Philadelphia Dispute Resolution Center – Philadelphia, PA

Court of Common Pleas Dispute Resolution Center

The Dispute Resolution Center (DRC) is a specialized facility of the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas, Civil Trial Division. Located in Room 691 of historic City Hall (accessible via the East Penn Square entrance), the center serves as the primary venue for **Mandatory Settlement Conferences** in major civil jury cases. The DRC aims to resolve complex legal disputes efficiently, reducing the backlog of cases proceeding to trial and offering litigants a streamlined alternative to prolonged courtroom litigation.

Judge Pro Tempore Program

The center’s operations are anchored by the Judge Pro Tempore (JPT) program. Experienced attorneys, appointed by the court, serve as neutral presiding officers during settlement conferences. These JPTs review case files, hear arguments from counsel, and utilize their legal expertise to facilitate negotiations and recommend fair settlement values. This process is a critical step in the civil litigation timeline, typically scheduled after the discovery phase is complete.

Case Types and Procedures

The DRC handles a wide spectrum of civil matters, including:

• Personal Injury: Motor vehicle accidents, slip and falls, and premises liability.
• Medical Malpractice: Claims involving professional negligence in healthcare.
• Commercial Disputes: Breach of contract, business torts, and property damage claims.
• Product Liability: Cases involving defective or dangerous consumer products.

Visitor Information

As the center is located within City Hall, all visitors must pass through security screening upon entry, which includes metal detectors and bag checks. A valid government-issued photo ID is required. Counsel and parties attending conferences should arrive promptly and bring all necessary case documentation. The environment is professional, and business attire is expected.