May 20, 2026

On May 18, 2026, the Chester County Sheriff filed an emergency petition for permission to adjourn roughly ninety-eight (98) sales scheduled for May 21, June 18, and July 16, 2026, to August, September, and October respectively, without requiring re-advertisement or re-notice. The petition cited staffing problems. However, the judge denied the requested relief on procedural grounds.

The Chester County Sheriff specifically argued that pursuant to Pa. R.C.P. 3129.3, a judge could by “special order” permit the requested postponement. Further arguing that the petition was proper because: (1) the number of foreclosure dockets involved in which the Sheriff is not a party to file individual motions; and (2) a short one term adjournment was all that was needed to address the issue.

The presiding judge disagreed and issued a blanket denial. The decision includes one footnote explaining that, according to Pa. R.C.P. 1007, a civil action must be brought by writ or complaint, and not by petition as was done in this matter. Thus, the court lacked jurisdiction to grant the requested relief.

Notwithstanding the Court’s Order, the Chester County, Pennsylvania Sheriff’s Office is postponing all Sheriff Sales for May, June and July 2026. All Sheriff Sales scheduled for May 21, 2026, are now postponed to August 20, 2026.  All Sheriff Sales scheduled for June 18, 2026, are now postponed to September 17, 2026.  All Sheriff Sales scheduled for July 16, 2026, are now postponed to October 15, 2026.

Notice of the postponed sales will be posted on the Sheriff’s Office website as well as the Bid4Assets website.  Notice will also be posted on the door to the Sheriff’s Office in the Chester County Courthouse.  Notice will also be posted in the Chester County Sheriff’s Office where Handbills are usually posted.

We will monitor for any continued developments in scheduled Sheriff’s sale and acceptance of new sale packages.

DISCLAIMER

This publication may constitute attorney advertising under the laws and rules of professional conduct of one or more states. The information provided in this publication is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The contents are not intended to be a substitute for professional legal advice, consultation, or representation. No attorney-client relationship is formed by reading or relying on this publication. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Readers should consult a qualified attorney for advice regarding their individual circumstances or any specific legal questions they may have.

If you have questions about this publication, please contact Adam Friedman, Ralph Vartolo or Michael DeRosa,
Friedman Vartolo LLP, 1325 Franklin Avenue, Suite 160, Garden City, NY 11530, Phone: (212) 471-5100 | Fax: (212) 471-5150.