Rule 215. Advanced Communication Technology

Magisterial district judges may authorize the use of advanced communication technology during any civil proceeding or action governed by the Rules of Civil Procedure for Magisterial District Judges.

Official Note

This rule was adopted in 2008 to specify that magisterial district judges may use advanced communication technology in their courtrooms during adversarial proceedings. In an ex parte proceeding, such as an action pursuant to the Protection From Abuse Act, 23 Pa.C.S. § § 6101—6122, or 42 Pa.C.S. § § 62A01—62A20 (providing for protection of victims of sexual violence or intimidation), magisterial district judges also may permit the use of advanced communication technology. Limited technology available in some magisterial district courts may preclude the use of certain advanced communication technology options. Compare Pa.R.Crim.P. 119.