Pennsylvania Code Title 231 - RULES OF CIVIL PROCEDURE
Here’s an updated overview of Pennsylvania Code Title 231 – Rules of Civil Procedure, current through 55 Pa.B. 2578 (March 29, 2025) (pacodeandbulletin.gov):
📐 Title 231 – Two Main Parts
Part I – General
Contains the comprehensive procedural rules applicable to civil actions in Pennsylvania’s Courts of Common Pleas, covering topics like commencement of actions, pleadings, venue, process, joinder, discovery, default, judgments, arbitration, and more (pacodeandbulletin.gov).
Part II – Orphans’ Court Rules
Governs procedural rules for Orphans’ Courts, which handle estates, fiduciary matters, guardianships, and related proceedings (pacodeandbulletin.gov).
🔍 Selected Rule Highlights
Commencing an Action & Venue (Rule 1006–1007)
Rule 1006: Defines proper venue—generally where the defendant may be served, cause arose, property is located, or as otherwise specified (pacodeandbulletin.gov).
Rule 1007: Specifies commencement either by praecipe for a summons or by filing a complaint (pacodeandbulletin.gov).
Signature & Certification (Rule 1023.1)
Pleadings, motions, and other legal papers must be signed by counsel or self-represented litigants, certifying a reasonable inquiry into the facts and law. Sanctions may follow if signers violate these standards .
Appearance & Withdrawal (Rule 1012)
Attorneys must file a written appearance with a valid in-state address and may withdraw only with leave of court, unless a substitute attorney enters (pacodeandbulletin.gov).
Default, Judgments, and Confessions (Rule 1037 et seq.)
Rule 1037: Allows entering default judgments for failure to plead or default, with guidelines on damages assessment and notice (pacodeandbulletin.gov).
Second Actions (Rule 231)
After voluntary nonsuit/discontinuance, plaintiffs may refile upon paying prior costs; but after compulsory nonsuit, refiling isn’t permitted (law.cornell.edu).
Prothonotary’s Responsibilities (Rules 205.2–205.4)
Courts must accept filings that comply with statewide rules, and may permit or require electronic filing. Filing of copies (including faxed) is acceptable if originals are available upon request .
📘 Procedural Flow at a Glance
Phase
Rules & Highlights
Start Action
Rules 1006–1007 (venue & commencement)
Pleadings
Rule 1012 (appearance), Rule 1023.1 (signing/certification)
Default/Judgment
Rule 1037 (default judgment procedures)
Refiling
Rule 231 (second actions)
Filing Mechanics
Rules 205.2–205.4 (electronic filing, originals/copies)
Special Courts
Part II (Orphans’ Court rules)
🧭 Want a Deeper Dive?
Let me know if you’re interested in specifics like:
Discovery and depositions (Rule Chapters ~4000–5000),
Responder actions (e.g., ejectment, replevin, mandamus),
Orphans’ Court procedures (probate, fiduciaries),
Arbitration protocols (Chapter 1300),
Or another area like venue transfer, sanctions, or default entry.
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