HomeMy WebLinkAbout95-06565
"
"
. , .
\
- .t.
~.
I
\
. ,
"
CHARLES W. FITZPATRICK.
PlaintifTIRespondent
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY.
: PENNSYLVANIA
v.
: NO. 95-6565 CIVIL TERM
DOROTHY FITZPATRICK.
DcfendantIPetitioner
: CIVIL ACTION
: COMPLAINT IN DIVORCE
CHARLES W. FITZPATRICK'S ANSWER WITH NEW MATTER
TO DOROTHY J. FITZPATRICK'S PETITION FOR
ENFORCEMENT OF THE MARITAL SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT
AND NOW comes the PlaintifT/Respondent, Charles W. Fitzpatrick ("Mr.
Fitzpatrick"), who, by and through his attomeys, Charles O. Beckley, II, Esquire, Thomas
S. Beckley, Esquire, and Beckley & Madden, of Counsel, files this Answer to Dorothy J.
Fitzpatrick's ("Mrs. Fitzpatrick") Petition for Enforcement of Marital Settlement
Agreement.
I. Admitted.
2. Admitted.
3. Admitted.
4. Admitted.
5. Admitted.
6. Admitted.
7. Admitted.
8. TIle allegations contained in paragraph 8 of thc Pctition refcrcnce a writtcn
document which spcaks for itself. To the extent a response is dccmcd nccessary, it is
admitted that. pursuant to the Marital Scttlement Agreement ("MSA"), Ms. Fitzpatrick is
an employee of Fitzpatrick Cleaning, Inc. ("FCI"). Ms. Fitzpatrick's employment with
FCI is to last until she obtains her tcaching certificate or until the cnd of ] 999, whichever
comes first. It is also admitted that Ms. Fitzpatrick has the option to extend her
employment status for an additional six month period if she is unable to obtain any
employment. After reasonable investigation, Mr. Fitzpatrick is without knowledge or
information sufficient to form a belief as to Ms. Fitzpatrick's motivation for entering into
the MSA.
9. The allegations contained in paragraph 9 of Ms. Fitzpatrick's Petition reference
a written document which speaks for itself.
10. Denied as stated. After reasonable investigation, Mr. Fitzpatrick does not
know what Ms. Fitzpatrick's intent was upon entering into the MSA. By way of further
answer, FCI has paid Ms. Fitzpatrick in accordance with the terms of the MSA.
However, despite Fel's adherencc to the terms of the MSA, Ms. Fitzpatrick is not
enrolled in the proper courses in order to obtain hcr teaching certificate.
II. After reasonable investigation, Mr. Fitzpatrick is without knowledge or
information sufficient to form a belief as to the matters asserted in paragraph II of Ms.
Fitzpatrick's Petition. By way of further response, one of the parties' children lives with
Mr. Fitzpatrick, Ms. Fitzpatrick apparently Is no longer enrolled in as a full and/or
part-time studcnt, and, upon information and belief, Ms. Fitzpatrick has attempted to
2
solicit clients away from Fel, and, in at least one instance, has entered into her own
contract with a former Fel client to provide cleaning services, thereby supplementing her
income while depriving Fel of at least one valuable customer.
12. It is denied that Ms. Fitzpatrick has performed her responsibilities in a
professional manner. To the contrary, Ms. Fitzpatrick has perfomled her duties in an
unprofessional manner and Fel has had numerous problems with Ms. Fitzpatrick's work.
Fel has received numerous complaints regarding Ms. Fitzpatrick's work, and, upon
information and belief, Ms. Fitzpatrick has solicited Fel's customers In an effort to
persuade them to terminate their contract with Fel in order to enter into a new contract
with Ms. Fitzpatrick personally. On at least one occasion, Ms. Fitzpatrick succeeded in
her efforts. FCI has also received complaints from Ms. Fitzpatrick's coworkers. These
complaints have been communicated to Ms. Fitzpatrick in writing on several occasions.
At this point in time Fel has had to remove Ms. Fitzpatrick from her former workplace in
an effort to salvage Fel's relationship with one of its most important customers.
13. Denied as stated. It is admitted that Ms. Fitzpatrick filed a Petition for
Enforcement of the MSA sometime in March, 1997. It is specifically denied that this was
caused by Mr. Fitzpatrick's harassment.
14. The allegations contained in paragraph 14 of Ms. Fitzpatrick's Petition
reference a written document which speaks for itself. By way of further answer, the
Order was dated March 13, 1997, and was a temporary order.
15. The allegations contained in paragraph 15 of Ms. Fitzpatrick's Petition
reference a written document which speaks for itself. By way of further answer,
Paragraph 7 of the MSA does not obligatc Mr. Fitzpatrick personally to make any
3
The remaining allegations contained In paragraph 21 of Ms. Fitzpatrick's Petition are
specifically denied.
22. Denied as stated. It is admitted that Ms. Fitzpatrick eventually withdrew her
petition. The remaining allegations containcd in paragraph 22 of Ms. Fitzpatrick's
Petition constitute a legal conclusion to which no response is necessary. By way of
further response, denied. Any amounts due to Ms. Fitzpatrick were paid to her by Fel,
not Respondent.
23. Admitted in part and denied in part. It is admitted that Mr. Fitzpatrick was
present at Ms. Fitzpatrick's worksite briefly on Friday, January 22, 1999. It is denied that
Mr. Fitzpatrick harassed, threatened or otherwise annoyed Ms. Fitzpatrick in any way. To
the contrary, Mr. Fitzpatrick was merely ensuring that Ms. Fitzpatrick's work was
properly perfomled. By way of further answer, Mr. Fitzpatrick owns Fel and he
periodically visits all of his clients in order to ensure that the work is properly performed.
Moreover, Ms. Fitzpatrick's worksite is not her "place of employment." Ms. Fitzpatrick
has no set place of employment.
24. Admitted.
25. Denied as stated. It is admitted that on January 25, 1999, Mr. Fitzpatrick
came to Ms. Fitzpatrick's worksite and informed her that she was to be reassigned. By
way of further answer, Fel was forced to assign Ms. Fitzpatrick from the worksite
because the client had threatened to terminate its contract with Felon account of Ms.
Fitzpatrick's failure to perform her job dutics properly. Fel had no choice but to rcmove
Ms. Fitzpatrick from the building, otherwisc it would have lost the client.
5
26. After rcasonable investigation, Mr. Fitzpatrick is without knowledge or
information sufficient to form a belief as to the matters contained in paragraph 26 of Ms.
Fitzpatrick's Petition.
27. After reasonable investigation, Mr. Fitzpatrick is without knowledge or
information sufficient to form a belief as to the allegations containcd in paragraph 27 of
Ms. Fitzpatrick's Petition. It is admitted, however, that Mr. Fitzpatrick's attomey
received a letter from Ms. Fitzpatrick's attorney somctime shortly after January 26, 1999,
which contained Ms. Fitzpatrick's access card. However, thc keys were not in thc letter.
28. Admitted. By way of further answer, Fel still does not have Ms.
Fitzpatrick's keys.
29. Denied as stated. During a telephone call between Mr. Fitzpatrick's attorney,
Thomas S. Beckley, Esquire, and Ms. Fitzpatrick's attorney, TIlOmas D. Gould, Esquire,
Mr. Beckley indicated that it was his understanding at that point in time that Mr.
Fitzpatrick intended to continue to pay Ms. Fitzpatrick pursuant to the terms of the MSA.
Mr. Beckley also indicated to Mr. Gould that Ms. Fitzpatrick was removed from her
duties (at her then location) duc to complaints from Fel's client regarding her work. It is
denied that Mr. Beckley ever told Ms. Fitzpatrick's attorney that Mr. Fitzpatrick IVould
continue to pay Ms. Fitzpatrick.
30. Denied. This constitutes a legal conclusion to which no response is
necessary. To the extent a responsc is decmcd to bc necessary, it is dcnied that any
payment was due on the 1st and 15th ofcach month. To the contrary, the MSA providcs
only that Ms. Fitzpatrick is to be paid $1,800.00 pcr month. Thc MSA does not specify
when during the month Ms. Fitzpatrick is to be paid.
6
31. It is admitted that Mr. Fitzpatrick fhilcd to pay Ms. Fitzpatrick $900.00 on
February I, 1999. Hc had no duty to do so. Fel, howevcr, did forward a check for
$900.00 to Ms. Fitzpatrick on February I, 1999. Ms. Fitzpatrick has received and cashcd
this check.
32. Admitted. By way of further answer, Fel is still considering where to
reassign Ms. Fitzpatrick, however, it has remained timely with all of its payments to Ms.
Fitzpatrick. eonsequently, Fel has been paying Ms. Fitzpatrick even though Ms.
Fitzpatrick is not perfornling any services for Fe!.
33. It is specifically denied that Mr. Fitzpatrick and/or Fel had no legitimate
reason for removing Ms. Fitzpatrick from her previous job location. To the contrary, Fel
received several complaints from its clicnt (wherc Ms. Fitzpatrick was working)
regarding Ms. Fitzpatrick's job perfonnance; thcrcfore, Fel had no choice but to remove
her in order to preserve the client relationship.
34. Denied. To the contrary, Respondent has no duty to make bi-monthly
payments of $900.00 to Ms. Fitzpatrick. According to the MSA, FCI, not Respondent, is
to pay Ms. Fitzpatrick $1,800.00 per month. Fel has not withheld any payments from
Ms. Fitzpatrick.
35. Denied as stated. Aftcr rcasonable invcstigation, Mr. Fitzpatrick is without
knowlcdgc or information sullicient to form a bclief as to whether Ms. Fitzpatrick
depends upon the payments from rei for her livelihood. By way of further answcr, onc
of the parties' children moved out of Ms. Fitzpatrick's house and now lives with Mr.
Fitzpatrick. Furthermore, Mr. Fitzpatrick pays child support to Ms. Fitzpatrick. Upon
7
Information and belief, Ms. Fitzpatrick has other sources of Income, including a former
client of Fel, for whom she provides cleaning services. By way of further answer, Ms.
Fitzpatrick is no longer enrolled in school, and is frcc to obtain a second job.
36. After reasonable investigation, Mr. Fitzpatrick is without knowledge or
infornlation sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of thc matters assertcd in paragraph
36 of Ms. Fitzpatrick's Petition. eonsequently, such allcgations are specifically denied.
By way of further answer, it is noted that Ms. Fitzpatrick has failed to indicate how she
will suffer "undue hardship" if Fel no longer pays her. Furthennore, Fel has continued
to pay Ms. Fitzpatrick in a timely manner.
37. Denied. It is denied that Mr. Fitzpatrick has in any way harassed Ms.
Fitzpatrick. After reasonable investigation, Mr. Fitzpatrick is without knowledge or
Information sufficient to foml a belief as to why Ms. Fitzpatrick has failed to continue her
pursuit of her teaching certificate. By way of further answer, because Fel has not
required that Ms. Fitzpatrick report to work, Ms. Fitzpatrick has even more time to
continue her studies, although she has apparently chosen not to do so.
38. After reasonable Investigation, Mr. Fitzpatrick is without knowledge or
information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the allegations contained in
paragraph 38 of Ms. Fitzpatrick's Petition. eonsequently, such allegations are
specifically denied.
39. After reasonable investigation, Mr. Fitzpatrick is without knowledge or
infomlation sufficient to form a belicf ns to thc truth of the mailers contained in
paragraph 39 of Ms. Fitzpatrick's Petition. eonsequently, such allegations are
specifically denied. By way of furthcr answcr, Ms. Fitzpatrick is only entitled to exercise
8
her "six month option" if shc has not obtained cmployment by the end of 1999.
Thcrefore, it is prcmaturc for Ms. Fitzpatrick to indicatc that shc will cxercisc hcr option
when shc still has ovcr ten months to find cmployment.
40. After reasonablc investigation, Mr. Fitzpatrick is without knowlcdgc or
information sufficicnt to form a belief as to the matters contained in paragraph 40 of Ms.
Fitzpatrick's Petition. Consequently, such allegations are specifically dcnicd. By way of
furthcr answcr, Mr. Fitzpatrick has not breached any tcrms of thc MSA, and any
cxpenditures by Ms. Fitzpatrick, including tile filing of this pctition, were unjustificd.
41. Paragraph 41 of Ms. Fitzpatrick's Petition references a legal document which
speaks for itself. By way of further answer, Mr. Fitzpatrick has not breached the MSA in
any way, therefore, Ms. Fitzpatrick's Petition fails to state a claim upon which relief may
be granted.
WHEREFORE, eharles W. Fitzpatrick respectfully requests that this eourt cntcr
an Order dismissing Ms. Fitzpatrick's Petition and order such other relief as this eourt
deems appropriate.
NEW MATTER
42. The allegations contained in paragraphs I through 41 of this Answer are
incorporated herein as though set forth here at length.
43. In her Prayer for Relief, Ms. Fitzpatrick has requested that this eourt enter an
order compelling Mr. Fitzpatrick "to immediately comply with paragraph 7 of the MSA
by reinstating Ms. Fitzpatrick's emplo)'ment status with Fitzpatrick eleaning, Inc. and
9
--~ .
-' ",.-.
continuing to makc thc $1,800.00 monthly payments and mcdical coveragc." (Pctition,
Praycr for Rclict).
43. Under Paragraph 7 of the MSA, Mr. Fitzpatrick is obligated to pay Ms.
Fitzpatrick only in thc cvcnt that he sclls Fel to a third party. Mr. Fitzpatrick has not sold
Fel to a third party.
44. Fel is obligated to make a monthly payment to Ms. Fitzpatrick in the amount
of$I,800.00. The MSA does not state when Fel is to make this payment, it mercly states
it must be made on 11 monthly basis.
44. To datc, Fel has made all of the payments under the MSA in a timely fashion,
and no amounts are currcntly owed to Ms. Fitzpatrick.
45. FCI has continued to maintain Ms. Fitzpatrick's health insurance, and she has
c"pericnced no lapse in coverage.
46. While Fel has removed Ms. Fitzpatrick from her previous worksite, it has
continued to pay her in a timely fashion, although, at this point, it has not reassigned her
to a ncw position.
47. Ms. Fitzpatrick has not alleged that any payments arc currently due to her
from Fel, nor has Fel been made a party to this action.
48. Ms. Fitzpatrick has not alleged a lapse in her medical coverage.
49. Mr. Fitzpatrick has not breached any tcrms of the MSA.
10
SO. Ms. Fitzpatrick has failed to allege any harm or damage caused by Mr.
Fitzpatrick which is in violation of the MSA.
51. In short, Ms. Fitzpatrick has failed to allege that Mr. Fitzpatrick has breached
the MSA in any way, and has merely requested this Court to enter an order compelling
Mr. Fitzpatrick to do something which Fel, as required by the MSA, is already doing.
52. eonsequently, Ms. Fitzpatrick has failed to state a claim upon which relief
may be granted.
53. Paragraph 16 of the MSA provides "no court asked to enforce or interpret this
Agreement shall in any way change the terms of this Agreement." (MSA, ~ 16).
54. Similarly, the Divorce eode provides that "[i]n the absence of a specific
provision to the contrary appearing in the agreement, a provision regarding the
disposition of existing property rights and interests between the parties, alimony, alimony
pendente lite, counsel fees or expenses shall not be subject to modification by the court."
23 Pa.e.S.A. ~ 3105(c).
55. eontrary to the express terms of the MSA and the Divorce eode, Ms.
Fitzpatrick has requested (in the alternative) this eourt to modify the MSA by vacating
"that portion of the MSA that requires [Ms. Fitzpatrick] to continue to be employed by
Fel and order [Mr. Fitzpatrick] to pay [Ms. Fitzpatrick] her equitable interests in Fel."
(Petition, Prayer for Relief). Ms. Fitzpatrick calculates her "equitable interest" by
totaling the payments which she feels she will collect over the remaining life of the MSA.
\I
,.---
_ ~.""~=: J:~,~':~l!,~i{#~'~~~+'~~:ii~':~'.:i:~~i i) "
L,
~.;".--?--:- .-
63. Mr. Fitzpatrick is entitled to his attorneys' fe~s under the Judicial eode
because Ms. Fitzpatrick's action was commenced in bad faith. See 42 Pa.C.S.A. ~ 2503.
WHEREFORE, Mr. Fitzpatrick requests that this eourt deny Ms. Fitzpatrick's
Petition, and order Ms. Fitzpatrick to pay Mr. Fitzpatrick's attomeys' fees incurred in
responding to Ms. Fitzpatrick's most recent petition, and such other relief as this Court
deems appropriate.
DATED: February 24, 1999
Ofeounsel
Respectfully submitted,
BEeKLEY & MADDEN
212 North Third Street
Post Office Box 11998
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 17108
(717) 233.7691
,
harles O. Beckley, 11, E quire
,~~
Thomas S. Beckley, Esquire
Attorneys for PlaintifTIRespondent
eharles W. Fitzpatrick
13
BEOKLEY & MADDEN
ATTORIC.,yO Jl.T LAW
CIUM.._y OOUIIT
III NOlITa TJUaD BTUaT
JIOeT omcs ~x 11"
HAJUlI8BURG. PZlfN8YLVJl.NI.A 17108
FAX MO.
m" .....,.0
J1UI 1t0.
ADA OOD. "7
~"'''''l
39420
February 12, 1999
Tholll8S D. Gould, Esquire
2 East Main Street
Shiremanstown, PeMsylvania 17011
RE: Fitzpatrick v. Fitzpatrick
Dear Mr. Gould:
We have in hand Ms. Fitzpatrick's Petition for Enforcement of a Marital Settlement
Apment which was filed on or about February 3, 1999. This is to request that you
withdraw that petition.
First, Mr. Fitzpatrick has not breached the Marital Settlement Apment ("MSA").
As I indicated to you on the telephone prior to your filing the Petition, Mr. Fitzpatrick has not
terminated Ms. Fitzpatrick's employment, he has merely removed her from her position at
PMA due to customer complaints regarding her work. Furthermore, Ms. Fitzpatrick has been
paid pursuant to the terms of the MSA and she still has medical coverage. Paragraph 7 of the
MSA merely requires that Ms. Fitzpatrick is to be paid $1,800.00 per month, it docs not slate
when that payment is due, however, a partial payment of$900.00 was made on February I,
1999. Indeed, Ms. Fitzpatrick cashed that check. Fitzpatrick Cleaning, Inc., paid Ms.
Fitzpatrick prior to her filing her petition. Therefore, because Ms. Fitzpatrick has been paid
and because her employment has not been terminated, there has been no breach of the MSA,
and she knew that prior to filing her petition.
Second, in the prayer for relief, you have requested (in the altemative) that the eourt
"vacate that portion of the MSA that requires [Ms. Fitzpatrick] to continue to be employed by
[Fitzpatrick Cleaning, Inc.] and order [Mr. Fitzpatrick] to pay [Ms. Fitzpatrick] her equitable
interests in" Fitzpatrick eleaning, Inc. You further request the court to calculate the value of
any interest she may have by computing the payments left plus the value of her medical
coverage. Essentially, you have requested that the court to modify the MSA by eliminating
Ms. Fitzpatrick's work requirement and accelerating any payments which she may be entitled
to receive over the life of the MSA into one lurnp sum payment due immediately. The relief
you have requested violates the terms of the MSA and is prohibited by the express terms of
the Divorce eode.
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Thomas S. Beckley, Esquire, hereby certify that on this day a true and correct
copy of the foregoing document was served upon the person and in the manner indicated
below:
SERVICE BY FIRST CLASS MAli.
Thomas D. Gould, Esquire
2 East Main Street
Shiremanstown, Pennsylvania 17011
DATED: February 24, 1999
~~
Thomas S. Beckley, Esquire
v.
I IN TIm COtmT 0' COIDION PLIIU 0'
I COIIIIIRLAIID COmITY, PIIDIIYLVAIfIA
I
I 95-6565 CIVIL TIaN
I
I CIVIL ACTION - LAW
. IN DIVOZlCI
CIA.LII W. 'ITIPATlICK,
Plaintiff/a..pondent
DOaOTHY J. 'ITSlPATRICK,
D.fendant/P.tition.r
IN U I '.-fITION 'OR INI'ORCDIIHT 0' IlAJtITAI, SITTLIIIIH'l'
CRDIR 01' COURT
AND HOW, tbi. 30tb day of JUD., 1997, tb. Court
baying b.ard tb. t..tiaony pr...nt.d on tb. requ..t of Dorotby
'it.patrick to dir.ct Charl.. 'it.patrick to abide by tb. t.~
of th. agr...aDt of tbe parti.. of JuD. 7, 1996, tb. Court
dir.ct. Charl.. I'it.patrick to t.aediately c~ly witb paragr.pb
7 of tb. ..rital .ettl..ent agreeaeDt by rein.tating Hr..
I'it.patrick'. .-ployaent .tatu. witb I'it.patrick Cleening, Inc.,
aDd cOlltinuing to ..ke tbe $1,800.00 IICntbly paylHllt. to ber aDd
provide ber witb ..dical coverage.
By tb. Court,
David T. Klu., ..quire
COUD..l for Plaintiff/Re.pondent
~. D. Gould, I.quire
COUD.el for D.fendant/'etitioner
Sheriff
..lr
v.
I IN THB COURT OP CONNON PLBAB OP
I CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PJlNNSYLVANIA
I
I 95-6565 CIVIL TBRM
I
I CIVIL ACTION - LAW
I IN DIVORCB
CBAlLBS W. PITZPATRICK,
Pl.intiff/R..pond.nt
DOROTHY J. PITZPATRICK,
D.f.ndant/P.tition.r
IN RB I PITITION POR UPORCBMENT OP MARITAL SBTTLBMBHT
ORDBR OP COURT
AND NOW, thi. 30th d.y of Jun., 1997, the Court
h.ving h..rd the t..timony pr...nt.d on the r.qu..t of Dorothy
Pitzp.trick to dir.ct Ch.rl.. Pitzp.trick to abide by the t.~
of the .gr....nt of the p.rti.. of Jun. 7, 1996, the Court
dir.ct. Ch.rl.. Pitzp.trick to imm.di.tely comply with par.gr.ph
7 of the marit.l ..ttl..ent .gr....nt by rein.tating Mr..
Pitzp.trick'. employment .t.tu. with Pitzp.trick Cl..ning, Inc.,
and continuing to mak. the $1,800.00 monthly p.ymentE to h.r .nd
provide h.r with ..dic.l cov.r.g..
By the Court,
D.vid T. Kluz, E.quire
Coun.el for pl.intiff/a..pondent
Thyma. D. Gould, E.quir.
e6un..l for D.f.nd.nt/P.tition.r
:.lr
?~ +--- m;r..4 YU'-'
~.. rJ#~ cr-H~~'
;:r~ ~~.(..
~""~J'
Sh.riff
\
JUN 0 4 1997
11/
CIlARLBS W. FITZPATRICK, . IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
Plaintiff . CUMBBRLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVAHIA
.
v. . NO. 95-6565 Civil Tem
.
DOROTHY J. FITZPATRICK, . CIVIL ACTION
" Defendant . IN DIVORCE
~ ORDaR
AHD NOW, thi. ~ day of June, 1997, upon revi_ and
con.ideration of the inforaation contained within the pleading., it
i. hereby ordered that a hearing be held in Courtroom .~, at
I ~.. on -!j~3u. 1'117 , to re.olve the i..ue. rai.ed in the
., I
Petition fo Enforcement of Marital Settlement Agr....nt and the
re.ulting An.wer.
BY THE COURT.
J.
v;r;~""/\l-It\n'l?d
,l,fl't'. '" "'t 'r.'Xj:1
O I 'II"'} . ",,' I '
. i'i' lJ- hili .b
H,'/:t '- _ I '",
',....\....'-~l~:'r..,_i""...,; ~'; L. :U
~~,:Lo-lJ.:jL
,! I ~
.?-
M
'. i!'
I
"
\,.,::
"
".- il-'~
,"-
"
'f! ~- I S
i"
f_:.-
<.'
:':'J>< ""
:. .. )i{l(~
.... . .. r t...
. 7i:~"~:17
..i\;.,J:-.~
'\;;(~;,~;:I\
..';:111
:;j::Y:;/. tilt
,,: ',: ;(I~t;~{~~~f
.of,)"'-'"
',..
,.".1'
./;' ;:
...
:"
,
t_.
-'""-".
.
JUN 0 4 ~(.,
.
CHARLES W. FITZPATRICK, I IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
plaintiff I CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
I
v. I NO. 95-6565 Civil Term
I
DOROTHY J. FITZPATRICK, I CIVIL ACTION
Defendant I IN DIVORCE
PftI'l'IOII '1'0 Sft IIIlARIIlG
AND NOW, comes Charles W. Fitzpatrick, plaintiff/Respondent in
the above captioned action, by his attorney, David T. Kluz, who
petitions this Court to set a hearing. In support of the petition
the following is allegedl
1. On March 10, 1997, counsel for Dorothy J. Fitzpatrick
filed a Petition for Enforcement of Marital Settlement Agreement.
2. All Exhibits to that agreement a Marriage Settlement
Agreement and a Divorce Decree were appended.
3. On March 13, 1997, Judge Hoffer signed an order
r_stablishing the preexisting status quo whereby Charles W.
Fitzpatrick paid $ 1,800.00 per month to Dorothy J. Fitzpatrick.
4. On March 20, 1997, counsel for Plaintiff/Respondent filed
an Answer.
5. All payments required by order of the Domestic Relations
Office and by order of Judge Hoffer have been paid to date.
6. Defendant/Petitioner has refused to cooperate in any
meaningful way toward resolving this matter.
7. Compliance with the order is onerous, burdensome and not
called for by the terms of the agreement and existing facts.
C1iIl'l'II'ICA'l'Il QI' SBRVICB
I, ILLlN H. HOWl, Legal Aaehtant, certify that I have eerved
a copy of the foregoing docUll8nt on the individual Heted below by
depoeiting the e_ in the United Statee Hail, Firet Claee, poetage
prepaid, at Harrhburg, Penneylvanial
ThOllAe D. Gould, lequire
2 Beet Hain Street
S.'_~:~D~~
Illen Howe, Legal Aaeietant
uet Street, Suite 404
Harrieburg, PA 17101
(71') 238-8183
Doto.iJJ)a}ch
.( "
CHAALlS H. FITIPATRICK,
PLAI~IFF/RlSPONDINT
Y.
IN THE COURT or COMMON PLEAS
CUMBIRLlUfD comrn, PIDSn.VAJlIA
HO. 95-6565 CIVIL TERM
CIVIL AC'l'ION
III DIVORCE
DOROTHY J. FITIPATRICK,
DEFENDANT/PETITIOIIIR
OIU)ER
AND NOW,
this
,,/fI-
'7 day
of October, 1997 upon review and
consideration of information contained in the pleadings, it is
hereby ordered that a hearing be held in Courtroom #__~, at
1.;.jQ .Ar<<. on &!rtJ1!ie ,;27 , 1997, to resolve the issues
raised in the Petition '1'0 Enforce Marital Settlement Agreement
(MSA) and the resulting Answer and New Matter.
BY THE COURT:
~
.. .
CHARLEs N. FITIPATRICK,
PLAIKTIFF/RlSPO.DI.T
I
I
IN THI COURT OF COMMON PLIAS
CUNaIRLAMD COUWTr,PIIWSILVANIA
NO. 95-6565 CIVIL TERM
CIVIL ACTIO.
I. DIVORCI
Y.
.
.
DOROTHY J. FITIPATRICK,
DEFE.DANT/PETITIO.ER
I
I
I
I
PETITION TO SET HlARINO
AND NOW come. the Petitioner, Dorothy J. Fitzpatrick, by and
through her attorney, Thomas D. GOUld, and files this petition
.eeking a hearing on her Petition To Enforce Marital Settlement
Agreement (MSA) based on the following facts:
1. The Petitioner, Dorothy J. Fitzpatrick, filed a Petition
For Enforcement of Marital Settlement Agreement on August 28, 19517.
2. This honorable court issued an Order on August 251, 151517
giving Respondent, Charles W. Fitzpatrick, 20 days from the date of
.ervice to respond to the petition.
3. On or about September 3, 151517 Respondent filad hi.
ra.pon.a, including New Matter.
4. On Octobar 51, 151517 Petitioner responded to Respondant'.
Naw Hattar.
5. The parties have not been able to resolve their
differenca..
WHEREFORE, petitioner requeats that this matter be listad for
argument before this honorable court.
Respectfully .ubmitted,
~b.~
Thomas D. Gould
I.D./36508
2 East Main Street
Shiremanstown, PA 17011
(717) 731-1461
r;u:n. O~T;Cr:
cr l' " , ",Tn;Y
91 (1r.i 1:: r i. I: ~j!
Cil" ' ,
.,."t_
h:,'j'
',', i'(
" ",.oI"l
"'.I','j,.
'I',' '.;
I,. ,'-' ,
..
"
..
. ,
Y.
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
IM THJ: COURT OF COMMOM PUU
CUMBEJU.AJlD COUll'rY, PlnULVUIA
MO. 95-6565 CIVIL TERM
CIVIL ACTIOM
IM DIVORCE
CHAIlLIS W. FITIPATRICK,
PLAIMTIFF/IlISPOMDEMT
DOROTHY J. FITIPATRICK,
DIFEMDAMT/PETITIOMER
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICI
AND NOW, this ~r( day of october 1997, I, Thomas D. Gould,
Esquire, Attorney for Petitioner, hereby certify that I have this
day sent a copy of Petitioners' Petition To Set Hearing by
depositing a copy of it in the United States mail, postage prepaid,
addressed to:
David T. Kluz, Esquire
212 Locu~t Street
Suita 404
Harrisburg, PA 17101
DATED
/~('f(q,
-r1a-.- b. h-w
Thomas D. Gould, Esquire
ID # 36508
2 E. Main Street
Shiremanstown, PA 17011
(717) 731-1461
Fax 761-1974
CHAaLlI N. PITI.ATRICK,
'LAI~IPP/RlSPOJlDI~
I
I
I
IJI THJ: COURT or COIOCOJI 'LUS
CIlMBJ:IUJUID COUlfU, PlnSnVUIA
v.
NO. 95-G56~ CIVIL TERM
DOROTH~ J. PITIPATRICK,
DJ:PJ:lDUT/PITITIOIfIR
I
I
I
CIVIL ACTIOJl
IN DIVORCJ:
PJ:TITION TO J:JfPORCJ:MJ:~
or
MARITAL SIT1'UMB~ AGRlJ:MJ:~
AND NOW comes the Petitioner, Dorothy J. Fitzpatrick, by and
throuqh her attorney, Thomas o. Gould, and files this petition
.eekinq reimbursement of her attorney fees and costs based on the
followinq facts.
1. The Petitioner is Dorothy J. Fitzpatrick who reside. at
499 Linden Street, Mechanicsburq, PA 17055.
2. The Re.pondent is Charles w. Fitzpatrick who reside. at
7 Donald Street, Mechanicsburq, PA 17055.
3. The Petitioner and Respondent were married on January 12,
1974.
4. A Complaint in Divorce was filed by Respondent on
November 16, 1995.
5. The Divorce Decree was issued on July 9, 1996.
6. A Marital Settlement Aqreement (MSA) was executed by the
parties on June 7, 1996.
7. The MSA was incorporated into the Decree In Divorce.
8. On March 10, 1997 Ms. Fitzpatrick filed a petition For
Enforcement Of Marital settlement Agreement.
9. On June 30, 1997 a hearing was held on Ms. Fitzpatrick's
petition.
10. After a full evidentiary hearing Judge Hoffer ordered Mr.
Fitzpatrick to reinstate Ms. Fitzpatrick's employment and to abide
by the termS of the MSA dated June 7, 1996. copy attached as
exhibit A.
11. The MSA, in paragraph LS provides that If either party
to this Agreement resorts to a law suit or other legal action to
enforce the provisions of this Agreement, the successful party
,hAll be entitled to recover hi~ or her reasonable counsel fees,
actually incurred... (Emphasis added).
12. In a letter dated July 2, 1997 petitioner's counsel made
a demand for $866.00 in counsel fees and costs. Copy of letter
attached as exhibit B.
13. petitioner made another demand upon aespondent in a
letter dated July 24, 1997. Copy of letter attached as exhibit C.
14. In a letter dated July 28, 1997 aespondent's attorney
indicated that it was his interpretation that Ms. Fitzpatrick had
waived her right to reilllburs8lllent of her counsel fee. and expen.e.
lS. At no time has aespond~nt challenged the reasonableness
of the demanded counsel fees or costs.
LAW OFFICE OF THOMAS D. GOULD
m
THOMAS Q. GOULD
MICMAeL S. TRAVIS'
2 eAsr MAIN srREer
SMIREMANsrOWN.PA 1701\
(7\7) 731.14S\
FAX 751.1974
'A()UInta "IW JIASIY ..11I
July 2, 1997
David T. Kluz, Esquire
212 Locust Str~et
suite 404
Harrisburq, PA 17101
ae: Fitzpatrick
Dear Dave:
I believe that it is important to schedule a return to work
~or Ms. Fitzpatrick. She was planninq on returning to PMA on
Monday at 4:00 PM but she had no key and had been in~ormed that she
was replaced. She did contact the o~~ice o~ Fitzpatrick Cleaning,
Inc. and was in:ormed that Mr. Fitzpatrick had not decided what he
was going to do with her.
Ms. Fitzpatrick has in~ormed me that you had contacted Legal
Services to modi~y the PFA so as to allow Mr. Fitzpatrick to go to
Ms. Fitzpatrick's place 0: employment. Durinq the 7 or so years
that our clients owned the busine.s, Mr. Fitzpatrick did not have
a need to supervi.e Ms. FitzpatriCk's work. He does not have a
need to supervise it now. I: he wants to check her work, he could
do so be~ore and a~ter her work hours. She will not agree to
modi:y the PtA.
I~ Hr. Fitzpatrick believes that it will be impossible ~or him
to continue to employ Ms. Fitzpatrick in a pro~essional manner, he
could propose a buy out o~ her contract. As I stated in my
previous letter, the replacement value o~ Ms. Fitzpatrick'. work is
about $260.00 per month. She would consider acceptinq Sl,540.00
($1,800.00-$260.00) in lieu o~ workinq the 10-12 hours per week ~or
Fitzpatrick Cleaninq, Inc.. However, Mr. Fitzpatrick would still
be required to maintain her medical coveraqe, either through the
corporation or by payinq her COBRA premi\llllll. The alternative would
be :or Hr. Fitzpatrick to pay the amount owed in a lump sum.
pursuant to paraqraph 15 o~ the Marriage Settlement Aqreement
(MSA) , i: either party resorts to legal action to en~orce
provisions o~ the Aqreement, the success~ul party (MS. Fitzpatrick)
shall be entitled to recover her reasonable counsel fees ~rom Mr.
Fitzpatrick as a part o~ the judgment. I hope that it will not be
necessary to petition the court on this issue. Ms. FitzpatriCk's
reasonable attorney ~ees to enforce the provisions o~ the MSA total
$866.00. Please have Mr. Fitzpatrick ~orward payment directly
to Ms. Fitzpatrick. Please contact me if you have any questions.
E'li.\,'\ 6',-1'" '(;
. 'I I
m
LAW OFFICE OF THOMAS D, GOULD
THOMAS O. OOULD
MICHAEL S, TAAVIS'
2 !Asr MAIN SrA!!T
SHIA!MANsrOWN,PA 17011
(717)731."81
FAX 781.1i7.
tAOMlntO HIW JIItS....~.
July 24, 1997
Oavid T. Kluz, Esquire
212 Locust Street
Suite 404
Harrisburq, PA 17101
ae: Fitzpatrick eleaninq, Inc. v. Oorothy Fitzpatrick
Oear Oave:
I am in receipt of your July 21, 1997 letter. I have met with
my client and, pursuant to Judqe Hoffer's decision, she will be
nturninq to her previous employment under the same terms and
conelitionl in place prior to her unlawful dismissal. Your July 21,
1997 letter places new conditions and job duties on my client that
are not acceptable.
It is understandable that Fitzpatrick eleaninq , Inc. would
neeel a W-4 torm, but there appears to be no leqitimate reason or
rationale tor her to complete an Application tor Employment torm
after all these years. Hr. Fitzpatrick knows her name, addre..,
social security number and other relevant information requesteel on
the application. please explain the leqal need to obtain any other
information. Ms. Fitzpatrick will complete and return her W-4.
The qeneral job description provided is new and informative,
but it is not relevant to Ms. Fi~zpatrick's employment lituation.
Under the term. ot the MSA Ms. Fitzpatrick was to continue to work
tor Fitzpatrick eleaninq, Inc. as Ihe had in the past. This was
done at the request of Hr. Fitzpatrick with the understandinq that
her hours and work schedule would be flexible as it had been in the
pa.t. Her work schedule wa. to be worked around her school
schedule and the activities and weltare of the children. It .he
neeeled a day ott .he would take it or it she wasn't able to do the
cleaninq on a Friday niqht, she could do it anytime prior to the
nclientn returninq to work on Monday. In the pase there wa. not a
neeel to have M.. Fitzpatrick work specitic work hours on specific
day.. I believe that the burden il on Fitzpatrick eleaninq, Inc.
to show a chanqe in circumstances that support a leqitimate need
for requirinq exact hours and times. Hs. Fitzpatrick will attempt
to be punctual in arrivinq and leavinq her place of employment,
however, her inability to meee the strict timls Ihould in no w.y
jeoparcUze hsr employment. As in the past the mOlt important i.sue
il that the work be done in a proteslional manner. At no time has
any client ever questioned the quality of the work pertormed by M..
Fitzpatrick.
E:~h'd;\+ C-
" .
The new "Duties at I?MA GROUI?" is unacceptable. Fitzpatrick
Cleaning, Inc. has attempted to increase Ms. Fitzpatrick's duties
without increasing her hours. The lavatories, ot which there are
tour (4), were cleaned by Dan while Ms. Fitzpatrick pertormed the
other duties that had been assigned to her. Under the new
schedule, on the days Ms. Fitzpatrick is not working, the duties
assigned to her are done by two (2) individuals. While Ms.
Fitzpatrick has been away trom her work, the new assigned duties
have been pertormed by another employee who has reported that it
tllke~ him 5 ]/2 to (, r.our~ to com"I"'." t'1.' rll:~:."r:. ~!r.. Fit72'trkl:
will report to work and perform the duties that were assigned to
her prior to her unlawtul termination, She will not accept the new
duties ot cleaning the lavatories, cleaning the retrigerator every
other Friday, cleaning glass, dusting, emptying and cleaning the
cottee pot or handling any ot th~ paper products.
It is true that Judge Hoffer sarcasticly noted that Ms.
Fitzpatrick is being paid $45.00/hour. He went on to state that
clearly there was more to the agreement than having Ms. Fitzpatrick
work as an employee. He stated that she was doing the work that
was basically unskilled that could be, and was being performed by
other employees tor So.OO/hour. As stated earlier, Ms. Fitzpatrick
has always had a flexible schedule. The MSA acknowledges the need
tor nexibility. Any attempt by Fitzpatrick Cleaning, Inc. to
reduce her contracted salary of $1,800.00 per month due to
sickness, emergencies or even time clock discrepancies will be met
with legal action. Ms. Fitzpatrick will do her previously assigned
duties. She will stay atter 8:00 p.m., without an increase in
salary, it necessary to complete her tasks. She has and will
continue to perform her work in a professional manner.
I have received a copy of the Motion and Order that you filed
with Judge Hess. Your action wa~ unprofessional and violated the
Local Cumberland County rules. aecause there were tactual issues
not ot record incorporated into your Motion you were required to
submit an Order to Show Cause. You sought and obtained an ex parte
order concerning a known contested matter. You raised the issue
beton Judge Hotter and he indicated that eitller Ms. Fitzpatrick
didn't need supervision, or that Mr. Fitzpatrick could inspect her
work after she had lett. Your July 21, 1997 letter to me indicated
that Mr. Fitzpatrick or another employee of FCI would check the
work site atter ~:OO p.m. You ullethically tailed to include that
intormation in your Motion to the Court. I do not represent M..
Fitzpatrick in her I?FA action. However she is represented by Legal
Service.. I have been informed cy Leqal Services that you contact
them and were told that Ms. Fitzpatrick would not aqree to an
amendment ot the I?FA. You, in violation ot the Cumberland County
rule., neglected to intorm the ccurt of the non-concurrence ot the
other side. In tact you never made any attempt to serve opposing
counsel prior to tiling your ex parte Motion. I have spoken with
Joan Carey, the attorney from L~gal Services who represents Ms.
Fitzpatrick and she has intormed me that she will take legal action
to vacate Judge Hess's improperly issued order.
I I, .
I '. I
At this point if Mr. Fitzpatrick app.ars at Ms. Fitzpatrick"
work .it. while .h. is working, it will b. d..m.d that h. is th.r.
for the purpo.. of harassm.nt sin~. h. has no l.gitimat. r.ason for
b.ing th.r.. Th.r. are alt.rnativ.s available to him without the
n..d to confront Ms. Fitzpatrick. In addition sine. Mr.
Fitzpatrick is .uppo.. to b. sp.nding quality time with hi.
children during M.. Fitzpatrick', work hours, h. would have to
leave his childr.n just to "supervis." his form.r wife. Ms.
Fitzpatrick nev.r did, and still does not, need supervision to do
tll\! job "lie has been cluing l?J:ofe:...~i';ad~ly f;;'l" yeats.
R.garding the children, Mr. Fitzpatrick has been showing up
.arly and r.turning the children lat.. According to the PFA Mr.
Fitzpatrick i. to b. at Ms. Fitzpatrick's horn. for no more than 5
minut... Wh.n h. .hows up at 3:45 p.m. for a 4:00 p.m. pick up,
the childr.n ar. not r.ady and h~ .nds up violating the PFA. Th.
r.turn time i. .ch.dul.d fet' 9: 00 p. m. The children should b.
return.d on tim.. Mr. Fitzpatrick should notify Ms. Fitzpatrick if
th.r. is going to b. a probl.m. It is my und.rstanding that Mr.
Fitzpatrick h.. claim.d that h. C,1n not return the children by 9: 00
p.m. due to church. I have information that the church is ov.r by
8:30 p.m. and that would give Mr. Fitzpatrick 30 minutes to trav.l
the f.w mil.s to Ms. Fitzpatrick's horn.. It is request.d that you
inform Mr. Fitzpatrick of his legal obligation to follow the PFA
and custody sch.dul..
M.. Fitzpatrick has inform.d m. that sh. has not r.c.iv.d h.r
r.imbur..m.nt ch.ck for h.r attorn.y f.... To avoid furth.r l.gal
action, and additional costs and attorn.y f...s, plea.. have Mr.
Fitzpatrick imm.diately r.imburs. Ms. Fitzpatrick h.r $855.00 in
attorn.y f....
Thank you for your att.ntion to th.s. important matters.
Sinc.r.ly yours,
1Amt...... D. ~
Thomas D. Gould
cc. Dorothy Fitzpatrick
"-'-
;'_-.2_....~,...oH~:'~1,.:,"r;-,I"",',.,;.,,;:-J;!t:_'
. ._~.......
....."....
~.,-' --
. I, .
. I. I
I certify that the followinq i3 an accurate accountinq of the
attorney fee. and coata incurred by Dorothy Fitzpatrick to enforce
the Marital Settlement Aqreement dated June 7, 1996 throuqh the
enforcement hearing of June 30, 1997.
DATE TIME AC'rIVITY Fee
03/08/97 1/4 hr Telephone call trom you 15.00
03/08/tJ7 1/4 Oftice conference w/client 15.00
03/10/tJ7 1 112 prerared Petition to Entorce MSA tJo.OO
03/10/tJ7 3/4 Otf ce conterence w/client 45.00
03/10/tJ7 1/4 Filed Petition with Court 20.00
03/10/tJ7 3/4 Travel to file Petition 30.00
03/10/tJ7 1/2 Letter to Atty Kluz wI petition 30.00
OS/21/tJ7 1/4 Telephone call with Kluz 15.00
OS/27/tJ7 1/4 Telephone call with client 15.00
OS/28/tJ7 1/4 Telephone call from client 15.00
06/0tJ/tJ7 1/4 Letter to Kluz 15.00
06/10/tJ7 1/4 aec'd . rev'd Petition filed by Kluz 15.00
06/ltJ/tJ7 2 1/4 Office conference w/client 135.00
06/24/tJ7 Is Obtained , s~nt out subpoenas 30.00
Subpoena Fee 6.00
06/26/tJ7 1/4 Telephone call with Linda trom
Wa.ilefski/Peters 15.00
06/301tJ7 2 Is Prepared tor hearing 150.00
06/30/tJ7 2 1/4 Hearing . 180.00
06/30/tJ7 3/4 Travel tor hearinq 30.00
Total 866.00
1iw'M~ t . J.:L,..J~
Thoma. D. GoulCi
Attorney For Petitioner
CJfA.-1'.1I!1 W. rI'rIPATRICK,
PLlI~Irr/"S.o1D11'r
.
.
I. 'rHZ COVJlT or COIOCO. PLL\I
CUKlIRLAlD COUITY,PI..IYLVAlIA
.0. 95-'565 CIVIL TIRM
Y.
I
I
I
I
I
I
CIVIL ACTIO.
I. DIVORCI
DOIO'rKI ~. rITIPATRICK,
DlrllD.-or/PITITIO.IR
..S.o..1 TO .0 HAftER
AND NOW, comes the Petitioner, Dorothy J. Fitzpatrick, by and
through her attorney Thomas D. Gould, and files this response to
aespondent's, Charles W. Fitzpatrick's, New Matter.
19. Admitted that Petitioner in her March of 1997 Petition
alleged that she had incurred attorney fees to enforce the terms of
the MSA.
20. Admitted. By way of further answer, Respondent admitted
in his Answer (paragraph 20) filed March 20, 1997 that "if either
party resorts to a suit or other legal action to enforce the
provisions of the MSA, the successful party shall be entitled to
recover his or her reasonable counsel fees, actually incurred, .fIgm
the other." (emphasis added)
21. Admitted that the attorney fees issue was not litigated
during the course of the abbreviated hearing on the condensed issue
of whether Mr. Fitzpatrick had violated the MSA.
Denied that
Petitioner waived her claim for attorney fels as provided for in
the MSA. By way of further answer, the Petitioner's right to
attorney fees did not accrue under the terms of the MSA until the
Court found that Hr. Fitzpatrick had violat.d the HSA.
How.v.r,
und.r the t.rm. of the HSA, upon the finding of the Court that Hr.
Fitzpatrick violat.d the HSA, h. became liable for H.. Fitzpatrick.
coun..l f.... Th. only i..ue for the court would have b..n the
amount of attorn.y f... which has never been conte.t.d by the
R..pond.nt.
In fact the R..pond.nt admitt.d in it. An.w.r,
paragraph 16, that P.tition.r incurr.d actual attorn.y f... and
.xp.n... of $866.00.
22. D.ni.d that paragraph 15 of the HSA permit. the
imposition of attorney fees. Rather paragraph 15 of the HSA make.
it a contractual obligation for the losing party to pay the
.ucc..sful party'. COUnsel fees. This petition is to enforce that
provi.ion of the HSA.
23. Deni.d that R..pondent i. .ntitled to attorn.y f....
R..p.ctfully submitt.d,
,
~0j,\'1).~
Thoma. D. Gould, E.quire
ID I 36508
2 E. Hain Str..t
Shir.man.town, PA 17011
(717) 731-1461
Fax 761-1974
"
Y.
I
I
I
I
I
I
IN THE COURT or COMMOI 'LIAS
CUMBERLAND COUIT~,PI"SrLVAIIA
NO. '5-6565 CIVIL TIRM
CIVIL ACTIOI
II DIVORCE
CHAaLlS W. rIT.PATRICK,
PLAINTIrr/RlsroIDENT
.
.
DOROTHY J. rIT.PATRICK,
DlrIIDAIT/PITITIOIER
CERTIrICATI or SIRVICI
AND NOW, this ~r4- day of October 1997, I, Thomas D. Gould,
z.quir., Attorn.y for petitioner, hereby certify that I have this
day ..nt a copy of petition.rs' a.spons. to N.w Hatt.r by
d.po.itinq a copy of it in the Unit.d Stat.s mail, postaq. pr.paid,
addr....d to:
David T. Kluz, Esquir.
212 Locust Str..t
Suitoi 404
Harrisburq, PA 17101
DATED 10 I.. {'I,
~"b.~
Thomas D. Gould, Esquire
ID # 36508
2 E. Hain Str..t
Shiremanstown, PA 17011
(717) 731-1461
F.u 761-19-74
CHARLlS W. PITZPATRICK, I IN THE COURT OP CONNON PLIAS or
plaintiff/ae.pondent I CUMBBRLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
I
v. I NO. 95-6565 CIVIL TBaK
I
DOROTHY J. PITZPATRICK, I CIVIL ACTION
Defendant/Petitioner I IN DIVORCB
PLAIRI" IUSPOmlIUl'r' S AIISDR
1. AdIIIitted.
2. AdIIIitted.
3. AdIIIitted.
4. AdIIlitted.
5. AdIIIitted.
6. AdIIIitted.
7. Adaitted.
8. Denied. The
term8 of Paragraph 7 .peak for th...elve.
without interpretation by Petitioner. 118. Pitzpatrick received far
.ore than $ 1,800.00 per month in consideration for her giving up
her interest in the fully busines..
.
9. Denied. Petitioner was to work an average of 10 to 12
hours per _ek.
10. Denied. Charle. Pitzpatrick has no particular knowledge
of what the intent of Dorothy Pitzpatrick was when the marital
asseU _re diBtributed. The Agre8lllent calls for her to be an
..ployee of the company and to work for her payment.
11. Denied. The alleqation as advanced makes no sense and is
incapable of a proper response. In the event that the court deems
that a response is necessary, Respondent asserts that Petitioner
has iJlproperly taken cleaninq accounts from his business which
supply her wi~h a prilllary means of support.
12. Denied. Aa was stated in the reason for firinq Ha.
rit.patrick, she refused to properly keep her time, meet the
requi~nts of the customer specifications or qenerally abide by
her ..ployer's directions.
13. Denied. All courte.ies and consultations afforded Ha.
rit.patrick were equal or exceedinq those supplied other employees.
14. Denied. Mr. Fit.patrick denies that he has ever had a
conver.ation with Dorothy Fit.patrick with reqard to employee
re.pect.
15. Admitted.
16. Admitted.
17. Denied. Charles Fit.patrick has no particular knowledqe
of Dorothy rit.patrick'. under.tandinq.
18. Denied. This allegation is a conclusion of law to which
an ans_r is not required. It is denied that terminatinq Ms.
rit.patrick's employment is a breach of the contract.
19. Denied. Respondent has no particular knowledqe with
reqard to expenses incurred by the Petitioner.
20. Admitted.
WHlRI'ORl, Plaintiff/Re.pondent, Charles pit.patrick d...nd.
jud~nt in hi. favor.
Re.pectfully .ubmitted,
D<Y~'~
1.0. . 18005
212 Locu.t Street, suite 404
Hard.bur;, PA 17101
(717) 238-8183
Attorney for P1aintiff/Re.pondent
Date.
f\Lt:\1-0i flCF.
(\1.: "n ~" ~.,...,,,, \l",.,n\1
II " .1\.1
91 ~"".~ \3 f:, \ \0: (12.
cu-" 1',_\ .,~ " ,1\, 1'\'
1,1.... _'" . ,,_ ' -' - ',1
r'\:N:<'~'<~,JI'~: ,~H \
6. A Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA) was executed by the
parties on June 7, 1996. A copy of the fully executed Agreement is
attached as exhibit B.
7. The MSA was incorporated into the Decree In Divorce.
8. Pursuant to paragraph 7 of the MSA Dorothy J.
Fitzpatrick, in exchange for giving up her interest in the marital
business (Fitzpatrick Cleaning, Inc.) was to remain an employee of
Fitzpatrick Cleaning, Inc. at an inflated wage until December 31,
1999 or until completion of the college courses she is taking to
obtain a teaching certificate. Ms. Fitzpatrick had the option of
extending her employment status for an additional six (6) months if
she has not secured employment.
9. Ms. Fitzpatrick was to continue to work her regular 8-12
hours per week and receive $1,800.00 per month, plus continued paid
medical coverage.
10. It was the intent of the parties that the $1,800.00 was
part of the equitable distribution of the marital assets in the
form of alimony/support that was to allow Ms. Fitzpatrick the
opportunity to gain the education and training to begin her career.
11. Since Ms. Fitzpatrick was/is a full time student the
$1,800.00 was/is her primary means of support for herself and her
two minor children.
12. At all times before and after the execution of the MSA
Ms. Fitzpatrick has performed her duties for Fitzpatrick Cleaning,
Inc. in professional manner.
13. During the past several months Mr. Fitzpatrick has
changed Ms. Fitzpatrick's job duties and responsibilities without
consulting with her or giving her the courtesies accorded other
employees of Fitzpatrick Cleaning, Inc..
14. Ms. Fitzpatrick has notified Mr. Fitzpatrick on a number
of occasions that she would like to be treated with respect.
15. On Saturday, March 1, 1997, Ms. Fitzpatrick received a
certified letter from Mr. Fitzpatrick informing her, for the first
time, that her work was not done in a professional manner.
16. On Saturday, March 8, 1997 Ms. Fitzpatrick received a
letter dated Friday, March 7, 1997, from David Kluz, the attorney
for Fitzpatrick Cleaning, Inc., informing her that her employment
with Fitzpatrick Cleaning, Inc. was terminated effective Friday,
March 7, 1997.
17. It is Ms. Fitzpatrick's understanding that Mr.
Fitzpatrick was not only terminating her employment, but that he
was also te~nating the $1,800.00 monthly payment and her medical
coverage.
18. Mr. Fitzpatrick, by terminating Ms. Fitzpatrick's
employment and terminating the $1,800.00 monthly payment, has
breached the terms and conditions of the MSA.
19. Ms. Fitzpatrick has incurred attorney fees to enforce the
terms and conditions of the MSA.
VERIFICATION
I verify that the stat8lllents made in this Petition For
Bnforc..ent of Marital Settlement Aqreement are true and correct.
I understand that false statements herein are made subject to the
penalties of 18 Pa. C.S. 4904, relatinq to unsworn falsification
to authorities.
~~
Date: .3 J 10 I '/ l
,
.!
MARRIAGE SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT
r., \
THIS AGRIlIllCIlIlT, made this -! ;.::' day ot '. :(,,00.,,",-
1996, by and between CHARLES w. rITZVATRICX, hereinatter reterred
to as HUSBAND and DOROTHY J. rITZVATRICX, hereinatter reterred to
.s WIFE.
WIT H E SSE T HI
WKllaIlAS, the parties were lawtully married on January 12, 1974
in Marlton, New Jersey; and
WKllaDS, two children have been born as a result ot this
marriage, namely MATTHEW LEVI FITZPATRICK, D/O/B June 2, 1981 and
JOSHUA LUCAS FITZPATRICK, D/O/B November 28, 1983; and
WKllaDS, certain ditterences have arisen between the parties
as a re.ult of which they have decided to separate and to live
.eparate and apart trom one another, and it is the intention of the
HUSBAND and WIFE to live separate and apart tor the rest of their
natural lives, and the parties hereto are desirous of settling
fully and finally their respective tinancial and property rights
and obligations as between each other,
including without
limitation, (1) the settlement of all matters between them relating
to the ownership ot real and personal property; (2) the settlement
of all matters between them relating to past, present and future
support and/or alimony; and (3) the settlement of all matters
concerning custody and support of the minor children; and
WHEaEAS, during the parties' marriage there has been a
complete disclosure of the earnings and property of each party, and
E~lb:t .B
I .
..
each understands his/her rights under the Divorce Code of the
commonwealth ot Pennsylvania; and
WH~RIA8, HUSBAND, having been properly advised by his counsel,
R. Mark Thomas, Esquire, and WIFE, having been properly advised by
her counsel, Thomas D. Gould, Esquire, the parties, having been so
advised by their respective counsel, and tollowing tull and
complete disclosure with regard to marital assets and the
re.pective value ot those assets, the parties hereto have como to
this agreement, which tollows:
IIOW, THIRII'ORI, in consideration ot the above recitals and the
tollowing covenants and promises mutually made and mutually to be
kept, the parties, intending to be legally bound, agree as follows:
1. AGREEMENT NOT TO BE A BAR TO DIVORCE PROCEEDINGS
A Complaint in Divorce was tiled on November 16, 1995 to Term
and No. 95-6565 in the Court ot Common Pleas of Cumberland county,
pennsylvania. The parties intend to secure a mutual consent, no-
tault divorce pursuant to the terms ot Section 3301 (c) ot the
Divorce Code ot 1980. The Divorce Complaint tiled by the HUSBAND
on November 16, 1995 was served on WIFE by certitied mail, return-
receipt requested on November 17, 1995. 90 days have passed since
the tiling ot the complaint in Divorce and both parties hereby
agree to execute an Attidavit of consent and a Waiver of their
right to receive Notice of Intention to Seek Entry ot a Divorce
Decree. The parties agree that unless otherwise specifically
provided herein, this Agreement shall continue in full force and
2
o ,
"
ettect atter such time the tinal Decree in Divorce is entered with
respect to the parties, and the parties agree that this Agreement
shall be incorporated into the tinal Decree in Divorce. No Court
may change the terms ot this Agreement, which shall be entorced in
accordance with its terms.
2. PERSONAL RIGHTS
HUSBAND and WIFE may and shall, at all times hereattsr, live
separate and apart. Each shall be tree trom all control,
restraint, interterence or authority, direct or indirect, by the
other in all respects as tully as it he or she were unmarried.
Each may reside at such place or places as he or she may select.
Each may, tor his or her separate use or benetit, conduct, carryon
and engage in any business, occupation, protession or employment
which to him or her may seem advisable. This provision shall not
be taken, however, to be an admission on the part ot either HUSBAND
or WIFE ot the lawtulness ot the causes which led to or resulted
in, the continuation ot their living apart.
3 . DEBTS
With regard to joint debts, HUSBAND and WIFE have only one
joint debt with a balance outstanding and that is the mortgage on
the marital residence. pursuant to the terms ot this Agreement
WIFE agrees to accept tull responsibility tor the regular monthly
mortgage payments and to hold HUSBAND harmless and to indemnity
HUSBAND tor any payments on the mortgage which he may be compelled
to make.
3
, ,
"
Each ot the parties is responsible tor any debts that they
have personally acquired since March 1, 1994, the date ot
separation. In the event that either party is compelled to make
payments on the debts acquired by the other party since March 1,
1994, the party who actually acquired the debt will hold harmless
and indemnity the other tor any monies paid on account ot such
debt.
4. PERSONA~ PROPERTY
HUSBAND and WIFE hereby acknowledge that they have agreed upon
the division ot all tangible personal property, including jewelry,
clothing, turniture, household equipment, appliances, motor
vehicles, recreational vehicles and tools. The parties have
already divided the personal property according to their agreement
and each party is hereby the sole owner ot any personal property
now in their possession. This Agreement shall act as a Bill ot
Sale evidencing the complete and tinal transter ot all personal
property to the respective parties. HUSBAND and WIFE agree to
cooperate in the transter ot all titles and insurance regarding all
motor vehicles or recreational vehicles in the possession ot either
party.
5. AFTER-ACOUIRED PERSONAL PROPERTY
Each ot the parties shall hereatter own and enjoy,
independently ot any claims or rights ot the other, all items ot
personal property, tangible or intangible, hereafter acquired by
him or her, with full power in him or her to dispose of the same as
4
"
. "
fully and effectively, in all respects and for all purposes, as
though he or she were unmarried,
6. MARITAL RESIDENCE
HUSBAND and WIFE are the owners by tonant. by the entireties
of the marital reddence located at 499 Linden street,
Mechanicsburg, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania. HUSBAND hereby
agress to transter all his right title and interest in the marital
residence to WIFE so that WIFE will become the sole and exclusive
owner of the marital residence. HUSBAND will transfer all his
right title and interest by way of a deed, a copy of which is
hereby attached to this agreement as Exhibit "A".
WIFE is to make good faith efforts to refinance the
outstanding mortgage on the marital residence into her name alone
so that HUSBAND will not bear any financial responsibility tor the
marital residence. WIFE shall have one (1) year from the date of
final execution of this Agreement within which to retina nee the
outstanding mortgage obligation in her name alone. However, it is
undsrstood that WIFE has previously made an effort to have the
house refinanced in her name alone and she will continue to make a
good faith effort to the have the refinancing done as soon as
possible. In the event that WIFE is unable to accomplish the
refinancing of the marital residence mortgage obligation in her
name alone it is hereby agreed that after the expiration of one
year from the date of final execution of this Agreement, the
marital residence will be solei. Should this occur WIFE will
5
. ,
receive all the net proceeds from the sale of the marital
residence.
7, FAMILY BUSINESS
HUSBAND and WIFE have operated a family business which is
incorporated and is titled "Fitzpatrick Cleaning, Inc,", pursuant
to the terms of this Agreement WIFE will surrender and transfer all
her shares in the corporation known as "Fitzpatrick Cleaning,
Inc.", to HUSBAND so that HUSBAND will be the sole owner of the
family busine.s and corporation. HUSBAND hereby agrees to hold
WIFE harmless and to indemnify WIFE on any claims made against
Fitzpatrick Cleaning, Inc. for past or future claims.
It is agreed however that WIFE will continue as a fUll-time
employee of Fitzpatrick Cleaning, Inc. and will receive a monthly
gross salary in the amount of $1,800.00, plus medical coverage.
WIFE'S employment with Fitzpatrick Cleaning, Inc. and the medical
coverage, will continue until December 31, 1999, or until the
completion of college courses which WIFE is currently taking for
the purpose of obtaining a teaching certification, whichever first
occurs, If, at the end of this-time period WIFE has not secured
employment then WIFE will have the option to extend the Agreement
with regard to her full-time employment and medical coverage for an
additional six (6) months.
Although this Agreement states that WIFE will continue to work
as a full-time employee of Fitzpatrick Cleaning, Inc., "full-time
employee" is defined such that WIFE will work a regularly schedule
6
" ,
, ,
,:
..'
work week which will consist ot a minimum ot ten (10) hours work
per week and a maximum ot twelve (12) hours work per week. WIFE
will work Monday and wedne.day ot each week trom 4:00 p.m. to 8:00
p.m., and will work every other Friday trom 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
WIFE under.tands and agrees that there will be occasions when she
may be called upon to till in tor an absent employee or other
emergency. She agree. that in qood taith she will till in to work
when called upon unle.. she has a previous committment. HUSBAND
aqree. that he will exercise good taith in requesting WIFE to work
additional hour. and will only do so it a qenuine need has arisen.
It is understood between the parties that in the past two (2)
years the WIFE has worked a schedule similar to the one set torth
in this Agreement and has been called upon to till in on occasion.
However, past experience tor the past two years has been that WIFE
has .till only averaqed between ten (10) and twelve (12) hour. work
per week. It is the understanding ot both parties that even with
WIFE beinq called in on an occasion to work in an unscheduled time
period her work will still average between ten and twolve hours per
week.
,
It HUSBAND sells the tamily business prior to December 31,
1999, he aqrees to continue making the payments set torth herein as
thouqh WIFE were still working tor the business. HUSBAND will have
the option to either reduce the balance ot monies owed to WIFE
under this employment agreement to present value and paying her a
lump sum, or he may continue to make payments as set torth in this
7
.'
" I
" .
Agreement.
a. PENSION AND EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS
Neither ot the parties is the owner ot any pension and/or
employment benetits not speciticallY mentioned in this Agreement.
Each party waives its right, claim or interest in any pension or
employment benetit which the other may have.
9. ALIMON\(
Both parties acknowledge and agree that the provisions ot this
Agreement providing tor equitable distribution ot marital property
are tair, adequate and satistactory to them and are accepted by
them in lieu ot and in tull and tinal settlement and satistaction
ot any claims or demands that either may now or hereatter have
against the other tor support, maintenance or alimony. HUSBAND and
WIFE turther, voluntarily and intelligently, waive and relinquish
any right to seek trom the other any payment tor support or
alimony. Each party shall indemnity, detend and hold the other
harmlesS against any tuture action ot either support or alimony
brought by or on behalf of the other, such indemnity to include the
actual counsel fees of the defendant in any such future action.
10. CUSTODY AND CHILD SUPPORT
HUSBAND and WIFE will continue to reside in close geographical
proximity to one another and they each desire to retain all rights
of custody with regard to both children. It is agreed that the
children will primarilY reside with WIFE since WIFE will continue
to live in the marital residence which has been the home for the
a
., ,
" ,
children in the past. HUSBAND will continue to have liberal rights
with regard to visitation since the parties have been able to
amicably work out custody issues without the need tor a court order
in the past the parties will continue to resolve visitation issues
in like hshion.
HUSBAND will pay child support to WIFE in the amount ot
$100.00 per month until Matthew graduates trom high school. When
Matthew graduates trom high school it is agreed that the parties
will evaluate the amount ot support HUSBAND is paying with a
purpose toward reducing that monthly amount and ,continuing the
lower amount ot support until such time as Joshua graduates trom
high school.
11. HPTU~L RESPONSIBILITIES
HUSBAND hereby agrees that to the best ot his ability he will
continue to work with Fitzpatrick Cleaning, Inc., and maintain the
tinancial stability ot the corporation so long as the maintenance
is within his control so as to ensure that he will meet the
tinancial and employment obligations provided to WIFE under the
terms ot this Agreement.
WIFE hereby agrees that to the best ot her ability she will
tultill her responsibilities as a full-time employee of Fitzpatrick
Cleaning, Inc., tor the purpose of helping to maintain the
tinancial stability of the corporation.
12. BELEASE
subject to the provisions of this Agreement, each party has
9
.'
II ,~.
.. .
released and discharged, and by this Agreement does tor himselt or
herselt, and his or her heirs, legal representatives, executors,
administrators and assigns, release, indemnity (including actual
legal tees) and discharge the other ot and trom all causes ot
action, claims, rights, or demands, whatsoever in law or equity,
including equitable distribution, spousal support, alimony, counsel
fee., alimony pendente lite and expenses which ot the parties
against the othe,r ever had, now has, or may have in the tuture
under the Pennsylvania Divorce Code, as amended, or under any other
statutory or common law, except as set torth below in this
paragraph, all causes ot action tor divorce, and all causes of
action tor breach of any provisions ot this Agreement, including
proceeding. to entorce this Agreement pursuant to the provisions of
the Divorce Code. Each party also waives his or her right to
reque.t marital counseling, pursuant to the Divorce Code.
13. WAIVERS OF CLAIMS AGAINST ESTATES
Except as herein otherwise provided, each party may dispose of
hi. or her own property in any way, and each party hereby waive.
and relinquishes any and all rights he or she may now have or
hereafter acquire under the present or future laws ot any
juri.diction, to share in the property or estate of the other as a
re.ult ot the marital relationShip, including without limitation,
dower, curtesy, statutory allowance, widow's allowance, right to
take against the Will of the other, and right to act as
administrator or executor ot the other's estate, and any right
10
\
.'
.. I...
.. ,
existing now or in the tuture under the pennsylvania Divorce Code,
as amended trom time to time, and each will, at the request ot the
other, execute, acknowledge and deliver any and all instruments
which may be necessary or advisable to carry into ettect this
mutual waiver and relinquishment ot all such interests, rights and
claims.
14. RIGHTS ON EXECUTION
Immediately upon the execution ot this Agreement, the rights
ot each party against the other, despite their continuing marital
status, shall terminate and be as it they were never married.
15. LEGAL FEES
It either party to this Agreement resorts to a lawsuit or
other legal action to entorce the provisions ot this Agreement, the
successtul party shall be entitled to recover his or her reasonable
counsel tees, actually incurred, trom the other as a part ot the
judgment entered in such legal action, whether in law, in equity or
pursuant to the provisions ot the Divorce code, as the same shall
be determined by the Court.
16. INCORPORATION IN FINAL DIVORCE
The terms ot this Agreement shall be incorporated but shall
not merge in a tinal divorce decree between the parties. This
Agreement shall survive in its entirety, resolving the spousal
support, alimony, equitable distribution and other interests and
rights ot the parties under and pursuant to the Divorce Code ot the
commonwealth ot Pennsylvania, and no court asked to entorce or
11
.
.., .
.. .
"
interpret this Agreement shall in any way change the terms of this
Agreement. This Agreement may be enforced indopendentlY of any
child support order, divorce decree or judgment and its terms shall
take precedence over same, remaining the primary obligation ot'. each
party. Except as herein otherwise agreed, this Agreement shall
remain in full force and effect regardless of any change in the
marital status of the parties. It is warranted, covenanted and
repre.ented by HUSBAND and WIFE, each to the other, that this
Agreement is laWfUl and enforceable, and this warranty, covenant
and representation is made for the specific purpose of inducing the
partie. to execute the Agreement.
17. ~DDITIONAL INSTRUMENTS
Each of the parties shall from time to time, at the request of
the other, execute, acknowledge and deliver to the other party, any
and all further instruments that may be reasonably required to give
full force and effect to the provisions of this Agreement.
18. ENTIRE AGREEMENT
This Agreement contains the entire understanding of the
parties and there are no other representations, warranties,
covenants or undertakings other than those expressly set forth
herein. HUSBAND and WIFE acknowledge and agree that the provisions
of this Agreement with respect to the distribution and division of
marital and separate property are fair, equitable and satisfactory
to them, based on the length of their marriage and other relevant
factors which have been taken into consideration by the parties.
12
<
.~ ,
. ,~ I
Both parties hereby accept the provisions of this Agreement with
respect to the division of property in lieu of and in full and
final settlement and satisfaction of all claims and demands that
they may noW have or hereafter have against the other for equitable
distribution of their property by any court of competent
jurisdiction. HUSBAND and WIFE each voluntarily and intelligently
waive and relinquish any right to seek a court ordered
determination and distribution of marital property, but nothing
herein contained shall constitute a waiver by either party of any
rights to seek the relief of any court for the purpose of enforcing
the provisions of this Agreement.
19. ~ODIFICATION AND WAIVER
A modification or waiver of any of the provisions of this
Agreement shall be effective onlY if made in writing and executed
with the same formality as this AgrBement. The failure of either
party to insist upon strict performance of the provisions of this
Agreement shall not be construed as a waiver of any subsequent
default of the same or similar nature.
,
13
"
'If ..".
. ... I
20. YOLUNTARY EXECUTION
Each party acknowledges that the Agreement is tair and
equitable, that it is being entered into voluntarily, with tull
knowledge ot the assets ot both parties, and that it is not the
result ot any duress or undue intluence. The parties acknowledge
that they have been turnished with all intormation relating to the
tinancial attaire ot the other which has been requested by each ot
them.
21. PESCRIPTIVE HEADINGS
The descriptive headings used herein are tor convenience only.
,
14
.
\.,....
'.
... ~ ,~
_____~__.~__~__~~~__r~~~~~__.~~
. -- ---~.." , I'
, .
. "
. IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS ·
. III
. :
. OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY III
.' * III
. ,;
. STATE OF PENNA. III
. ~, , I
. .
. ....CH~~LF:~..~~... FITZPATRICK,...,........ II .
................... l"ldntH.f. ....... ...... :; N o. .~,~:::,~.~.~.?.... ,....,......,.... .
. Vc..SIIS 'I' ':
" .
"
. ....llOR.()1'H~ ,J~.. FITZi?ATRICK,. .1 ~
., Defendant; ,\ ·
! e
. .
. DECREE IN .
; Del V 0 R '!1E" ;t .ill '2.7 ~
~ AND NOW. ... .., . .................. 19....... It is ordered and III
J ~,'
. decreed that... '<;~f'!'l.. . ~'. .ff:r.~~~:r~.~C;~.....,.............. plaintiff, ~
~ and. .. .. .. . . .. . . P.o.~Q'j:'t1.Y. .<1,. .F.J;'ff\Pl\'l:ijJ~J<.. . . .. . . .. . . ... . ... defendant, ;
. are divorced from the bonds of matrimony. "
. ;
. The court retains jurisdiction of the following claims which have .
. be.n raised of record in this action for which a final order has not yet .
. been entered; .
: ............. .i:::.:~'!:;~;~:~.r.r.~~~~. .l?~!:.t.~P'l!'~r.~ .J;l9r.~E1l!'~r.~............. ::.
. ..........,........ ,...,..,.......,................ .....
, :
. D y ~
. 1 .... J $
,fuJoLU 'to /(..ld~(. ~tnt~ ~
;K'.~, a;;;. . . w
~/7 Prothonotary ...
~
'.'
. . . _ ,...._.~ ... . , ..., __ . . .. . . ,. , . ; M
-~-~---~-~~~~~~~-~~-~~~
7.~'f't.. ~~/H:J/ ~4 ~~
7.?~~ ~ /I!;'~ 1/1'
..
.... "
,",-
'-
...
. - .
JlRRIAGE SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT
THIS AGRBBKBNT, made this
Ii;
-.
day of
'\.1 :.,...,.\.,',.
1996, by and between CHARLES W. rITZPATRICK, hereinafter referred
to as HUSBAND and DOROTHY J. rITZPATRICK, hereinafter referred to
as WIFE.
WIT N E S S B T HI
WHBRBAS, the parties were lawfully married on January 12, 1974
in Marlton, New Jersey; and
WHIRBAS, two children have been born as a result of this
marriage, namely MATTHEW LEVI FITZPATRICK, D/O/B June 2, 1981 and
JOSHUA LUCAS FITZPATRICK, D/O/B November 28, 1983; and
WHIRBAS, certain differences have arisen between the parties
as a result of which they have decided to separate and to live
separate and apart from one another, and it is the intention of the
HUSBAND and WIFE to live separate and apart for the rest of their
natural lives, and the parties hereto are desirous of settling
fully and finally their respective financial and property rights
and Obligations as between each other, including without
limitation, (1) the settlement of all matters between them relating
to the ownership of real and personal property; (2) the settlement
of all matters between them relating to past, present and future
support and/or alimony; and (3) the settlement of all matters
concerning custody and support of the minor children; and
WHERIAS, during the parties' marriage there has been a
complete disclosure of the earnings and property of each party, and
'.
..
. - .
each understands his/her rights under the Divorce Code of the
commonwealth of Pennsylvania; and
WKlaBAI, HUSBAND, having been properly advised by his counsel,
R. Mark Thomas, Esquire, and WIFE, having been properly advised by
her counsel, Thomas D. Gould, Esquire, the parties, having been so
advised by their respective counsel, and following full and
complete disclosure with regard to marital assets and the
respective value of those assets, the parties hereto have come to
this agreement, which follows:
MOW, TRlalrORI, in consideration of the above recitals and the
following covenants and promises mutually made and mutually to be
kept, the parties, intending to be legally bound, agree as follows:
1. AGREEMENT NOT TO BE A BAR TO DIVORCE PROCEEDINGS
A complaint in Divorce was filed on November 16, 1995 to Term
and No. 95-6565 in the Court of Common Pleas of cumberland county,
pennsylvania. The parties intend to secure a mutual consent, no-
fault divorce pursuant to the terms of Section 3301(C) of the
Divorce code of 1980. The Divorce complaint filed by the HUSBAND
on November 16, 1995 was served on WIFE by certified mail, return-
receipt requested on November 17, 1995. 90 days have passed since
the filing of the complaint in Divorce and both parties hereby
agree to execute an Affidavit of consent and a Waiver of their
right to receive Notice of Intention to Seek Entry of a Divorce
Decree. The parties agree that unless otherwise specificallY
provided herein, this Agreement shall continue in full force and
2
'.
"
. .. .
effect after such time the final Decree in Divorce is entered with
respect to the parties, and the parties agree that this Agreement
shall be incorporated into the final Decree in Divorce. No court
may change the ternls of this Agreement, which shall be enforced in
accordance with its terms.
2. fERSONAL RIGHTS
HUSBAND and WIFE may and shall, at all times hereafter, live
separate and apart. Each shall be free from all control,
restraint, interference or authority, direct or indirect, by the
other in all respects as fully as if he or she were unmarried.
Each may reside at such place or places as he or she may select.
Each may, for his or her separate use or benefit, conduct, carryon
and engage in any business, occupation, profession or employment
which to him or her may seem advisable. This provision shall not
be taken, however, to be an admission on the part of either HUSBAND
or WIFE of the l.awfulness of the causes which led to or resulted
in, the continuation of their living apart.
3 . pEBTS
with regard to joint debts, HUSBAND and WIFE have only one
joint debt with a balance outstanding and that is the mortgage on
the marital residence. pursuant to the terms of this Agreement
WIFE agrees to accept full responsibility for the regular monthly
mortgage payments and to hold HUSBAND harmless and to indemnify
HUSBAND for any payments on the mortgage which he may be compelled
to make.
3
~
. .. ,
Each of the parties is responsible for any debts that they
have personally acquJred since March 1, 1994, the date of
separation. In the event that either party is compelled to make
payments on the debts acquired by the other party since March 1,
1994, the party who actually acquired the debt will hold harmless
and indemnify the other for any monies paid on account of such
debt.
4. PERSONAL PROPERTY
HUSBAND and WIFE hereby acknowledge that they have agreed upon
the division of all tangible personal property, including jewelry,
clothing, furniture, household equipment, appliances, motor
vehicles, recreational vehicles and tools. The parties have
already divided the personal property according to their agreement
and each party is hereby the sole owner of any personal property
now in their possession. This Agreement shall act as a BJll of
Sale evidencing the complete and final transfer of all personal
property to the respective parties. HUSBAND and WIFE agree to
cooperate in the transfer of all titles and insurance regarding all
motor vehicles or recreational vehicles in the possession of either
party.
5. AFTER-ACOUIRED PERSONAL PROPERTY
Each of the parties shall hereafter own and enjoy,
independently of any claims or rights of the other, all items of
personal property, tangible or intangible, hereafter acquired by
him or her, with full power in him or her to disposp. of the same as
4
t
. .. .
fully and effectively, in all respects and for all purposes, as
though he or she were unmarried.
6. MARITAL RESIDENCE
HUSBAND and WIFE are the owners by tenants by the entireties
of the marital residence located at 499 Linden street,
Hechanicsburg, cumberland county, Pennsylvania. HUSBAND hereby
agrees to transfer all his right title and interest in the marital
residence to WIFE so that WIFE will become the sole and exclusive
owner of the marital residence. HUSBAND will transfer all his
right title and interest by way of a deed, a copy of which is
hereby attached to this agreement as Exhibit "A".
WIFE is to make good faith efforts to refinance the
outstanding mortgage on the marital residence into her name alone
so that HUSBAND will not bear any financial responsibility for the
marital residence. WIFE shall have one (1) year from the date of
final execution of this Agreement within which to refinance the
outstanding mortgage obligation in her name alone. However, it is
understood that WIFE has previously made an effort to have the
house refinanced in her name alone and she will continue to make a
good faith effort to the have the refinancing done as soon as
possible. In the event that WIFE is unable to accomplish the
refinancing of th~ marital residence mortgage obligation in her
name alone it is hereby agreed that after the expiration of one
year from the date of final execution of this Agreement, the
marital residence will be sold. Should this occur WIFE will
5
. ... ,
receive all the net proceeds from the sale of the marital
residGnce.
7. FAMILV BUSINESS
HUSBAND and WIFE have operated a family businoss which is
incorporated and is titled "Fitzpatrick Cleaning, Inc.", pursuant
to the terms of this Agreement WIFE will surrender and transfer all
her shares in the corporation known as "Fitzpatrick Cleaning,
Inc.", to HUSBAND so that HUSBAND will be the sole owner of the
family business and corporation. HUSBAND hereby agrees to hold
WIFE harmless and to indemnify WIFE on any claims made against
Fit1.patrick Cleaning, Inc. for past or future claims.
It is agreed however that WIFE will continue as a full-time
employee of Fitzpatrick Cleaning, Inc. and will receive a monthly
grosS salary in the amount of $1,800.00, pluS medical coverage.
WIFE'S employment with Fitzpatrick Cleaning, Inc. and the medical
coverage, will continue until December 31, 1999, or until the
completion of college courses which WIFE is currently taking for
the purpose of obtaining a teaching certification, whichever first
occurs. If, at the end of this time period WIFE has not secured
employment then WIFE will have the option to extend the Agreement
with regard to her full-time employment and medical coverage for an
additional six (6) months.
Although this Agreement states that WIFE will continue to work
as a full-time employee of Fitzpatrick Cleaning, Inc., "full-time
employee" is defined such that WIFE will work a regularly schedule
6
.
..,
work week which will consist of a minimum of ten (10) hours work
per week and a maximum of twelve (12) hours work per week. WIFE
will work Monday and Wednesday of each week from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00
p.m., and will work every other Friday from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
WIFE understands and agrees that there will be occasions when she
may be called upon to fill in for an absent employee or other
emergency. she agrees that in good faith she will fill in to work
when called upon unless she has a previous committment. HUSBAND
agrees that he will exercise good faith in requesting WIFE to work
additional hours and will only do so if a genuine need has arisen.
It is understood between the parties that in the past two (2)
years the WIFE has worked a schedule similar to the one set forth
in this Agreement and has been called upon to fill in on occasion.
However, past experience for the past two years has been that WIFE
has still only averaged between ten (10) and twelve (12) hours work
per week. It is the understanding of both parties that even with
WIFE being called in on an occasion to work in an unscheduled time
period her work will still average between ten and twelve hours per
week.
If HUSBAND sells the family business prior to December 31,
1999, he agrees to continue making the payments set forth herein as
though WIFE were still working for the business. HUSBAND will have
the option to either reduce the balance of monies owed to WIFE
under this employment agreement to present value and paying her a
lump sum, or he may continue to make payments as set forth in this
7
"
.,
Agreement.
B. fENSION AND EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS
Neither of the parties is the owner of any pension and/or
employment benefits not specifically mentioned in this Agreement.
Each party waives its right, claim or interest in any pension or
employment benefit which the other may have.
9. ~LIMON'il
Both parties acknowledge and agree that the provisions of this
Agreement providing for equitable distribution of marital property
are fair, adequate and satisfactory to them and are accepted by
them in lieu of and in full and final settlement and satisfaction
of any claims or demands that either may noW or hereafter have
against the other for support, maintenance or alimony. HUSBAND and
WIFE further, voluntarilY and intelligently, waive and relinquish
any right to seek from the other any payment for support or
alimony. Each party shall indemnifY, defend and hold the other
harmlesS against any future action of either support or alimony
brought by or on behalf of the other, such indemnity to include the
actual counsel fees of the defendant in any such future action.
10. ~USTODY AND CHILD SUPPORT
HUSBAND and WIFE will continue to reside in close geographical
proximity to one another and they each desire to retain all rights
of custody with regard to both children. It is agreed that the
children will primarilY reside with WIFE since WIFE will continue
to live in the marital residence which has been the home for the
B
t
, .
&,
children in the past. HUSBAND will continue to have liberal rights
with regard to visitation since the parties have been able to
amicably work out custody issues without the need for a court order
in the past the parties will continue to resolve visitation issues
in like fashion.
HUSBAND will pay child support to WIFE in the amount of
$100.00 per month until Matthew graduates from high school. When
Matthew graduates from high school it is agreed that the parties
will evaluate the amount of support HUSBAND is paying with a
purpose toward reducing that monthly amount and continuing the
lower amount of support until such time as Joshua graduates from
high school.
11. MUTUAL RESPONSIBILITIES
HUSBAND hereby agrees that to the best of his ability he will
continue to work with Fitzpatrick Cleaning, Inc., and maintain the
financial stability of the corporation so long as the maintenance
is within his control so as to ensure that he will meet the
financial and employment obligations provided to WIFE under the
terms of this Agreement.
WIFE hereby agrees that to the best of her ability she will
fulfill her responsibilities as a full-time employee of Fitzpatrick
cleaning, Inc., for the purpose of helping to maintain the
financial stability of the corporation.
12. RELEASE
subject to the provisions of this Agreement, each party has
9
~
released and discharged, and by this Agreement does for himself or
herself, and his or her heirs, legal representatives, executors,
administrators and assigns, release, indemnify (including actual
legal fees) and discharge the other of and from all causes of
action, claims, rights, or demands, whatsoever in law or equity,
inclUding equitable distribution, spousa 1 support, alimony, counsel
fees, alimony pendente lite
against the other ever had,
and expenses which of the parties
,
now has, or may have in the future
under the pennsylvania Divorce Code, as amended, or under any other
statutory or common law, except as set forth below in this
paragraph, all causes of action for divorce, and all causes of
action for breach of any provisions of this Agreement, inclUding
proceedings to enforce this Agreement pursuant to the provisions of
the Divorce Code.
Each party also waives his or her right to
request marital counseling, pursuant to the Divorce Code.
13, WAIVERS OF CLAIMS AGAINST ESTATES
Except as herein otherwise provided, each party may dispose of
his or her own property in any way, and each party hereby waives
and relinquishes any and all rights he or she may now have or
hereafter acquire under the present or future laws of any
juriSdiction, to share in the property or estate of the other as a
result of the marital relationship, inclUding without limitation,
dower, curtesy, statutory allowance, widow's allowance, right to
take against the Will of the other, and right to act as
administrator or executor of the other's estate, and any right
10
. "
. ,
existing now or in the future under the pennsylvania Divorce code,
as amended from time to time, and each will, at the request of the
o~her, execute, acknowledge and deliver any and all instruments
which may be necessary or advisable to carry into effect this
mutual waiver and relinquishment of all such interests, rights and
claims.
14. RIGHTS ON EXECUTION
Immediately upon the execution of this Agreement, the rights
of each party against the other, despite their continuing marital
status, shall terminate and be as if they were never married.
15. ~EGAL FEES
If either party to this Agreement resorts to a lawsuit or
other legal action to enforce the provisions of this Agreement, the
successful party shall be entitled to recover his or her reasonable
counsel fees, actually incurred, from the other as a part of the
judgment entered in such legal action, whether in law, in equity or
pursuant to the provisions of the Divorce code, as the same shall
be determined by the court.
16. INCORPORATION IN FINAL DIVORCE
The terms of this Agreement shall be incorporated but shall
not merge in a final divorce decree between the parties. This
Agreement shall survive in its entirety, resolving the spousal
support, alimony, equitable distribution and other interests and
rights of the parties under and pursuant to the Divorce Code of the
commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and no court asked to enforce or
11
. .
interpret this Agreement shall in any way change the terms of this
Agreement. This Agreement may be enforced independently of any
child support order, divorce decree or jUdgment and its terms shall
take precedence over same, remaining the primary obligation of each
party. Except as her~in otherwise agreed, this Agreement shall
remain in full force and effect regardless of any change in the
marital status of the parties. It is warranted, covenanted and
represented by HUSBAND and WIFE, each to the other, that this
Agreement is lawful and enforceable, and this warranty, covenant
and representation is made for the specific purpose of inducing the
parties to execute the Agreement.
17. ADDITIONAL INSTRUMENTS
Each of the parties shall from time to time, at the request of
the other, execute, acknowledge and deliver to the other party, any
and all further instruments that may be reasonably required to give
full force and effect to the provisions of this Agreement.
18. ENTIRE AGREEMENT
This Agreement contains the entire understanding of the
parties and there are no other representations, warranties,
covenants or. undertakings other than those expressly set forth
herein. HUSBAND and WIFE acknowledge and agree that the provisions
of this Agreement with respect to the distribution and division of
marital and separate property are fair, equitable and satisfactory
to them, based on the length of their marriage and other relevant
factors which have been taken into consideration by the parties.
12
. '. I
. 'I ,
Both parties hereby accept the provisions of this Agreement with
re.peot to the division of property in lieu of and in full and
final settlement and satisfaction of all claims and demands that
they may noW have or hereafter have against the other for equitable
distribution of their property by any court of competent
jurisdiction. HUSBAND and WIFE each voluntarily and intelligently
waive and relinquish any right to seek a court ordered
determination and distribution of marital property, but nothing
herein contained shall constitute a waiver by either party of any
rights to seek the relief of any court for the purpose of enforcing
the provisions of this Agreement.
19. MODIFICATION AND WAIVER
A modification or waiver of any of the provisions of this
Agreement shall be effective only if made in writing and executed
with the same formality as this Agreement. The failure of either
party to insist upon strict performance of the provisions of this
Agreement shall not be construed as a waiver of any subsequent
default of the same or similar nature.
13
\
. .. f
,
. ., ,
20. VOLUNTARY EXECUTION
Each party acknowledges that the Agreement is fair and
equitable, that it is being entered into voluntarily, with full
knowledge of the assets of both parties, and that it is not the
re.ult of any duress or undue influence. The parties acknowledge
that they have been furnished with all information relating to the
financial affair. of the other which has been requested by each of
them.
21. DESCRIPTIVE HEADINGS
The descriptive headings used herein are for convenience only.
14
. .
. . t .
They shall have no effect whatsoever in determining the rights or
obligations of the parties.
22. CONTROLLING LAW
This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with the laws
of the commonwealth of pennsylvania.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have set their hands
-}ift \
and seals this / day of t. ll,.1'.L ' 1996.
This Agreement is executed in duplicate, and in counterparts,
and HUSBAND and WIFE, as parties hereto, acknowledge the receipt of
a duly executed copy hereof.
WITNESS:
'.
(S'9f;!/IIc,,) 't) .~1,.(.i/
(SEAL) - ("~4;(
FI
~
~. " .
~ .0 ....
C t':
,-0' .. :.';)~
~Q ..3 '-':
( ." ,~
~~! u... '~
";'.3
, . <"') '0
,-,':
_I. I 1 ~,.
lL~i J e:' ' ..,.,.
" ,iJ
f'.: -.' ..,iu..
..
". .0 ;5
Q a. U
. .
. .'
CHARLES W. FITZPi\TRICK, . IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
.
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
plaintiff .
.
.
.
va. . NO. 95-6565 CIVIL TERM
.
DOROTHY J. FITZPATRICK, :
Defendant . IN DIVORCE
.
l'auCIlIB TO 'fUlI.I'f DCORD
To the Prothonotary:
...
Tranamit the record, together with the following information,
to the court for entry of a divorce decree:
1. Ground for divorce: irretrievable breakdown under section
330l(C) ~~Wj of the Divorce Code.
a.ction. )
2. Date and manner of service of the complaint: 11/16/95
U.S. First Class Mail, Certified, Return Receipt requested
(strike out inapplicable
3. Complete either paragraph (a) or (b).
(a) Date of execution of the affidavit of consent
required by Section 3301(c) of the Divorce Code:
by plaintiff: June 10, 1996
by defendant:
June 19, 1996
(b) (1)
Date of execution of the plaintiff'S affidavit
required by section 330l(d) of the Divorce Code:
.
,
(2) Date of execution of the plaintiff'S affidavit
upon the defendant:
4. Related claims pending:
Agreement (dated 6/7/96)
5. Date and manner cf service of the notice of intention to
file praecipe to transmit record, a copy of which is attached, if
the decree is to be entered under section 3301(d) (1) (i) of the
Divorce Code. ~ k
~h,;~Y ~~tIl-
Attorney for (Plaintiff) (~~h&&ht)
Incorporate Marriage Settlement
-~
t;,_
>- '" '-
~ C I..
.'
.. _i~
~5! .:J
l--
-- -~
~~' a:: ' ':;;:
:;4
" <") ,~
c.
ILl- I ,.:"
'"
(ft') -' .':'(0
..,
1"; =; .;.!u:
'I- ~~..
'D d
0 0,
..
,
'.
CHARLES w. FITZPATRICK
plaintiff
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
v.
NO. 95-
CIVIL TERM
DOROTHY J. FITZPATRICK,
Defendant
: IN DIVORCE
COllI/LaX1ft' XII DxvoaCI
1. The plaintiff i. Charle. W. Fitzpatrick, an adult
individual who currently re.ide. at 53 W. Main street, Apt. 6,
Meohanic.burg, cumberland county, penn.ylvania 17055.
2. The Defendant is Dorothy J. Fitzpatrick, an adult
individual who currently reBide. at 499 Linden street,
Mechanic.burg, cu.berland county, pennsylvania 17055.
3. The plaintiff and Defendant have both been bona fide
ra.ident. in the co..onwealth of penn.ylvania for a period of aore
than .ix aonth. i..ediately preceding the filing of thia Complaint.
4. The partie. were married on January 12, 1974 in Marlton,
lIew Jar.ey.
!S. lIeither plaintiff nor Defendant is in the military or
naval .ervice of the united states or its allies within the
proviaion. of the Soldiers and Sailors civil Relief Act of the
congre.. of 1940 and its amendments.
6. There has been no prior action for divorce or annulment
in.tituted by either of the parties in this or any other
juri.diction.
'.
7. The plaintiff has been advised that counseling i.
available and that plaintiff may have the right to request that the
court require the parties to participate in counseling.
COUll'f I
8. paragraphs one through .even of this complaint are
incorporated herein by reference thereto.
9. The marriage of the parties is irretrievably broken.
WHEREFORE, plaintiff respectfully requests the Court to enter
a Decree of Divorce pursuant to 13301 of the Divorce Code.
COUll'f II
10. paragraphs one through nine of this complaint are
incorporated herein by reference thereto.
11. plaintiff requests the Court to equitably divide,
di.tribute or assign the marital property between the partie.
without regard to marital misconduct in such proportion as the
court dee.. just after consideration of all relevant factors.
WHEREFORE, plaintiff respectfully requests the court to enter
an Order of Equitable Distribution of marital property pursuant to
13502(a) of the Divorce Code.
Date: II II(Y ()~:,
Respectfully submitted,
~/ k. ___
R. Mark~:~
54 E. Main street
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
(717)697-4650
I.D.. 41301
2
.
....
VERIFICATION
I verify that the statements made in the foregoing document
are t~e and correct. I understand that false .tatementa herein
are made aubject to the penalties of 18 Pa. C.S. 14904, relating to
unaworn falaification to authorities.
.
tt~
Date: ~o./, 9.1 1?9r'
"
.1~
1;~. .n (::
c:: ".
.
.. ':5~
,;z )~
::c 'J
a.. i~l
("') ~~
,
~ ~ ,
;~n
.... -..
~ .0 a
r:I'>
... .
, -
.J
~it,,,,,.,.\-r'.~,.,,,
~~
I' \0 1;
c::
.. i3~
..::i .
~
0- ~I
~ M
I ;.~
~. ~ Uj
m
t!5 1.0 ~
0'\ U
. ,
-. .-.
,.,-. ~,.,-.... .
-
..
- ."
CHARLES W. FITZPATRICK,
Plaintiff
v.
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 95-6565 CIVIL TERM
DOROTHY J. FITZPATRICK,
Defendant
IN DIVORCE
WAlna O. ~Iel O. IlrfllrfIOII TO UgUIIT Inay
O. A DIVOacl DleUI UIID" . 3301(0) O. 'I'll DIvoael CODI
1. I consent to the entry of a final decree of divorce
without notice.
2. I understand that I may lose rights concerning alimony,
.
,
.. expenses if I do not claim
. .diviaion of property, lawyer's fees or
,
"'the. before a divorce is granted.
,
3. I understand that I will not be divorced until a divorce
decree i. entered by the Court and that a copy of the decree will
be aent to .e immediately after it is filed with the prothonotary.
I verify that the statements made in this affidavit are true
and correct. I understand that false statements herein are made
aubject to the penalties of 18 Pa.C.S. 1 4904 relating to unsworn
falaification to authorities.
Date:
6;rq~
~~
// 1
/ Q..~/
c" ~ZPAT~
~I'
.'
~ <D ,-
C ,.
r .. .j
..::r )~
,. :c J.;e
(-,
~ Ll- ,,~
C
n: M ".~
, :;~~
L" _I
F :::> ;~ )
~ ~
15 <D
en U
- ,
...... I'
.
-
'"
~~
~ \D --
c: r--
-,..i
I~ .. ~::~~
.:t
:r: (.J
g a.. ~5i
M
, '.
~ -' '~fe
~ '5
"'-
~ \D :;;,
a' U
..
~
Ii'
"';.- _~~~~:,~',-,"u"'_-- .-.
.--:-".-......"'--'"'......'.'ii'~~_...,!.~~........... "
~.._~.~-""'_.....;~H'''"-~ '4.".;.."""'...~....
. . I .
I .. .
../ ..
CHARLES W. FITZPATRICK,
Plaintiff
v.
. IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 95-6565 CIVIL TERM
DOROTHY J. FITZPATRICK,
Defendant
IN DIVORCE
U.IDAVI'l' O. 81RVIel
I, R. MARK TtlOMAS, ESQUIRE, being duly sworn according to law,
depose and say that on November 16, 1995, I mailed by certified
.ail, restricted delivery, a true copy of the Divorce complaint
filed by CHARLES W. FITZPATRICK to the defendant, DOROTHY J.
FITZPATRICK. A receipt was returned to me which indicates that the
Complaint was received by DOROTHY J. FITZPATRICK on November 17,
199!S. Said receipt is attached hereto.
~~
R. Mark Thomas, Esquire
Attorney for Plaintiff
54 E. Main Street
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
(717)697-4650
I.D.. 41301
Sworn to and subscribed
before .e this -3.\ (,~ day
of C{ \,,__~., ~ ' 1996.
",) \.I.lt ~" . '~71/l~L l C
Notary Public ~
Notarial SUI
~' Helkn. Notary PublIc
1lonI, Cumblrtand County
My Comm explrn Dee, e, 1999
. .
, , .
..; '""
"'1
. ~ " ',;
I.... """ . ..... ...
=r~'~'~'~~.~rf
\. t, OM.t.-. ..,....\:"; ,
.'. J, O,~~I;~J.~..~~r::: I :
'J,
__ tit .fi
.,.; ';~1:;i,;;~.:~\r~14
., .~.~'ql"".: .~\.;, '4."'"'''-'11,;"
.. _..... ..", ,.. ,..,v_ ....
r,;}~;?~~~;t'~::
(, <..,1
,..
_co, ',"'""
c..,.,,_,;-"'5-;:~~
,--.------.----
.. .:..--.--'~,'
IXIHIBIT "A"
~.' "
..' Ul '-
.... c...
tc; c:: '..
!~ .. :~l~
..;/ J=;:
t:-l .-- ):'!:
-I ~-J_ :l~
r- :G
f ~ ..)
"- I 1.;:0
[1:1' : , "HI.1
.. ~:.1 u..
r~: -,
, :s
u_ H,
0 '" U
J
)
~
(
- "
.. .
-
., .
.
, , '
JUN 0 4 19~(
CHARLES W. FITZPATRICK, . III THE COURT 01" COMMON PLEAS 01"
Plaintiff . CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
. e,ll: I
v. . NO. 'i~' " 5' '-S
.
DOROTHY J. FITZPATRICK, . CIVIL ACTION
Defendant . IN CUSTODY
ORDBR 01" COUR'l'
You,
Court to
children.
DOROTHY J. FITZPATRICK, Defendant, have been lIued in
obtain custody, partial custody or villitation of the
Matthew Levi Fitzpatrick and Joshua Lucall Fitzpatrick.
in person at 102 s: lit! {!'f'p.J ,
- , on ,L.J "-I \ .. ,
a conciliation or mediation conference.
a pre-trial conference.
a hearing before the Court.
If you fail to appear as provided by this Order, an Order for
Custody, Partial Custody or Visitation may be entered against you
or the Court may issue a warrant for your arrest.
YOU SHOULD TUE THIS PAPER TO YOUR LAWYER AT ONCE. IF
YOU DO NOT HAVE A LAWYER OR CANNOT AFFORD OIlE, GO TO OR
TELEPHONE THE OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW TO FIND OUT WHERE
YOU CAN GET LEGAL HELP.
Cumberland County Lawyer Referral Service
Court Adminilltrator
Cumberland County Courthoulle
Carlillle, PA 17013
(717) 240-6200
FOR THE COURT.
By. ff$ / ~ ~ ("~r)
Custody Concili 0
Date of Order. (OJ <nl3J
.1>
'.'
,.-~ .
,,:
;:';.
.,
"I.."
'J
''"
, ,
'.,c',
~,:,.r<.
I:
I
I
",1,
'\:
"
~. ,
~ .,
.,
"1>
, Jl i P
;i
"p-
.. .>>
'10
,
,
"
... '~
CHARLES W. FITZPATRICK, I IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
plaintiff I CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PEIINSYLVANIA
I
'I. I NO. 9(;, , G 5' G\ C,.I,'!
I
DOROTHY J. FITZPATRICK, I CIVIL ACTION
Defendant I IN CUSTODY
COIIPLAIIIT FOR CUSTODY
AIID IIOW, comes Charles W. Fitzpatrick, by his attorney, David
T. Kluz, and respectfully represents as follows I
1. The plaintiff, Charles W. Fitzpatrick, is an adult
individual, presently residinq at 7 Donald Street, Mechanicsburg,
Cumberland County, pennsylvania 17055.
2. The Defendant, Dorothy J. Fitzpatrick, is an adult
individual, presently residing at 499 Linden Street, Mechanicsburq,
Cumberland County, Pennsylvania 17055.
3. plaintiff seeks custody of the following childrenl
... pre..nt ...idence A5Dl 0.0.8.
Matthew Fitzpatrick 499 Linden Street 16 yrs. 6-2-81
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Joshua Fitzpatrick 499 Linden Street 13 yrs. 11-28-83
Mechanicsburq, PA 17055
The aforementioned minor children were not born out of
wedlock.
The aforementioned children are presently in the physical
custody of Dorothy J. Fitzpatrick, Defendant.
During the paat five years, the children have resided with the
following persons and at the following addresses I
lWII
ADDRBSS
499 Linden Street'
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
499 Linden Street
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
DARS
Charl.. Fitzpatrick
Dorothy Fitzpatrick
Dorothy Fitzpatrick
1992 -
1994
1994 -
present
The mother of the children is Dorothy J. Fitzpatrick residing
at 499 Linden Street, Mechanicsburg,
Pennsylvania.
She is divorced from Plaintiff.
The father of the children is Charles W. Fitzpatrick residing
Cumberland County,
at 7 Donald Street, Mechanicsburg, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania.
He is divorced from Defendant.
4. The relationship of the Plaintiff to the children is that
of natural father. The Plaintiff currently resides alone.
5. The relationship of the Defendant to the children is that
of natural mother. The Defendant currently resides alone.
6. The Plaintiff has not participated as a party or witness,
or in any other capacity, in other litigation concerning the
custody of the children in this or any other Court.
Plaintiff has no information of a custody proceeding
concerning the children pending in a Court of this Commonwealth.
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.
CHARLES W, FITZPATRICK,
Plaintiff/Respondent
VS
DOROTHY J, FITZPATRICK,
Defendant/Petitioner
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
95-6565 CIVIL TERM
IN DIVORCE
t N R E : P EIlIlOlLIJL.EHfJl.RtL.S.EIlLEMENI
OIillERJlL.c.nllRT
AND NOW, October 27. 1997, 9:55 a,m.. the matter
having been called far hearing. and counsel having agreed that
the issue is a matter of law. and having further agreed that the
amount of $866,00 in attorney's fees was reasonable, the court
does order that the plaintiff shall pay to the defendant the
amount of $866,00 in attorney's fees for the enforcement
proceeding held on June 30. 1997,
And further, we refuse to award anymore counsel fees
for the filing of the subsequent petition asking for counsel
fees,
By the Court,
David T, Kluz. Esquire
212 Lacust Street, Suite 404
Harrisburg. Pa, 17101
For the Plaintiff/Respondent
Thomas D. Gould. Esquire
2 East Main Street
Shiremanstown. Pa, 17011
For the Defendant/Petitioner
- c...~~ ~ '
/0/'31/97 "
A'-J'. .
I Il-
I __.)_,I.,j
:..J
>.J .
:mtf
@ NaV a 0 1991
CHARLES W. FITZPATRICK,
Plaintiff
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
vs.
NO. 95-6565 CIVIL TERM
CUSTODY /VISITATION
DOROTHY J. FITZPATRICK,
Defendant
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW this lllL.. day of ~I*, ~.
, 1997, the custody
conciliation conference originally held on November 13, 1997, has been
rescheduled so that the parties can pursue mediation, The conciliation conference
shall be held on Thursday, January 8, 1998, at 2:00 p,m.
FOR THE COURT,
~ Jf;;/ "7
.(d.4~tl JC()~
MICHAEL L. BANGS l'
Custody Conciliator
cc: David T, Kluz, Esquire
Thomas D. Gould, Esquire
~_." -
ii: C") ?;.
,.t c .,.
\-:. ~ .::1.;~
'8Q t~J.l;
L) :>:: ~-.J8:
\fr- o.. .',.;:-.
~{ :~~~
"
Li". ('oJ
0:::1\\ ;:.. ;prlJ
U..-\ (:.1 _.}u..
.F ;r: 5
t5 f; (,)
.', ..-.,
.
,j
I
.'
.
.
".';.',
.'_. "'''~."._"., '~"'-
.. .,. .
'.
. . r .
'.
. ~ .f
lAW OFFICE OF
THOMAS D, GOULD
ATTORNEYS AT LAW
2 EAST MAIN STREET' SHIREMANSTOWN, PA 17011
717-731-1461
. ..
,
eJ JAN 1 6 1998
-'. ~'-'.'-''''''''''''''''''''''~ . .,."". .,.
-...._- "---..-.....,.....".,....
"
';'''''';'.;\'!;ii..'''L~;l
,
..
. . .
C~8 .. .ITZ'ATRICK,
,LADftIn/USJilOlfDaI'r
IN TI& COURT O. COli,. 'LDS
CUNBIJU.aHD CQUH'rY, nIlIISYLVUIA
v.
110. 9!S-6!S65 CIVIL '1'UN
DOlU)'fBY J. I'ITZ>>ADICK,
D....IDU'f/HTITIOIIU
CIVIL ACTIOII
III DIVORCS
AND NOW this
OIlDD 01' COURT
L~ "'" d.y of "no"Y' 1998, opon ,"view of
petitioner/Defendant's Petition For Enforcement of Marital
Settlement Agreement, a Rule to Show Cause is issued upon
Respondent/Plaintiff to
within ~ dayS~~
file a response
"
SlAW U:...c.,
to Defendant's petition
BY THE COURT
€)
"
4
~
rl[QC,TiCr:
0= If' :' ":"''''':OTl.fW
9il ,J.~~! I G fil 2: :ill
CU". .."" TY
. Nlt,.~;-".. . ;... '~'...;J,'~
FEi'!\SVL\';~;~V\
q.:
~i
....
"
',)
~
"
'.
I
.
. ,
CIAPT~S .. rITZiATaICK,
iLADlTIl'I'/DSl'ONDDT
III TO COURT or CCllICM iLDS
ctJMURLAlfD COUIITY, HlOtSYLVNlIA
Y.
NO. 1I!S-6!S65 CIVIL TUN
DOaoTBY J. .ITZiATRICK,
D.rIMD~/i.TITIOHIR
CIVIL ACTION
III DIVORCE
iETITION TO ZNJ'01l~
OF
HU.ITAL S.TTLDSN'f AOJIwwwmIT
AND NOW comes the Petitioner, Dorothy J. Fitzpatrick, by and
through her attorney, Thomas D. Gould, and files this petition
seeking reimbursement for her lost pay and of her attorney fees and
costs based on the following facts.
1. The Petitioner is Dorothy J. Fitzpatrick who resides at
499 Linden Street, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055.
2. The Respondent is Charles W. Fitzpatrick who resides at
7 Donald Street, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055.
3. The Petitioner and Respondent were married on January 12,
1974.
4. A Complaint in Divorce was filed by Respondent on
November 16, 1995.
. .
5. The Divorce Decree was issued on July 9, 1996.
6. A Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA) was executed by the
parties on June 7, 1996.
7. The MSA was incorporated into the Decree In Divorce.
8. On March 10, 1997 Ms, Fitzpatrick filed a Petition For
Enforcement Of Marital Settlement Agreement.
9. On June 30, 1997 a hearing was held on Ms. Fitzpatrick's
petition.
10. After a full evi.dentiary hearing Judge Hoffer ordered Mr.
Fitzpatrick to reinstate Ms. Fitzpatrick's employment and to abide
by the terms of the MSA dated June 7, 1996. Copy attached as
exhibit A.
11. The MSA, in paragraph 7 provides "..that Wife ... will
receive a monthly gross salary of $1,800.00,... until December 31,
1999."
12. Paragraph 7 of the MSA provides that even if Husband
sells the business Wife will continue to receive the $1,800.00.
13. The MSA provides that Wife is to work an average of 10-12
hours per week for Fitzpatrick Cleaning, Inc.
14. Ms. Fitzpatrick normally works every Monday and Wednesday
and every other Friday from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
15. Ms. Fitzpatrick has always been paid her regular
$1,800.00 monthly amount even if she was not required to work due
to a holiday falling on one of her scheduled work days. See pay
stub for the period covering Labor Day attached as exhibit B.
. . .
16. Ms. Fitzpatrick worked the Wednesday evening before
Thanksgiving, November 26, 1997.
17. The office she cleans was closed on Thursday and Friday
for the holiday.
18. Ms. Fitzpatrick would normally have been scheduled to
work on the Friday following Thanksgiving.
19. Ms. Fitzpatrick, pursuant to her past work practices, did
not go in to work on Friday, November 28, 1997.
20. In Ms. Fitzpatrick's check dated 12/15/97, for the pay
period 11/24/97 to 12/05/97, Mr. Fitzpatrick deducted $180.00, 4
hours at the rate of $45.00 per hour, for Ms. Fitzpatrick's failure
to work on November 28, 1997. See memo attached as exhibit C and
the pay stub attached as exhibit D.
21. This court noted at its June 30, 1997 hearing that Mr.
Fitzpatrick would be required to pay Ms, Fitzpatrick her full
salary even if she became sick or needed a day off from work.
22. The $1,800.00 payment is a form of alimony and equitable
distribution to be paid by Mr. Fitzpatrick to Ms. Fitzpatrick and
is not contingent upon her work hours with Fitzpatrick Cleaning,
Inc.
23. In a letter dated December 16, 1997 Ms. Fitzpatrick's
attorney provided an explanation as to why Ms. Fitzpatrick did not
work on Friday November 28, 1997 and requested that Mr. Fitzpatrick
immediately reimburse Ms. Fitzpatrick $180.00. A copy of the letter
is attached as exhibit E.
. ,
.
24. In a letter dated December 17, 1997, Mr. Fitzpatrick's
attorney indicated that Mr. Fitzpatrick would not reimburse Ms.
Fitzpatrick $180.00. Copy of letter attached as exhibit F.
25. Mr. Fitzpatrick breached the terms and conditions of the
MSA when he failed to pay Ms. Fitzpatrick her full payment of
$900.00 in her December 15, 1997 check.
26. Paragraph 15 of the MSA states "If either party to this
Agreement resorts to a law suit or other legal action to enforce
the provisions ryf this Agreement, the successful party shall be
entitled to recover his or her reasonable counsel fees, actually
incurred....(Emphasis added).
27. Petitioner is incurring actual counsel fees to enforce
the provisions of the MSA. A summary of the counsel fees incurred
will be provided at the time of the hearing.
28. In a court Order dated October 27, 1997, Mr. Fitzpatrick
was ordered to pay Ms. Fitzpatrick's attorney fees in the amount of
$866.00 for his previous violation of the MSA. A copy of the order
is attached as exhibit G.
29. Mr. Fitzpatrick did not appeal that court decision.
30. To date Mr. Fitzpatrick has only paid $400.00 of the
$866.00 award.
31. Mr. Fitzpatrick has provided no explanation as to why he
has failed to promptly pay the court ordered attorney fees.
. .
, .
.'
..... '~l.~ J,~;: r:E\:~':E
.. ' .
.. ~ ." .-
.
. '''; ":- .... -r ~
&'-~~~.~~~~~~.=~~~~~~~
RJrE
HCUU
4.WOlJ.1/T
."n
F'::.O .11':0 ~!'.l::)'''! .....
'ITZ'ATRICK CLEANING.INC
7 OlIHALD STREIT
IlIC1WIICSlIIlG.'A 17D!5
U'ULA~
900,00
c!D:,:~;:=;a D":~;;'"
"r~
~OTHY J 'ITZ'ATRICK
_H LIHllIll ST
/llfClWlICSllllO'A 1701S
IU us.q.ml D'" 000100 '" 0002
,ldMl'i'fJ ITA 'UI OI/25/(t.Wgn,
'A S OJ CH'fft&!17
CHICIt ""
U7
I r~r1bl1W
"rDleARr
nDr~AL
'A
I/SHU
a"
~iiiB
13.05
68,75
25.20
9.00
li~~U~
23C.90
1219.31
.!J.60
162,00
10,00
.0028 I'" 0011 000100
I.."" 'Ar
728,20
13D9~ .121
.... .,......,.......... . .............. ...........,........ ............. ............ .."'...........~................. .......~...-... ......-.........-...-................
UOH' t
~\).a~! :
2l\ l
":1M!?. ,
1425
PI' T) THE
OROEQ QF
OOROTHY J FITZPATRICK
499 LINOEN ST
MECHANICSeURG PA 17055
voro ~,~!\ 60 OAYS
$ ........595.81..
~
.
...........................................FIVE HUNCRED NINETV.F[VE ANO at/100..OOLLARS
OAFCU
(try;.'
.. j'~h~~...../.
~A':uJ.a,'MrCRIISJ
11"00... 2 Sil" I: 23 BS 2 2.. .': '" 2.S ...qe. 5.011"""
~.1~1~INIl11fY"."" ~...,.. ~'.HTr'~' 'r"t'?~~"'1C 1" '" ~.e., "~l1 " t.~ '~pL. '0 "'I"~ '~"~'1 .....HtJtIl .... ~'"1.''''~'''
2 FOLD ANO ReMOVE FOLD AND REMOVE
YOUFlIANKINO rARHINGS HOURS RAT! AMOwa YTDAMOUNT
REGU~AA
'ZO,OO
TOTAL EAANINGS 720.00 Z14Z0.00
''''''LOY'If IN'OFlMATlON FlUNG STATUS TAll TVpr AMOUNT YTD AMOUNT
FlnFATRICX CLfAHIHG.IHC sac SEC 44,U 1321,0.
7 llOIlAl.O mUT "EOlCAAE 10.<< 310.59
"CIWII~O.FA 17055 S 0: FEOWL 41.75 1524.1.
\ S OJ PA ZO.16 5",76
PAY FlRIGO II/Z4/97 TO IZ~5/97 S OZ WSHRS 7.Z0 Z14.20
~ 02 OPT 10.00
CHlCX DATI IZ/U/91 Ol! , 1425
""'SONAL IN'OFlMATlON
OOROTH! J FllVAl'AICX
." L1I1llEN ST
"CIWII~O FA 17055
SS, 155-41-5197 tHPLI OOOZ OEPT' 000100
TOTAL WITHHOLDINGS
ADJUSTMrNTS
124.19
AMOUNT
4017.47
YTDAMOUNT
. ,
"..'ltOLLS If NteHIX'
.
OOZI 8481 0010 000100
NET .~Y
\95.al
17332,53 .
, .
, ,
,-
LAW OFFICE OF THOMAS D. GOULD
~
THOMAS 0 GOU~O
~IICHAEL S TRAVIS'
2 :~ST MAIN STRE:T
SHIRE',lM.STOI'IN.PA 11011
11111731.1461
FAX 161,1914
'.l:\Ur.'!J ~all ~l!~S!'f' BAA
Decembe~ 16, 1997
David T, Kluz, Esquire
212 Locust Sereet
Suite 404
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Re: Fitzpatrick
Dea~ Dave:
The harassment o~ Ms, Fitzpatrick must stop i:nmediately,
Enclosed is Ms, Fitzpa:~ick's payroll check dated 12/15/97 for the
period 11/24/97 to 12/05/97, The check indicates a g~oss pay of
5720,00, Ms, Fitzpatrick is a salaried "employee" at 51,800,00 per
month. Mr, Fitzpatrick has been paying he~ 5900,00 on the 1st and
the 15th of each month. I am also enclosing a note from FeI dated
December 12, 1997 which attempts to explain the "adj us tmen t" to Ms.
Fitzpatrick's 12/15/97 paycheck, Mr, Fitzpaerick is not authorized
to adjust/deduct any amount from Ms. Fitzpatrick's monthly payment
of 51,800.00 without her consene,
Ms. Fiezpatrick did not work at PMA on the Friday following
Thanksgiving, Novembe~ 28. 1997. PMA was closed on Thursday and
Friday for Thanksgiving, Ms. Fitzpaerick has never worked Holidays
when PMA is closed, I have enclosed Ms. Fiezpaerick's pay seub for
the period covering Labor Day 1997. Ms. Fitzpatrick did not work
Labor Day, but was seill paid her full amount as required by the
MSA, Ms. Fitzpatrick cleaned PMA on Wednesday night before
Thanksgiving, PMA was closed on Thursday and Friday, Ms,
Fitzpatrick did the prudene thing, as she has th~oughoue this
ordeal, and did noe go in to clean PMA on Friday nighe.
Mr. Fitzpatrick's unilateral decision to "adj ust" Ms,
Fitzpatrick's check is a new form of harassment, At the eime of
the divorce and equitable distribueion of ehe marieal assees, ehe
purpose of having Ms. Fitzpatrick coneinue as a salaried "employee"
was as a favor to Mr, Fitzpaerick. so as to allow him co use ehe
marital distribueion payments as a business deduction, It may be
time to reconsider this ar~angement. Mr, Fitzpaerick is clearly
haVing difficulty working with Ms, Fitzpatrick under the cu~rene
condieions, Ie may be eo both of ou~ clients' inearest to end ehe
"employmene" relationship, Ms, Fiezpae~ick ~emains Willing co
disc'..lsS a h:mp sum pa,7.lene or an al:a~:!a:i'/e mcnthly paymene in
ret'..:.:-~ fo:- an end :: -:;":'3 s::-3.:.::.ed, "dmplcy~e:::" :'e:'=.':.:..c:-.3~1.p.
Please re'/.:..e'''' my clie:-.:' 3 ~revious o::ar 'I/i::t you::: .:lienc. Now
made be t~e appropriate time :0 resolve this en going problem,
,. " I
" .
~~~;1;r". "~~)
CHARLES W, FITZPATRICK.
Plaintiff/Respondent
VS
DOROTHY J, FITZPATRICK.
Defendant/Petitioner
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY. PENNSYLVANIA
95-6565 CIVIL TERM
IN DIVORCE
IN RE: PETITION TO ENFORCE SETTLEMENT
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW. October 27. 1997. 9:55 a,m,. the matter
having been called for hearing. and counsel having agreed that
the issue is a matter of law. and having further agreed that the
amount of $866.00 in attorney's fees was reasonable. the court
does order that the plaintiff shall pay to the defendant the
amount of $866,00 in attorney's fees for the enforcement
proceeding held on June 30. 1997.
And further. we refuse to award anymore counsel fees
for the filing of the subsequent petition asking for counsel
fees.
By the Court.
David T, Kluz. Esquire
212 Locust Street. suite 404
Harrisburg. Pa, 17101
For the Plaintiff/Respondent
Thomas D, Gould. ESqUire~
2 East Main Street
Shiremanstown. Pa, 17011
For the Defendant/Petitioner
:mtr
~ al rs
"" '".:
le' e:, ,.
~lJQ ", ..-
1
.?(, :i: '.....
f~'1 .;.0;:
~!; :1
I:. -1' :",..1
.itl. :;. rji
fr: l.~ ; ,.
r' ~
-, ,
1.1. n :.i
u <:/1 U
..
.
"
VBRIPICA'l'IOII
I, '"81..111'''8 If. PI'l'IPA'l'RICI:, verify that the .tatement. _de in
the foregoing document are true and correct to the best of my
knowledge.
I understand that flllse statements herein are II\Ilde
subject to the penaltie. of 18 Pa. C.S. S 4904, relating to un.worn
falsification to authorities.
Date.
IO~1
~-~~
ar e W it.pat'flc
.,
"
,
'~.- >
"
,.;.
.,-'
"
~i ;.
." ,~:-":f'-
-.,'
'.s
a
,., a
". ....
l"l
...'
.' .
';'
'j!
'-;,
'"
.
.
. .
. .
..'-
'!
~A~~~~-:i~~~-~~;i~T~{
,-,ill:,.
.
CHARLES W. FITZPATRICK, I IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
Plaintiff I CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
I
v. I NO. q~. Go;-c:; ..- GI.,; I
I
DOROTHY J. FITZPATRICK, I CIVIL ACTION
Defendant I IN CUSTODY
SPICIAL RRt.IIP PURSDAIIT TO 'l'HB PROVISIOIIS OF
PR_AYI.vAIIIA ROLl: OF CIVIL PROCBDURB 1915.13
AND IIOW, comes Charles W. Fitzpatrick, by his attorney, David,
T. IUuz, who brings before this Honorable Court the following
Requeat for Special Relief. In support of the motion the following
is alleged I
I. Charles W. Fitzpatrick [hereinafter Plaintiff/futher] is
an adult resident of Cumberland County, the ex-husband of Dorothy
J. Pitzpatrick and the father of Matthew and Joshua Fitzpatrick,
having a. his address 7 Donald Street, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania.
2. Dorothy J. Fitzpatrick [hereinafter Defendant/mother] is
an adult resident of Cumberland County, the ex-wife of Charles W.
Pitzpatrick and the mother of Matthew and Joshua Fitzpatrick having
as her address 499 Linden Street, MechanicBburg, Pennsylvania.
3. Plaintiff and Defendant were separated and living apart
on March 1, 1994, and were divorced by order of court on July 9,
1996.
4. Pollowing the Beparation, Plaintiff/father had extenBive
viaitation of his
Defendant/mother.
sons with the cooperation of the
5. For IIIOre than two years, plaintiff/father has had
vi.itation every other weekend from 4100 p.m. Friday until 9100
p... sunday and every Monday and Wednesday evening from 4100 p.m.
until 9100 p.m.
6. plaintiff/father waa able to go to the residence of the
children to pick them up and was able to communicate with them
telephonically.
7. OVer the last six months, Defendant/mother haa been
interfering with the plaintiff/father's visitation, culminating
with the events causing this Motion for Special Relief.
plaintiff/father has been told by Defendant/mother that he is not
permitted at her property and that he can not call her and the
children'. home.
B. On Friday, May 30, 1997, Plaintiff/father was called by
Defandant/lIOther and was told that the children would not be
vi8iting him as originally planned. When plaintiff/father
reque.ted additional information with regard to the reason for non-
vi.itation, the Defendant/mother hung up on him.
9. Without explanation, no visitation of his sons nor
telephonic communication was permitted.
10. plaintiff/father was advised by his son, Matthew, that
Defendant/mother would not permit the sons to have contact with
their father.
11. All support payments and medical reimbursements are
current.
~ co ~
..:J
I~ M ::;4
(3'"
:t: (;i;
"'-'.
c... ("J~
". :-.::-
U~ s;Q
D.. {'..-'"
tL' C<:l djm
FE w con..
L... -.
e:
u.. m ::J
0 0'1 U
i,'
.i~,-:
.' ;<
:;-;1:" ,..
:;.
).:
.,-."."",c't"
""""-
"
-.,',
'-'-
':1'
p~; ,.
i!~ :"'.;' I .
'. '.;,,: ,,;";:..
,~i"~~"-~,, ,- .i ".;.
.' .:'~~~.{ .~
U.',J~;~ .,' "
I~"'::
~I~'
~~'. -~~'!-'.)
.ta
I
Ii
, .
,
. ,
, 01,
r
.'
.
,
<
. >
"
.~.
. .' ..: i'~l~f,
" '," >9:;~i,i
., I"'" r ..
I "" .~
':.':. :-1:>' ~Lf,~:i
,,' ' . if 'tTt~~ 11'\\
, 1'''''F.''
. : 'I ~,.:,,~~::
't: ': ;;,_<:{f~
,_ ' ,>', .,,\'.';-~F.--'
OJ ~ ,I , . ~. ~_ . > ,;:, >r:t"'j~
'.: ,/r:.:',J;:i~;J;~~~
':0:
'(
J'
44. Admitted that Mr. Fitzpatrick, through FCI, is obligated
to pay Ms. Fitzpatrick $1,800.00 per month. Admitted that the MSA
does not specify when or. how the $1,800.00 is to be paid. By way
of further answer, Ms. Fitzpatrick was to receive her $1,800.00 as
an "employee" of FeI. All employees of Fr.I, before the MSA and
continuing thereafter, received their pay twice monthly, on the 1st
and the 15th of each month. Mr. Fitzpatrick and Ms. Fitzpatrick,
as employees of FCI have at all times relevant to this matter,
received their payroll checks on the 1st and 15th of each month.
44. Denied that Mr. Fitzpatrick, through FCI, has made all
payments under the MSA in a timely fashion and no amounts are
currently owed to Ms. Fitzpatrick. Rather, since removing Ms.
Fitzpatrick from her normal work place, Mr. Fitzpatrick, through
FCI has been late on making payments to Ms. Fitzpatrick. Mr.
Fitzpatrick, through FCI, delayed payment to Ms. Fitzpatrick until
she, through her attorney, threatened and then filed a Petition to
enforce the terms of the MSA. Since filing the Petition, Mr.
Fitzpatrick, through FCI, has been late on each and every bi-
monthly payment. Other employee's of FeI have been paid in
accordance with the prior payment practices.
45. To the best of Ms. Fitzpatrick's knowledge there has been
no lapse in health coverage, although Mr. Fitzpatrick, through FCI
has changed health coverage without Ms. Fitzpatrick's knowledge or
consent.
2
46. Denied that Mr. Fitzpatrick, through FeI has continued to
pay Ms. Fitzpatrick in a timely fashion, Admitted that Ms.
Fitzpatrick was removed from her previous work site and has not
been reassigned.
47. It is admitted that FCI has not been made a party to this
Petition. It is admitted that FCI was not a direct party to the
MSA. By way of further answer, Mr. Fitzpatrick is and acts on
behalf of FC!.
48. Admitted.
49. Denied that Mr. Fitzpatrick, through his control of FCI
has not violated the terms of the MSA.
50. Denied that Ms. Fitzpatrick has not alleged any harm of
damage caused by Mr. Fitzpatrick in violation of the MSA. Rather,
Mr. Fitzpatrick, through FCI, has removed Ms. Fitzpatrick from her
work site; has harassed her at her work site resulting in a PFA
against Mr. Fitzpatrick and has delayed her bi-monthly "wage"
payments.
51. Denied. At the time the Petition was prepared and signed
by Ms. Fitzpatrick, Mr. Fitzpatrick, through his actions at FCI had
violated the terms of the MSA. By way of further answer, this is
the third Petition that Ms. Fitzpatrick has had to file to force
Mr. Fitzpatrick, through FCI, to abide by the terms of the MSA.
52. Denied that Ms. Fitzpatrick has failed to state a claim
upon which relief may be granted.
3
53. Admitted. By way of further answer the paragraph goes on
to state that "this Agreement may be enforced independently of any
child support order, divorce decree or judgment and its terms shall
take precedence over same, remaining the primary obligation of each
party." Therefore it is believed that this court through its legal
and equitable powers has the right to void this Agreement if
justice demands.
54. Admitted.
55. Admitted.
56. Admitted in part and denied in part. Admitted that Ms.
Fitzpatrick, as an alternative, requested that her "employment
wages" be paid in a lump sum, subtracting the expense Mr.
Fitzpatrick, through FC!, would have to pay a replacement employee.
5? Admitted that the terms of the MSA are not subject to
modification, however, the court has the right, duty and obligation
to interpret the terms and apply legal and equitable principles to
fulfill the intent of the MSA.
58. Denied that Ms. Fitzpatrick has not stated a claim upon
which relief may be granted.
59. Denied that Ms. Fitzpatrick filed her petition in bad
faith. Denied that Mr. Fitzpatrick, through FC!, was at the time
of the Petition, not in breach of the terms of the MSA. Rather he
was and is in breach. Denied that Ms. Fitzpatrick seeks relief
prohibited by the MSA or the Divorce Code.
4
60. Admitted that a letter was sent by Respondent's counsel
to Petitioner's counsel dated February 12, 1999. The statements in
the letter speak for themselves and therefore the allegations
stated in paragraph 60 are denied unless supported by the
information stated in the letter.
61. Admitted that Ms. Fitzpatrick's attorney received the
February 12, 1999 letter. Admitted that Ms. Fitzpatrick's attorney
.indicated that he would not withdraw the Petition because Mr.
Fitzpatrick, through FCI had once again failed to timely pay Ms.
Fitzpatrick her "wages" on the 15th of February. In addition, Mr.
Fitzpatrick's attorney could not assure Ms. Fitzpatrick's attorney
that Mr. Fitzpatrick, through FCI, would continue to pay Ms.
Fitzpatrick.
62. After reasonable investigation Ms. Fitzpatrick is without
knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the
truth of the averment.
63. Denied that this petition was filed in bad faith or that
Mr. Fitzpatrick is entitled to attorney fees.
WHEREFORE Ms. Fitzpatrick requests that honorable court to
grant her petition.
Respectfully submitted
~V,). ~
Thomas D. Gould
Attorney for Petitioner
1. D. * 36508
2 East Main Street
Shiremanstown, PA 17011
5
..
~ en ?:;
.. ,..
r M j~;:~)
C) :c '...) ~l~
orr: "- C.)::J
'0 .~. 'o-
fT. \.0 '. '.
.:';.
(.l. ...:..
(I, O. o ", itJ
,[!;; ~< : ..L
::0.:: ~'i
u. (n
0 en C)
....._---.~..... .. .._,
'- '".'
CHARLES W, FITZPATRICK,
Plaintiff/Petitioner
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
v,
: NO. 95-6565 CIVIL TERM
DOROTHY 1, FITZPATRICK,
DefendantJRespondent
: CIVIL ACTION - LAW
: IN DIVORCE
PL4,INTIFF'S ANSWER TO PETITION FOR ENFORCEMENT
AND NOW, this _ day of September, 1997, comes Charles Fitzpatrick by his attorney,
David T. K1uz, who brings this answer to Defendant's Petition to [sic] Enforcement, In support of
the answer, the fol1owing is al1eged:
1-9, Admitted,
10, Denied, This allegation conlains a fundamental misstatement of fact. The order of
court issued by this Honorable Court stales Ihat", , , Charles Fitzpatrick [is] 10 immedialely comply
with Paragraph 7 oflhe Marilal Property Settlemenl Agreement, , ,..,
11-17, Admitted,
18, Denied, Plaintiff is nol violatinglhe lerms oflhe Marilal Settlemenl Agreement,
NEW 1\" 'TTIi'.R. AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
19, In her Pelition Ie
:ement liIed on March
10,1997, Respondenl raised II
~
20, In Respondent
.ursemenlofallomey's
fees being made available
Ihe Marilal Settlemenl
Agreement,
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, ELLEN M, HOWE, Legal Assistant, certifY that I have served a copy oflhe foregoing
document on the individual listed below by depositing the same in the United States Mail, First
Clw, postago prepaid, at Hanisburg, PeMsylvania:
Thomas D, Gould, Esquire
2 East Main Street
Shiremanstown. PA 17011
Date:..9./aICf7
-, ....
.
I,
;
I
1!It.J:*,...q~"""T<...'.""'"""'''''' :~'..'\
'~~~i,~;;~: . '
. . '
.~ '.
,'/,-;:;;
.. ....
/,:~;t,:
:";/:
,.
.. -,.' ~
~ ..,'
DMId T. IIuI . DO_CMYPt_TM__..j':;,i ,
A. rD1W11lY AT LAW EP I '199t::~_llI'1II!~~"~;.;;}'
IIILOCU8T--"MIIT1I- ~',' . ,., :.,,,,,;,;:~' .
HAIW" NI'G --......._. 'Y'~' '.'0 IV .......................,................._..............~__'.l~.,; f'.._.
. ~..... __ , 1 A~' . - \H>,;.:~':-i'l".
11"71-'''';:'''') '.
.' ,,'
---...~.~......,,_...--_...-.-
"
CHARLES W, FITZPATRICK,
PlaintilTlPetitioner
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYL VANIA
v,
: NO, 95-6565 CIVIL TERM
DOROTHY 1. FITZPATRICK,
DefendantlRespondent
: CIVIL ACTION - LAW
: IN DIVORCE
PLAiNTIFF'S ANSWER TO PETITION FOR ENFORCEMENT
AND NOW, this _ day of September, 1997, comes Charles Fitzpatrick by his allomey,
David T, KIuz, who brings this answer to Defendant's Petition to [sic] Enforcement, In support of
the answer, the following is alleged:
1-9, Admitted.
10, Denied, This allegation contains a fundamental misstatement of fact, The order of
court issued by this Honorable Court states that ", , , Charles Fitzpatrick [is] to immediately comply
(') .D 0
C' -I -n
,,~: ~~ :.i~
11-17. Admitted, l';: -<1 "~
IS, Denied, Plaintiff is not violating the tenus of the Marital settlemj~':~$fe'~nt:;~l~
.'", ':.~
.>. '" '..t.] \.:J
:r.' ..n z~
.;.1 :q
...... (:> -<.0
with Paragraph 7 of the Marital Property Selllement Agreement, , ,..,
NEW MATI'ER.. AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
19, In her Petition to Enforce the Marital Property Selllement Agreement Iiled on MlIJ'Ch
10,1997, Respondent raised the issue ofattomey's fees in Paragraph 19,
20, In Respondent's Paragraph 20, she makes mention of reimbursement ofallomey's
fees being made available pursuant to the tenns of Paragraph 15 of the Marital Settlement
Agreement.
..- ......
;m,
"
'.
-
0
-
- 1'-
~~ -
< .
/:l.o
52'gj e.li
"':l:l~.E "
I :c'....J u'~
I ;: ~.~
, Qt:iJl:c
I -
I
I
I
i
I
I
i
I
i
I
I
I 15
I H
I !:I ~n
I
sa s ~ ~
, ~
~ ~ ~
! . c W III
i-o ~ W Z
W ~ z
i 'C z Iii W
~ ~
I 'p o Iii ci
! ~ a ~
· 0 i
~ III
N 1!
. ~
N C
I
,
....~--
-
"
I
I
I
I
I
I
!
I
!
\
\
I
I
I
i
I
i
I
,I
I
I
,
I
i
i
I
'.
.
,~
M
.o-~
=g~
8~o
ci '03 ~
g::a ~
o ~ ,_
~l'l~
-
-
o
....
-
-
-
-
,
;.
I
I
I I
I I
\ I
i
;; I
\ H I
I a w c
;t t: -
:> z
I s Ul ~ I
I ' ~ 1
... ... >
I i-O c ~ f.I) I
i > ~ Z I
i w Z I
i z Ul w I
It ~
o ... ' !
c! I: Ul 0
C g ~
~ Ul
N it
- It
N .
<::1 x
. ,
,
,
,
CHARLES W, FITZPATRICK,
Plaintiff
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
vs,
NO, 95-6565 CIVIL TERM
DOROTHY J, FITZPATRICK,
Defendant
CUSTODYIVISIT A TION
JUDGE PREVIOUSLY ASSIGNED: The Honorable George E. Hoffer, P,J,
{:USTODV CONCILIATION CONFERENCE SUMMARV REPORT
IN ACCORDANCE WITH CUMBERLAND COUNTY RULE OF CIVIL
PROCEDURE 1915.3-8(b), the undersigned Custody Conciliator submits the following report:
I. The pertinent information concerning the child(ren) who is(nre) the subject of this
litigation is as follows:
CURRENTLY IN
CUSTODY OF
NAME
R1RTHDATE
Matthew Fitzpatrick
Joshua Fitzpatrick
June 2,1981
November 28, 1983
Defendant
Defendant
2, A Conciliation Conference was held on January 8, 1998, and the following individuals
were present: the Plaintiff and his attorney, David T, Kluz, Esquire; the Defendant appenred
with her attorney. Thomas D, Gould, Esquire,
3, Items resolved by agreement: See attached Order,
4, Issues yet to be resolved: A final custody schedule,
5, The Plaintiffs position on custody is as follows: See attached Order,
6. The Defendant's position on custody is as follows: See attached Order,
.
7, Need for separate counsel to represent child(ren): Neither party requested.
8, Need for independent psycholol!ical evaluation or counselinl!: See attached Order,
9, Other matters or comments: The parties are to continue with mediation and reconvene
for another conciliation conference before Michael L, Banl!s, Esquire, on Thursday, April 2,
1998, at 9:00 a,m,
7L
Date: January 19, 1998
Michael L. Banl!s
Custody Conciliator
B, Every Mondey evening and Wednesday evening
overnight from 4:00 p,m. until 9:00 a.m, the following
Tuesday and Thursday respectively,
C. For one uninterrupted week of vacation with the
children from 9:00 a,m, on August 6, 1997, until 9:00 p,m, on
August 13.1997,
4. During the school yaar, Father shall have the children In
accordance with the following schedule:
A, On alternating weekends from Friday at 4:00 p.m.
until Monday morning at which time he shall drop the children
off at school or In the event that they are not In school, he will
drop the children off at Mother's house at 9:00 a,m.
B. On Monday and Wednesday evenings from 4:00
p.m. until 9:00 p.m,
6. The parties shall alternate the major holidays, those holidays
defined as Labor Day. Thanksgiving, Easter, Memorial Day, and Fourth
of July. This alternating schedule shall commence with Mother having
Labor Day In 1997 and the schedule shall elternate thereafter, These
periods of partial custody shall occur from 9:00 a.m, until 9:00 p,m.
6. The parties shall share the Christmas holiday. The
Christmas holiday shall be broken Into the following segments,
,
CHARLES W. FITZPATRICK,
Plaintiff
)
I
)
)
I
)
)
)
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
vs.
NO, 96-6666 CIVIL TERM
DOROTHY J. FITZPATRICK,
Defendant
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
CUSTODY
JUDGE PREVIOUSLY ASSIGNED: The Honorable George E. Hoffer
CUSTODY CONCILIATION CONFERENCE SUMMARY REPORT
IN ACCORDANCE WITH CUMBERLAND COUNTY RULE OF CIVIL
PROCEDURE 1915,3-8Ib), the undersigned Custody Conciliator submits the
following report:
1. The pertinent Information concerning the childlren) who Islare) the
subject of this litigation Is as follows:
NAME
BIRTHDATE
CURRENTLY IN
CUSTODY OF
Matthew Fitzpatrick
Joshua Fitzpatrick
June 2, 1981
Novembar 28, 1983
2, A Conciliation Conference was held on July 31, 1997, and the following
Individuals were present: the Plaintiff and his attorney, David T. Kluz, Esquire; the
Defendant eppeared with her attorney, Thomes D. Gould, Esquire.
3, Items resolved by agreement: See attached Order,
4. Issues yet to be resolved: See ettached Order,
6. The Plaintiff's position on custody Is as follows: Sea attached Order.
ALErXlFFlCE
OF TII~ m')lH(jI:or.....~y
97 ^1J'l 20 PH I.: 07
eLil,II".;, ". , ('nU"JTY
'''U_,."-, '. 'It) J.~ I
PENNSYlVAN''1
.
CBAPT~S W. rITZPATRICK,
, PLaIWTIR/USPOHDIH'r
IN Tn COUl\T or COlIIOH PLUS
CIJWIl-LNm COOIITY, PDIIISYLVUIA
v.
NO. ~5-6565 CIVZL TKRN
DOROTHY J. rITZPATRICK,
D.rIHDAHT/P.TITIOHZR
CIVIL ACTION
:N DIVORC3
OlmU or COUl\T
AND NOW this
lL ~y of
February, 1999, upon review of
Petitioner/Defendant I S Petition For Enforcement of Marital
Settlement Agreement, a Rule to Show Cause is issued upon
Respond~laintiff..;:O file ,a response to Defendant I s petition
(J4 ~~e..A. .
within days, Respondent/Plaintiff is directed to continue
to pay Petitioner/Defendant $1,800.00 per month and continue her
medical coverage as provided for in the Marital Settlement
Agreement until further order of court.
BY THE COURT
.
,
..
CBAPT~8 W. rITZPATRICK,
PLAIWTIn/USPOHDIHT
IN Tn COUl\T or COlllctl ~
et--.IMD COOft"'.I,PDOISYLVUIA
v.
NO. ~5-6565 CIVZL TKRN
DOaOTBY J. rITZPATRICK,
D.JWMD~/"TITIOHZR
CIVZL ACTIOR
IN DIVORC3
,.TITIOH 1'01' DI'OIl.-1NDIT
or
MARITAL S.TTT,WIGHT .ma_WIGHT
AND NOW COMES the Petitioner, Dorothy J. Fitzpatrick, by and
through her attorney, Thomas D. Gould, and requests this honorable
court to issue an Order directing Respondent, Charles W.
Fitzpatrick, to comply with the terms and conditions of the Marital
Settlement Agreement (MSA) dated June 7, 1996 , or alternatively to
void the employment requirement of the MSA and order the Respondent
to pay Petitioner the remaining portion of her equitable interest
in the marital business, based on the following:
1. The Petitioner is Dorothy J. Fitzpatrick who resides at
499 Linden Street, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055.
2. The Respondent is Charles W. Fitzpatrick who resides at
7 Donald Street, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055.
3. The Parties were married on January 12, 1974.
4. A Complaint in Divorce was filed by Respondent on
November 16, 1995.
~
5. A Divorce Decree was issued on July 9, 1996. A copy of
the Decree is attached as exhibit A.
6. A Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA) was executed by the
parties on June 7, 1996. A copy of the fully executed Agreement is
attached as exhibit B.
7. The MSA was incorporated into the Decree In Divorce.
8. Pursuant to paragraph 7 of the MSA Petitioner, in
exchange for giving up her interest in the marital business
(Fitzpatrick Cleaning, Inc.), hereinafter referred to as FCI, was
to remain an "employee" of FCI at an inflated "wage" until December
31, 1999 or until completion of the college courses she is taking
to obtain a teaching certificate. Petitioner had the option of
extending her employment status for an additional six (6) months if
she had not secured employment.
9. petitioner was to continue to work her regular 8-12 hours
per week and receive $1,800.00 per month, plus continued paid
medical coverage.
10. It was the intent of the parties that the $1,800.00 was
part of the equitable distribution of the marital assets in the
form of alimony/support that was to allow Petitioner the
opportunity to gain the education and training to begin her career.
11. Since Petitioner was/is a full time student the $1,800.00
was/is her primary means of support for herself and her two minor
children.
.
12. At all times before and after the execution of the MSA
Peti tioner has performed her duties for l"CI in a professional
manner.
13. In March 1997 Petitioner was forced to file a Petition
For Enforcement of the MSA due to Respondent's harassment,
termination of her "employment" and refusal to pay his continuing
financial obligation.
14. This honorable court, in an Order dated Ordered the
Respondent to continue to pay Petitioner her $1,800.00. A copy of
the order is attached as exhibit C.
15. Following a hearing on the Petition, this honorable court
issued an order sustaining petitioner's petition and directed the
Respondent to comply with the terms of the MSA. A copy of the
order is attached as exhibit D.
16. On 9/9/97 a Protection From Abuse (Pl"A) Order was issued
against the Respondent. A copy of PFA is attached as exhibit E.
17. In August 1997 a Petition was filed seeking attorney fee
reimbursement from the respondent.
18. In an Order dated October 27, 1997 this honorable court
ordered Respondent to reimburse Petitioner for the attorney fees
expended to enforce the terms of the MSA. A copy of the order is
attached as exhibit F.
19. On December 28, 1998 the Respondent was found guilty by
District Justice Placey of harassment and defiant trespass in an
incident at Petitioner's home.
20. During her "employment" the Respondent has changed
Petitioner's job duties and responsibilities at l"CI without
consulting with her or giving her the courtesies accorded other
employees of FCI.
21. On January 14, 1998 the Petitioner was forced to file a
Petition for Enforcement of Marital settlement Agreement when
Reopondent unilaterally reduced her $1,800.00 monthly payment.
22. The Petition was withdrawn after Respondent paid Petition
the amount she was due under the MSA.
23. On Friday January 22, 1999 the respondent came to
Petitioner's place of employment with no legitimate purpose and
harassed, threatened and otherwise annoyed her.
24. petitioner obtained a Temporary Pl"A against Respondent.
25. On Monday January 25, 1999 Respondent came to
Petitioner's place of employment with l"CI and advised her that he
was assigning her to another building.
26. On Monday, January 25, 1999 Petitioner gave her attorney
the access card and keys to her former place of employment.
27. On Tuesday, January 26, 1999 Petitioner's attorney sent
a letter and the access card and keys to Respondent's attorney.
28. On Thursday, January 28, 1999 Respondent's attorney
informed Petitioner's attorney that the envelope arrived with a
tear in it and the keys were missing.
29. In that telephone call with Respondent's attorney,
Petitioner's attorney was assured that Respondent would continue to
pay the $1,800.00 to Petitioner.
30. The $1,800.00 was payable $900.00 on the 1st and the 15th
of each month.
31. Respondent failed to pay Petitioner her $900.00 payment
on February 1, 1999.
32. Respondent has not assigned Petitioner to a new location.
33. Respondent had no legitimate reason to remove her from
her pervious job assignment.
34. Respondent has no legitimate reason to withhold the
payment of his contractually obligated $900.00 bi-monthly payments
to Petitioner.
35. Petitioner' and her children depend on the payments from
Respondent for their livelihood.
36. Undue hardship will be placed upon the Petitioner if
Respondent is not ordered to immediately resume payments and
continue payments to the Petitioner.
37. As a result of Respondent's continued harassment of
Petitioner she has been unable to continue with her full-time
pursuit of her teaching certificate.
38. Petitioner will not graduate by December 31, 1999, as
previously contemplated.
39. Petitioner will be exercising her six (6) month option to
extend her $1,800.00 monthly allocation.
-
'-"*~'-~*-"_:'~'<c-"~*.~~.___.<ftt. (.e-' -:~"<.c.".:tI.' '-:teo'"(t:- .:.:.' ':~'~;;:...-:....Jt<<:.:tC:~:a:t(.~..:tC.. .:.c-,~':~'<C<''''''~'
~ ,. - i~
S l~'
~ IN THE COURT OF COMMoN PLEAS ~
~ OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY ~
~ * 3
8,'. 6
: STATE OF ':t-,' - " PENNA. i
$ .:
* ....~~~~~.~..~:....~~!~!~~.~~~~.!.......................... :
.:. I N I). .~.~.::l~.~.~.... .................. , ;
::' ......................................J!~.."'.nt1~l.......................... !I ~
8 VerauI i: j
~,' ....99.~9:!:~!..~:....r.~:;:~!>>,~~.~~~~.!.......................... ,;11 I~':
........ .............................~~.~_I\~."n.t;,.........................
8 ~
S r.
~ DEe R EEl N i~
: Dq V 0 R ~Eb it Jl: '2.7 ' ~
;,; AND NOW, ... .... . .................. 19....... It is ordered and $
:. decreed that .. ..C:~i'~. . !'!...f~~~~~:rlW~~.................... plaintiff, ~
.: ~~l
~ and. . .. . .. .. ..,' . PP'~Q'J.'fI.'( .01,. .F.l;T;'^'l:a.tCK .. . . . . .. . .. ... .. .. defendant,
i
~ are divorced from the bonds of matrimony. :
~ The court retains lurlsdictlon of the following claims whrch have ~
~ been railed of record in this action for which a final order has not yet $
~ ~~~: .
~ . . .. . . . . . . . . . ,~~~~.r.~'?~!l.~'! .l:'~~.::;t?-g~. .~f!t!:!:.~f!f!\!lfl.t; .~9'F.~"l!1!!fl.~ ': I . . . . . . . . I , ~
: ...... ........ ~ ~~~.~~. ~(.~~?~,l.. .. .............. .. ............ .... '" ...... ~
~ c y I':
~ s
'.w. !
; · '? ~ /, ('.A!#;: ~C1tL;,..:
~ ...... "-<' .. K. ,. ~~, 7'7'P~olho~Ola'~y" ll~
,~ ~
..,.
__I ___.--.'11[
~----- ----~--~~~~~~~~~-~-~-~~
f.,ch ...b,'+ A
.,.,
MARRI~GE SETTLEMENT ~GREEMENT
. ~ \
TUIS AGIUIE!CENT, made this /;- day of '. :V'''''
,
1996, by and between CHARLES W. FITZPATRICK, hereinafter referred
to a. HUSSAND and DOROTHY J. FITZPATRICK, hereinafter referred to
ae WIFE.
WIT N E SSE T H:
WHEREAS, the parties were lawfully married on January 12, 1974
in Marlton, New Jersey; and
WHEREAS, two children have been born as a result of this
marriage, namely MATTHEW LEVI FITZ~ATRICK, D/O/B June 2, 1981 and
JOSHUA LUCAS FITZPATRICK, D/O/S November 28, 1983; and
WHEREAS, certain differences have arisen between the parties
a. a re.ult ot which they have decided to sepa::ate and to live
.eparate and apart from one another, and it is the intention of the
HUSBAND and WIFE to live separate and apart for the rest of their
natural livas, and the parties hereto are desirous of settling
tully and tinally their respective financial and property rights
and obligations as between each other, including without
limitation, (1) the .ettlement of all matters between them relatinq
to the ownership of real and personal property; (2) the settlement
of all matters between them relating to past, present and future
support and/or alimony; and (3) the settlement of all matters
concerninq custody and support of the minor children; and
WHERnS, durinq the parties' marriaqe there has been a
complete disclosure of the earnings and property of each party, and
6",,4. h: f (3
each understands his/her rights under the Divorce Code of the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania; and
WHEREAS, HUSBAND, havinq been properly advised by his counsel,
R. Mark Thomas, Esquire, and WIFE, havinq been properly advised by
her counsel, Thomas D. Gould, Esquire, the parties, havinq been so
advised by their respective counsel, and following full and
complete disclosure with regard to marital assets and the
respective value of those assets, the parties hereto have come to
this aqreement, which follows:
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the above recitals and the
following covenants and promises mutually made and mutually to be
kept, the parties, intendinq to be legally bound, aqree as follows:
1. AGREEMENT NOT TO BE A BAR TO DIVORCE PROCEEDINGS
A Complaint in Divorce was filed on November 16, 1995 to Term
and No. 95-6565 in the Court of Common Pleas of Cumberland County,
Pennsylvania. The parties intend to secure a mutual consent, no-
hult divorce pursuant to the terms of Section 3301(C) of the
Divorce Code of 1980. The Oivorce Complaint filed by the HUSBAND
on November 16, 1995 was ssrved on WIFE by certified mail, return-
receipt requested on November 17, 1995. 90 days have passed since
the tiling of the Complaint in Divorce and both parties hereby
agree to execute an Affidavit of Consent and a waiver of their
right to receive Notice of Intention to Seek Entry ot a Divorce
eecree. The parties agree that unless otherwise specifically
provided herein, this Aqreemen~ shall continue in full force and
2
e~~ect after such time the ~ina1 Decree in Divorce is entered with
respect to the parties, and the parties agree that this Agreement
shall be incorporated into the ~inal Decree in Divorce. No Court
may change the terms of this Agreement, which shall be enforced in
accordance with its terms.
2. PERSONAL RIGHTS
HUSBAND and WIFE may and shall, at all times hereafter, live
separate and apart. Each shall be free from all control,
restraint, inter~erence or authority, direct or indirect, by the
other in all respects as fully as if he or she were unmarried.
Each may reside at such place or places as he or she may select.
Each may, for his or her separate use or benefit, conduct, carryon
and engage in any business, occupation, profession or employment
which to him or her may seem advisable. This provision shall not
be taken, however, to be an admission on the part of either HUSBAND
or WIFE of the lawfulness of the causes which led to or resulted
in, the continuation of their living apart.
J . DEBTS
with regard to joint debts, HUSBAND and WIFE have only one
joint debt with a balance outstanding and that is the mortgAge on
the marital residence. pursuant to the terms of this Agreement
WIFE Agrees to accept full responsibility for the regular monthly
mortgage payments and to hold HUSBAND harmless and to indemnify
HUSBAND for any paymQnts on the mortgage which he may be compelled
to make.
J
Each of the parties is responsible for any debts that they
have personally acquired since March 1, 1994, the date of
separation. In the event that either party is compelled to make
payments on the debts acquired by the other party since March 1,
1994, the party who actually acquired the debt will hold harmless
and indemnify the other for any monies paid on account of such
debt.
4. PERSONAL PROPERTY
"
HUSBAND and WIFE hereby acknowledge that they have agreed upon
the division of all tangible personal property, including jewelry,
clothing, turniture, household equipment, appliances, motor
vehicles, recreational vehicles and tools.
The parties have
already divided the personal property according to their agreement
and each party is hereby the sole owner of any personal property
now in their possession. This Agreement shall act as a Bill of
Sale evidencing the complete and tinal transfer of all personal
property to the respective parties. HUSBAND and WIFE agree to
cooperate in the transfer of all titles and insuranc3 regarding all
motor vehicle. or recreational vehicles in the possession of either
party.
5. AFTER-ACOUIRED PERSONAL PROPERTY
Each ot the parties shall hereafter own and enjoy,
independently of any claims or rights ot the other, all items ot
personal property, tangible or intangible, hereafter acquired by
him or her, with full power in him or her to dispose of the same as
4
tully and effectively, in all respects and for all purposes, as
though he or she were unmarried.
6. MARITAL RESIDENCE
HUSBAND and WIFE are the owners by tenants by the entireties
ot the marital residence located at 499 Linden street,
Mechanicsburg, Cumberland county, pennsylvania. HUSBAND hereby
agree. to transter all his right title and interest in the marital
re.idence to WIFE so that WIFE will become the sole and exclusive
owner of the marital residence. HUSBAND will transfer all his
right title and interest by way of a deed, a copy of which is
hereby attached to this agreement as Exhibit "4\".
WIFE is to make good faith efforts to refinance the
outstanding mortgage on the marital residence into her name alone
so that HUSBAND will not bear any financial responsibility for the
marital residence. WIFE shall have one (1) year from the date of
final execution of this Agreement within which to refinance the
outstanding mortgage obligation in her name alone. However, it is
understood that WIFE has previouslY made an effort to have the
hou.e refinanced in her name alone and she will continue to make a
good faith effort to the have the refinancing done as soon as
po..ible. In the event that WIFE is unable to accomplish the
refinancing of the marital residence mortgage obligation in her
name alone it is hereby agreed that after the expiration of one
year from the date of final execution of this Agreement, the
marital residence will be sold. Should this occur WIFE will
5
receive all the net proceeds from the sale of the marital
residence.
7. fAMILY BUSINESS
HUSBAND and WIFE have operated a family business which 1a
incorporated and is titled "FitzpatriCk Cleaning, Inc.". pursuant
to thfl termS of this Agreement WIFE will surrender and transfer all
her shares in the corporation known as "Fitzpatrick Cleaning,
Inc. ", to HUSBAND so that HUSBAND will be the sole owner o~ the
.
family businesS and corporation. HUSBAND hereby agrees to hold
WIFE harmless and to indemnify WIFE on any claims made against
Fitzpatrick Cleaning, Inc. for past or future claims.
It is agreed however that WIFE will continue as a full-time
employee of Fitzpatrick Cleaning, Inc. and will receive a monthly
groSS salary in the amount of $1,800.00, pluS medical coverage.
WIFE's employment with Fitzpatrick Cleaning, Inc. and the medical
coverage, will continue until December :Jl, 1999, or until the
completion of college courses which WIFE is currently takin9 for
the purpose of obtaining a teaching certification, whichever first
occurs. If, at the end o~ this-time period WIFE has not secured
employment then WIFE will have the option to extend the Agreement
with regard to her full-time employment and medical coverage for an
additional six (6) months.
Although this Agreement states that WIFE will continue to work
as a full-time employee of Fitzpatrick Cleaning, Inc., "full-time
employee" is defined such that wIFE will work a regularly schedule
6
,
work week which will consist of a minimum of ten (10) hours work
per week and a maximum of twelve (12) hours work per week. WIFE
will work Monday and W.dn.sday of .ach week from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00
p.m., and will work .very oth.r Friday trom 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
WIFE understands and agrees that there will be occasions when she
may b. call.d upon to till in for an absent employ.. or oth.r
em.rq.ncy. She aqraeo that in qood faith sh. will till in to work
when called upon unless she has a previous committment. HUSBAND
aqree. that he will exercise good faith in requesting WIFE to work
additional hour. and will only do so if a genuine need has arisen.
It is unde~stood between the parties that in the past two (2)
years the WIFE has worked a schedule similar to the one set fort~
in this Aqreement and has been called upon to till in on occasion.
However, past experience tor the past two years has been that WIFE
has still only averaq.d b.tw.en ten (10) and t....e1v. (12) hours work
p.r we.k. It is the und.rstanding at both parti._ that even with
WIFE beinq called in on an occasion to work in an unscheduled time
p.riod her work will still average between ten and twalVlt hours per
",.ek. I
It HUSBAND sells the tamily business prior to December 31,
1~99, he aqree. to continue makinq the payments set torth herein as
thouqh WIFE were still workinq tor the business. HUSBAND will have
th. option to either reduce the balance ot monies owed to WIFE
under this employment agreement to present value and paying her a
lump sum, or he may continue to make payments as set forth in this
7
Agreement.
S. pENSION lUro EMPLOYMENT BENEl"!TS
Neither of the parties is the owner of any pension and/or
employment benefits not specifically mentioned in this Agreement.
Each party waives its right, claim or interest in any pension or
employm~nt benefit which the other may have.
9. ALIMONY
Bot~ parties acknowledge and agree that the provisions of this
Agreement providing for equitable distribution of marital property
are tair, adequate and satisfactory to them and are accepted by
them in lieu of and in full and tinal settlement and satisfaction
at any claims or demands that either may now or hereatter have
against the other tor support, maintenance or alimony. HUSB~NO and
WIFE turther, voluntarily and intelligently, waive and relinquish
any right to seek trom the other any payment tar support or
alimony. Each party shall indemnify, detend and hold the ather
harmle.. again.t any tuture action ot either support or alimony
brought by or on behalt ot the other, such inde1Dnity to include the
actual counsel tees ot the detendant in any such future action.
,
10. CUSTODY AND CHILD SUPPORT
HUSBAND and WIFE wll:. continue to reside in close geographical
proKimity to one another and they each desire to retain all rights
at custody with regard to bath children. It is agreed that the
children will pri1DarilY reside with WIFE since WIFE will continue
to live in the marital residence which has been the home tor the
8
children in the past. HUSBAND will continue to have liberal rights
with regard to visitation since the parties have been able to
amicably work out custody issues without the need tor a court order
in the past the parties will continue to resolve visitation issue.
in like tuhion.
HUSBAND will pay cllild support to WIFE in the amount ot
$100.00 per month until Matthew graduates trom high school. Wilen
Matthew qraduates trom high school it is agreed that the parti.s
will evaluate the amount ot support HUSBAND is payinq with l\
purpo.e toward reducing that monthly amount and ,continuinq the
lower amount ot support until such tima as Joshua graduates trom
hiqh .chool.
11. MUTUAL R~SPONS!B!LrTrES
HUSBAND hereby aqr.e. that to the best ot his ability Ile will
continue to work with Fitzpatrick Cleaninq, Inc., and maintain the
tinancial stability ot the corporation so lonq as the maintenance
i. within his control so a. to ensure that he will meet the
tinancial and employment obliqations provided to WIFE. under the
term. ot this Aqreement. "
WIFE hereby aqree. that to the best ot her ability she wi,l
tulHll her responsibilities as a tull-time employee ot Fitzpatrick
Cleaninq, Inc., tor the purpose ot helpinq to maintain the
tinancial stability ot the corporation.
12. R~L~ASE
Subject to the provisions ot this Agraement, each party has
g
. _i'''''''
"
release~ an~ ~i8charge~, an~ by this Agreement does for himself or
her.elf, an~ his or her heirs, legal representatives, executors,
administrators and assigns, release, indemnifY (including actual
leqal fees) and discharge the other of an~ from all causes of
action, claims, rights, or ~emands, whatsoever in law or equity,
including equitable distribution, spousal support, alimony, counsel
rees, alimony pendente lite and expenses which of the parties
aqainst the other ever ha~, now has, or may have in the future
under the pennsylvania Divorce code, as amen~e~, or under any other
statutory or common law, except as set forth beloW in this
paraqraph, all causes of action for ~ivorce, and all causes of
action ror breach of any provisions of this Agreement, including
proceedings to enrorce this Agreement pursuant to the provisions of
the Divorce Code. Each party also waives his or her right to
request marital counseling, pursuant to the oivorce Code.
13. H~IVERS OF CLAIMS AGAINST ESTATES
Except as herein otherwise provi~ed, each party may dispose or
his or her own property in any way, and each party he~eby waives
and relinquishes any an~ all rights he or she may noW have or
herearter acquire un~er the present or future lawS of any
jurisdiction, to share in the property or estate of the other as a
re.ult of the marital relationship, including without limitation,
dower, curt.sy, statutory allowance, widow'S allowance, right to
take against the Will of the other, an~ right to act as
administrator or executor of the other's estate, and any right
10
r
_ ,,.......... ~,
existing noW or in the tuture under the pennsylvania Divorce code,
as amended trom time to time, and each will, at the request ot the
other, execute, acknowledge and deliver any and all instruments
which may be necenary or advisable to carry into eHect this
mutual waiver and relinquishment ot all such interests, rights and
claims.
14. ~tGHTS ON EX~CUTtON
ImmediatelY upon the execution ot this Agreement, the rights
at each party against the other, despite their continuing marital
status, shall terminate and be as it they were never married.
15. ~EGAL FEES
It either party to this Agreement:, resorts to a lawsuit: or
other leqal action to entorce the provisions ot this Agreement, the
successtul party shall l:Ie entitled to recover his or her reasonable
counsel tees, actually incurred, trom the other as a part ot the
judqment entered in such legal action, whether in law, in equity or
pursuant to the provisions ot the Divorce code, as the same shall
be determined by the court.
16. INCORPO~ATION IN FINA~ D!VORCE
The terms ot this Agreement shall be incorporated but shall
not merge in a tin~l divorce decree between the parties. This
Aqreement shall survive in its entirety, resolving the spousal
support, alimony, equitable distril:lution and other interests and
rights of the parties under and pursuant to the Divorce Code of the
commonwealth ot pennsylvania, and no court asked to enforce or
II
"
I'
interpret this Agreement shall in any way change the terms of this
Agreement. This Agreement may be enforced independentlY of any
child su~port order, divorce decree or judgment and its terms shall
talce precedence over same, remaining the primary obligation of each
party, Except as herein otherwise agreed, this Agreement shall
remain in ~ull ~orce and effect regardless of any change in the
marital status of the parties. It is warranted, covenanted and
repre.ented by HUSBAND and WIFE, each to the other, that this
Agreement is' lawfUl and enforceable, and this warranty, covenant
and representation is made for the specific purpose of inducing the
parties to execute the Agreement.
17. ~DDITIONAL I~STRUME~TS
Each of the parties shall from time to time, at the request of
the other, execute, acknowledge and deliver to the other party, any
and all further instruments that may be reasonably required to give
~ull torce and effect to the provisions of this Agreement.
18. JNTIRE AGREEMENT
'l'his Agreement contains the entire understanding of the
partie. and there are no other representations, warranties,
covenants or undertalcings other than those expressly set forth
herein. HUSBAND and WIFE aclcnowledge and agree that the provisions
o~ this Agreement with respect to the distribution and division of
marital and separate property are fair, equitable and sati.factory
to them, based on the length of their marriage and other relevant
factors which have been talcen into consideration by the parties.
12
Both parties hereby accept the provisions o~ this Agreement with
respect to the division o~ property in lieu o~ and in ~ull and
~inal settlement and satis~action o~ all claims and demands that
they may now have or herea~ter have against the other ~or equitable
distribution of their property by any court of competent
jurisdiction. HUSBAND and WIFE each voluntarily and intelligently
waive and relinquish any right to seek a court ordered
determination and distribution o~ marital property, but nothing
herein contained shall constitute a waiver by either party of any
rights to seek the relie~ of any court ~or the purpose of en~orcing
the provisions o~ this Agreement.
19. MODIFICATION AND WAIVER
A modi~ication or waiver o~ any o~ the provisions o~ this
Agreement shall be .~f.ctive only i~ made' in writing and executed
with the sam. ~ormality as this Agreement. The ~ailure of either
party to insist upon strict performance of the provisions o~ this
Agreement shall not be construed as a waiver of any subsequent
default of the same or similar nature.
,
,
13
, '
They shall have no effect whatsoever in determining the rights or
obligations of the parties.
22. CONTROLLING LAW
This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with the laws
of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have set their hands
ancl ..ale thb 7 'Q'h. day ot ~ , 1996.
Thi. Agreement i. execu~d in duplicate, and in counterpart.,
.
ancl HUSBAND ancl WIFE, as parties hereto, acknowledge the receipt ot
a duly executed copy hereof.
WITNESS:
lSEA~L
-
(~1!/1 i'). ~I.(
,
,
,.~
CHARL!l6 lot. . FITztrRIClC:,
Plai~tiff/Re.pond.~t
v.
IN Tal:: COtrn,; ~F COMMON PI;oEAS OF
I CUMaERLAND COUNTy, PENNSYLV~~IA
I
I 95-6565 CIVIL TERM
I
I CIVIL ACTION - LAW
I IN DIVORCE
DOROTHY J. FITZPATRIC~,
Defendant/Petitioner
IN REI PETITION rOR ENFORCEMENT OF MARITAL SETTLEMENT
QE.pEJLClL._c;QU::!'I,'
AND NOW, this 30th dar of June, 1997, the Court
having heard the te.ti=ony pre.ented on the reque.t of Dorothy
Pitzpatrick to direct Charles Pitzpatrick to abide by the ter=s
o! the agreement of the partie. of June 7, 1996, the Court
directs Charles Fitzpatrick to im=ediately comply with Paragraph
7 of the =arital settlement agreement by rein.tating Hrs.
Pit:patric~'s employment scatus with Fit:patrick Cleaning, Inc.,
and continuing to ma~e the $1,800.00 monthly payments to her and
provide her with medical coverage.
8y the Court,
David T. ~luz, Is quire
Couns.l fQr Plaintiff/ae.pondent
T~_s D. Gould, Isquire
~uns.l fQr Defendant/Petitioner
Shedff
Islr
Cl(h',bd' f)
~
/~ ..
~--/
, .
DOROTHY JEAN ffiZPA TRlCK,
Plaintiff'
: IN mE COURT OF .cOMMON P 0
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 97.2907 CIVIL TERM
v.
CHARLES W ALTER FITZPATRICK,
Defendanl
: PROTECTION FROM ABUSE
CONSENT AGREEMENT
This Agreement is enlered on lhis~ of..iJ.u-~. ~ ~ 1997, by the
plaintiff', Dorothy Jean Fitzpalrick, and Ihe defendant, Charles Walter Fitzpalrick. The plaintiff'il
represenled by Joan Carey of LEGAL SERVICES, INC.; the defendanl is represenled by David
T. Kluz, Atlorney at Law. The panies agree thaI the Order of on July 18, 1997, be vacated and
lhallhe Prolection Order of June 30, 1997, be modified as follows:
1. The defendanl, Charles Waller Fitzpatrick, shall slay away from the PeMsylvania
Manufacturers Association Group (PMAG) or any other work sile where the plaintiff, Dorolhy
Jean Fitzpatrick, has been assigned 10 clean by Fitzpatrick Cleaning lnc, (FCI) during the
plaintiff's work hours except Ihal only in case of a bona fide business emergency may the
defendant appear at a FCI work sile during the plaintiff's work hours.
2. The defendanl shall stay away from any olher places where the plaintiff' is
employed.
In all other respects Ihe Prolection Order enlered on June 30, 1997, remains in eff'ect.
. .
. .,
~r.""l"""
o 'r- ;;i~h;'
,
" '
CHARLES H. FITZPATRICK.
Plaintiff/Respondent
VS
DOROTHY J. FITZPATRICK.
Defendant/Petitioner
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY. PENNSYLVANIA
95-6565 CIVIL TERM
IN DIVORCE
IN RE: PfTITION TO fNFORCE SfTTLEMENT
t)RDfR OF COllRT
AND NOH. October 27, 1997. 9:55 a.m., the matter
having been called for hearing. and counsel having agreed that
the issue is a matter of law, and having further agreed that the
amount of $866.00 in attorney's fees was reasonable. the court
does order that the plaintiff shall pay to the defendant the
amount of $866.00 in attorney's fees for the enforcement
proceeding held on June 30. 1997.
And further. we refuse to award anymore counsel fees
for the filing of the subsequent petition asking for counsel
fees.
By the Court.
David T. Kluz. Esquire
212 Locust street. suite 404
Harrisburg. Pa. 17101
For the Plaintiff/Respondent
Thomas D. Gould. ESQUire~
2 East Main street
Shiremanstown. Pa. 17011
For the Defendant/Petitioner
:mtf
ElCh;l,it F'