Section 1920.53. Hearing by Master. Report

In an action for divorce or annulment which has been referred to a master, the master’s report shall include findings of fact, conclusions of law and a recommended disposition of the case.

(a) The findings of fact shall include

(1) the method and date of service of process.

(2) the manner and date of service of the notice of the master’s hearing or the master’s efforts to notify the defendant.

(3) the date and place of marriage.

(4) information relating to any prior marriage of either party and proof of dissolution of such prior marriage.

(5) the residences of the parties at the time of the marriage and subsequent thereto, the actual length of time the parties have resided in the Commonwealth, and whether the residence requirement of Section 3104(b) of the Divorce Code has been met.

(6) the age and occupation of each party.

(7) the name and age of each child of the parties, if any, and with whom each resides.

(8) the grounds upon which the action is based.

(9) defenses to the action, if any, and

(10) whether the divorce should be granted on the basis of the complaint or the counterclaim, if filed.

(b) The conclusions of law shall include a discussion of the law as it relates to the facts, as well as the legal conclusions reached by the master.

(c) The report shall include the master’s recommendation that the divorce or annulment be granted or denied. If divorce or annulment is recommended, the master shall attach a proposed decree.

The provisions of this Rule 1920.53 amended September 11, 1995, effective January 1, 1996, 25 Pa.B. 4097. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (188377) to (188378).