leelawattie Jagdeo , by her attorneys, the Family Law Clinic, sets forth the
following causes of action in divorce, equitable distribution, alimony, and custody:
COUNTI
DIVORCE UNDER TITLE 23 Pa. C.S. §MQI a)(6), (c) and (d)
1. Plaintiff is Leelawattie Jagdeo, who currently resides at 2 Lilac Drive, Mechanicsburg,
Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, 17050.
2. Defendant is Rohan Dookharan, whose legal address is 2 Lilac Drive, Mechanicsburg,
Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, 17050.
3. Plaintiff has been a bona fide resident of Cumberland County and the Commonwealth for
at least six months immediately previous to the filing of this complaint.
4. The Plaintiff and Defendant were married on August 10, 2001 in Queens County, New
York, without a marriage license. The parties moved to Pennsylvania in early 2003 and
renewed their vows in the present tense several times in Pennsylvania in 2003 and 2004.
5. Plaintiff and Defendant have lived separate and apart since December 22, 2008.
6. There have been no prior actions of divorce or annulment between the parties.
7. The marriage is irretrievably broken.
8. Defendant offered such indignities as to the innocent and injured Plaintiff as to render
Plaintiff's condition intolerable and life burdensome.
9. 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.
WHEREFORE, plaintiff requests the court to enter a decree of divorce dissolving the
marriage.
COUNT II
EQUITABLE DISTRIBUTION
10. Plaintiff repeats and realleges paragraphs one through nine.
11. Plaintiff and Defendant have acquired property during their marriage, including, but not
limited to:
a. REAL PROPERTY with house and contents therein, located in Cumberland County,
Pennsylvania, particularly described as follows:
i. Beginning at a point on the northwesterly side of Lilac Drive (50 feet wide) at
the dividing line between Lot Nos. 27 and 28 on the hereinafter mentioned
plan of lots; thence along the dividing line between Lot Nos. 27 an 28, North
28 degrees 38 minutes 43 seconds west, a distance of 137.00 feet to a point at
the dividing line between Lot Nos. 28 and 29 on said plan; thence along said
dividing line, North 61 degrees 21 minutes 17 seconds East, a distance of
81.00 feet to a point on the Westerly side of Bayberry Drive; thence along the
said side of Bayberry Drive, South 28 degrees 38 minutes 43 seconds East, a
distance of 125.00 feet, thence along same and along the arc of a curve having
a radius of 12.00 feet, the arc distance of 18.85 feet to a point on the said side
of Lilac Drive; thence along the said side of Lilac Drive, South (incorrectly
designated North on the prior deed) 61 degrees 21 minutes 17 seconds West
(incorrectly designated East on the prior deed), the distance of 69.00 feet to a
point, the place of beginning.
ii. Being Lot No. 28 on the Plan of Mulberry Crossing, as recorded in
Cumberland County Plan Book 40, Page 142.
iii. Being Known as No. 2 Lilac Drive, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiff requests the court to enter a decree dividing the marital property
equitably between the parties and such other relief as the court deems just.
COUNT III
ALIMONY
12. Plaintiff repeats and realleges paragraphs one through eleven.
13. Plaintiff is not gainfully employed.
14. Defendant is financially able to provide for the reasonable needs of the Plaintiff.
15. Plaintiff requires reasonable support to adequately maintain herself in accordance with
the standards of living established during the marriage.
16. Plaintiff lacks sufficient property to provide for her reasonable needs and is currently
unable to support herself through full-time employment.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiff requests the court to enter an award of reasonable alimony, and
such other relief as the court deems just.
COUNT IV
CUSTODY
17. Plaintiff repeats and realleges paragraphs one through sixteen.
18. Plaintiff seeks shared legal and primary physical custody of the following children:
Name Present Residence Age
Dillon Dookharan 2 Lilac Drive, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050 12 (d.o.b. 11/24/1996)
Brandon Dookharan 2 Lilac Drive, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050 9 (d.o.b. 1/14/2000)
19. During the past five years, the children have resided with the following persons and at the
following addresses:
Persons Address Dates
Plaintiff and Defendant 2 Lilac Drive, Mechanicsburg, PA 10/2004 - Present
Plaintiff and Defendant 501 Boston Court, Mechanicsburg, PA 2/2004- 10/2004
20. The mother of the children is Leelawattie Jagdeo.
21. She is married.
22. The father of the children is Rohan Dookharan.
23. He is married.
24. The relationship of the Defendant to the children is that of father.
25. The relationship of the Plaintiff to the children is that of mother.
26. The children were born out of wedlock.
27. Plaintiff has participated as a party in a Protection from Abuse action in this court,
Docket No. 09-679, concerning the custody of the children.
28. Plaintiff has no information of a custody proceeding concerning the children pending in a
court of this Commonwealth, or any other state, other than as set forth in paragraph 27,
supra..
29. Plaintiff does not know of a person not a party to the proceedings who has physical
custody of the children or claims to have custody or visitation rights with respect to the
children.
30. The best interest and permanent welfare of the children will be served by granting the
relief requested because:
a. Plaintiff has been primary caretaker of the children throughout their lives.
b. Plaintiff is prepared to provide the children with a stable home environment with
adequate moral, emotional, and physical surroundings as required to meed the
children's needs;
c. Plaintiff is willing to accept custody of the children;
d. Plaintiff continues to perform parental duties while the children are in her care and
enjoys the love and affection of the children;
31
e. Plaintiff will foster substantial contact between the children and their father.
Each parent whose parental rights to the children have not been terminated and the person
who has physical custody of the children have been named as parties to this action.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiff requests the court to grant her shared legal and primary physical
custody of the children, with the Defendant to have reasonable periods of partial custody to
be determined by the parties.
Date
!KR ctfully submitted,
TAL J. MACINT
Certified Legal Intern
4 G2..
ROBEF.y E. RAINS
THOMAS M. PLACE
ANNE MACDONALD-FOX
LUCY JOHNSTON-WALSH
MEGAN RIESMEYER
Supervising Attorneys
Family Law Clinic
45 North Pitt Street
Carlisle, Pennsylvania 17013
(717) 243-3696
Fax: (717) 243-3639
VERIFICATION
I verify that the statements made in the foregoing complaint are true and correct to the
best of my personal knowledge, information and belief. I understand that false statements herein
are made subject to the penalties of 18 Pa.C.S. §4904, relating to unsworn falsification to
authorities.
Dated: 2- 25 ..-o ? e --
Leelawattie Jagdeo
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Leelawattie Jagdeo,
Plaintiff
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
V. : CIVIL ACTION - LAW
IN DIVORCE, EQUITABLE DISTRIBUTION, : :
ALIMONY, CUSTODY
Rohan Dookharan
Defendant NO. 09- 98:5'CIVIL TERM
PRAECIPE TO PROCEED IN FORMA PAUPERIS
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Kindly allow Leelawattie Jagdeo, Plaintiff, to proceed in forma pauperis
The Family Law Clinic, attorneys for the party proceeding in forma pauperis, certifies
that we believe the party is unable to pay the costs and that we are providing free legal service to
the party.
Date z is ?m
Res ectfully submitted,
i
KRYSTAL J. MAMTYRE
Certified Legal Intern
MEGAN RIESMEYER
Supervising Attorney
FAMILY LAW CLINIC
45 North Pitt Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
717-243-2968
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Leelawattie Jagdeo,
Plaintiff
V.
IN DIVORCE, EQUITABLE DISTRIBUTION
Rohan Dookharan,
Defendant
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: CIVIL ACTION - LAW
NO. 09- 985 CIVIL TERM
PRAECIPE FOR LIS PENDENS
Please enter a Lis Pendens against the land and premises at No. 2 Lilac Drive,
Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania.
REAL PROPERTY in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, affected by this notice is particularly
described as follows:
Beginning at a point on the northwesterly side of Lilac Drive (50 feet wide) at the
dividing line between Lot Nos. 27 and 28 on the hereinafter mentioned plan of lots; thence along
the dividing line between Lot Nos. 27 an 28, North 28 degrees 38 minutes 43 seconds west, a
distance of 137.00 feet to a point at the dividing line between Lot Nos. 28 and 29 on said plan;
thence along said dividing line, North 61 degrees 21 minutes 17 seconds East, a distance of
81.00 feet to a point on the Westerly side of Bayberry Drive; thence along the said side of
Bayberry Drive, South 28 degrees 38 minutes 43 seconds East, a distance of 125.00 feet, thence
along same and along the arc of a curve having a radius of 12.00 feet, the are distance of 18.85
feet to a point on the said side of Lilac Drive; thence along the said side of Lilac Drive, South
(incorrectly designated North on the prior deed) 61 degrees 21 minutes 17 seconds West
(incorrectly designated East on the prior deed), the distance of 69.00 feet to a point, the place of
beginning.
Being Lot No. 28 on the Plan of Mulberry Crossing, as recorded in Cumberland County
Plan Book 40, Page 142.
Being known as No. 2 Lilac Drive, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania.
Respectfully Submitted,
„??lli_ A 1
Krys'tal MaUntyre
Certified Legal Intern
11V411
ROBE T E. RAINS
THOMAS M. PLACE
ANNE MACDONALD-FOX
LUCY JOHNSTON-WALSH
MEGAN RIESMEYER
Supervising Attorneys
FAMILY LAW CLINIC
45 North Pitt Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 243-2968
Fax: (717) 243-3639
VERIFICATION
I verify that the statements made in the foregoing notice are true and correct, to the best of my
knowledge, information and belief. I understand making any false statement would subject me
to the penalties of 18 Pa.C.S. §4904, relating to unsworn falsification to authorities.
Date '0 Plaintiff
Leelawattie Jagdeo
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Leelawattie Jagdeo, IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
Plaintiff CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
V. CIVIL ACTION - LAW
IN DIVORCE, EQUITABLE
DISTRIBUTION, ALIMONY, CUSTODY
Rohan Dookharan,
Defendant NO. 09-985 CIVIL TERM
AFFIDAVIT OF SERVICE
I, Krystal J. MacIntyre, hereby certify that I personally served a true and correct copy of the
Divorce complaint and Praecipe of Lis Pendens on the Defendant, Rohan Dookharan, at the
Cumberland County Courthouse, at 2:30p.m. on Wednesday February 18, 2009.
I verify that the statements made in this Affidavit of Service are true and correct to the best
of my personal knowledge and belief. I understand that false statements herein are made subject to
the penalties of 18 Pa.C.S. §4904, relating to unworn falsification to authorities.
Date: 19
np n
KRYSTAL J. M CIN RE
Certified Legal Intern
FAMILY LAW CLINIC
45 North Pitt Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 243-2968
Fax: (717) 243-3639
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LEELAWATTIE JAGDEO IN THE COURT; OF COMMON PLEAS OF
PLAINTIFF CUMBERLAND', COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
V. 2009-985 CIVJL ACTION LAW
ROHAN DOOKHARAN
IN CUSTODY
DEFENDANT
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, Tuesday, February 24, 2009 , upon consideration of the attached Complaint,
it is hereby directed that parties and their respective counsel appear before Dawn S. Sunday, Esq. , the conciliator,
at 39 West Main Street, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 on ^ Monday, March 23, 2009 _ at 12:00 PM
for a Pre-Hearing Custody Conference. At such conference, an effort i11 be made to resolve the issues in dispute; or
if this cannot be accomplished, to define and narrow the issues to be herd by the court, and to enter into a temporary
order. Failure to appear at the conference may provide grounds for ent? of a temporary or permanent order.
The court hereby directs the parties to furnish any and all e*isting Protection from Abuse orders,
Special Relief orders, and Custody orders to the conciliator 48 hours prior to scheduled hearing.
FOR THE COURT,
By: /s/ Dawn S. S nda Es q.
Custody onciliator
The Court of Common Pleas of Cumberland County is equired by law to comply with the Americans
with Disabilites Act of 1990. For information about accessible fa ilities 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 b fore the court. You must attend the scheduled
conference or hearing.
YOU SHOULD TAKE THIS PAPER TO YOUR ATTORNEY AT ONCE. IF YOU DO NOT
HAVE AN ATTORNEY OR CANNOT AFFORD ONE, GO TO OR TELEPHONE THE OFFICE SET
FORTH BELOW TO FIND OUT WHERE YOU CAN GET LEGAL HELP.
Cumberland County B4r Association
32 South Bedforkl Street
Carlisle, Pennsylvania 17013
Telephone (717) X49-3166
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LEELAWATTIE JAGDEO
Plaintiff
VS.
ROHAN DOOKHARAN
Defendant
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 09-985
: CIVIL ACTION - LAW
: IN DIVORCE AND CUSTODY
ANSWER TO DIVORCE COMPLAINT WITH EQUITABLE DISTRIBUTION,
ALIMONY AND CUSTODY
AND NOW, comes Defendant, Rohan Dookharan, by and through his counsel, Linda A.
Clotfelter, Esquire, and files the Answer to Divorce Complaint with Equitable Distribution,
Alimony, and Custody, respectfully responding as follows:
1. Admitted in part and denied in part. The identity of Plaintiff is admitted, but it is
denied that she resides at that address because Defendant resides there. Defendant has no
personal knowledge of Plaintiff's current address although he believes that it has changed several
times since December, 2008.
2. Admitted.
3. Admitted.
4. Denied. The parties to this proceeding have never been married as alleged by
Plaintiff, under common law, or otherwise, and therefore, strict proof thereof is demanded. In
further answer hereof, concurrently with the filing of this Answer, Defendant is filing a Petition
for Declaratory Judgment as to Marital Status seeking to have this Honorable Court declare that
the parties were not married and accordingly, will seek to have this Complaint in Divorce
dismissed.
5. Admitted.
6. Admitted in part and denied in part. It is admitted that no prior action for divorce
or annulment has been instituted by either party, however, any implication that an action for
divorce or annulment is required is specifically denied by Defendant. In further answer hereof,
I
the parties to this proceeding have never been married and therefore, a divorce or annulment is
unnecessary and Plaintiff's Complaint should be dismissed with prejudice.
7. Denied. See response to paragraph 4, above.
8. Denied. It is specifically denied that Defendant has committed any conduct that
would be constitute indignities under the law and further denied that the issue is in any way
relevant to these parties as they have never been married. See response to Paragraph 4, above.
9. Denied. Defendant lacks sufficient knowledge or information to determine the
truth of this averment and therefore, strict proof is demanded.
WHEREFORE, Defendant respectfully requests that Plaintiff's Complaint in Divorce and
the claims therein be dismissed, with prejudice.
COUNT II - EQUITABLE DISTRIBUTION
10. Denied. No response is required.
11. Admitted in part and denied in part. It is admitted that the parties may have
acquired property as unmarried individuals; however, it is denied that they are married.
a. Denied. The allegations of this paragraph are denied to the extent that they infer
that Plaintiff has any interest in the real property described in this paragraph and its subparts. In
further answer hereof, the property it titled solely to Defendant, an unmarried individual.
Therefore, strict proof is demanded.
i. Denied. The allegations of this paragraph are denied to the extent that they infer
that Plaintiff has any interest in the real property described in this paragraph and
its subparts. In further answer hereof, the property it titled solely to Defendant, an
unmarried individual. Therefore, strict proof is demanded.
ii. Denied. The allegations of this paragraph are denied to the extent that they infer
that Plaintiff has any interest in the real property described in this paragraph and
its subparts. In further answer hereof, the property it titled solely to Defendant, an
unmarried individual. Therefore, strict proof is demanded.
iii. Denied. The allegations of this paragraph are denied to the extent that they infer
that Plaintiff has any interest in the real property described in this paragraph and
its subparts. In further answer hereof, the property it titled solely to Defendant, an
unmarried individual. Therefore, strict proof is demanded.
WHEREFORE, Defendant respectfully requests that Plaintiff's Complaint in Divorce and
the claims therein be dismissed, with prejudice.
COUNT III - ALIMONY
12. Denied. No response is required.
13. Denied. Defendant lacks sufficient knowledge or information to determine the
truth of this averment and therefore, strict proof is demanded.
14. Denied. It is specifically denied that Defendant has the financial means to
provide support for Plaintiff and the implication herein that he is in any way obligated to
financially support Plaintiff is also denied. In further answer hereof, Defendant is currently
unemployed and due to the fact that the parties have never been married, Defendant is not
obligated to provide Plaintiff with any financial support. Therefore, strict proof is demanded.
15. Denied. Defendant lacks sufficient knowledge or information to determine the
truth of this averment and therefore, strict proof is demanded.
16. Denied. Defendant lacks sufficient knowledge or information to determine the
truth of this averment and therefore, strict proof is demanded.
WHEREFORE, Defendant respectfully requests that Plaintiff's Complaint in Divorce and
the claims therein be dismissed, with prejudice.
¦ 1
COUNT IV - CUSTODY
17. Denied. No response is required.
18. Denied. Defendant lacks sufficient knowledge to determine the truth of this
allegation and therefore, strict proof there of is demanded. In further answer hereof, the
implication herein that it is in the best interests and permanent welfare of the children to be within
Plaintiff's physical custody is denied and strict proof thereof is demanded.
19. Denied. The allegation of the children's residence with the parties is inaccurate.
In further answer hereof, the children have resided with the following persons at the following
addresses:
NAME ADDRESS
Leelawattie Jagdeo 501 Boston Court
Rohan Dookharan Mechanicsburg, PA
Leelawattie Jagdeo, 2 Lilac Drive
Rohan Dookharan, Mechanicsburg, PA
& Ashti Jagdeo (2004-12/08)
Rohan Dookharan 2 Lilac Drive
Mechanicsburg, PA
20. Admitted.
DATES
02/2004-10/2004
10/2004-2/19/2009
2/19/2009-present
21. Denied. The parties have never been married to one another.
22. Admitted.
23. Denied. The parties have never been married to one another.
24. Admitted.
25. Admitted.
26. Admitted. The parties have never been married to one another.
I
27. Admitted in part and denied in part. It is admitted that Plaintiff participated in a
Protection from Abuse action on February 19, 2009. It is specifically denied that it was regarding
the custody of the children as clearly stated in the final Order.
28. Denied. Defendant lacks sufficient information to determine the truth of this
averment and therefore, strict proof thereof is demanded.
29. Denied. Defendant lacks sufficient information to determine the truth of this
averment and therefore, strict proof thereof is demanded.
30. Denied. It is specifically denied that the best interest permanent welfare of the
children will be served by granting the parties shared legal and physical custody. In further
answer hereof, Plaintiff's life is unstable and unsuitable for the care of children. In fact,
Plaintiff's sixteen year old daughter from a prior relationship, Ashti Jagdeo, was raised primarily
by her maternal uncle, aunt and grandmother and is currently within the custody of her uncle,
Alvin Jagdeo, and not the custody of Plaintiff.
a) Denied. Defendant currently has primary custody of the children. Plaintiff failed
as a primary caregiver and due to that fact, Defendant, and in the past the Paternal
Grandmother had to provide the primary care of the children that are the subject
of this proceeding. Moreover, an uncle has physical custody of Plaintiff's other
child due to Plaintiff's inability to care for her.
b) Denied. Plaintiff is unable to provide a stable and safe home environment for the
children and her morals are circumspect. In further answer, Plaintiff's residence
has been unstable since leaving the marital home and her living environment and
associates are questionable. Her ability to financially support the children is
severely limited due to the fact that she can barely read and write. Plaintiff's
moral and emotional state is also of concern. More specifically, she attacked
Defendant with a knife and she has criminal charges pending for that act. Her
lack of morals is an additional concern. She has been admittedly promiscuous
while living with Defendant; she had her first child just after she turned 16; and
she hid that pregnancy from her family. Her sexual conduct at such a young age
was so severe that due to the number of partners she has been unable to name the
child's father to date.
C) Denied. Defendant lacks sufficient knowledge to determine the truth of this
allegation and therefore strict proof thereof is demanded.
d) Denied. Plaintiff, after slashing Defendant with a knife in December 2008, left
the home at 2 Lilac Drive, and left the children with Defendant. Although
Plaintiff was staying just nine houses away, she did not see the children for two
months. It was only after filing a Complaint for Protection from Abuse in
February, 2009 when Defendant was evicted from the home that Plaintiff cared
for the children and that was only for a week and one-half. Since then they have
been in the custody of Defendant and Plaintiff has not cared for the children since
the Protection from Abuse Order was entered on February 19, 2009.
e) Denied. Given Plaintiff's physical attack upon Defendant and her emotional
instability, it is denied that she will encourage a relationship with Defendant if she
would be granted primary physical custody.
31. Admitted.
WHEREFORE, Defendant respectfully requests that this Honorable Court enter an Order
dismissing Plaintiff's Complaint in divorce and the claims therein with prejudice; ordering
shared legal custody to the parties and confirming Defendant's primary physical custody and
granting Plaintiff partial custody periods; and granting such other relief as this Court deems just
and proper.
Respectfully submitted,
LAW FIRM OF LINDA A. CLOTFELTER
By:
Lin a A. Clotfelter, Esquire
Att rney ID No. 72963
East Trindle Road, Suite 1
Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
(717) 796-1930 telephone
(717) 796-1933 facsimile
Attorney for Defendant
LEELAWATTIE JAGDEO : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
Plaintiff : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
VS. : NO. 09-985
ROHAN DOOKHARAN : CIVIL ACTION - LAW
Defendant : IN DIVORCE AND CUSTODY
VERIFICATION
I, ROHAN DOOKHARAN, verify that the statements in the foregoing ANSWER TO
DIVORCE COMPLAINT WITH EQUITABLE DISTRIBUTION, ALIMONY AND
CUSTODY are true and correct to the best of my knowledge, information and belief. 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: LO 6q
LEELAWATTIE JAGDEO : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
Plaintiff : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
VS. : NO. 09-985
ROHAN DOOKHARAN : CIVIL ACTION - LAW
Defendant : IN DIVORCE AND CUSTODY
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
AND NOW, this IP day of April, 2009, the undersigned hereby certifies that a true
and correct copy of the foregoing ANSWER WITH NEW MATTER COUNTERCLAIM was
served upon the opposing party by United States First Class Mail, postage prepaid:
Krystal J. MacIntyre, Legal Intern
Family Law Clinic
45 North Pitt Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
Respectfully submitted,
LAW FIRM OF LINDA A. CLOTFELTER
r
y:
Lin A. Clotfelter, Esquire
Atto ey ID No. 72963
ZJUZVEast Trindle Road, Suite 100
Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
(717) 796-1930 telephone
(717) 796-1933 facsimile
Attorney for Defendant
R I FrE
OF THE PIW)??,ONC 'fARY
1009 APR - 3 PM t : 5 3
PI i 4Nsy?V144 a
LEELAWATTIE JAGDEO
Plaintiff/Respondent
VS.
ROHAN DOOKHARAN
Defendant/Petitioner
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 09-985
: CIVIL ACTION - LAW
: IN DIVORCE - DECLARATORY
: JUDGMENT AS TO MARITAL STATUS
Prior Judicial Assignment: Non to this docket number.
(Judge Edgar B. Bayley, in related matter. See paragraph 17)
Nonconcurrence: See paragraph 18, below
PETITION FOR DECLARATORY JUDGMENT AS TO MARITAL STATUS
AND NOW, comes Petitioner, Rohan Dookharan, by and through his counsel, Linda A.
Clotfelter, Esquire, and files this Petition for Declaratory Judgment as to Marital Status
respectfully stating in support thereof as follows:
1. Petitioner is Rohan Dookharan, (hereinafter "Petitioner"), an adult individual who
resides at 2 Lilac Drive, Mechanicsburg, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania 17050.
2. Respondent is Leelawattie Jagdeo, (hereinafter "Respondent"), an adult individual
whose current residential address is not known by Petitioner.
3. Respondent filed a Complaint for Divorce under sections 3301(a)(6), (c), and (d)
of the Pennsylvania Divorce Code on February 18, 2009.
4. Respondent alleged in her Complaint for Divorce that the parties were married
August 10, 2001 in Queens County, New York without a marriage license.
5. New York abolished common law marriage in 1933.
7. The parties lived in New York until 2003 when they moved to Pennsylvania.
8. The parties to this proceeding have never been married under common law or
otherwise, and therefore, Respondent's Complaint in Divorce is improper.
9. At no time since moving to Pennsylvania have the parties uttered words in the
present tense, spoken with the specific purpose that the legal relationship of husband and wife be
created by same.
10. The parties have not held themselves out to the world as husband and wife,
although they have resided together and do have children.
11. The parties were, and Respondent still is Hindu, and it is traditional for a married
Hindu woman to take her husband's name.
12. Respondent has not taken Petitioner's name, despite her allegations they are
married.
13. Real property purchased after the date Respondent alleges the parties were
married is titled to Petitioner's name, alone.
14. The parties do not have joint bank accounts, utility accounts or other similar
accounts.
15. Since the parties' relationship began in 1995, they did not file joint tax returns as
husband and wife, with the exception of one filing in 2006 which was an aberration due to an
error by a new tax preparer. All other years Petitioner filed as head of household.
16. Defendant now seeks to have this Court determine that no marriage exists
between the parties.
IT Prior litigation involving these parties was filed to civil docket number 09-0679
and after a hearing, a Protection from Abuse Order was entered by the Honorable Judge Edgar B.
Bayley, on February 19, 2009. A true and correct copy of the Order is attached as "Exhibit A".
18. Respondent does not concur with this Petition per conversation with Krystal J.
MacIntyre, Legal Intern.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, Rohan Dookharan, by and through his counsel Linda A.
Clotfelter, Esquire, respectfully requests that this Honorable Court enter an Order finding that no
marriage exists between the parties; dismissing the Complaint in Divorce filed by Plaintiff; and
granting such other relief as the Court may deem just and proper.
Respectfully submitted,
LAW FIRM OF LINDA A. CLOTFELTER
Lirida A. Clotfelter, Esquire
A rney ID No. 72963
21 East Trindle Road, Suite 100
Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
(717) 796-1930 telephone
(717) 796-1933 facsimile
Attorney for Defendant
LEELAWATTIE JAGDEO : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
Plaintiff/Respondent : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
VS. : NO. 09-985
ROHAN DOOKHARAN : CIVIL ACTION - LAW
Defendant/Petitioner : IN DIVORCE - DECLARATORY
: JUDGMENT AS TO MARITAL STATUS
VERIFICATION
I, ROHAN DOOKHARAN, verify that the statements in the foregoing PETITION FOR
DECLARATORY JUDGMENT AS TO MARITAL STATUS are true and correct to the best of
my knowledge, information and belief. 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: ? p 0 q
LEELAWATTIE JAGDEO
Plaintiff/Respondent
Vs.
ROHAN DOOKHARAN
Defendant/Petitioner
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 09-985
: CIVIL ACTION - LAW
: IN DIVORCE - DECLARATORY
: JUDGMENT AS TO MARITAL STATUS
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
h
AND NOW, this day of April, 2009, the undersigned hereby certifies that a true
and correct copy of the foregoing PETITION FOR DECLARATORY JUDGMENT AS TO
MARITAL STATUS was served upon the opposing party by United States First Class Mail,
postage prepaid:
Krystal J. MacIntyre, Legal Intern
Family Law Clinic
45 North Pitt Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
Respectfully submitted,
LAW FIRM OF LINDA A. CLOTFELTER
Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
(717) 796-1930 telephone
(717) 796-1933 facsimile
Attorney for Defendant
LEELAWATTIE JAGDEO,
PLAINTIFF
V.
ROHAN DOOKHARAN,
DEFENDANT
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
09-0679 CIVIL TERM
PR9O_TECTiON FROM A2U§A!QRQ9R
(1) Defendant is Rohen Dookheren.
(2) Defendant's date of birth is July 25, 1988.
(3) Defendant's social security number is 097-824486.
(4) %intlff is Leelawattie Jagdeo, born December 31,1976.
AND NOW, this 19"' day of February, 2009, following a hearing on the merits and
finding that defendant abused plaintiff, IT is ORDERED:
(1) The temporary protection from abuse order entered on February 9, 2009, is
vacated and replaced with this order.
(2) Defendant shall not abuse, stalk, harass, threaten or attempt to use physical
force that would reasonably be expected to cause bodily injury to the plaintiff.
(3) Certified copies of this order shall be provided to the Silver Spring Township
Police Department, Mechanicsburg Police Department and the PA State Police.
(4) All pmvlsions of this order shall expire on February 19, 2012.1
You are notified that violation of this Order may result In arrest for indirect criminal
contempt, which is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000.00 andlor up to six months in
jail. 23 Pe.C.S. §6114. A violation of this Order may subject you to state charges and
The request of plaintiff for exclusive possession of the marital residence is not
granted nor is there a custody order being entered.
EXHIBIT
re A,
penaities under the PennsyWanle Crimes Code and to federal charges and penalties
under the Violence Against Women Act, 16 U.S.C. §$2281-2262.
NO-WA M LAW 6NFORC®AEfN? OFFICIALS
This Order shell be enfereed by the police who have jurisdiction over the
plaintllf a residence or any location where a violation of this order occurs or where the
defendant may be located. If defendant violates this Order, he may be arrested on the
charge of Indirect Criminal Contempt. An arrest br violatlon of this Order may be made
without warrant, based on probable cause whether or not the violation Is committed In
the presence of law enforcement. Subsequent to any arrest, the law enforcement
officer shall sales all weapons used or threatened to be used during any violation of this
Order. Weapons shell fbrthwith be delivered to the Cumberland County Shoff a Office,
which office shall maintain possession of the weapons until further Oder of this court,
unless the weepords are evidence of a crime, in which case, they shall remain with the
low eMbrcerrieM agency whose officer made the street.
B eC
Edgar B.
Krystai J. Mfaclntyr+e, CeMMI 1.6901 Intent
RobM't I Ralro, 110ts
For PlaintNf
Cinay L Mel, Esquire
For Defendent
PSP
Silver SPrMg Townshrp P9ke Depe tmeM
McMonicxbury Police oepwrtment :eat
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LEELAWATTIE JAGDEO
Plaintiff
vs.
ROHAN DOOKHARAN
Defendant
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
2009-985
CIVIL ACTION LAW
IN CUSTODY
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this day of 2009, upon
consideration of the attached Custody Conciliation Report, it is ordered and directed as follows:
1. The Mother, Leelawattie Jagdeo, and the Father, Rohan Dookharan, shall have shared legal
custody of Dillon Dookharan, born November 24, 1996, and Brandon Dookharan, born January 14,
2000. Major decisions concerning the Children including, but not necessarily limited to, their health,
welfare, education, religious training and upbringing shall be made jointly by the parties after
discussion and consultation with a view toward obtaining and following a harmonious policy in each
Child's best interest. Neither party shall impair the other party's rights to shared legal custody of the
Children. Neither party shall attempt to alienate the affections of the Children from the other party.
Each party shall notify the other of any activity or circumstance concerning the Children that could
reasonably be expected to be of concern to the other. Day to day decisions shall be the responsibility
of the parent then having physical custody. With regard to any emergency decisions which must be
made, the parent having physical custody of the Child at the time of the emergency shall be permitted
to make any immediate decisions necessitated thereby. However, that parent shall inform the other of
the emergency and consult with him or her as soon as possible. In accordance with 23 Pa.C.S.A.
§5309, each party shall be entitled to complete and full information from any doctor, dentist, teacher,
professional or authority and to have copies of any reports or information given to either party as a
parent as authorized by statute.
2. The Father shall have primary physical custody of the Children.
3. Beginning on Monday, April 13, 2009, the Mother shall have partial physical custody of the
Children every Monday and Tuesday from 4:00 p.m., when the Mother shall meet the Children at the
bus stop, until 6:00 p.m., when the Mother shall walk the Children back to the Father's residence. The
Mother shall exercise her periods of custody on Mondays and Tuesdays in the neighborhood where the
Children reside. In addition, beginning April 18, 2009, the Mother shall have custody of the Children
on alternating Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. during which time the Mother shall not be
limited to the neighborhood but may transport the Children by public transportation to activities in the
local area. Except when the Mother is obtaining custody of the Children under this provision directly
at the bus stop, the Father shall make the Children available outside the residence for the Mother to
pick them up at the times specified and the Mother shall take the Children back to the Father's
residence at the end of her periods of custody. During exchanges of custody, the Father shall remain in
his residence to receive custody of the Children and the Mother shall remain outside the residence.
4. On days when the Mother does not have a period of custody, the Mother shall be entitled to
contact the Children by telephone at bedtime. The Father shall not unreasonably restrict the Children
from initiating telephone calls to the Mother at any other time.
5. Within six (6) months of the date of this Order, counsel for either party may contact the
conciliator to schedule an additional custody conciliation conference to review the custodial
arrangements in light of changing circumstances or to further discuss expansion of the Mother's
periods of partial custody after the school year has ended.
6. Neither party shall do or say anything which may estrange the Children from the other
parent, injure the opinion of the Children as to the other parent, or hamper the free and natural
development of the Children's love and respect for the other parent. Both parties shall ensure that third
parties having contact with the Children comply with this provision.
7. This Order is entered pursuant to an agreement of the parties at a custody conciliation
conference. The parties may modify the provisions of this Order by mutual consent. In the absence of
mutual consent, this Order shall control.
cc: all MacIntyre and
??- e MacDonald-Fox, Esquire - Counsel for Mother
XnIr da a A. Clotfelter, Esquire - Counsel for Father
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LEELAWATTIE JAGDEO
Plaintiff
vs.
ROHAN DOOKHARAN
Defendant
Prior Judge: Edgar B. Bayley
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
2009-985 CIVIL ACTION LAW
IN CUSTODY
CUSTODY CONCILIATION SUMMARY REPORT
IN ACCORDANCE WITH CUMBERLAND COUNTY RULE OF CIVIL
PROCEDURE 1915.3-8, the undersigned Custody Conciliator submits the following report:
1. The pertinent information concerning the Children who are the subjects of this litigation is as
follows:
NAME DATE OF BIRTH CURRENTLY IN CUSTODY OF
Dillon Dookharan November 24, 1996 Father
Brandon Dookharan January 14, 2000 Father
2. A custody conciliation conference was held on April 6, 2009, with the following individuals
in attendance: the Mother Leelawattie Jagdeo, with her counsel, Crystal MacIntyre, and Anne
MacDonald-Fox, Esquire, and the Father, Rohan Dookharan, with his counsel, Linda A. Clotfelter,
Esquire.
3. The parties agreed to entry of an Order in the form as attached.
Date Dawn S. Sunday, Esquire
Custody Conciliator
LEELAWATTIE JAGDEO,
PLAINTIFF
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
V.
ROHAN DOOKHARAN,
DEFENDANT
09-0985 CIVIL TERM
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this If day of April, 2009, a hearing will be conducted
on the issue of whether or not plaintiff and defendant are married, on Monday,
May 11, 2009, at 2:30 p.m., in Courtroom Number 2, Cumberland County
Courthouse, Carlisle, Pennsylvania.
Byt ourt
r i V.
Edgar B. Bayley, P.
Xstal J. Maclntyre, Certified Legal Intern
Robert E. Rains, Esquire
For Plaintiff
inda A. Clotfelter, Esquire
For Defendant
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LEELAWATTIE JAGDEO
Plaintiff/Respondent
Vs.
ROHAN DOOICHARAN
Defendant/Petitioner
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 09-985
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
IN DIVORCE - DECLARATORY
JUDGMENT AS TO MARITAL STATUS
AMENDED CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
AND NOW, this Al I day of April, 2009, the undersigned hereby certifies that a true and
correct copy of the PETITION FOR DECLARATORY JUDGMENT AS TO MARITAL
STATUS filed April 8, 2009 was served upon the opposing party by facsimile and United States
First Class Mail, postage prepaid:
Krystal J. MacIntyre, Legal Intern
Family Law Clinic
45 North Pitt Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
Respectfully submitted,
LAW FIRM OF LINDA A. CLOTFELTER
f
L' da A. Clotfelter, Esquire
A rney ID No. 72963
1-021 East Trindle Road, Suite 100
Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
(717) 796-1930 telephone
(717) 796-1933 facsimile
Attorney for Defendant
OF THE P, TARY
2009 APR 22 PH 3: 06
LEELAWATTIE JAGDEO, : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
Plaintiff/ Respondent OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
V. CIVIL ACTION - LAW
IN DIVORCE - DECLATORY
ROHAN DOOKHARAN, JUDGMENT AS TO MARITAL
Defendant/Petitioner :STATUS
: No. 09-985 CIVIL TERM
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Krystal MacIntyre , Certified Legal Intern, Family Law Clinic, hereby certify that I
served a true and correct copy of the Divorce Complaint on Linda A. Clotfelter, Esq., counsel for
Rohan Dookharan, on the 8`" day of May, 2009 via facsimile and United States Mail at the
following address:
Linda A Clotfelter, Esq.
5021 East Trindle Road, Suite 100
Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
Respectfully Submitted,
Ki stal Mac tyre
Certified Legal Intern
Anne d-Fox, Esq.
Supervis' g Attorney
FAMILY LAW CLINIC
45 North Pitt Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 243-2968
Fax: (717) 243-3639
FILED--OF, dCE
OF THE PFOT' -0,1'1TARY
2009 MAY -8 Psi 1: 55
iii-, '? 11
,;:I 'L..E AJ,,s[A
4
LEELAWATTIE JAGDEO,
Plaintiff/ Respondent
V.
ROHAN DOOKHARAN,
Defendant/Petitioner
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION -LAW
IN DIVORCE - DECLATORY
: JUDGMENT AS TO MARITAL
:STATUS
: No. 09-985 CIVIL TERM
RESPONDENT'S ANSWER TO PETITION FOR DECLATORY JUDGMENT AS
TO MARITAL STATUS
AND NOW, comes Respondent, Leelawattie Jagdeo, by and through her counsel,
the Family Law Clinic, and files this Answer to Petition for Declatory Judgment as to
Marital Status, respectfully stating in support thereof as follows:
1. Admitted.
2. Admitted. By way of further answer, although Respondent sometimes
stays at other locations for purposes of commuting to and from her place of employment,
Respondent's current residential address is 20 Lilac Drive, Mechanicsburg, Cumberland
County, Pennsylvania 17050.
3. Admitted.
4. Admitted.
5. Admitted.
6. Petitioner mis-numbered, therefore there is no paragraph 6.
7. Admitted.
8. Denied. By way of further answer, Respondent's Complaint in Divorce is
proper because Petitioner and Respondent were married in a solemnized marriage
ceremony valid under New York Domestic Relations Laws § 12, § 13, and §25 when they
intentionally engaged in a Hindu marriage ceremony on August 10, 2001 at the home of
Respondent's mother in Richmond Hill, Queens County, New York, declaring in the
presence of an officiating Hindu Pandit and several attending witnesses that they took
each other as man and wife. Because Petitioner and Respondent established a marriage
that is valid under New York law, Pennsylvania courts must give full faith and credit to
the parties' marriage.
9. Denied. Since their marriage in 2001, Petitioner and Respondent
repeatedly referred to each other as husband and wife.
10. Denied. The parties have, since their marriage in 2001, and since moving
to Pennsylvania in 2003, repeatedly held themselves out to the world as husband and
wife, in front of family, friends, and neighbors, including their church congregation and
clergy, and their sons' schoolteachers, among others.
11. Admitted.
12. Admitted in part; denied in part. It is admitted that Respondent did not
take Petitioner's name in any legal context. By way of further answer, because Petitioner
and Respondent did not obtain a marriage license at the time of their marriage,
Respondent was unaware that she could legally take Petitioner's name. However,
Respondent has used Petitioner's surname in context of the children's school and in
classes she took in New York. Furthermore, although it is tradition in many cultures for a
married woman to take her husband's name, it is not required to establish the existence of
a marriage.
13. Admitted. By way of further answer, at the time Petitioner and
Respondent purchased real property located at No. 2 Lilac Drive, Mechanicsburg,
Pennsylvania, 17050, Petitioner informed Respondent that they would pay a higher
interest rate on their mortgage if Respondent were included in the title to the property,
and Respondent deferred to Petitioner's judgment on the matter because it is traditional
for a married Hindu woman to defer to the judgment of her husband in all household
matters.
14. Admitted that Petitioner and Respondent have no joint accounts at this
time; however, until Petitioner recently closed the account, Petitioner and Respondent
shared a joint checking account with Commerce Bank for at least three years from 2006 -
2009.
15. Denied. Respondent believes and therefore avers that Petitioner filed tax
returns as Head of Household, claiming Respondent as a dependent until Respondent
began receiving taxable income, whereupon Petitioner and Respondent filed jointly.
Petitioner and Respondent filed joint tax returns for the years 2005, 2006, and 2007, and
they jointly received a 2008 Economic Stimulus Payment.
16. Admitted.
17. Admitted.
18. Admitted.
WHEREFORE, Respondent, Leelawattie Jagdeo, by and through her undersigned
counsel, respectfully requests that this Honorable Court enter an Order finding that a`
marriage exists between the parties and granting such other relief as the Court may deem
just and proper.
Date V 4
es ectfully submitted,
KRYSTAL J. MACINT
Certified Legal Intern
RO E
THOMAS . PLACE
ANNE MACDONALD-FOX
LUCY JOHNSTON-WALSH
MEGAN RIESMEYER
Supervising Attorneys
Family Law Clinic
45 North Pitt Street
Carlisle, Pennsylvania 17013
(717) 243-3696
Fax: (717) 243-3639
VERIFICATION
I verify that the statements made in the foregoing complaint are true and correct to
the best of my personal knowledge, information and belief. I understand that false
statements herein are made subject to the penalties of 18 Pa.C.S. §4904, relating to
unsworn falsification to authorities.
Dated:, S/- 710 3T.L ?
elawattie Jagdeo
FILE c NOTASY
nr: 1a?9 ??Y -$ ?'?9 ? ? 55
LEELAWATTIE JAGDEO IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
PLAINTIFF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
V.
ROHAN DOOKHARAN
DF,FENDANT
• 2009-985 CIVIL ACTION LAW
IN CUSTODY
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, Tuesday, August 11, 2009 _, upon consideration of the attached Complaint,
it is hereby directed that parties and their respective counsel appear before Dawn S. Sunday, Esq. ,the conciliator,
at 39 West Main Street, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 on Thursday, September 03, 2009 at 3:30 PM
for aPre-Hearing Custody Conference. At such conference, an effort will be made to resolve the issues in dispute; or
if this cannot be accomplished, to define and. narrow the issues to be heard by the court, and to enter into a temporary
order. Failure to appear at the conference may provide grounds for entry of a temporary or permanent order.
The court hereby directs the parties to furnish any and all existing Protection from Abuse orders,
Special Relief orders, and Custody orders to the conciliator 48 hours prior to scheduled hearing.
FOR. THE COURT,
By: /s/ Dawn S. Sunda Es .
Custody Conciliator
The Court of Common Pleas of Cumberland County is required by law to comply with the Americans
with Disabilites 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.
YOU SHOULD TAKE THIS PAPER TO YOUR ATTORNEY AT ONCE. IF YOU DO NOT
HAVE AN ATTORNEY 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, Pennsylvania 17013
Telephone (717) 249-3166
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LEELAWATTIE JAGDEO
Plaintiff/Petitioner
vs.
ROHAN DOOKHARAN
Defendant/ Respondent
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 09-985
CIVIL ACTION -LAW
IN CUSTODY
FATHER'S ANSWER TO PETITION FOR EXCLUSIVE POSSESSION
1. Admitted in part and denied in part. It is admitted the Petition was filed but
denied that Mother is entitled to exclusive possession, so strict proof thereof is demanded.
2. Admitted.
3. Admitted in part and denied in part. It is admitted that Father resides at 2 Lilac
Drive, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania and that he was in incarcerated on July 22, 2009. However,
in the implication therein that Father does not reside at the residence is denied. The residence,
which is titled to Father and was purchased with Father's non-marital funds continues to be
Father's residence absent his brief incarceration and hospitalization. Therefore, strict proof
hereof is demanded.
4. Admitted.
5. Admitted.
6. Admitted.
7. Admitted.
8. Admitted in part and denied in part. It is admitted that Mother has been without
stable housing and that the Children live in the home with Father. The remaining allegations of
this paragraph are denied as Mother was never forced to leave the marital residence. In further
answer hereof, Mother voluntarily left the marital residence to pursue her adulterous relationship.
~.
9. Admitted.
10. Admitted.
11. Admitted in part and denied in part. It is admitted that the Order was modified
but the implication therein that the court decided same is denied. In further answer hereof, the
parties amicably agreed upon a Modified Custody Order.
12. Denied. Father lacks sufficient knowledge to determine the truth to this averment
and therefore strict proof thereof is demanded at trial. In further answer Mother's home
environment has been so unstable that overnight periods of custody ait this point cannot be
ordered.
13. Denied. It is specifically denied that Father has failed iri any way to provide a
stable home environment for the Children. The subparts of this averment are also denied as
follows:
a. Admitted in part and denied in part. It is admitted that Fathher was charged
with driving under the influence and related charges and he spent three
days in jail. However, in the implication herein that; Father's prior
incarceration is pertinent to this Petition for Exclusive Possession is
specifically denied and strict proof thereof is demanded at trial It is
further denied that Mother cared for the Children for the three days that
Father was incarcerated for his DUI. Father's brother, Deroj Dookharan,
came from New Jersey to care for the Children while Father was
incarcerated in March, 2009.
b. Denied. It is specifically denied that Father verbally harassed Mother. In
further answer hereof on several occasions it has been Mother who yells
repeatedly from across the street in an attempt to provoke Father. It is
further denied that the Children were unsafe at their own home. In further
answer hereof, Mother failed to comply with the terms of the parties'
Custody Order and in direct violation of the Custody Order failed to return
the Children as mandated by the court Order.
c. Denied. Father lacks sufficient knowledge or information to determine the
truth of the averment and therefore, strict proof thereof is demanded. In
further answer, Father knows of no instances when the police have been
called by neighbors regarding Father's alleged loud music and Father's
alleged intoxication.
d. Denied. See answer to 13 (c) above.
e. Admitted in part and denied in part. It is admitted that Father was taken
into custody for an alleged violation of the Protection from Abuse Order
and alleged violations of his probation. It is denied that Father violated
the PFA or the terms of his probation. It is further denied that Father was
arrested on July 22, 2009, when in fact he was arrested on July 23, 2009.
Therefore, strict proof hereof is demanded
14. Admitted.
15. Denied. Although Father was hospitalized at the Carlisle Medical Center he has
been released from same. It is specifically denied that Father is sufferin€; medical issues related
to alcoholism. In further answer hereof, while incarcerated Father contracted an infection that
resulted in pneumonia and kidney infection. Father needed hospitalization but has returned to
his home and has custody of the Children. Therefore, strict proof of the allegations of this
paragraph are demanded at trial.
l6. Admitted.
17. Admitted.
18. Denied. Father lacks sufficient knowledge or information to determine the truth
of this averments of this paragraph and therefore, strict proof thereof is demand.
19. Denied. It is specifically denied that Mother is able to provide a stable home
environment for the Children. Mother has very minimal income and can barely support herself.
She is unable to finance a mortgage, utilities, and other costs associated with the use and
possession of the marital residence. In further answer hereof, Mother has shown that she is
unable to obtain and maintain her own residence since the parties' separation as she has resided
with friends and at public shelters. Father, on the other hand, has despite- his limited income has
been able to continue to maintain the marital residence financially and otherwise such that the
Children are provided a stable home environment in which they are most familiar. Father and
not Mother would be able to continue to maintain the marital residence.
20. Admitted in part and denied in part. It is admitted that Father does not have the
financial resources to secure alternative housing and the remaining allegations of this paragraph
are denied. In further answer hereof it is not in the best interest of the Clhildren to grant Mother
exclusive possession of the marital residence as Mother has proven that s,he is unable to provide
a stable environment and also proven that she lacks sufficient income, assets, or an earning
capacity to provide income to maintain the marital residence while Father has been able to do so
during the parties' separation.
21. Admitted.
22. Denied to the extent to which no response is required thereto.
23. Admitted.
WHEREFORE, Father respectfully requests that this Honorable Court deny Mother's
Petition for Exclusive Possession of the Marital Residence and grant such other relief as this
Court deems just and proper.
Dated: Il Z~
Respectfully submitted,
LAW FIRM OF LINDA A. CLOTFELTER
~~
Li da A. Clotfelter, Esquire
torney ID No. 72963
5021 East Trindle Road, Suite 100
Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
(717) 796-1930 telephone
(717) 796-1933 facsimile
LEELAWATTIE JAGDEO
Plaintiff/Petitioner
vs.
ROHAN DOOKHARAN
Defendant/ Respondent
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 09-985
CIVIL ACTION -LAW
IN CUSTODY
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
AND NOW, this ~~'day of August, 2009, the undersigned hereby certifies that a true
and correct copy of the foregoing Father's Answer to Petition for Exclusive Possession was
served upon the opposing party by facsimile and first class mail, postage prepaid, addressed as
follows:
Krystal MacIntyre, Certified Legal Intern
Family Law Clinic
45 North Pitt Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
Dated: ~~ c~ ~ 4~
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Sh on Sheaffer, arale ~1
5021 East Trindle Road, Suite 100
Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
(717) 796-1930 telephone
(717) 796-1933 facsimile
FlLEB--~r, ~~E
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MAR 0 ~ 7(111 3
Leelawattie Jagdeo, IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
Plaintiff/ Petitioner OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
:PENNSYLVANIA
v. :CIVIL ACTION -LAW
IN DIVORCE
Rohan Dookharan, - ` , {
Defendant/ Respondent No. 09-985 CIVIL TERM ~, ~ ,
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ORDER OF COURT c~ ~
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AND NOW, this day of ~ 010, upon consideration of the attached
Petition for Special Relief, it is hereby Ordered as follows:
1. The respondent, Rohan Dookharan, shall immediately provide all information
regarding the foreclosure action on the marital residence to his wife, Leela
Jagdeo, and to execute any documents necessary to permit her to access
respondent's loan information with American Home Mortgaging Servicing, Inc.
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2. The respondent, Rohan Dookharan, shall place any proceeds o~trirtetl from the
sale of the marital residence into The Family Law Clinic's escrow account
pending any future division between the parties. • ~ ~~~-~,
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LEELAWATTIE JAGDEO : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
PlaintifVPetitioner : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
VS. : NO. 09-985 °
ROHAN DOOICHARAN : CIVIL ACTION - LAW Z rnr--
Defendant/ Respondent . IN DIVORCE ?-- -urn
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RULE
AND NOW this day of , 2011, upon consideration of the
Petition of Linda A. Clotfelter, Esquire, to withdraw as counsel for the Defendant, a Rule is
issued upon all parties to show cause why the Petition should not be granted, returnable* days
from date of service.
BY THE COURT:
.Frdga?9. Owfh "Judge
Distribution:
Linda A. Clotfelter, Esquire, 5021 E. Trindle Road, Suite 100, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050,
Attorney for Defendant
Megan Reismeyer, Esquire, Family Law Clinic, 45 N. Pitt St., Carlisle, PA 17013, Attorney for
Plaintiff
Rohan Dookharan, 59 Regency Woods, Carlisle, PA 17015, Respondent
L'oPoes ma . /elf 01,4g111
b?
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LEELAWATTIE JAGDEO
Plaintiff/Respondent
VS.
ROHAN DOOKHARAN
Defendant/Petitioner
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 09-985
: CIVIL ACTION - LAW
: IN DIVORCE
Prior judicial assignment: Edward E. Guido, Judge MM c= r ;_`4
Concurrence/Nonconcurrence: See paragraph 3 below
PETITIONER'S MOTION TO MAKE RULE ABSOLUTE ? ° -? -•-
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Withdraw Appearance and on June 29, 2011, a Rule was issued upon all interested parties to
show cause why the relief requested should not be granted.
2. On July 7, 2011, Petitioner served all interested parties with the Rule to show
cause on the Petition to Withdraw Appearance and terminate representation as Defendant's
counsel.
3. As per the Rule dated June 29, 2011, the 20-day return date was passed without
answer by Defendant, and Petitioner now seeks to have the Rule made absolute.
WHEREFORE, Petitioner respectfully requests the Court to make the Rule absolute and
to grant her permission to withdraw as counsel for Defendant Rohan Dookharan, in the above-
captioned proceeding.
LAW FIRM OF LINDA A. CLOTFELTER
Date: I I A I / I
Lida A. Clotfelter, Esquire
A orney ID No. 72963
5621 East Trindle Road, Suite 100
Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
(717) 796-1930 telephone
(717) 796-1933 facsimile
LEELAWATTIE JAGDEO : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
Plaintiff/Respondent : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
VS. : NO. 09-985
ROHAN DOOKHARAN : CIVIL ACTION - LAW
Defendant/Petitioner : IN DIVORCE
VERIFICATION
I, Linda A. Clotfelter, Esquire, verify that the statements in the foregoing Petitioner's
Rule to Make Motion Absolute are true and correct to the best of my knowledge, information
and belief. 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: I
5021 East Trindle Road, Suite 100
Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
(717) 796-1930 telephone
(717) 796-1933 facsimile
LEELAWATTIE JAGDEO : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
Plaintiff/Respondent : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
VS. : NO. 09-985
ROHAN DOOKHARAN : CIVIL ACTION - LAW
Defendant/Petitioner : IN DIVORCE
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
AND NOW, this day of July, 2011, the undersigned hereby certifies that a true
and correct copy of the foregoing Petitioner's Motion to Make Rule Absolute was served upon
the opposing party by United States First Class Mail, postage prepaid, addressed as follows:
Rohan Dookharan Megan Reismeyer, Esquire
59 Regency Woods Family Law Clinic
Carlisle, PA 17015 45 N. Pitt Street
(Defendant) Carlisle, PA 17013
(Attorney for Plaintiff)
Respectfully submitted,
LAW FIRM OF LINDA A. CLOTFELTER
By: ;(-Y1nDA ? L A
Kimbftly M. N e alegal
5021 East T dle Road, Suite 100
Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
(717) 796-1930 telephone
(717) 796-1933 facsimile
Leelawattie Jagdeo,
Plaintiff.
v.
Rohan Dookharan,
Defendant.
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 09-985
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
DIVORCE
WITHDRAWAL OF EQUITABLE DISTRIBUTION CLAIM
TO THE PROTHONOTARY OF SAID COURT:
Kindly withdraw Leelawattie J
1D ?? 11
Date
's Equitable distribution claim.
Patrick Boyce
Certified Legal Intern
Martin J. D' rso Esq.
THE FAMILY LAW CLINIC
45 North Pitt Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 243-2968
(fax) (717) 243-3639
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Leelawattie Jagdeo , IN THE COND O OUONTYpPENNSYLVOANI
CUMBERLA r--
Plaintiff
v : CIVIL ACTION-LAW
DIVORCE
Rohan Dookharan, Np 09 - 985 CIVIL TERM C.
Defendant
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Patrick Boyer, Certified Legal Intern, Family Law Clinic, hereby certify that I served a
true and correct copy of the Notice of Intention to Request Entry of Divorce Decree on Rohan
Dookharan, residing at 2 Lilac Dr. Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 by depositing a copy of the same
in the United States mail, postage prepaid.
Patrick Boyer
Certified Legal Intern
Leelawattie Jagdeo, : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
,.??`
Plaintiff : OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSY4iANf;
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CIVIL ACTION - LAW= _c
f
V. : DIVORCE
Rohan Dookharan, -
Defendant :NO: 09-985 CIVIL TERM
NOTICE OF INTENTION TO REQUEST ENTRY OF § 3301(d) DIVORCED&RVE
TO: DEFENDANT
You have been sued in an action for divorce. You have failed to answer the complaint or
file a counter-affidavit to the § 3301(d) affidavit. Therefore, on or after November 14, 2011, the
other party can request the court to enter a final decree in divorce.
If you do not file with the Prothonotary of the court an answer with your signature
notarized or verified or a counter-affidavit by the above date, the court can enter a final decree in
divorce. A counter-affidavit which you may file with the Prothonotary of the court is attached to
this notice.
Unless you have already filed with the court a written claim for economic relief, you
must do so by the above date or the court may grant the divorce and you will lose forever the
right to ask for economic relief. The filing of the form counter-affidavit alone does not protect
your economic claims.
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.
IF YOU CANNOT .AFFORD A LAWYER, THIS OFFICE MAY BE ABLE TO
PROVIDE YOU WITH INFORMATION ABOUT AGENCIES THAT MAY OFFER
LEGAL SERVICES TO ELIGIBLE PERSONS AT A REDUCED FEE OR NO FEE.
Cumberland County Bar Association
32 South Bedford Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 249-3166
AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF 1990
The Court 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.
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Leelawattie Jagdeo
V.
Rohan Dookharan
NO. 09-985
DIVORCE DECREE
AND NOW, N d( , it is ordered and decreed that
Leelawattie Jagdeo
plaintiff, and
Rohan Dookharan
bonds of matrimony.
defendant, are divorced from the
Any existing spousal support order shall hereafter be deemed an order for
alimony pendente lite if any economic claims remain pending.
The court retains jurisdiction of any claims raised by the parties to this action
for which a final order has not yet been entered. Those claims are as follows: (If no
claims remain indicate "None.")
None
By W
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