HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-4214W. Scott Henning, Esquire
I.D.#32298
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
1300 Linglestown Road
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Telephone: (717) 238-2000 Attorney for Plaintiff
Fax : (717) 233-3029
E-mail: Henning@HHRLow.com
KENDRA C. MITCHELL, a minor by
and through her natural Parent and
Guardian, MICHAEL D. MITCHELL,
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Plaintiff
No. O S - "/d 14/
v.
DELORES FAILOR and ROSS
FAILOR,
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
Defendants
NOTICE
01OLLT- l
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
YOU HAVE BEEN SUED IN COURT. If you wish to defend against the claims set forth in the following
pages, you must take action within twenty (20) days after this Complaint and Notice are served, by entering a
written appearance personally or by attorney and filing in writing with the Court your defenses or objections to
the claims set forth against you. You are warned that if you fail to do so the case may proceed without you and
a judgment may be entered against you by the Court without further notice for any money claimed in the
Complaint or for any other claim or relief requested by the Plaintiff. You may lose money or property or other
rights important to you.
YOU SHOULD TAKE THIS PAPER TO YOUR LAWYER AT ONCE. IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A LAWYER, GO
TO OR TELEPHONE 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.
Lawyer Referral Service
4th Floor, Cumberland County Courthouse
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 240-6200
AVISO
LISTED HA SIDO DEMANDADOIA EN CORTE. Si usted desea defenderse de las demandas qua se presentan
mas adelante an )as siguientes paginas, debe tomar acci6n dentro de los pr6ximos veinte (20) dies despues
de la notificaci6n de esta Demanda y Aviso radicando personalmente o por medio de un abogado una
comparecencia escrita y radicando an la Corte por escrito sus defensas de, y objecciones a, las demandas
presentadas aqui en contra suya. Se le advierte de qua si usted falla de tomar acci6n Como se describe
anteriormente, el caso puede proceder sin usted y un fallo por cualquier suma de dinero reclamada an la
demanda o cualquier otra reclamaci6n o remedio solicitado por at demandante puede set dictado en contra suya
por la Corte sin mas aviso adicional. Usted puede perder dinero o propiedad u otros derechos importantes pare
usted.
USTED DEBE LLEVAR ESTE DOCUMENTO A SU ABOGADO INMEDIATAMENTE. St USTED NO TIENE
UN ABOGADO, LLAME O VAYA A LA SIGUIENTE OFICINA. ESTA OFICINA PUEDE PROVEERLE
INFORMACION A CERCA DE COMO CONSEGUIR UN ABOGADO.
SI USTED NO PUEDE PAGAR POR LOS SERVICIOS DE UN ABOGADO, ES POSIBLE QUE ESTA OFICINA
LE PUEDA PROVEER INFORMACION SOBRE AGENCIAS QUE OFREZCAN SERVICIOS LEGALES SIN
CARGO O BAJO COSTO A PERSONAS QUE CUALIFICAN.
Lawyer Referral Service
4th Floor, Cumberland County Courthouse
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 240-6200
HAN
By:
W. Scott Henning, Esquire
I.D.#32298
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
1300 Linglestown Road
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Telephone: (717) 238-2000
Fax: (717) 233-3029
KENDRA C. MITCHELL, a minor by
and through her natural Parent and
Guardian, MICHAEL D. MITCHELL,
Plaintiff
V.
DELORES FAILOR, and
ROSS FAILOR,
Defendants
Attorney for Plaintiff
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
No. OS- t_"iv?h
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
COMPLAINT
AND NOW, comes the Plaintiff, Kendra C. Mitchell, a minor by and through her
natural Parent and Guardian, Michael D. Mitchell, by and through their attorneys,
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP, by W. Scott Henning, Esquire, and makes
the within Complaint against the Defendants, Delores Failor and Ross Failor, and in
support thereof aver the following:
1. Plaintiff, Kendra C. Mitchell, is a minor child currently residing with Michael D.
Mitchell, her natural parent and guardian at 1893 Ester Drive, Carlisle, Cumberland
County, Pennsylvania 17013.
2. Defendant, Delores Failor, is a competent adult individual currently residing at 201
Sheaffer Road, Carlisle, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania 17013.
3. Defendant, Ross Failor, is a competent adult individual currently residing at 201
Sheaffer Road, Carlisle, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania 17013.
4. At all times material hereto, Defendants were the owners of and/or had control and
possession of a dog that attacked and bit Plaintiff, Kendra C. Mitchell, causing
serious and permanent bodily injury.
5. At all times material hereto Defendants maintained a stable for horses and provided
horse riding lessons upon their premises.
6. On or about June 15, 2004, Plaintiff, Kendra C. Mitchell, was on the Defendants'
premises with her mother for the purposing taking a horse riding lesson, when
without provocation, Defendants' dog attacked and bit Plaintiff, Kendra C. Mitchell,
on the face above the right eye, causing serious and permanent injuries.
7. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendants, Delores Failor and
Ross Failor, Plaintiff, Kendra C. Mitchell, sustained severe puncture wounds and
lacerations above her right eye requiring sutures and a protracted course of medical
treatment, which may include plastic surgery procedures in the future.
8. The occurrence of the aforesaid incident and the resultant injuries sustained by
Plaintiff, Kendra C. Mitchell, were caused directly and proximately bythe negligence
of Defendants, Delores Failor and Ross Failor, generally and more specifically as
set forth below:
-2-
a. In failing to properly secure the dog and in otherwise failing to restrain and
control the animal, when the Defendants knew, or should have known, that
the dog had a dangerous nature and vicious propensities;
b. In failing to provide warning by posting signs that the dog was present on
said premises and to be wary of the dog, when the Defendants knew, or
should have known of the dog's vicious tendencies;
C. In failing to take adequate precautions which may have prevented injury to
the Plaintiff, Kendra C. Mitchell, as a result of the dog's actions;
d. In failing to secure the dog in an area where anyone near or about the
Defendants' premises would not be harmed or affected by the dog's actions,
when the Defendants knew, or should have known of the dog's dangerous
propensities; and
e. In violating the various provisions of the Pennsylvania Dog Law, 3 P.S.§ 459-
101 to 551 and 3 P. S. § 459.502A; § 459-504A; and § 459-505A.
9. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendants, Plaintiff, Kendra
C. Mitchell, suffered serious injuries including, but not limited to, severe puncture
wounds and lacerations above her right eye which required immediate medical
attention, including sutures.
10. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendants, Plaintiff, Kendra
C. Mitchell, has undergone great physical pain, discomfort, and mental anguish, and
she may continue to endure the same for an indefinite period of time in the future
to her great physical, emotional, and financial detriment and loss.
-3-
11. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendants, Plaintiff, Kendra
C. Mitchell, has been hindered from attending to her daily activities and duties to her
great detriment, loss, humiliation, and embarrassment.
12. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of the Defendants, Plaintiff,
Kendra C. Mitchell, and her guardian and parent, Plaintiff Michael D. Mitchell, has
been compelled, in order to effect a cure for the aforesaid injuries, to expend large
sums of money for medicine and medical attention.
13. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendants, Plaintiff, Kendra
C. Mitchell, has suffered a loss of life's pleasures, and may continue to suffer the
same in the future to her great detriment and loss.
14. Plaintiff, Kendra C. Mitchell, believes, and therefore avers, that her injuries are
permanent in nature, including permanent scarring.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiff, Kendra C. Mitchell, a minor by and through her natural
Parent and Guardian, Michael D. Mitchell, seeks damages from the Defendants, Delores
Failor and Ross Failor, in an amount in excess of the compulsory arbitration limits of
Cumberland County, plus costs and such further relief as this Court deems just.
Respectfully submitted,
Date: 9 - / 'S-k 4-5
-4-
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
VERIFICATION
The undersigned hereby verifies that the statements in the foregoing document
are based upon information which has been furnished to counsel by me and information
which has been gathered by counsel in the preparation of this lawsuit. The language
of the document is of counsel and not my own. I have read the document and to the
extent that it is based upon information which I have given to counsel, it is true and
correct to the hest of my knowledge, information and belief. To the extent that the
contents of the document are that of counsel, I have relied upon my counsel in making
this Verification. The undersigned also understands that the statements made therein
are made subject to the penalties of 18 Pa. C.S. Section 4904, relating to unsworn
falsification to authorities.
Date: 1 ??
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ORIGINAL
BENNETT, BRICKLIN & SALTZBURG LLP
ATTORNEYS FOR
DEFENDANTS
BY: Paul F. Lantieri, Esquire
I.D. No. 22241
222 E. Orange Street
Lancaster, PA 17602
(717) 393-4400
KENDRA C. MITCHELL, a minor by
and through her natural Parent and
Guardian, MICHAEL E. MITCHELL,
vs.
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
DELORES FAILOR and ROSS
FAILOR
DOCKET No. 05-4214
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
ENTRY OF APPEARANCE AND DEMAND FOR JURY TRIAL
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Kindly enter our appearance as counsel on behalf of defendants, Delores Failor and Ross
Failor on whose behalf a jury trial is demanded.
BENNETT, BRICKLIN & SALTZBURG LLP
BY:
PAUL F. LANTIERI, ESQUIRE
Attorney for Defendants,
Delores Failor and Ross Failor
Dated: September 6, 2005
BENNETT, BRICKLIN & SALTZBURG LLP
AT T O R N E YS F O R
DEFENDANTS
BY: Paul F. Lantieri, Esquire
I.D. No. 22241
222 E. Orange Street
Lancaster, PA 17602
(717) 393-4400
KENDRA C. MITCHELL, a minor by
and through her natural Parent and
Guardian, MICHAEL E. MITCHELL,
Vs.
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
DELORES FAILOR and ROSS
FAILOR
DOCKET No. 05-4214
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Paul F. Lantieri, Esquire, hereby certify that a true and correct copy of the foregoing Entry
of Appearance and demand for jury trial has been served this date upon all interested counsel by way
of United States First Class Mail, postage prepaid, addressed as follows:
W. Scott Henning, Esquire
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
1300 Linglestown Road
Harrisburg, PA 17110
(Counsel for Plaintiffs)
6 141-1
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PAUL F. LANTIERI, ESQUIRE
Dated: September 6, 2005
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SHERIFF'S RETURN - REGULAR
CASE NO: 2005-04214 P
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA:
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
MITCHELL KENDRA C ET AL
VS
FAILOR DELORES ET AL
CPL. TREVOR KENT
Sheriff or Deputy Sheriff of
Cumberland County,Pennsylvania, who being duly sworn according to law,
says, the within COMPLAINT & NOTICE was served upon
FAILOR DELORES
DEFENDANT
the
, at 1625:00 HOURS, on the 24th day of August , 2005
at CUMBERLAND CO SHERIFF'S OFFICE ONE COURTHOUSE SQUARE
CARLISLE, PA 17013 by handing to
DELORES FAILOR
a true and attested copy of COMPLAINT & NOTICE together with
and at the same time directing Her attention to the contents thereof.
Sheriff's Costs:
Docketing 18.00
Service .00
Affidavit .00
Surcharge 10.00
.00
28.00
Sworn and Subscribed to before
me this day of
oZ o S I A . D .
fP otho ry l
So Answers:
R. Thomas Kline
08/25/2005
HANDLER HENNING ROSENBERG
By Sheritt
SHERIFF'S RETURN - REGULAR
CASE NO: 2005-04214 P
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA:
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
MITCHELL KENDRA C ET
VS
FAILOR DELORES ET AL
CPL. TREVOR KENT Sheriff or Deputy Sheriff of
Cumberland County,Pennsylvania, who being duly sworn according to law,
says, the within COMPLAINT & NOTICE was served upon
ROSS
the
DEFENDANT , at 1625:00 HOURS, on the 24th day of August , 2005
at CUMBERLAND CO SHERIFF'S OFFICE ONE COURTHOUSE SQUARE
CARLISLE
by handing to
ROSS FAILOR
a true and attested copy of COMPLAINT & NOTICE together with
and at the same time directing His attention to the contents thereof.
Sheriff's Costs
Docketing 6.00
Service .00
Affidavit .00
Surcharge 10.00
.00
16.00
Sworn and Subscribed to before
me this _t day of
() A.D.
rothon y
So Answers:
R. Thomas Kline
08/25/2005
HANDLER HENNING ROSENBERG
By
Le?,.C
Deputy Sheriff
ORIGINAL
BENNETT, BRICKLIN & SALTZBURG LLP
BY: Paul F. Lantieri, Esquire
I.D. No. 22241
222 EAST ORANGE STREET
LANCASTER, PA 17602
(717) 393-4400
ATTORNEY FOR DEFENDANTS
Delores Failor and Ross Failor
KENDRA C. MITCHELL, a minor by
and through her natural Parent and
Guardian, MICHAEL D. MITCHELL
vs.
DELORES FAILOR and ROSS FAILOR
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
DOCKET No. 2005-04214
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
PRAECIPE TO ISSUE WRIT TO JOIN
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Kindly issue Writ of Summons - Civil Action against Caren Mitchell, 1993 Esther Drive,
Carlisle, PA 17013, as an additional defendant in the above-captioned matter.
BENNETT, BRICKLIN & SALTZBURG LLP
BY:
PAUL F. LANTIERI, ESQUIRE
Attorney for Defendants,
Delores Failor and Ross Failor
Dated: October 19, 2005
1
BENNETT, BRICKLIN & SALTZBURG LLP
BY: Paul F. Lantieri, Esquire
I.D. No. 22241
222 EAST ORANGE STREET
LANCASTER, PA 17602
(717) 393-4400
KENDRA C. MITCHELL, a minor by
and through her natural Parent and
Guardian, MICHAEL D. MITCHELL
vs.
DELORES FAILOR and ROSS FAILOR
ATTORNEY FOR DEFENDANTS
Delores Failor and Ross Failor
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
DOCKET No. 2005-04214
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
1, Paul F. Lantieri, Esquire, hereby certify that a true and correct copy of the foregoing
Praecipe to Issue Writ of Summons has been served this date upon all interested counsel by way of
United States First Class Mail, postage prepaid, addressed as follows:
W. Scott Henning, Esquire
HANDLER, 14ENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
1300 Linglestown Road
Harrisburg, PA 17110
(Counsel for Plaintif
PAUL F. LANTIERI, ESQUIRE
Dated: October 19. 2005
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Cumberland County, ss :
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to CAREN MI=LL 1893 ESTHER DRIVE
(Name of Additional Defendant)
PA 17013
You are notified that DELORES FAILOR AND ROSS FAILOR
(Name (s) of Defendant (s) )
has (have) joined you as an additional defendant in this action, which you are re-
quired to defend.
Date OCTOBER 24, 2005
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By
Deputy
(SEAL)
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SHERIFF'S RETURN - REGULAR
CASE NO: 2005-04214 P
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA:
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
MITCHELL KENDRA C ET AL
VS
FAILOR DELORES ET AL
DOUGLAS RUZANSKI
, Sheriff or Deputy Sheriff of
Cumberland County,Pennsylvania, who being duly sworn according to law,
says, the within WRIT TO ADD'L DEFEN
MITCHELL CAREN
was served upon
the
ADD'L DEFENDANT, at 2056:00 HOURS, on the 7th day of November , 2005
at 1893 ESTHER DRIVE
CARLISLE, PA 17013
CAREN MITCHELL
by handing to
a true and attested copy of WRIT TO ADD'L DEFEN. together with
and at the same time directing Her attention to the contents thereof.
Sheriff's Costs:
Docketing
Service
Postage
Surcharge
So Answers:
18.00
4.80
.37
10.00 R. Thomas Kline
nn
Sworn and Subscribed to before
me this 16 ? day of
Yl?ruaw.Fi-<? it /IA.
Prot o ary
11/09/20
BENNETT
By:
ORIGINAL
BENNETT, BRICKLIN & SALTZBURG LLP
BY: Paul F. Lantieri, Esquire
I.D. No. 22241
222 EAST ORANGE STREET
LANCASTER, PA 17602
(717) 393-4400
KENDRA C. MITCHELL, a minor by
and through her natural Parent and
Guardian, MICHAEL D. MITCHELL
vs.
DELORES FAILOR and ROSS FAILOR
To the within named parties, you are hereby
notified to plead to the enclosed New Matter
within twenty (20) days from service hereof or
a judgment may be entered against you.
`& j(-?L4?c
PAUL F. LAN'rIERI, ESQUIRE
ATTORNEY FOR DEFENDANTS
Ross and Delores Failor
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
DOCKET No. 2005-04214
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
ANSWER OF DEFENDANTS DELORES FAILOR AND ROSS FAILOR
TO COMPLAINT WITH NEW MATTER
1. Admitted in part and denied in part. It is admitted that Kendra C. Mitchell is a minor.
As to the remaining averments, answering defendants are without knowledge or information
sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of same and if relevant, proof is demanded.
2, 3. Admitted.
4. Admitted in part and denied in part. It is admitted only that answering defendants
owned and possessed a 17 year old Australian shepherd dog. It is admitted that the minor plaintiff
stated that the dog bit her. It is denied that the dog attacked the minor plaintiff.
5. Admitted in part and denied in part. It is admitted only that answering defendants
maintained a stable for horses. It is denied that they provided horse riding lessons upon their
premises.
6. Denied as stated. On the date stated, the minor plaintiff's mother, Karen Mitchell,
was on defendants' premises for her own purposes which included taking care of her horses. Mrs.
Mitchell arranged to have someone provide her with a riding lesson and Mrs. Mitchell either directed
the minor plaintiff into a stable or allowed her to go there. Answering defendants did not arrange
Mrs. Mitchell's horse riding lesson. It is denied that defendants' dog attacked the minor plaintiff.
As to the remaining averments, they are denied and at issue pursuant to Pennsylvania Rule of Civil
Procedure 1029.
7-14, inclusive. Denied. The averments of these paragraphs are deemed to be denied and
at issue pursuant to Pennsylvania Rule of Civil Procedure 1029 and if relevant, proof is demanded.
Defendants specifically deny any and all negligence on their part and further deny that any act or
omission on their part caused the minor plaintiff's injuries.
WHEREFORE, defendants Ross Failor and Delores Failor respectfully request that judgment
be entered in their favor.
NEW MATTER
15. Plaintiffs' claims are barred or limited under the Pennsylvania Comparative
Negligence Act.
16. Plaintiffs' claims are barred to the extent the evidence establishes that plaintiffs
assumed the risk of the injuries alleged.
17. On information and belief, it is averred that at all times material hereto, the minor
plaintiff was in the joint custody and control of Karen Mitchell and Michael D. Mitchell.
18. On information and belief, it is averred that at all times material hereto, Karen
Mitchell and Michael D. Mitchell were husband and wife and natural parents and guardians of
Kendra C. Mitchell.
2
t9. By virtue of his joint custody of Kendra Mitchell with Karen Mitchell, plaintiff
Michael D. Mitchell is chargeable with and responsible for any negligence on the part of Karen
Mitchell in the care and control of Kendra Mitchell and accordingly, Michael Mitchell's claims are
barred or reduced under the Pennsylvania Comparative Negligence Act.
20. Moreover, or in the alternative, Michael Mitchell was negligent in permitting the
minor plaintiff to go with her mother to defendants' premises when he knew or should have known
that Karen Mitchell would not be able to observe their child at all times and for this additional
reason, Michael Mitchell's claims are barred or reduced pursuant to the Pennsylvania Comparative
Negligence Act.
21. Plaintiffs' claims are barred or reduced to the extent the evidence establishes that the
plaintiffs, or either of them, failed to properly or adequately mitigate damages.
22. Plaintiffs' complaint fails to set forth a duty or a cause of action against answering
defendants.
WHEREFORE, defendants Ross Fai for and Delores Failor respectfully request that j udgment
be entered in their favor.
BENNETT, BRICKLIN & SALTZBURG LLP
BY: k ?,- "
PAUL F. LANTIERI, ESQUIRE
Attorney for Defendants,
Ross and Delores Failor
Dated: November 15, 2005
3
VERIFICATION
I, Delores Failor, verify that I am a defendant in this action, that I am authorized to make this
verification to the foregoing Answer of Defendants Delores Failor and Ross Failor to Complaint with
New Matter, and that the facts set forth therein are true and correct to the best of my knowledge,
information, and belief.
I understand that false statements made herein are subject to the penalties of 18 Pa. C.S.
Section 4904 relating to unsworn falsifications to authorities.
DELORES FAILOR
Dated: C O
VERIFICATION
I, Ross Failor, verify that I am a defendant in this action, that I am authorized to make this
verification to the foregoing Answer of Defendants Delores Failor and Ross Failor to Complaint with
New Matter, and that the facts set forth therein are true and correct to the best of my knowledge,
information, and belief.
I understand that false statements made herein are subject to the penalties of 18 Pa. C. S.
Section 4904 relating to unsworn falsifications to authorities.
7
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ROSS FAILOR
Dated: /? S GSA
BENNETT, BRICKLIN & SALTZBURG LLP
BY: Paul F. Lantieri, Esquire
I.D. No. 22241
222 EAST ORANGE STREET
LANCASTER, PA 17602
(717) 393-4400
KENDRA C. MITCHELL, a minor by
and through her natural Parent and
Guardian, MICHAEL D. MITCHELL
vs.
DELORES FAILOR and ROSS FAILOR
VS.
CAREN MITCHELL
ATTORNEY FOR DEFENDANTS
Ross and Delores Failor
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
DOCKET No. 2005-04214
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Paul F. Lantieri, Esquire, hereby certify that a true and correct copy of the foregoing
Answer of Defendants Delores Failor and Ross Failor to Complaint with New Matter has been
served this date upon all interested counsel by way of United States First Class Mail, postage
prepaid, addressed as follows:
W. Scott Henning, Esquire
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
1300 Linglestown Road
Harrisburg, PA 17110
(Counsel for Plaintiff)
Ms. Caren Mitchell
1893 Esther Drive
Carlisle, PA 17013
J"(
PAUL F. LANTIERI, ESQUIRE
Dated: November 15, 2005
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W. Scott Henning, Esquire
I.D.#32298
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
1300 Linglestown Road
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Telephone: (717) 238.2000
Attorney for Plaintiff
Fax: (717) 233-3029
E-mail: Henning@hhrlaw.com
KENDRA C. MITCHELL, a minor by IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
and through her natural Parent and CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Guardian, MICHAEL D. MITCHELL,
Plaintiff
V. No. 05-4214
DELORES FAILOR, and CIVIL ACTION - LAW
ROSS FAILOR,
Defendants JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
PLAINTIFFS' REPLY TO NEW MATTER
AND NOW, comes the Plaintiff, Kendra C. Mitchell, a minor by and through her
natural Parent and Guardian, Michael D. Mitchell, by and through their attorneys,
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP, by W. Scott Henning, Esquire, and reply to
Defendants' New Matter as follows:
15. Denied. The allegation set forth in Paragraph 15 is a conclusion of law
to which no responsive pleading is required, however, to the extent that the Honorable
Court deems a response necessary, it is denied that minor Plaintiff, Kendra C. Mitchell, can
be deemed to have been contrbutorily or comparatively negligent as a matter of law. By
way of further answer, the Plaintiff denies that she was in any way contributorily or
comparativelly negligent, and proof to the contrary is demanded at the trial in this matter.
16. Denied. The allegation set forth in Paragraph 16 is a conclusion of law
to which no responsive pleading is required, however, to the extent that the Honorable
Court deems a response necessary, the Plaintiffs deny that their cause of action should
be barred by the Doctrine of the Assumption of the Risk. By way of further answer, the
Plaintiffs denythatthe minor Plaintiff can be bound by the Assumption of the Risk Doctrine.
Further, the Plaintiffs assert that the minor Plaintiff did not knowingly and voluntarily
assume the risk of injury.
17. Admitted.
18. Admitted.
19. Denied. The allegation set forth in Paragraph 19 is a conclusion of law
to which no responsive pleading is required, however, to the extent that the Honorable
Court deems a response necessary, it is denied that Michael D. Mitchell is chargeable with
and responsible for any negligence on the part of Karen Mitchell. By way of further
answer, it is denied that Kendra Mitchell's claim should be or can be barred or reduced
under the Pennsylvania Comparative Negligence Act because of any negligence on the
part of Karen Mitchell, and proof to the contrary is demanded at the trial in this matter.
20. Denied. The allegation set forth in Paragraph 20 is a conclusion of law
to which no responsive pleading is required, however, to the extent that the Honorable
Court deems a response necessary, it is denied that Michael Mitchell was negligent in
permitting the minor Plaintiff to go with her mother to the Defendant's premises, and proof
to the contrary is demanded at the trial in this matter. It is specifically denied that minor
Plaintiff, Kendra Mitchell's claim for compensatory damages is barred or should be reduced
pursuant to the Pennsylvania Comparative Negligence Act, and proof to the contrary is
2
demanded at the trial in this matter.
21. Denied. The allegation set forth in Paragraph 21 is a conclusion of law
to which no responsive pleading is required, however, to the extent that the Honorable
Court deems a response necessary, it is denied that the Plaintiffs failed to mitigate their
damages, and proof to the contrary is demanded at the trial in this matter.
22. Denied. It is denied that the Plaintiffs' Complaint fails to set forth a duty
or cause of action against the Defendants, and proof to the contrary is demanded at the
trial in this matter.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs demand judgment against the Defendants, Delores Failor
and Ross Failor, for the relief set forth in their Complaint.
DATE
Respectfully submitted,
HANDLER,H
ROSENBERG,LLP
W. Scott Henri fg`, t7sgL
I.D. #32298
1300 Linglestown Road
Harrisburg, PA 17110
717-238-2000
Attorney for Plaintiffs
3
KENDRA C. MITCHELL, a minor by : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
and through her natural Parent and : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Guardian, MICHAEL D. MITCHELL,
Plaintiff
V.
DELORES FAILOR, and
ROSS FAILOR,
No. 05-4214
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
Defendants : JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
On the 26" day of January, 2006, 1 hereby certify that a true and correct copy of
Plaintiffs Complaint was served upon the following by depositing in U.S. Mail;
Paul F. Lantieri, Esq.
Bennett, Bricklin & Saltzburg, LLP
222 East Orange Street
Lancaster, PA 17602-2915
DATE
Respectfully submitted,
HANDLER,HE
& ROSENBERG, LLP
W. Scott Hbn'frthg, Es?(
I.D. #32298
1300 Linglestown Road
Harrisburg, PA 17110
717-238-2000
Attorney for Plaintiffs
VERIFICATION
PURSUANT TO PA R.C.P. NO. 1024 (cl
W. SCOTT HENNING, ESQUIRE, states that he is the attorney for the party filing
the foregoing document; that he makes this affidavit as an attorney, because the party he
represents lacks sufficient knowledge or information upon which to make a verification
and/or because he has greater personal knowledge of the information and belief than that
of the party for whom he makes this affidavit; and that he has sufficient knowledge or
information and belief, based upon his investigation of the matters averred or denied in the
foregoing document; and that this statement is made subject to the penalties of 18 Pa C.S.
§4904 relating to unsworn falsification to authorities.
C
Date:
W. SCOTT HENNING?. EZQUIRE
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KENDRA C. MITCHELL, a minor by
and through her natural Parent and
Guardian, MICHAEL D. MITCHELL,
Plaintiff
V.
DELORES FAILOR, and
ROSS FAILOR,
Defendants
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
No. 05-4214
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
RULE 1312.1. The Petition for Appointment of Arbitrators shall be substantially in the
following form:
PETITION FOR APPOINTMENT OF ARBITRATORS
TO THE HONORABLE, THE JUDGES OF SAID COURT:
W. Scott Henning, Esquire, of Handler, Henning & Rosenberg, LLP, counsel for the
Plaintiff in the above action, respectfully represents that:
1. The above-captioned action is at issue.
The counterclaim of the defendant in the action is N/A
The following attorneys are interested in the case as counsel or are otherwise
disqualified to sit as arbitrators: W. Scott Henning, Esq., Handler, Henning & Rosenberg,
LLP, 1300 Linglestown Road, Harrisburg, PA 17110 and Paul F. Lantieri, Esq., Bennett,
Bricklin & Saltzburg, LLP, 222 East Orange Street, Lancaster, PA 17602-2915
WHEREFORE, your petitioner prays your Honorable Court to appoint three (3)
arbitrators to whom the case shall be submitted.
Respectfully submitted,
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
By
W. Cott H nfiin q
I.D. #32298
1300 Lingles wn Roa
Harrisburg, PA 17110
(717) 238-2000
Attorney for Plaintiff
KENDRA C. MITCHELL, a minor by : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
and through her natural Parent and : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Guardian, MICHAEL D. MITCHELL,
Plaintiff
V.
DELORES FAILOR, and
ROSS FAILOR,
Defendants
No. 05-4214
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
On the 7th day of September, 2006, 1 hereby certify that a true and correct copy
of the Petition for Appointment of Arbitrators was served upon the following by
depositing in U.S. Mail;
Paul F. Lantieri, Esq.
Bennett, Bricklin & Saltzburg, LLP
222 East Orange Street
Lancaster, PA 17602-2915
- - Y: I -??
DATE
Respectfully submitted,
HANDLER, HEN
& ROSENBERG, LLP
W. Scott Ii s
I.D. #32298
1300 Linglestown R911
Harrisburg, PA 17110
717-238-2000
Attorney for Plaintiffs
7 J-
75, ???
M
KENDRA C. MITCHELL, a minor by : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
and through her natural Parent and : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Guardian, MICHAEL D. MITCHELL,
Plaintiff
V.
DELORES FAILOR, and
ROSS FAILOR,
Defendants
: No. 05-4214
: CIVIL ACTION - LAW
: JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW,4& 2006, in consideration of the foregoing petition,
Esq., & Esq., and ?7.
,
I/ V C/ 61
Esq., are appointed arbitrators in the above-captioned action as prayed for.
By t ourt,
J.
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KENDRA C. MITCHELL, a minor by and: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
through her natural Parent and CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Guardian, MICHAEL D. MITCHELL,
PLAINTIFFS
V.
DELORES FAILOR and
ROSS FAILOR,
DEFENDANTS 05-4214 CIVIL TERM
ORDER OF COURT
I?
AND NOW, this I day of October, 2006, the appointment of
Roger B. Irwin, Esquire, as chairman on the Board of Arbitrators in the above-captioned
case, IS VACATED. Charles H. Stone, Esquire, is appointed in his place.
By the C
v1 G?
Edgar B. Bayley, J.
L?Xarles H. Stone, Esquire
Court Administrator
sal
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dlP.nd-ra C?. d?J +che?l
Plaintiff
De- (oas Fa+ (or- c4,af Cass Fce I o r-
Defendant
In The Court of Common Pleas of Cumberland
County, Pennsylvania NoC7 - a) y
Civil Action - Law.
Oath
We do solemnly swear (or affirm) that we will support, obey and defend the Constitution of the United
States and the Constitution of this Commonwealth and that we will discharge the duties of our office
with fidelity.
(2 ;?1?1
Signature
C?\&Y-i e? j? N?Lbu P-
Name (Chairman)
Law Firm
Addr s
City, Zip
4 I a co 701
4: t
Signatur
Name
J.I
0Jf ?o(¢
)
Law Firm
10 WQ_s-? 44 S+.
Address
Cox &1e, Pft 1-1013
City, zip
# 143aa
Award
ignature
P4 t. r& 9 wit l ? A.
Name
Jo-yass!t. D4??,? Sr?rw..?r
Law Firm
3 of /Y.4*XdFr .5'7-0 .087,
Address
1".crWX A 17 013
City, Zip
* 11431
We, the undersigned arbitrators, having been duly appointed and sworn (or affirmed), make the
f//o//llowi award: (Note: If damages for delay are awarded, they shall be separately stated.)
Uk r nk A ?LLl,t-.?r o(- -f ? dD6rd?4-,e- .
. Arbitrator, dissents. (Insert name if applicable.)
Date of Hearing: 7
/? (Chairman)
Date of Award: 13 ?P /0
Notice of Entry of Aw rd
Now, the day of M jjMh , 20A7__, at : 00 , p.M., the above award was
entered upon the docket and notice thereof given by mail to the parties or their attorneys.
Arbitrators' compensation to be paid upon appeal: $ 0 35'0.00
By:
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Prothonotary Deputy
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ORIGINAL
BENNETT, BRICKLIN & SALTZBURG LLP
BY: Paul F. Lantieri, Esquire
222 EAST ORANGE STREET
I.D. No. 22241
LANCASTER, PA 17602
(717) 393-4400
KENDRA C. MITCHELL, a minor by
and through her natural Parent and
Guardian, MICHAEL D. MITCHELL
vs.
DELORES FAILOR and ROSS FAILOR
VS.
CAREN MITCHELL
ATTORNEY FOR DEFENDANTS
Ross and Delores Failor
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
DOCKET No. 2005-04214
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
NOTICE OF JUDGMENT
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Kindly enter judgment on the award of the arbitrators entered on March 22, 2007, in favor
of Defendants and against Plaintiffs in the captioned action.
BENNETT, BRICKLIN & SALTZBURG LLP
BY: /I.IAA ?/ [i?lAL LIA
PAUL F. LANTIERI, ESQUIRE
Attorney for Defendants,
Delores and Ross Failor
Dated: April 26, 2007
1
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44?r'a 0 • i +c?el
Plaintiff
1 o re.s Fa+ (or ard Cass R ? ?o r
Defendant
In The Court of Common Pleas of Cumberland
County, Pennsylvania NoOg-,o0-5-- ty a I y
Civil Action - Law.
Oath
We do solemnly swear (or affirm) that we will support, obey and defend the Constitution of the United
States and the Constitution of this Commonwealth and that we will discharge the duties of our office
with fidelity.
Signature
C'1 ?V,l e? j?6LJ e-
Name (Chairman)
Law Firm
/ Addr s
/ zc?_7 G
?
City, Zip
=W a?7a
Signatur
Name
I.Volf (5 W(4
Law Firm
10 w Q s? I? ?G?? ?`?.
Address
Ca Vs[e. ?fl 1 013
City, Zip
# 1?3aa
Award
r
/ 7 ? 0 V0,V111f
ignature
?-Aas& & ??R1C*? J,4,
Name
Law Firm {? f E j pA/?R
3 01 IYwOCK&y ST,eer&T•
Address
x-&d NX P, 4 17 0 V.?
City, T Zip
* 11431
We, the undersigned arbitrators, having been duly appointed and sworn (or affirmed), make the
followiiRg award: (Note: If damages for delay are awarded, they shall be separately stated.)
a+(-rtab iA r of +4-L 04'-Pr?-
. Arbitrator, dissents. (Insert name if applicable.)
Date of Hearing:0 7
Date of Award: J/& /O 7
Notice of I
Now, the a? day of M&mh , 20A7 , at : 00 , P.M., the above award was
entered upon the docket and notice thereof given by mail to the parties or their attorneys.
Arbitrators' compensation to be paid upon appeal: $ jV 350. 00
?,)/z ?A Z'? - By:
Prothonotary Deputy
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