This section outlines the amendments and jurisdictional rules for Pennsylvania's judicial procedures, including the transition from justices of the peace to magisterial district judges, and specifies the appellate and original jurisdiction of the Superior Court. It clarifies rules related to civil proceedings, suspension of certain rules, and appellate authority over lower courts.
The Superior Court has appellate jurisdiction over final orders from lower courts and limited original jurisdiction in cases like mandamus and habeas corpus.
Magisterial district judges, formerly justices of the peace, handle civil and minor criminal matters, and their procedures are governed by the Rules of Conduct and Civil Procedure.
Yes, certain rules, such as section 727, have been suspended by court rules when inconsistent, affecting appellate procedures and civil matters.
Generally, no. The Superior Court's original jurisdiction is limited to specific cases like mandamus, prohibition, and habeas corpus; most cases are appealed to it.