This template is a pretrial statement that may be used in Pennsylvania state court, and it contains practical guidance, drafting notes, and an optional clause. The purpose of this template is to identify and narrow issues before trial, exchange witness information and exhibits, obtain stipulations and admissions, prevent surprises, and explore settlement. See Pa.R.Civ. P. 212.3; see also Vogel v. Berkley, 511 A.2d 878, 880 (Pa. Super. Ct. 1986). Not every case requires the drafting, filing or service of a pretrial statement. Some counties do not have any pretrial requirements, others have quite extensive procedures and will issue some sort of case management order that sets important filing requirements and deadlines. Also, either party can request a pretrial conference, under Rule 212.3, and the judge handing the case may also set his or her own pretrial requirements and scheduling order. A pretrial statement, if required, will be "due" by a certain date. That date can vary depending upon the case, the type of program, county rules, the judge's policy, and the scheduling order. So, prior to drafting a pretrial statement, consult state and local county rules found under Rule 212.3 which govern the procedures for the content, timing and service requirements for pretrial statements and conferences. A party who fails to timely file or serve a legally compliant pretrial statement as required by state/local law may be barred from presenting evidence or face monetary penalty. For a more detailed discussion and checklist on pretrial conferences, see Pretrial Conferences Checklist (PA).