HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-5540IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
GREAT SENECA FINANCIAL CORP.. NO L S-J S4UCIVIL
P.O. BOX 1651
ROCKVILLE, MD 20849-1651
Plaintiff
VS.
BRAD VASEY
Defendant(s)
Mr./Ms. Clerk:
PRAECIPE FOR JUDGMENT
Please enter Judgment in favor of Plaintiff and against Defendant(s),
BRAD VASEY and
pursuant to the District Justice Transcript.
( X ) Amount due $ 2415.25
Less credits $
TOTAL $ 2415.25 , plus interest and costs
( X ) I certify that the foregoing assessment of damages is for specified
amounts alleged to be due in the complaint and is calculable as a sum certain from
the complaint.
( X ) Pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 237 (Notice of Praecipe for final judgment or
decree), I certify that a copy of this praecipe has been mailed to each other party
who has appeared in the action or to his/her Attorney of Record.
DATE: n 01 Signature:
Amy F. Doyle x/87062 / Daniel F.-Wolfson #20617
Philip C. Warhol' #86341 / Andrew C. Spears //87737
David R. Gallowa #87326 / Tonilyn M. Chippie /87852
Ronald M. Abramson //94266 / Ronald S. Canter //94000
Bruce H. Cherkis x/18837
WOLPOFF & ABRAMSON, L.L.P. / Counsel for Plaintiff
Attorneys in the Practice of Debt Collection
4660 Trindle Road, 3rd Floor, Camp Hill, PA 17011
(717) 303-6700
NOW, ( J oZS 20AS, JUDGMENT I ENTERED AS /DOVE.
Protho o ary Cler ivi Division
By:
Deputy
PRAEDJ/PANOJ W&A FILE NO. 131303295
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COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
COUNTY OF: CQMBERLAND
09-2-01
MDJ Name Hon.
PAULA P. CORREAL
Add`ess_ 1 COURTHOUSE SQUARE
CARLISLE, PA
TH,phen (717 ) 240-6564 17013-0000
ATTORNEY FOR PLAINTIFF :
NOTICE OF JUDGMENT/TRANSCRIPT
PLAINTIFF: CIVIL CASE
NAME and ADDRESS
rGREAT SENECA FINANCIAL CORP.
267 EAST MARKET ST
%NOLPOFF & ABRAMSON,L.L.P
LYORK, PA 17403 J
vs.
DEFENDANT: NAME aid ADDRESS
FVASEY, BRAD
925 FOREST CT
CARLISLE, PA 17013
L
ANDREW C. SPEARS
4660 TRINDLE ROAD APT/STE 3 FL Docket No.: CV-0000149-05
WOLPOFF&ABRAMSON, L . L . P . Date Filed: 4/11/05
CAMP HILL, PA 17011 _v
THIS IS TO NOTIFY YOU THAT:
Judgment FOR PLAINTIFF
® Judgment was entered for: (Name) c+RrtaT axuxr+A FI11A10('TAT CORP
® Judgment was entered against: (Name) VASLYt SRAn
in the amount of $ 2 _ 415 _ 2Fi. on:
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Defendants are jointly and severally liable. R,
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E Damages will be assessed on:
El This case dismissed without prejudice.
E Amount of Judgment Subject to
Attachment/42 Pa.C.S. § 8127 $
Portion of Judgment for physical
damages arising out of residential
lease $
(Date of Judgment) f;11?/ng
(Date & Time)
Amount of Judgment $ 2,331.25
Judgment Costs $ 84.00
Interest on Judgment $ .00
Attorney Fees $ .00
Total $ 2,415.25
Post Judgment Credits $
Post Judgment Costs $
Certified Judgment Total --
$ ----------
ANY PARTY HAS THE RIGHT TO APPEAL WITHIN 30 DAYS AFTER THE ENTRY OF JUDGMENT BY FILING A NOTICE
-
OF APPEAL WITH THE PROTHONOTARY/CLERK OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS, CIVIL DIVISION, YOU
MUST INCLUDE A COPY OF THIS NOTICE OF JUDGMENT/TRANSCRIPT FORM WITH YOUR NOTICE OF APPEAL.
EXCEPT AS OTHERWISE PROVIDED IN THE RULES OF CIVIL PROCEDURE FOR MAGISTERIAL DISTRICT JUDGES, IF THE
JUDGEMENT HOLDER ELECTS TO ENTER THE JUDGMENT IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS, ALL FURTHER PROCESS MUST
COME FROM THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS AND NO FURTHER PROCESS MAY BE ISSUED BY THE MAGISTERIAL DISTRICT JUDGE.
UNLESS THE JUDGMENT IS ENTERED IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS, ANYONE INTERESTED IN THE JUDGMENT MAY FILE
A REQUEST FOR ENTRY OF SATISFACTION WITH THE MAGISTERIAL DISTRICT JUDGE IF THE JUDGMENT DEBTOR PAYS IN FULL,
SETTLES, OR OTHERWISE COMPLIES WITH THE JUDGMENT.
6/33/05 Date Magisterial"District Judge
I certify that this is a tr andc ect co y of the of proc din s containing the judgment.
6/13/05 Dat Magisterial District Judge
My commission expires first Monday of January, 2006 . SEAL;
AOPC 315-05 DATE PRINTED: 6/28/05 11:52:12 AM
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IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
GREAT SENECA FINANCIAL CORP., No. OS-5 Sys>CIVIL
P.O. BOX 1651
ROCKVILLE, MD 20849-1651
Plaintiff
Vs.
BRAD VASEY
Defendant(s)
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
CERTIFICATE OF RESIDENCE
PA. R.C.P. 236
I, hereby certify that the precise residence of Plaintiff is:
GREAT SENECA FINANCIAL CORP.,
A MARYLAND CORPORATION,
ASSIGNEE OF FORWARD PROPERTIES,
ASSIGNEE OF DIRECT MERCHANTS
BANK, N.A.
P.O. BOX 1651
ROCKVILLE, MD 20849-1651
and certify that the last known address of the within Defendant(s) is:
BRAD VASEY
925 FOREST CT
CARLISLE PA 17013
Amy F. boyle 11 x//87062 / Daniel F. Wolfson x/20617
Philip C. Warh lic #86341 / Andrew C. Spears #87737
David R. GalloGay #87326 / Tonilyn M. Chippie #87852
Ronald M. Abramson 094266 / Ronald S. Canter /94000
Bruce H. Cherkis #18837
WOLPOFF & ABRAMSON, L.L.P. / Counsel for Plaintiff
Attorneys in the Practice of Debt Collection
4660 Trindle Road, 3rd Floor, Camp Hill, PA 17011
(717) 303-6700
PCRES/PANOJ W&A FILE NO. 131303295
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IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
GREAT SENECA FINANCIAL CORP., No.L 5-.!?/UCIVIL
P.O. BOX 1651
ROCKVILLE, MD 20849-1651
Plaintiff
Vs. CIVIL ACTION - LAW
BRAD VASEY
Defendant(s)
AFFIDAVIT OF NON-MILITARY SERVICE
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
The undersigned counsel, being duly sworn according to law, depose and say
that I am the Attorney for the Plaintiff in the above-captioned matter, and that to
the best of my knowledge, information and belief Defendant,
BRAD VASEY , above-named, is over 21 years of age; is last
known to reside at 925 FOREST CT
CARLISLE PA 17013
County of CUMBERLAND , Pennsylvania; is not in the military service of
the United States or its Allies, or otherwise within the provisions of the
Servicemembers Civil Relief Act and its Amendments.
COMMONWEALTH OF PHNNSyf4',, gin Amy F. Doyle ` #87062 / Daniel F. Wolfson #2U617
Notana!Seaf Philip C. War lic x/86341 / Andrew C. Spears x/87737
Dina A.Sweitzet,No!aryP01ic David R. Gall way x/87326 / Tonilyn M. Chippie x/87852
HamPdenTwp,Ct,rr edandCoun4, Ronald M. Abramson x/94266 / Ronald S. Canter #94000
My Commission Ezp+res Apr 16, 2008
Bruce H. Cherkis x/18837
WOLPOFF & ABRAMSON, L.L.P. / Counsel for Plaintiff
Attorneys in the Practice of Debt Collection
4660 Trindle Road, 3rd Floor, Camp Hill, PA 17011
(717) 303-6700
SWORN and SUBSCRIBED to before me this / G day of 2005.
Notary Public
PNMAFF/PANOS W&A FILE NO. 131303295
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
GREAT SENECA FINANCIAL CORP., NO. GS-S S'-( CIVIL
P.O. BOX 1651
ROCKVILLE, MD 20849-1651
Plaintiff
vs.
BRAD VASEY
925 FOREST CT
CARLISLE PA 17013
Defendant(s)
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
NOTICE OF ORDER, DECREE OR JUDGMENT
TO: BRAD VASEY
925 FOREST CT
CARLISLE PA 17013
You are hereby notified that the following ORDER, DECREE or JUDGMENT has been
entered against you on
in accordance with the provisions
of Pa. R.C.P. 236.
( ) Decree Nisi in Equity
( ) Final Decree in Equity
( ) Judgment of ( ) Confession ( ) Verdict
( ) Default ( ) Non-suit
( ) Non-pros ( ) Arbitration Award
( ) Judgment is in the amount of $ plus costs.
( X ) District Justice transcript of judgment in civil action in the amount
of $ 2415.25 , plus costs.
( ) If not satisfied within sixty (60) days, your motor vehicle operator's
license will be suspended by the Pennsyl vania Department
of Transportation.
By:
Pr hono ta
If you have any questions regarding this Notice, please contact the - -
filing party. /I , _ If
Amy F. Doyle //87062 / Daniel F. Wolfson #20617
Philip C. Warh is #86341 / Andrew C. Spears //87737
David R. Gallo ay x/87326 / Tonilyn M. Chippie #87852
Ronald M. Abramson //94266 / Ronald S. Canter #94000
Bruce H. Cherkis x/18837
WOLPOFF & ABRAMSON, L.L.P. / Counsel for Plaintiff
Attorneys in the Practice of Debt Collection
4660 Trindle Road, 3rd Floor, Camp Hill, PA 17011 / (717) 303-6700
(This Notice is given in accordance with Pa. R.C.P. 236.)
DJNTC/PANOJ W&A FILE NO. 131303295
7334
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
GREAT SENECA FINANCIAL CORP., NO. 2005-5540
A MARYLAND CORPORATION,
Plaintiff
VS. CIVIL ACTION-LAW
BRAD VASEY
634 HERITAGE CT .
MECHANICSBURG PA 17050
Defendant (s)
INTERROGATORIES TO GARNISHEE IN AID OF EXECUTION
TO:
PURSUANT TO RULE 3114 OF THE RULES OF CIVIL PROCEDURE, THE FOLLOWING
INTERROGATORIES HAVE BEEN SERVED UPON YOUR INSTITUTION. GARNISHEE IS HEREBY
REQUIRED TO ANSWER EACH OF THE FOLLOWING INTERROGATORIES SEPARATELY AND
FULLY. PLEASE COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING INTERROGATORIES TO ASSIST THE
CREDITOR'S EFFORTS TO SATISFY THE LAWFUL OBLIGATION OF THE ABOVE
REFERENCED DEBTOR(S).
IMPORTANT NOTICES AND INSTRUCTIONS TO GARNISHEE
A. You are required to file answers to the following Interrogatories
within twenty (20) days after service upon you. Failure to do so may result
in judgment against you.
B. The term "Defendant(s)" means the individual(s) or entity against
whom the Writ of Execution was issued.
C. "You" means the main office and all branch offices,
representatives, employees, and agents of your organization.
D. By service of the Writ of Execution upon you, all property of the
Defendant(s) subject to attachment which is in your possession, custody or
control is attached, including all property of the Defendant(s) which comes
into your possession thereafter.
E. These Interrogatories are considered to be continuing and
therefore should be modified or supplemented as you receive further or
additional information.
F. Where exact information cannot be furnished, estimated information
is to be supplied. When an estimate is to be used, it should be identified
as such, and an explanation should be given as to the basis on which the
estimate is made, and the reason the exact information cannot be furnished.
G. Where knowledge or information in possession of a party is
requested, such request includes knowledge of the party's agents,
representatives, and attorneys.
SSA/ 178 62 2431
ORALEX/PAWRIT W&A FILE NO. 131303295
7332
PLAINTIFF'S INTERROGATORIES TO GARNISHEE
DEFENDANT(S) - BRAD VASEY
634 HERITAGE CT
MECHANICSBURG PA 17050
SS# 178 62 2431
1. DEPOSITORY ACCOUNTS: At the time you were served or at any subsequent
time, state whether or not the Defendant(s) maintains any checking, savings,
lines of credit, certificate of deposit's or other depository accounts with
your institution. If so, state the identification numbers of those accounts
and the amount or amounts the Defendant(s) has in each account. If the
Defendant(s) maintains any of these jointly with any other person, or
persons, give their name and address.
Defendant had account 626427744 with a balance of $2.89 at
time served. The account is held individually.
1A. DIRECT DEPOSIT ACCOUNTS: Are any of the accounts you have
listed above direct deposit accounts? If yes, please state the
identification numbers of those accounts.
No
2. SAFE DEPOSIT BOXES: At the time you were served or at any subsequent
time, state whether or not the Defendant(s) maintains any safe deposit box o
boxes. If so, include the identification number or other designation of the
box or boxes. Include a full description of the contents and also the amoun
of cash among those contents. If the Defendant(s) maintains any of these
jointly with any other person or persons, give their full name and address.
No
3. PERSONAL PROPERTY: At the time you were served or at any subsequent
time, state whether or not Defendant(s) owns any personal property that was
in your possession and/or control. If so, include a full description of all
personal property giving full value and present location. State also whether
or not there are any encumbrances or liens holders, the present balance of
the encumbrance. State where and when the encumbrances or liens was
recorded. If the Defendant(s) owns any personal property jointly with any
person or persons, give names and address.
See answer to question 1.
4. OTHER ASSETS: At the time you were served or at any subsequent time,
did you know of the existence of any other asset(s) of the Defendant(s) whict
are not disclosed in the preceding Interrogatories. If so, please set forth
all details concerning those asset(s).
See answer to question 1.
ORALE2/PAWRIT W&A FILE NO. 131303295
7333
5. PROPERTY: At the time you were served or at any subsequent time, was
there in your possession, custody, or control or in the joining possession,
custody, or control of yourself and one or more other persons any property
of any nature owned solely or in part by any Defendant(s)? If so, please
describe for each Defendant(s) each item of property including its value.
See answer to question 1.
6. REAL PROPERTY: At the time you were served or at any subsequent time,
did you hold legal, or equitable title to any property of any nature owned
solely or in part by the Defendant(s) or in which and Defendant(s) held or
claimed any interest? If so, describe for each Defendant(s) each item of
property including its value and the interest held by the Defendant(s).
See answer to question 1.
7. PROPERTY HELD AS A FIDUCIARY: At the time you were served or at any
subsequent time, did you hold as a fiduciary any property in which any
Defendant(s) had an interest? If so, please describe for each Defendant(s)
the nature of the property including its value and the interest
of Defendant(s).
No
8. TRANSFER OF PROPERTY: At any time before or after you were served, di(
any Defendant(s) transfer or deliver any property to you or to any person or
place pursuant to your direction or consent. If so, for each Defendant(s)
describe the property transferred or delivered including the dates of
delivery or transfer and state the consideration paid.
Defendant made deposits into the above referenced account in
the ordinary course prior to service, none of which were at 1
direction of Commerce Bank.
9. FEES OUTSTANDING TO GARNISHEE: Are there any attorneys fees or
processing fees charged by you against the Defendant(s) or account(s) of the
Defendant(s) for the completion of this Answer. If yes, outline the exact
amount of any fees due and owing to the garnishee or the attorney for the
garnishee for the preparation of the Answer.,.
No
3801
Amy F. Doyle #87062 / Daniel F. Wolfson #20617
Philip C. Warholic x/86341 / Andrew C. Spears #87737
David R. Galloway #87326 / Tonilyn M. Chippie x/87852
Ronald M. Abramson #94266 / Ronald S. Canter #94000
merce Bank Bruce H. Cherkis #18837
Paxton Street WOLPOFF & ABRAMSON, L.L.P. / Counsel for Plaintiff
urg, PA 17111 Attorneys in the Practice of Debt Collection
.-6 1 34
-41 4660 Trindle Road,
(717) 303-6700 3rd Flo or, Camp Hill, PA 17 011
Date
V
Date.
ORALE3/PAWRIT W&A FILE NO. 131303295
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VILLARI, BRANDES & KLINE, P.C.
By: Paul D. Brandes, Esquire
Theresa L. Giannone, Esquire
Sasha L. Azar, Esquire
Attorney I.D. #59769, #77148 and #94587
8 Tower Bridge, Suite 400
161 Washington Street
Conshohocken, PA 19428
(610) 729-2900
ATTORNEYS FOR PLAINTIFFS
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PA
CIVIL ACTION - MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY ACTION
ESTER J. LYKES and
WILTON K. LYKES, h/w
Plaintiffs,
Vs.
JAMES A. YATES, M.D., et al.
Defendants,
Docket No.: 05-5869
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
PLAINTIFFS' RESPONSE IN OPPOSITION TO THE PRELIMINARY OBJECTIONS
OF DEFENDANTS, HOLY SPIRIT HEALTH SYSTEM AND HOLY SPIRIT HOSPITAL
OF THE SISTERS OF THE CHRISTIAN CHARITY TO PLAINTIFFS' COMPLAINT
Plaintiffs, through their attorneys, Villari, Brandes & Kline, P.C., file this Response in
Opposition to the Preliminary Objections of Defendants, Holy Spirit Health System and Holy
Spirit Hospital of the Sisters of the Christian Charity to Plaintiffs' Complaint, and in support
thereof, assert the following:
1. Admitted.
2. Admitted.
3. Admitted.
4. Admitted.
5. Admitted. By way of further answer, Defendants agreed to provide Plaintiffs with an
extension to July 31, 2006, to file an Amended Complaint. An extension was agreed
upon, in part, to allow the Court time to consider the Plaintiffs' Motion for
Reconsideration and concomitant request for an amendment of the June 7 Order vis-a-vis
defendant Plastic Surgery Center. See Exhibit "A."
6. Denied as stated. By way of further response, Count III of the Amended Complaint
speaks for itself A true and correct copy of the Amended Complaint is attached as
Exhibit "B."
7. Denied as stated. By way of further answer, it is denied that the "graveman" of Plaintiffs'
claims only focus on the Defendant Dr. Yates' performance of the surgery and his follow
up care. Plaintiffs also allege negligence on the part of Dr. Yates and the defendant
Hospital (through its physicians and nurses) for causing and or failing to diagnose or treat
Plaintiffs' pre- and post-operative anemia and post-operative infection. Plaintiffs also
allege negligence on the part of Nurse Wolfersberger for her improper post-operative
nursing care. In addition, Plaintiffs allege that Ms. Lykes had an infection shortly after
leaving the defendant Hospital. Paragraphs 23 through 35 of the Amended Complaint
describe the fluctuating vital signs and lab results of Ms. Lykes immediately prior to
discharge, including an increase in her temperature to 101.4 degrees and a low blood
count. Given the fact that defendant Hospital knew that Ms. Lykes was anemic
(Complaint ¶ 23), that her vital signs and blood count were abnormal shortly after surgery
(Complaint ¶¶ 25-33), and that she likely developed an infection prior to and/or shortly
after being discharged (Complaint ¶ 35), there are ample allegations against the hospital
to withstand its preliminary objections.
8. Denied as stated. By way of further answer, Count III of the Amended Complaint speaks
for itself Plaintiffs assert traditional tort claims against moving defendant in Count III
(e.g., negligent hiring, negligent supervision etc.), vicarious liability claims, and
corporate negligence claims.
9. Denied as a conclusion of law to which no responsive pleading is required.
Notwithstanding, Plaintiffs' Amended Complaint alleges that the defendant Hospital
failed to satisfy each of the four non-delegable duties enunciated in Thompson v. Nason
Hospital, 527 Pa. 330, 591 A.2d. 703 (Pa. 1991).
10. Denied as a conclusion of law to which no responsive pleading is required.
Notwithstanding, Plaintiffs' Amended Complaint satisfies each three of the requirements
to make out a prima facie case of corporate negligence enunciated in Welsh v. Bugle
548 Pa. 504, 698 A.2d 581, 586 (1997). Moreover, plaintiff asserts numerous traditional
negligence claims (e.g., negligent hiring, negligent supervision etc.), and vicarious
liability claims in Count III.
11. Denied as a conclusion of law to which no responsive pleading is required. By way of
further answer, defendant Hospital was on constructive notice of the breaches being
committed by its agents, servants and/or employees. Defendant Hospital knew that Ms.
Lykes was anemic (Complaint ¶ 23), that her vital signs and blood count were abnormal
shortly after surgery (Complaint ¶¶ 25-33), and that she likely developed an infection
prior to and/or shortly after being discharged (Complaint ¶ 35). Accordingly, the
hospital, at a minimum, had constructive notice of Ms. Lykes' condition. Constructive
notice "must be imposed when the failure to receive actual notice is caused by the
absence of supervision." Whittington v. Episcopal Hospital, 768 A.2d 1144, 1154 (Pa.
Super. 2001). Paragraphs 67 (a) through (s) of Plaintiffs' Amended Complaint allege
systematic negligence on the part of the Hospital in failing to "timely, properly and/or
adequately supervise" and in failing to "timely, properly and/or adequately monitor" its
agents, servants and/or employees. Such negligence puts the Hospital on constructive
notice, wherein the Hospital's failure to be notified of the negligence of its employees
was caused by the complained of absence of supervision.
12. Denied as stated. By way of further answer, Paragraphs 67 (a) through (r) of the
Amended Complaint speak for themselves.
13. Denied as a conclusion of law to which no responsive pleading is required. By way of
further answer, Plaintiffs have provided sufficient facts in Paragraphs 1 through 67 of the
Complaint to support their claims of negligence against moving Defendants.
Notwithstanding, the law of this Commonwealth is clear: "it is not the function of the
complaint to be an all inclusive narrative of events underlying the claim. A plaintiff need
only plead [the] material facts necessary to sustain a recovery which at the same time
enables the defendant to defend." General State Authority v. Lawrie & Green, 24 Pa.
Cmwlth. 407, 412, 356 A.2d 851, 854 (1976). The pleadings must achieve the purpose of
informing the opposing party of the claims which she will need to defend.
Commonwealth Dept of Transp v Shipley Humble Oil Co., 29 Pa. Commw. 171, 173,
370 A.2d 438,439 (1977). Accordingly, a Motion to Strike a pleading is not appropriate
when the entire Complaint adequately informs the defendant of the issues that must be
answered at trial. See Paz v Commonwealth Dept of Corrections, 135 Pa.Cmwlth. 162,
171, 580 A.2d 452, 456 (1990) citing Goodrich-Amram 2d, Section 1017(b).
Notwithstanding, for the above-stated reasons, and as will be set forth more fully in
Plaintiffs' Brief, Defendants narrow reading of the factual allegations in the Complaint do
not support their preliminary objections, and accordingly, Defendants' objections should
be overruled.
14. Denied as a conclusion of law to which no responsive pleading is required. By way of
further answer, Plaintiffs have provided sufficient facts in Paragraphs 1 through 67 to
support its claims of negligence against moving Defendants. Notwithstanding, for the
reasons that will be set forth more fully in Plaintiffs' Brief, Plaintiffs' Amended
Complaint alleges the moving Defendants failed to monitor, oversee and/or supervise its
employees and/or agents with regard to the post-operative care provided to Plaintiff Ms.
Lykes. Given the fact that defendant Hospital knew that Ms. Lykes was anemic
(Complaint ¶ 23), that her vital signs and blood count were abnormal shortly after surgery
(Complaint ¶¶ 25-33), and that she likely developed an infection prior to and/or shortly
after being discharged (Complaint ¶ 35), there are ample allegations against the hospital
to withstand its preliminary objections. For example, had the hospital had various
policies and procedures in place to monitor the Plaintiff as her vital signs changed (as a
result of infection), then she may have been monitored more closely and/or provided with
different discharge instructions by the defendant Hospital. Instead, it appears that Ms.
Lykes only received Tylenol to reduce her fever (Complaint ¶ 27).
15. Denied as a conclusion of law to which no responsive pleading is required. By way of
further answer, and as will be set forth more fully in Plaintiffs' Brief, Plaintiffs have
provided sufficient facts in Paragraphs 1 through 67 to support their claims of negligence
against moving Defendants. It is denied that Plaintiffs' allegations regarding Defendants'
failure to formulate, adopt, review, revise and enforce adequate rules, policies, and
procedures are conclusory.
16. Denied as a conclusion of law to which no responsive pleading is required. By way of
further answer, Plaintiffs have provided sufficient facts in Paragraphs 1 through 67 to
support their claims of negligence against moving Defendants. Notwithstanding, for the
reasons that will be set forth more fully in Plaintiffs' Brief, it is denied that the policies
and procedures Plaintiffs claim are required "would force the hospital to practice
medicine." Plaintiffs are not claiming the hospital was required, for example, to itself
diagnose patients suffering from post-operative wound infections, but rather that it was
obligated to promulgate, or enforce (through its staff) policies and procedures pertaining
to diagnosis and treatment of patients suffering from post-operative wound infections. It
is disingenuous for defendants to argue that enforcing or promulgating these types of
policies and procedures would force them to practice medicine when the Joint
Commission on Accreditation of Hospitals requires these very types of policies and
procedures to be in place for a hospital to receive accreditation.
17. Denied as a conclusion of law to which no responsive pleading is required. By way of
further answer, and for reasons that will be set forth more fully in Plaintiffs' Brief, it is
denied that Plaintiffs' allegations are simple, plain and boilerplate. Defendant apparently
view the subparts of paragraph 67 of the Amended Complaint in a vacuum without
considering all of the preceding factual allegations and allegations of negligence against
other parties. However, all averments of a Complaint must be considered together and
evaluated in light of the entire nature of the case. Pincus v. Wolf, 2 D. & C. 2d 389
(1954); see also Goodrich-Amram 2d, Section 1017(b). Furthermore, a preliminary
objection on the grounds of insufficient specificity should be denied where the objecting
party may be presumed to have at least as much information as does the pleader. See,
e.g., Paz v. Commonwealth Dept. of Corrections, 580 A.2d 452 (1990). In malpractice
cases, our Courts have held that a Plaintiff has absolutely no obligation to specifically
plead matters on which the objecting parties have, or should have, better knowledge than
the pleader. Phila. Cty. Intermediate Unit No. 26 v Dept of Education, 60 Pa. Cmwlth.
546, 432 A.2d 1121 (1981). In the instant case, the Amended Complaint is sufficiently
specific to notify moving Defendants of the claims against them and to allow them an
opportunity to prepare a defense. If moving Defendants deny they were involved in
certain aspects of Plaintiffs' care, they may Answer the Complaint with such denials.
18. Denied as a conclusion of law to which no responsive pleading is required. By way of
further answer, as noted in paragraph 17 of this Response, and as more fully set forth in
Plaintiffs' Brief, the moving Defendants should not view the allegations of the Complaint
in a vacuum. Paragraphs 1 through 67 of the Complaint, when read as a whole, provide
ample specific facts that support the Plaintiffs' claims against moving Defendants.
19. Denied as a conclusion of law to which no responsive pleading is required.
Notwithstanding, although Defendants call their preliminary objection a demurrer,
Defendants seem to only object to the specificity of the Plaintiffs' corporate negligence
allegations. Thus, legal precedent regarding demurrers is not dispositive. However, to
the extent this Court determines Defendants' preliminary objection is a demurrer, it
should be noted that Callsen v. Temple University Hospital, 539 Pa. 377, 652 A.2d 824
(Pa. 1995), cited by Defendants, is a published dissenting opinion from Justice
Montemuro. That dissenting opinion provides that a demurrer is granted only when the
court finds "with certainty that no recovery is permitted" after drawing all reasonable
inferences from the allegations of the complaint. Id. at 380. Given the detailed factual
allegations provided in Paragraphs 1 through 67 of the Amended Complaint, this Court
may easily conclude that Plaintiffs state a claim of corporate negligence against moving
Defendants. Furthermore, the allegations of the Plaintiffs Amended Complaint are stated
in concise and summary form. The law in this Commonwealth is clear: "it is not the
function of the Complaint to be an all-inclusive narrative of events underlying the claim.
A plaintiff need only plead the material facts necessary to sustain a recovery, which at the
same time, enables the defendant to defend." General State Authority v. Lawrie & Green,
24 Pa. Cmwlth. 407, 356 A.2d 851 (1976). Accordingly, the pleading should define the
issues and give notice to the opposing party of a claim against which he or she will be
required to defend. Com., Dept. of Transp. v. Shipley Humble Oil Co., 29 Pa. Commw.
171, 173, 370 A.2d 438, 439 (1977). Plaintiff s Amended Complaint is sufficient to
apprise the Defendants of the Plaintiffs theories of liability against them, and therefore,
Defendants' objection should be overruled.
20. Denied as a conclusion of law to which no responsive pleading is required. By way of
further answer, as set forth in Paragraph 19 above and as set forth more fully in Plaintiffs'
Brief, the Complaint sets forth sufficient detailed facts and states a claim of corporate
negligence. Accordingly, Defendants' objections should be overruled.
21. Denied as a conclusion of law to which no responsive pleading is required. By way of
further answer, and as set forth more fully in Plaintiffs' Brief, the court in Edwards v.
Brandywine Hospital, 438 Pa. Super.673, 683, 652 A.2d 1382, 1387 (Pa.Super. 1995),
recognized that "a hospital's corporate negligence will be measured against what a
reasonable hospital under similar circumstances should have done." More importantly,
the Edwards court noted that corporate liability exists under Thompson "where a hospital
knows that one of its staff physicians is incompetent but lets that physician practice
medicine anyway." Id. at 683.
22. Denied as a conclusion of law to which no responsive pleading is required. By way of
further answer, the Pennsylvania Superior Court evaluated the cumulative nature of a
hospital staffs' deviations from the standard of care in determining whether or not the
defendant hospital breached the Thompson duty to oversee persons practicing medicine
within its walls. Whittington, 768 A.2d at 1154. Given the cumulative nature of the
Defendants' personnel's failure to diagnose and treat Mrs. Lykes' anemia, both pre- and
post-operatively, there is sufficient evidence to conclude that the Defendants breached the
third Thompson duty. See id. at 1154.
23. Denied as a conclusion of law to which no response is required. By way of further
answer, defendant Hospital was on constructive notice of the breaches being committed
by its agents, servants and/or employees. Constructive notice "must be imposed when the
failure to receive actual notice is caused by the absence of supervision." Whittington, 768
A.2d at 1154. Paragraphs 67 (a) through (s) of Plaintiffs' Amended Complaint allege
systematic negligence on the part of the Hospital in failing to "timely, properly and/or
adequately supervise" and in failing to "timely, properly and/or adequately monitor" its
agents, servants and/or employees. Such negligence puts the Hospital on constructive
notice, wherein the Hospital's failure to be notified of the negligence of its employees
was caused by the complained of absence of supervision.
24. Denied as a conclusion of law to which no response is required. By way of further
answer, for the reasons set forth herein and as will be set forth more fully in the
Plaintiffs' Brief, Defendants have not demonstrated that the law says with certainty that
no claim for direct liability can be maintained against Holy Spirit Health System and
Holy Spirit Hospital of the Sisters of Christian Charity, and therefore, Defendants'
preliminary objection should be overruled.
25. Denied as a conclusion of law to which no responsive pleading is required. By way of
further answer, Plaintiffs agreed to remove "recklessness" language from the Complaint
with regard to the moving defendant only, and inadvertently included same in the
Amended Complaint.
26. Denied as a conclusion of law to which no responsive pleading is required. By way of
further answer, Plaintiffs agreed to remove "recklessness" language from the Complaint
with regard to the moving defendant only, and inadvertently included same in the
Amended Complaint.
27. Denied as a conclusion of law to which no responsive pleading is required. By way of
further answer, Plaintiffs agreed to remove "recklessness" language from the Complaint
with regard to the moving defendant only, and inadvertently included same in the
Amended Complaint.
28. Denied as a conclusion of law to which no responsive pleading is required. By way of
further answer, Plaintiffs agreed to remove "recklessness" language from the Complaint
with regard to the moving defendant only, and inadvertently included same in the
Amended Complaint.
29. Denied as a conclusion of law to which no responsive pleading is required. By way of
further answer, Plaintiffs agreed to remove "recklessness" language from the Complaint
with regard to the moving defendant only, and inadvertently included same in the
Amended Complaint.
30. Denied as a conclusion of law to which no responsive pleading is required. By way of
further answer, Plaintiffs agreed to remove "recklessness" language from the Complaint
with regard to the moving defendant only, and inadvertently included same in the
Amended Complaint.
31. Denied as a conclusion of law to which no responsive pleading is required. By way of
further answer, Plaintiffs agreed to remove "recklessness" language from the Complaint
with regard to the moving defendant only, and inadvertently included same in the
Amended Complaint.
32. Denied as a conclusion of law to which no responsive pleading is required. By way of
further answer, Plaintiffs agreed to remove "recklessness" language from the Complaint
with regard to the moving defendant only, and inadvertently included same in the
Amended Complaint.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs respectfully requests that this Honorable Court overrule the
Defendants' Preliminary Objections to the Complaint.
Respectfully submitted,
VILLARI, BRANDES & KLINE
By;
? -0? --oz
4heresa1. Giannone, Esquire
Sasha L. Azar, Esquire -
Atto;feys-fc Pramtiff
VILLARI, BRANDES & KLINE, P.C.
By: Peter M. Villari, Esquire
Paul D. Brandes, Esquire
Theresa L. Giannone, Esquire
Sasha L. Azar, Esquire
Attorney I.D. #26875, #59769, #77148 & # 94587
8 Tower Bridge, Suite 400
161 Washington Street
Conshohocken, PA 19428
(610) 729-2900
ATTORNEYS FOR PLAINTIFFS
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PA
CIVIL ACTION - MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY ACTION
ESTER J. LYKES and Docket No.: 05-5869
WILTON K. LYKES, h/w
21 Ringneck Drive
Harrisburg, PA 17112
Plaintiffs, JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
vs.
JAMES A. YATES, M.D.
c/o Plastic Surgery Center, Ltd.
Grandview Corporate Place
205 Grandview Avenue
Camp Hill, PA 17011
-and-
SAUNDRA WOLFERSBERGER, R.N.
c/o Plastic Surgery Center, Ltd.
Grandview Corporate Place
205 Grandview Avenue
Camp Hill, PA 17011
-and-
PLASTIC SURGERY CENTER, LTD.
Grandview Corporate Place
205 Grandview Avenue
Camp Hill, PA 17011
-and-
HOLY SPIRIT HEALTH SYSTEM,
individually and/or doing business as :
Holy Spirit Hospital of the Sisters of :
Christian Charity and/or doing business as
Holy Spirit Hospital
503 North 21st Street
Camp Hill, PA 17011
-and-
HOLY SPIRIT HOSPITAL OF THE :
SISTERS OF CHRISTIAN CHARITY
individually and/or doing business as :
Holy Spirit Hospital
503 North 21st Street
Camp Hill, PA 17011
Defendants.
CERTIFICATION OF SERVICE
I, Sasha L. Azar, Esquire attorney for Plaintiffs, hereby state that on the 6th day of
September, 2006, I did forward a true and correct copy of Plaintiffs' Response in Opposition to
the Preliminary Objections of Defendants, Holy Spirit Health System and Holy Spirit Hospital of
the Sisters of Christian Charity, to Plaintiffs' Amended Complaint via postage paid first class
mail on the following counsel of record:
Leigh A. J. Ellis, Esquire
Cindy N. Ellis, Esquire
Foulkrod Ellis, P.C.
2010 Market Street
Camp Hill, PA 17011
Thomas Chairs, Esquire
Frank Marshall, Esquire
Dickie, McCamey & Chilcote, P.C.
Two PPG Place, Suite 400
Pittsburgh, PA 15222-5402
VILLARL BRANDES & KLINE, P.C.
7331
E .
PRAECIPE FOR WRIT OF EXECUTION (MONEY JUDGMENT)
P.R.C.P. 3101 to 3149
GREAT SENECA FINANCIAL CORP.,
A MARYLAND CORPORATION,
ASSIGNEE OF FORWARD PROPERTIES,
ASSIGNEE OF DIRECT MERCHANTS
BANK, N.A.
P.O. BOX 1651
ROCKVILLE, MD 20849-1651
Plaintiff
VS.
BRAD VASEY
634 HERITAGE CT
MECHANICSBURG PA 17050
Defendant (s)
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
JUDGMENT NO. 2005-5540
PRAECIPE FOR WRIT OF EXECUTION
(MONEY JUDGMENT)
To the Prothonotary: PLEASE ISSUE WRIT OF EXECUTION IN THE ABOVE MATTER.
(1) Directed to the Sheriff of CUMBERLAND COUNTY, Pennsylvania;
(2) against, BRAD VASEY
634 HERITAGE CT
MECHANICSBURG PA 17050
Defendant(s);
(3) and against, COMMERCE BANK
20 NOBLE BLVD
CARLISLE PA 17013-4119 Garnishee(s);
(4) and index this writ
(a) against, BRAD VASEY
Defendant (s) and
(b) against, COMMERCE BANK Garnishee(s),
as a lis pendens against the real property of the Defendant(s) in the name of the
Garnishee(s) as follows:
(Specifically describe property) *** GARNISH ONLY ***
You are directed to attach the property of the Defendant(s) not levied upon in the
possession of COMMERCE BANK
20 NOBLE BLVD
CARLISLE PA 17013-4119
Garnishee(s)
All accounts including but not limited to all savings, checking and other accounts,
certificates of deposit, notes receivables, collateral, pledges, documents of
title, securities, coupons and safe deposit boxes.
Amount due
Interest from 06/13/2005
At an interest rate of 6% per year
Dated: il'? 100 LL/4/
$ 2415.25
To Be Determined
Total $ 2415.25 Plus costs & interest
Amy F. Doyle " #87062 / Daniel F. Wolfson #20617
Philip C. Warholic #86341 / Andrew C. Spears #87737
David R. Galloway #87326 / Tonilyn M. Chippie #87852
Ronald M. Abramson #94266 / Ronald S. Canter #94000
Bruce H. Cherkis #18837
WOLPOFF & ABRAMSON, L.L.P. / Counsel for Plaintiff
Attorneys in the Practice of Debt Collection
4660 Trindle Road, 3rd Floor, Camp Hill, PA 17011 / (717) 303-6700
ATT1/PAWRIT W&A FILE NO. 131303295
4Q4 . col
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-rt
C
WRIT OF EXECUTION and/or ATTACHMENT
'0 • , .
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA)
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND)
NO 05-5540 Civil
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
TO THE SHERIFF OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY:
To satisfy the debt, interest and costs due GREAT SENECA FINANCIAL CORP., A
MARYLAND CORPORATION, ASSIGNEE OF FORWARD PROPERTIES, ASSIGNEE OF
DIRECT MERCHANTS BANK, N.A., Plaintiff (s)
From BRAD VASEY, 634 HERITAGE CT., MECHANICSBURG, PA 17050
(1) You are directed to levy upon the property of the defendant (s)and to sell .
(2) You are also directed to attach the property of the defendant(s) not levied upon in the possession
of COMMERCE BANK, 20 NOBLE BLVD, CARLISLE, PA 17103-4119 -- ALL ACCOUNTS
INCLUDING BUT LIMITED TO ALL SAVINGS, CHECKING AND OTHER ACCOUNTS,
CERTIFICATES OF DEPOSIT, NOTES RECEIVABLES, COLLATERAL, PLEDGES,
DOCUMENTS OF TITLE, SECURITIES, COUPONS AND SAFE DEPOSIT BOXES.
GARNISHEE(S) as follows:
and to notify the garnishee(s) that: (a) an attachment has been issued; (b) the garnishee(s) is enjoined from
paying any debt to or for the account of the defendant (s) and from delivering any property of the defendant
(s) or otherwise disposing thereof,
(3) If property of the defendant(s) not levied upon an subject to attachment is found in the possession
of anyone other than a named garnishee, you are directed to notify him/her that he/she has been added as a
garnishee and is enjoined as above stated.
Amount Due $2415.25
L.L. $.50
Interest FROM 6/13/05 AT AN INTEREST RATE OF 6% PER YEAR
Atty's Comm %
Atty Paid $37.25
Plaintiff Paid
Date: AUGUST 16, 2006
Due Prothy $1.00
Other Costs
CURTIS R ONG
Prothonotary
(Seal)
By:
Deputy
REQUESTING PARTY:
Name TONILYN M. CHIPPIE, ESQUIRE
Address: WOLPOFF & ABRAMSON, L.L.P.
4660 TRINDLE ROAD, 3" FLOOR
CAMP HILL, PA 17011
Attorney for: PLAINTIFF
Telephone: 717-303-6700
Supreme Court ID No. 87852
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
GREAT SENECA FINANCIAL CORP
Plaintiff NO. 2005-5540
VS.
BRAD VASEY
Defendant(s)
VS.
COMMERCE BANK
Garnishee(s)
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
PRAECIPE TO DISSOLVE GARNISHMENT
To the Prothonotary:
Please release the Lis Pendes on a Judgment filed against COMMERCE BANK, garnishee in the
above -entitled case and mark the Judgment against the garnishee as withdrawn.
Dated: /it Respectfully Submitted,
Lk ? 4"k-
Amy F. Doyle #870#2
Daniel F. Wolfson 420617
Philip C. Warholic #86341
Andrew C. Spears #87737
David R. Galloway #87326
Tonilyn M. Chippie #87852
Ronald M. Abramson #94266
Ronald S. Canter #94000
Bruce H. Cherkis #18837
WOLPOFF & ABRAMSON, LLP
Attorneys in the Practice of Debt Collection
4660 Trindle Rd., 3`d Floor
Camp Hill, PA 17011
(717) 303-6700
W&A File No. 131303295
C
zoa
W 'b ?
SHERIFF'S RETURN - GARNISHEE
CASE NO: 2005-05540 P
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSLYVANIA
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
GREAT SENECA FINANCIAL CORP
VS
VASEY BRAD
And now J. M. ICKES Sheriff or Deputy Sheriff of
Cumberland County of Pennsylvania, who being duly sworn according
to law, at 0016:29 Hours, on the 21st day of August , 2006, attached
as herein commanded all goods, chattels, rights, debts, credits, and
moneys of the within named DEFENDANT ,
VASEY BRAD in the
hands, possession, or control of the within named Garnishee
COMMERCE BANK 20 NOBLE BLVD
CARLISLE, PA 17013
Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, by handing to
AMANDA WILLIAMS (MANAGER) ,
personally three copies of interogatories together with 3 true
and attested copies of the within WRIT OF EXECUTION and made
the contents there of known to Her
Sheriff's Costs: So answers:
Docketing .00
Service .00
Affidavit .00 R. Thomas Kline,
Surcharge .00 Sheriff of Cumberland County
.00 00
08/22/2006
Sworn and Subscribed to
before me this day of By
Deputy Sheriff
A.D
WRIT OF EXECUTION and/or ATTACHMENT
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA)
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND)
NO 05-5540 Civil
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
TO THE SHERIFF OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY:
To satisfy the debt, interest and costs due GREAT SENECA FINANCIAL CORP., A
MARYLAND CORPORATION, ASSIGNEE OF FORWARD PROPERTIES, ASSIGNEE OF
DIRECT MERCHANTS BANK, N.A., Plaintiff (s)
From BRAD VASEY, 634 HERITAGE CT., MECHANICSBURG, PA 17050
(1) You are directed to levy upon the property of the defendant (s)and to sell .
(2) You are also directed to attach the property of the defendant(s) not levied upon in the possession
of COMMERCE BANK, 20 NOBLE BLVD, CARLISLE, PA 17103-4119 -- ALL ACCOUNTS
INCLUDING BUT LIMITED TO ALL SAVINGS, CHECKING AND OTHER ACCOUNTS,
CERTIFICATES OF DEPOSIT, NOTES RECEIVABLES, COLLATERAL, PLEDGES,
DOCUMENTS OF TITLE, SECURITIES, COUPONS AND SAFE DEPOSIT BOXES.
GARNISHEE(S) as follows:
and to notify the garnishee(s) that: (a) an attachment has been issued; (b) the garnishee(s) is enjoined from
paying any debt to or for the account of the defendant (s) and from delivering any property of the defendant
(s) or otherwise disposing thereof;
(3) If property of the defendant(s) not levied upon an subject to attachment is found in the possession
of anyone other than a named garnishee, you are directed to notify him/her that he/she has been added as a
garnishee and is enjoined as above stated.
Amount Due $2415.25
L.L. $.50
Interest FROM 6113105 AT AN INTEREST RATE OF 6% PER YEAR
Atty's Comm %
Atty Paid $37.25
Plaintiff Paid
Date: AUGUST 16, 2006
(Seal)
Due Prothy $1.00
Other Costs
L/1
CURTIS R. LONG
Prothonotary
By:
Deputy
REQUESTING PARTY:
Name TONILYN M. CHIPPIE, ESQUIRE
Address: WOLPOFF & ABRAMSON, L.L.P.
4660 TRINDLE ROAD, 3RD FLOOR
CAMP HILL, PA 17011
Attorney for: PLAINTIFF
Telephone: 717-303-6700
Supreme Court ID No. 87852
R. Thomas Kline, Sheriff, who being duly sworn according to law, states this
Writ is returned ABANDONED, no action taken in six months.
Sheriff's Costs: Advance Costs: 150.00
Sheriff's Costs 85.36
Docketing 18.00 64.64
Poundage 1.68
Advertising
Law Library .50
Prothonotary 1.00 Refunded to Atty on 04/27/07
Mileage 4.40
Misc.
Surcharge 30.00
Levy 20.00
Post Pone Sale
Certified Mail
Postage .78
Garnishee 9.00
TOTAL 85.36 ? ?`.2it/O ?'`- So Answers;
V-N
rThomas Kline
Sheriff /
By 1
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