Broad Mountain Club, Inc. v. Lazur

OPINION OF THE COURT PER CURIAM: Appellant, Frances D. Lazur, was served with a complaint in equity on August 13, 1969. Within nine days the complaint was brought to the attention of the appellant’s attorney. No answer was filed. Sixty-four days after the service of the complaint, and at least fifty-five days after appellant’s attorney learned of the complaint, appellee obtained a default judgment. Subsequently, appellant’s attorney petitioned to open a default judgment. Relief was denied. One seeking to open a default judgment must establish that (1) the petition to open the default judgment was promptly filed, (2) the failure to file a timely answer was excusable, and (3) a meritorious defense exists. Pappas v. Stefan, 451 Pa. 354, 304 A.2d 143 (1973). We have examined the record and agree with the trial court that the appellant’s failure to file a timely answer was not excusable. The trial court properly denied the petition to open the judgment. Pappas v. Stefan, supra. Decree affirmed. Each party to pay own costs.