Source: http://www.pacode.com/secure/data/231/chapter1000/subchapAtoc.html
Timestamp: 2017-05-25 22:00:40
Document Index: 640039320

Matched Legal Cases: ['§ 5101', '§ 7304', '§ 7342', '§ 5103', '§ 2503', '§ 7502', '§ 1303']

1001. Definition. Scope.
1002. Authority of Attorney.
1003. Waiver of Rules. Extension of Time.
1006. Venue. Change of Venue.
1007. Commencement of Action.
1007.1. Jury Trial. Demand. Waiver.
1008. Copies for Service. [Rescinded]
1009. Service. [Rescinded]
1010. Reissuance, Reinstatement and Substitution of Writ or Complaint. [Rescinded]
1011. Acceptance of Service.
1012. Entry of Appearance. Withdrawal of Appearance. Notice.
1012.1. Admission Pro Hac Vice. Motion. Content.
1013. Sheriffs Return. [Rescinded]
1017. Pleadings Allowed.
1018. Caption.
1018.1. Notice to Defend. Form.
1019. Contents of Pleadings. General and Specific Averments.
1020. Pleading More Than One Cause of Action. Alternative Pleading. Failure to Join. Bar.
1021. Claim for Relief. Determination of Amount in Controversy.
1022. Paragraphing.
1023. [Rescinded].
1023.1. Scope. Signing of Documents. Representations to the Court. Violation.
1023.2. Motion for Sanctions.
1023.3. Sanctions upon Rule to Show Cause.
1023.4. Sanctions.
1024. Verification.
1025. Endorsement.
1026. Time for Filing. Notice to Plead.
1027. Service of Copies. [Rescinded]
1028. Preliminary Objections.
1029. Denials. Effect of Failure to Deny.
1030. New Matter.
1031. Counterclaim.
1031.1. Cross-claim.
1032. Waiver of Defenses. Exceptions. Suggestion of Lack of Subject MatterJurisdiction or Failure to Join Indispensable Party.
1033. Amendment.
1034. Motion for Judgment on the Pleadings.
1035. Motion for Summary Judgment. [Rescinded]
1035.1. Motion for Summary Judgment. Definition.
1035.2. Motion.
1035.3. Response. Judgment for Failure to Respond.
1035.4. Affidavits.
1035.5. Procedure When Judgment Is Denied or Is Not Rendered Upon theWhole Case.
1036. Dismissal Upon Affidavit of Noninvolvement.
1036.1. Reinstatement of Claim Dismissed Upon Affidavit of Noninvolvement.
1037. Judgment Upon Default or Admission. Assessment of Damages.
1038. Trial Without Jury.
1038.1. Case Submitted on Stipulated Facts.
1038.2. Abolition of Case Stated.
1038.3. Equitable Relief. Advisory Verdict by Jury.
1039. Entry of Judgment Upon Praecipe of a Party. [Rescinded]
1040. Suspension of Acts of Assembly.
Rule 1001. Definition. Scope.
(a) As used in this chapter and in Rules 1506 and 1531 through 1535, action means a civil action brought in or appealed to any court which is subject to these rules.
(b) There shall be a civil action in which shall be brought all claims for relief heretofore aserted in
(3) the action in equity. Official Note
The procedural distinctions between the forms of action in assumpsit, trespass and equity are abolished.
The following rules govern particular types of equitable relief: Rule 1506 (stockholders derivative suits), Rule 1531 (injunctions), Rule 1532 (perpetuation of testimony), Rule 1533 (receivers), Rule 1534 (Accounting by Fiduciaries) and Rule 1535 (objections to security).
The action to prevent waste has been abolished. The relief formerly available in that action may be obtained in a civil action seeking equitable relief.
(c) Other forms of action which incorporate these rules by reference shall be known as civil action[type of action].
For example, the action of mandamus shall be known as civil actionmandamus.
The provisions of this Rule 1001 adopted June 25, 1946, effective January 1, 1947; amended through December 16, 1983, effective July 1, 1984, 13 Pa.B. 3999; amended April 4, 1990, effective July 1, 1990, 20 Pa.B. 2281; amended December 16, 2003, effective July 1, 2004, 34 Pa.B. 9; amended October 15, 2004, effective immediately, 34 Pa.B. 5889. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (302448) to (302449).
Any act other than verification required or authorized by this chapter to be done by a party may be done by the partys attorney.
The provisions of this Rule 1002 adopted June 25, 1946, effective January 1, 1947; amended April 12, 1999, effective July 1, 1999, 29 Pa.B. 2266. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (212289).
Rule 1003. Waiver of Rules. Extension of Time.
Rules relating to the manner of commencing an action or the time for serving process or for filing or serving pleadings may be waived by agreement of the parties. The court on cause shown may extend or shorten the time within which pleadings shall be filed or process served.
The provisions of this Rule 1003 adopted June 25, 1946, effective January 1, 1947.
(a) Except as otherwise provided by subdivisions (a.1), (b), and (c) of this rule, an action against an individual may be brought in and only in a county in which
For a definition of transaction or occurrence, see Craig v. W. J. Thiele & Sons, Inc., 149 A.2d 35 (Pa. 1959).
(a.1) Except as otherwise provided by subdivision (c), a medical professional liability action may be brought against a health care provider for a medical professional liability claim only in a county in which the cause of action arose. This provision does not apply to a cause of action that arises outside the Commonwealth.
See Section 5101.1(c) of the Judicial Code, 42 Pa.C.S. § 5101.1(c), for the definitions of health care provider, medical professional liability action, and medical professional liability claim.
Partnerships, unincorporated associations, and corporations and similar entities are subject to subdivision (a.1) governing venue in medical professional liability actions. See Rules 2130, 2156 and 2179.
Subdivision (a.1) is a venue rule and does not create jurisdiction in Pennsylvania over a foreign cause of action where jurisdiction does not otherwise exist.
(c)(1) Except as otherwise provided by subdivision (c)(2), an action to enforce a joint or joint and several liability against two or more defendants, except actions in which the Commonwealth is a party defendant, may be brought against all defendants in any county in which the venue may be laid against any one of the defendants under the general rules of subdivisions (a) or (b).
(2) If the action to enforce a joint or joint and several liability against two or more defendants includes one or more medical professional liability claims, the action shall be brought in any county in which the venue may be laid against any defendant under subdivision (a.1). This provision does not apply to a cause of action that arises outside the Commonwealth.
(d)(1) For the convenience of parties and witnesses the court upon petition of any party may transfer an action to the appropriate court of any other county where the action could originally have been brought.
(2) Where, upon petition and hearing thereon, the court finds that a fair and impartial trial cannot be held in the county for reasons stated of record, the court may order that the action be transferred. The order changing venue shall be certified forthwith to the Supreme Court, which shall designate the county to which the case is to be transferred.
For the recusal of the judge for interest or prejudice, see Rule 2.11 of the Code of Judicial Conduct.
(3) It shall be the duty of the prothonotary of the court in which the action is pending to forward to the prothonotary of the county to which the action is transferred, certified copies of the docket entries, process, pleadings, depositions and other papers filed in the action. The costs and fees of the petition for transfer and the removal of the record shall be paid by the petitioner in the first instance to be taxable as costs in the case.
(f)(1) Except as provided by subdivision (f)(2), if the plaintiff states more than one cause of action against the same defendant in the complaint pursuant to Rule 1020(a), the action may be brought in any county in which any one of the individual causes of action might have been brought.
(2) Except as otherwise provided by subdivision (c), if one or more of the causes of action stated against the same defendant is a medical professional liability claim, the action shall be brought in a county required by subdivision (a.1).
The provisions of this Rule 1006 amended through June 20, 1985, effective January 1, 1986, 15 Pa.B. 2452; amended April 12, 1999, effective July 1, 1999, 29 Pa.B. 2266; amended January 27, 2003, effective immediately, 33 Pa.B. 751; amended December 16, 2003, effective July 1, 2004, 34 Pa.B. 9; amended June 15, 2011, effective August 1, 2011, 41 Pa.B. 3526; amended April 29, 2016, effective immediately, 46 Pa.B. 2409. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (357755) to (357757).
Rule 1007. Commencement of Action.
(2) a complaint. Official Note
For the form of the writ of summons, see Rule 1351, infra.
The provisions of this Rule 1007 amended July 18, 1991, effective January 1, 1992, 21 Pa.B. 3399; amended February 25, 2010, effective in ninety days, 40 Pa.B. 1395. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (302451) to (302452).
(a) In any action in which the right to jury trial exists, that right shall be deemed waived unless a party files and serves a written demand for a jury trial not later than twenty days after service of the last permissible pleading. The demand shall be made by endorsement on a pleading or by a separate writing.
Rule 1007.1(a) gives no specific guidance on the existence of a right to jury trial. It could not, in the face of Rule 128(f).
(b) Where an appeal is taken from an award in compulsory arbitration and a jury trial has not theretofore been demanded, the right to a jury trial shall be deemed waived unless the appellant endorses a demand for a jury trial on the appeal, or unless the appellee files and serves a written demand for a jury trial not later than ten days after being served with the notice of appeal.
Trial without jury shall be conducted in accordance with Rule 1038.
(c)(1) A demand for trial by jury may not be withdrawn without the consent of all parties who have appeared in the action.
(2) A demand for a trial by jury on behalf of a party shall be deemed withdrawn if at the time a case is called for trial that party, without satisfactory excuse, fails to appear or appears but is not ready. Any other party appearing and ready who has not already demanded a trial by jury shall forthwith demand a trial by jury or shall be deemed to have waived the same.
The provisions of this Rule 1007.1 amended through April 23, 1985, effective July 1, 1985, 15 Pa.B. 1727; amended April 12, 1999, effective July 1, 1999, 29 Pa.B. 2266; amended December 16, 2003, effective July 1, 2004, 34 Pa.B. 9. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (296879).
Rule 1008. Copies for Service.
For the requirement of attested or certified copies for service, see Rule 401(c).
The provisions of this Rule 1008 rescinded June 20, 1985, effective January 1, 1986, 15 Pa.B. 2452. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (87239).
Rule 1009. Service.
The provisions of this Rule 1009 rescinded June 20, 1985, effective January 1, 1986, 15 Pa.B. 2452. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (87239) to (87240), and (40033).
Rule 1010. Reissuance, Reinstatement and Substitution of Writ or Complaint.
For reissuance, reinstatement and substitution of original process, see Rule 401(b).
The provisions of this Rule 1010 rescinded June 20, 1985, effective January 1, 1986, 15 Pa.B. 2452. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (40033) and (87241).
Rule 1011. Acceptance of Service.
For acceptance of service, see Rule 402(b).
The provisions of this Rule 1011 rescinded June 20, 1985, effective January 1, 1986, 15 Pa.B. 2452. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (87241).
(b)(1) The sponsor shall file a written motion for admission pro hac vice in the action for which admission is sought. The motion shall: (i) aver that the information required by Section 81.504 of the IOLTA regulations has been provided to the IOLTA Board, and (ii) either aver that the fee required by Section 81.505(a) of the IOLTA regulations has been paid, include as an attachment a copy of a fee payment certification from the IOLTA Board, or aver that the payment of the fee is not required pursuant to Section 81.505(c) of the IOLTA regulations.
(2) The verifications required by subdivisions (c) and (d)(2) shall be attached to the motion.
The provisions of this Rule 1012.1 adopted June 29, 2007, effective September 4, 2007, 37 Pa.B. 3225; amended December 10, 2013, effective February 10, 2014, 43 Pa.B. 7544. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (338885) to (338887).
Rule 1013. Sheriffs Return.
The provisions of this Rule 1013 rescinded June 20, 1985, effective January 1, 1986, 15 Pa.B. 2452. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (87241).
Rule 1017. Pleadings Allowed.
(a) Except as provided by Rule 1041.1, the pleadings in an action are limited to
The term complaint includes a complaint to join an additional defendant.
(2) a reply if the answer contains new matter a counterclaim or a cross-claim,
Pleading in asbestos litigation is governed by Rule 1041.1. An answer needs to be filed to a preliminary objection only when the preliminary objection alleges facts not of record. See Rule 1028(c)(2), note.
The grounds for preliminary objections are set forth in Rule 1028(a).
(c) No formal joinder of issues is required.
The Civil Procedural Rules Committee, by communication dated August 27, 1969, announced that amendment of this rule effective September 1, 1969 applied to pending actions.
The provisions of this Rule 1017 adopted June 25, 1946, effective January 1, 1947; amended June 27, 1969, effective September 1, 1969; amended January 7, 1971, effective February 15, 1971; amended June 28, 1974, effective June 28, 1974; amended December 16, 1983, effective July 1, 1984, 13 Pa.B. 3999; amended April 4, 1990, effective July 1, 1990, 20 Pa.B. 2281; amended July 18, 1991, effective January 1, 1992, 21 Pa.B. 3400; amended March 23, 2007, effective June 1, 2007, 37 Pa.B. 1480. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (308940).
The provisions of this Rule 1018 adopted June 25, 1946, effective January 1, 1947; amended October 15, 2004, effective immediately, 34 Pa.B. 5889; amended December 27, 2004, effective immediately, 35 Pa.B. 349. Immediately preceeding text appears at serial page (307553).
Captioning and Docketing of Actions and Proceeding in the Courts of Common PleasORDEREffective February 8, 1969
Rule 1018.1. Notice to Defend. Form.
(a) Every complaint filed by a plaintiff and every complaint filed by a defendant against an additional defendant shall begin with a notice to defend in substantially the form set forth in subdivision (b). No other notice to plead to a complaint shall be required.
(b) [CAPTION]Notice
The above notice does not change any of the rules relating to the pleading of objections and defenses. This rule applies to all complaints including those where service is by publication. For the mandatory content of the publication in such cases see Rule 430(b). When a defendant is served outside the United States, Rule 1026(b) provides a sixty-day period for pleading.
(c) Each court shall be local rule designate the officer, organization, agency or person to be named in the notice from whom information can be obtained.
(d) A court may by local rule require the notice to be repeated in one or more designated languages other than English.
The provisions of this Rule 1018.1 adopted January 23, 1975, effective July 1, 1975, 5 Pa.B. 326; amended July 1, 1975, effective August 1, 1975, 5 Pa.B. 1824; amended May 15, 1979, effective June 1, 1979, 9 Pa.B. 1854; amended June 10, 2003, effective September 1, 2003, 33 Pa.B. 2974. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (212294) and (271787).
Rule 1020. Pleading More Than One Cause of Action. Alternative Pleading. Failure to Join. Bar.
(a) The plaintiff may state in the complaint more than one cause of action cognizable in a civil action against the same defendant. Each cause of action and any special damage related thereto shall be stated in a separate count containing a demand for relief.
Rule 102 provides that the singular includes the plural and the plural includes the singular.
(b) If persons join as plaintiffs under Rules 2228, 2229(a) or (e), the complaint shall state the cause of action, any special damage, and the demand for relief of each plaintiff in a separate count, preceded by a heading naming the parties to the cause of action therein set forth.
(c) Causes of action and defenses may be pleaded in the alternative.
Mandatory joinder is limited to related causes of action heretofore asserted in assumpsit and trespass. There is no mandatory joinder of related causes of action in equity.
See Rule 2226 et seq. governing joinder of parties.
See Rule 213(a) and (b) governing the consolidation and severance of causes of action.
The provisions of this Rule 1020 adopted June 25, 1946, effective January 1, 1947; amended through December 16, 1983, effective July 1, 1984, 13 Pa.B. 3999; amended December 16, 2003, effective July 1, 2004, 34 Pa.B. 9. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (297570) and (288323). Rule 1021. Claim for Relief. Determination of Amount in Controversy.
(a) Any pleading demanding relief shall specify the relief sought. Relief in the alternative or of several different types, including an accounting, may be demanded.
(b) Any pleading demanding relief for unliquidated damages shall not claim any specific sum.
(c) In counties having rules governing compulsory arbitration the plaintiff shall state whether the amount claimed does or does not exceed the jurisdictional amount requiring arbitration referral by local rule.
(d) The court on its own motion or motion of any party may by discovery, pretrial conference, hearing or otherwise, determine the amount actually in controversy and enter an order of reference to arbitration. Source
The provisions of this Rule 1021 adopted June 25, 1946, effective January 1, 1947; amended December 16, 1983, effective July 1, 1984, 13 Pa.B. 3999; amended December 21, 1993, effective July 1, 1994, 24 Pa.B. 119; amended April 12, 1999, effective July 1, 1999, 29 Pa.B. 2266. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (234003).
Rule 1022. Paragraphing.
Every pleading shall be divided into paragraphs numbered consecutively. Each paragraph shall contain as far as practicable only one material allegation.
The provisions of this Rule 1022 adopted June 25, 1946, effective January 1, 1947.
Rule 1023. [Rescinded].
The provisions of this Rule 1023 adopted June 25, 1946, effective January 1, 1947; amended March 11, 1991, effective July 1, 1991, 21 Pa.B. 1274; amended August 11, 1997, effective December 1, 1997, 27 Pa.B. 4426; reserved April 22, 2002, effective July 1, 2002, 32 Pa.B. 2315. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (255203) to (255204).
Rule 1023.2. Motion for Sanctions.
(a) An application for sanctions under this rule shall be made by motion, shall be made separately from other applications and shall describe the specific conduct alleged to violate Rule 1023.1(c).
(b) No such motion shall be filed unless it includes a certification that the applicant served written notice and demand to the attorney or pro se party who signed or filed the challenged pleading, motion or other paper. The certification shall have annexed a copy of that notice and demand, which shall identify with specificity each portion of the document which is believed to violate the provisions of this rule, set forth the basis for that belief with specificity, include a demand that the document or portion of the document, be withdrawn or appropriately corrected. An application for sanctions may be filed if the challenged paper, claim, defense, contention, allegation, or denial is not withdrawn or appropriately corrected within twenty-eight days after service of the written demand. If warranted, the court may award to the party prevailing on the motion the reasonable expenses and attorneys fees incurred in presenting or opposing the motion.
(c) A motion requesting sanctions under this rule shall be filed in the trial court before the entry of final judgment.
The provisions of this Rule 1023.2 adopted April 22, 2002, effective July 1, 2002, 32 Pa.B. 2315.
Rule 1023.3. Sanctions upon Rule to Show Cause.
On its own initiative, the court may enter an order describing the specific conduct that appears to violate Rule 1023.1(c) and directing an attorney, law firm or party to show cause why it has not violated Rule 1023.1(c) with respect thereto.
The provisions of this Rule 1023.3 adopted April 22, 2002, effective July 1, 2002, 32 Pa.B. 2315.
Rule 1023.4. Sanctions.
(a)(1) A sanction imposed for violation of Rule 1023.1 shall be limited to that which is sufficient to deter repetition of such conduct or comparable conduct by others similarly situated.
(2) Subject to the limitations in subdivision (b), the sanction may consist of, or include,
(i) directives of a nonmonetary nature, including the striking of the offensive litigation document or portion of the litigation document,
(ii) an order to pay a penalty into court, or,
(iii) if imposed on motion and warranted for effective deterrence, an order directing payment to the movant of some or all of the reasonable attorneys fees and other expenses incurred as a direct result of the violation.
(3) Except in exceptional circumstances, a law firm shall be held jointly responsible for violations committed by its partners, associates and employees.
(b)(1) Monetary sanctions may not be awarded against a represented party for violation of Rule 1023.1(c)(2).
(2) Monetary sanctions may not be awarded on the courts initiative unless the court issues its order to show cause before a voluntary dismissal or settlement of the claims made by or against the party which is, or whose attorneys are, to be sanctioned.
(c) When imposing sanctions, the court shall describe the conduct determined to be a violation of Rule 1023.1 and explain the basis for the sanction imposed.
The provisions of this Rule 1023.4 adopted April 22, 2002, effective July 1, 2002, 32 Pa.B. 2315.
(a) Every pleading containing an averment of fact not appearing of record in the action or containing a denial of fact shall state that the averment or denial is true upon the signers personal knowledge or information and belief and shall be verified. The signer need not aver the source of the information or expectation of ability to prove the averment or denial at the trial. A pleading may be verified upon personal knowledge as to a part and upon information and belief as to the remainder.
See Definition Rule 76 for definition of verified.
(b) If a pleading contains averments which are inconsistent in fact, the verification shall state that the signer has been unable after reasonable investigation to ascertain which of the inconsistent averments, specifying them, are true but that the signer has knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief that one of them is true.
The provisions of this Rule 1024 adopted June 25, 1946, effective January 1, 1947; amended October 16, 1981, effective October 16, 1981, 11 Pa.B. 3687; amended April 12, 1999, effective July 1, 1999, 29 Pa.B. 2266. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (234004) and (246959).
Rule 1025. Endorsement.
Every pleading or other legal paper of a party represented by an attorney shall be endorsed with the name of the attorney, and every pleading or other legal paper of a party not represented by an attorney shall be endorsed with the name of the party, together in each case with an address where pleadings and other legal papers may be served in the manner provided by Rule 440(a) and a telephone number. The appearance may state a telephone facsimile number.
The address endorsed on the legal paper must be one where the paper may be handed to or mailed to the attorney or party. See Rule 440(a).
The provisions of this Rule 1025 adopted June 25, 1946, effective January 1, 1947; amended and effective March 28, 1966; amended April 18, 1975, effective immediately, 5 Pa.B. 1820; amended April 4, 1990, effective July 1, 1990, 20 Pa.B. 2279; amended August 3, 1998, effective January 1, 1999, 28 Pa.B. 3928; amended April 19, 2003, effective September 1, 2003, 33 Pa.B. 2356. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (295843).
Rule 1026. Time for Filing. Notice to Plead.
For the form of notice to defend see Rule 1018.1 and for the form of notice to plead see Rule 1361.
Additional time within which to plead may be sought under Rule 248.
Rule 1042.4 governs actions in which a professional liability claim is asserted.
The provisions of this Rule 1026 amended through June 20, 1985, effective January 1, 1986, 15 Pa.B. 2452; amended January 27, 2003, effective immediately, 33 Pa.B. 748; amended October 15, 2004, effective immediately, 34 Pa.B. 5889. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (302461).
Rule 1027. Service of Copies.
For the method of service of pleadings and legal papers other than original process see Rule 440.
The provisions of this Rule 1027 rescinded June 20, 1985, effective January 1, 1986, 15 Pa.B. 2452. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (87249).
(1) lack of jurisdiction over the subject matter of the action or the person of the defendant, improper venue or improper form or service of a writ of summons or a complaint;
Of the three grounds available to challenge venue, only improper venue may be raised by preliminary objection as provided by Rule 1006(e). Forum non conveniens and inability to hold a fair and impartial trial are raised by petition as provided by Rule 1006(d)(1) and (2).
See Rule of Appellate Procedure 311(b) for interlocutory appeals as of right from orders sustaining jurisdiction and venue.
The defense of the bar of a statute of frauds or statute of limitations can be asserted only in a responsive pleading as new matter under Rule 1030.
(5) lack of capacity to sue, nonjoinder of a necessary party or misjoinder of a cause of action;
(6) pendency of a prior action or agreement for alternative dispute resolution;
An agreement to arbitrate may be asserted by preliminary objection or by petition to compel arbitration pursuant to the Uniform Arbitration Act, 42 Pa.C.S. § 7304, or the common law, 42 Pa.C.S. § 7342(a).
(7) failure to exercise or exhaust a statutory remedy; and
(8) full, complete and adequate non-statutory remedy at law.
(b) All preliminary objections shall be raised at one time. They shall state specifically the grounds relied upon and may be inconsistent. Two or more preliminary objections may be raised in one pleading.
(c)(1) A party may file an amended pleading as of course within twenty days after service of a copy of preliminary objections. If a party has filed an amended pleading as of course, the preliminary objections to the original pleading shall be deemed moot.
(2) The court shall determine promptly all preliminary objections. If an issue of fact is raised, the court shall consider evidence by depositions or otherwise.
Preliminary objections raising an issue under subdivision (a)(1), (5), (6), (7) or (8) cannot be determined from facts of record. In such a case, the preliminary objections must be endorsed with a notice to plead or no response will be required under Rule 1029(d).
Rule 239.5 requires every court to promulgate Local Rule 1028(c) describing the local court procedure governing preliminary objections.
(d) If the preliminary objections are overruled, the objecting party shall have the right to plead over within twenty days after notice of the order or within such other time as the court shall fix.
(e) If the filing of an amendment, an amended pleading or a new pleading is allowed or required, it shall be filed within twenty days after notice of the order or within such other time as the court shall fix.
(f) Objections to any amended pleading shall be made by filing new preliminary objections.
The provisions of this Rule 1028 adopted June 25, 1946, effective January 1, 1947; amended March 28, 1973, effective July 1, 1973; amended July 18, 1991, effective January 1, 1992, 21 Pa.B. 3400; amended October 24, 2003, effective 9 months after the date of the Order, 33 Pa.B. 5506; amended December 16, 2003, effective July 1, 2004, 34 Pa.B. 9; amended November 2, 2005, effective immediately, 35 Pa.B. 6318; amended June 28, 2016, effective August 1, 2016, 46 Pa.B. 3797. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (307556) and (366149).
The provisions of this Rule 1029 adopted June 25, 1946, effective January 1, 1947; amended December 16, 1983, effective July 1, 1984, 13 Pa.B. 3999; amended June 16, 1994, effective September 1, 1994, 24 Pa.B. 3213. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (159448) to (159449). Rule 1030. New Matter.
(a) Except as provided by subdivision (b), all affirmative defenses including but not limited to the defenses of accord and satisfaction, arbitration and award, consent, discharge in bankruptcy, duress, estoppel, failure of consideration, fair comment, fraud, illegality, immunity from suit, impossibility of performance, justification, laches, license, payment, privilege, release, res judicata, statute of frauds, statute of limitations, truth and waiver shall be pleaded in a responsive pleading under the heading New Matter. A party may set forth as new matter any other material facts which are not merely denials of the averments of the preceding pleading.
If a defendent pleads the affirmative defenses set forth in subdivision (b), they shall be deemed denied and the plaintiff need not reply.
(b) The affirmative defenses of assumption of the risk, comparative negligence and contributory negligence need not be pleaded.
If a defendant pleads the affirmative defenses set forth in subdivision (b), they shall be deemed denied and the plaintiff need not reply.
Defenses which are not required to be pleaded are not waived. See Rule 1032(a). Source
The provisions of this Rule 1030 adopted June 25, 1946, effective January 1, 1947; amended through December 16, 1983, effective July 1, 1984, 13 Pa.B. 3999; amended June 3, 1994, effective July 1, 1994, 24 Pa.B. 3213. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (159449) and (146639).
(a) The defendant may set forth in the answer under the heading Counterclaim any cause of action cognizable in a civil action which the defendant has against the plaintiff at the time of filing the answer.
See Rule 2256 governing counter-claims in an action involving an additional defendant.
See Rule 213(a) and (b) governing consolidation and severance of causes of action.
(b) A counterclaim need not diminish or defeat the relief demanded by the plaintiff. It may demand relief exceeding in amount or different in kind from that demanded by the plaintiff.
The provisions of Rule 1031 adopted June 25, 1946, effective January 1, 1947; amended December 16, 1983, effective July 1, 1984, 13 Pa.B. 3999; amended April 12, 1999, effective July 1, 1999, 29 Pa.B. 2266; amended December 16, 2003, effective July 1, 2004, 34 Pa.B. 9; amended March 23, 2007, effective June 1, 2007, 37 Pa.B. 1480. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (315131).
Rule 1031.1. Cross-claim.
Any party may set forth in the answer or reply under the heading Cross-claim a cause of action against any other party to the action that the other party may be
(1) solely liable on the underlying cause of action or
The term underlying cause of action refers to the cause of action set forth in the plaintiffs complaint or the defendants counterclaim.
(2) liable to or with the cross-claimant on any cause of action arising out of the transaction or occurrence or series of transactions or occurrences upon which the underlying cause of action is based.
Subparagraph (2) permits a cross-claimant to raise a claim that another party is liable over to the cross-claimant or jointly and severally liable with the cross-claimant.
The right to assert a cross-claim in a class action is limited by Rule 1706.1 to the grounds set forth in that rule.
The provisions of this Rule 1031.1 adopted March 23, 2007, effective June 1, 2007, 37 Pa.B. 1480. Rule 1032. Waiver of Defenses. Exceptions. Suggestion of Lack of Subject Matter Jurisdiction or Failure to Join Indispensable Party.
(a) A party waives all defenses and objections which are not presented either by preliminary objection, answer or reply, except a defense which is not required to be pleaded under Rule 1030(b), the defense of failure to state a claim upon which relief can be granted, the defense of failure to join an indispensable party, the objection of failure to state a legal defense to a claim, the defenses of failure to exercise or exhaust a statutory remedy and an adequate remedy at law and any other nonwaivable defense or objection.
Subdivision (a) accommodates developing law with respect to defenses or objections which cannot be waived.
(b) Whenever it appears by suggestion of the parties or otherwise that the court lacks jurisdiction of the subject matter or that there has been a failure to join an indispensable party, the court shall order that the action be transferred to a court of the Commonwealth which has jurisdiction or that the indispensable party be joined, but if that is not possible, then it shall dismiss the action.
See Section 5103 of the Judicial Code, 42 Pa.C.S. § 5103, relating to the transfer of erroneously filed matters.
The provisions of this Rule 1032 adopted June 25, 1946, effective January 1, 1947; amended June 3, 1994, effective July 1, 1994, 24 Pa.B. 3213; amended December 16, 2003, effective July 1, 2004, 34 Pa.B. 9. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (301341).
The provisions of this Rule 1033 adopted June 25, 1946, effective January 1, 1947; amended December 20, 2013, effective January 23, 2014, 44 Pa.B. 8; amended February 2, 2017, effective April 1, 2017, 47 Pa.B. 937. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (382628).
Only the pleadings between the parties to the motion for judgment on the pleadings must be closed prior to filing the motion.
Rule 239.6 requires every court to promulgate Local Rule 1034(a) describing the local court procedure governing motions for judgment on the pleadings. (b) The court shall enter such judgment or order as shall be proper on the pleadings.
The provisions of this Rule 1034 adopted June 25, 1946, effective January 1, 1947; amended February 14, 1996, effective July 1, 1996, 26 Pa.B. 862; amended October 24, 2003, effective 9 months after the date of the Order, 33 Pa.B. 5506; amended November 2, 2005, effective immediately, 35 Pa.B. 6318; amended June 28, 2016, effective August 1, 2016, 46 Pa.B. 3797. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (370006) and (366153).
Rule 1035. Motion for Summary Judgment.
In asbestos litigation, a motion for summary judgment filed by one defendant alleging a ground common to one or more other defendants is deemed filed on behalf of all such defendants. See Rule 1014.1(f).
The provisions of this Rule 1035 adopted April 18, 1966, effective May 9, 1966; amended April 18, 1975, effective immediately, 5 Pa.B. 1820; amended October 16, 1981, effective October 16, 1981, 11 Pa.B. 3687; amended April 4, 1990, effective July 1, 1990, 20 Pa.B. 228; rescinded February 14, 1996, effective July 1, 1996, 26 Pa.B. 862. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (190478) and (195285).
Rule 1035.1. Motion for Summary Judgment. Definition.
As used in Rule 1035.1 et seq., record includes any
(2) depositions, answers to interrogatories, admissions and affidavits, and Official Note
See Definition Rule 76 for the definition of affidavit. See Rule 1035.4 governing affidavits supporting or defending a motion for summary judgment.
(3) reports signed by an expert witness that would, if filed, comply with Rule 4003.5(a)(1), whether or not the reports have been produced in response to interrogatories.
The provisions of this Rule 1035.1 adopted February 14, 1996, effective July 1, 1996, 26 Pa.B. 862.
Rule 1035.2. Motion.
Rule 1035.2 sets forth the general principle that a motion for summary judgment is based on an evidentiary record which entitles the moving party to judgment as a matter of law.
The evidentiary record may be one of two types. Under subdivision (1), the record shows that the material facts are undisputed and, therefore, there is no issue to be submitted to a jury.
An example of a motion under subdivision (1) is a motion supported by a record containing an admission. By virtue of the admission, no issue of fact could be established by further discovery or expert report.
Under subdivision (2), the record contains insufficient evidence of facts to make out a prima facie cause of action or defense and, therefore, there is no issue to be submitted to a jury. The motion in this instance is made by a party who does not have the burden of proof at trial and who does not have access to the evidence to make a record which affirmatively supports the motion. To defeat this motion, the adverse party must come forth with evidence showing the existence of the facts essential to the cause of action or defense.
Oral testimony alone, either through testimonial affidavits or depositions, of the moving party or the moving partys witnesses, even if uncontradicted, is generally insufficient to establish the absence of a genuine issue of material fact. See Nanty-Glo v. American Surety Co., 163 A. 523 (Pa. 1932); Penn Center House, Inc. v. Hoffman, 553 A.2d 900 (Pa. 1989).
Rule 239.7 requires every court to promulgate Local Rule 1035.2(a) describing the local court procedure governing motions for summary judgment.
The provisions of this Rule 1035.2 adopted February 14, 1996, effective July 1, 1996, 26 Pa.B. 862; amended October 24, 2003, effective 9 months after the date of the Order, 33 Pa.B. 5506; amended November 2, 2005, effective immediately, 35 Pa.B. 6318; amended June 28, 2016, effective August 1, 2016, 46 Pa.B. 3797. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (366153) to (366154).
Rule 1035.3. Response. Judgment for Failure to Respond.
(a) Except as provided in subdivision (e), the adverse party may not rest upon the mere allegations or denials of the pleadings but must file a response within thirty days after service of the motion identifying
(1) one or more issues of fact arising from evidence in the record controverting the evidence cited in support of the motion or from a challenge to the credibility of one or more witnesses testifying in support of the motion, or
If the moving party has supported the motion with oral testimony only, the response may raise the defense that there is a genuine issue of material fact because the cause of action is dependent upon the credibility and demeanor of the witnesses who will testify at trial. See Nanty-Glo v. American Surety Co., 309 Pa. 236, 163 A. 523 (1932); Penn Center House, Inc. v. Hoffman, 520 Pa. 171, 553 A.2d 900 (1989).
(b) An adverse party may supplement the record or set forth the reasons why the party cannot present evidence essential to justify opposition to the motion and any action proposed to be taken by the party to present such evidence.
(c) The court may rule upon the motion for judgment or permit affidavits to be obtained, depositions to be taken or other discovery to be had or make such other order as is just.
(d) Summary judgment may be entered against a party who does not respond.
Procedural requirements with respect to argument and briefs are governed by local rule.
In certain counties, the failure to respond to a motion may result in the motion being deemed uncontested and the entry of the judgment sought.
See Rule 1035.2 providing for the entry of judgment in whole or in part.
(e)(1) Nothing in this rule is intended to prohibit a court, at any time prior to trial, from ruling upon a motion for summary judgment without written responses or briefs if no party is prejudiced. A party is prejudiced if he or she is not given a full and fair opportunity to supplement the record and to oppose the motion.
(2) A court granting a motion under subdivision (e)(1) shall state the reasons for its decision in a written opinion or on the record.
Subdivision (e) does not abrogate the requirement that a motion for summary judgment be timely filed pursuant to Rule 1035.2 or case management order.
If a motion is not timely filed, subdivision (e) provides the court with the discretion as to the manner of proceeding, including whether to consider the motion at all. The court should not consider the motion except in the interests of justice.
The provisions of this Rule 1035.3 adopted February 14, 1996, effective July 1, 1996, 26 Pa.B. 862; amended May 16, 2003, effective September 1, 2003, 33 Pa.B. 2587. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (212305) to (212306).
Rule 1035.4. Affidavits.
Supporting and opposing affidavits shall be made on personal knowledge, shall set forth such facts as would be admissible in evidence, and shall show affirmatively that the signer is competent to testify to the matters stated therein. Verified or certified copies of all papers or parts thereof referred to in an affidavit shall be attached thereto or served therewith. The court may permit affidavits to be supplemented or opposed by depositions, answers to interrogatories, or further affidavits.
See Section 2503 of the Judicial Code, 42 Pa.C.S. § 2503 for the award of counsel fees as part of taxable costs as a sanction for dilatory conduct or for conduct which is in bad faith.
See Rule of Professional Conduct 3.1 providing that a lawyer shall not assert or controvert an issue unless there is a basis for doing so that is not frivolous, Rule 3.2 providing for reasonable efforts to expedite litigation consistent with the interests of the client and Rule 3.3 prohibiting the making of false statements of material fact or law to a tribunal.
The provisions of this Rule 1035.4 adopted February 14, 1996, effective July 1, 1996, 26 Pa.B. 862.
Rule 1035.5. Procedure When Judgment Is Denied or Is Not Rendered Upon the Whole Case.
If judgment is denied or is not rendered upon the whole case or for all the relief asked and a trial is necessary, the court when considering the motion may, if practicable, ascertain from the pleadings, the evidence and the parties which material facts relevant to the motion exist without controversy and which are actually controverted. It shall thereupon make an order specifying the facts that are without controversy, including the extent to which the amount of damages or other relief is not in controversy and directing such further proceedings in the action as are just. Upon the trial of the action the facts so specified shall be deemed established and the trial shall be conducted accordingly.
The provisions of this Rule 1035.5 adopted February 14, 1996, effective July 1, 1996, 26 Pa.B. 862.
(a) As used in this rule, action means an action subject to an Act of Assembly which provides for dismissal of the action as to a party based upon an affidavit of noninvolvement.
Actions pursuant to the following Acts of Assembly are within the scope of this rule: Section 7502 of the Judicial Code, 42 Pa.C.S. § 7502, an action for negligence against a construction design professional and Section 506 of the Medical Care Availability and Reduction of Error (Mcare) Act, 40 P. S. § 1303.506 a medical professional liability action naming a health care provider as a defendant.
(b) Any party seeking dismissal of the action shall file a motion to dismiss which shall have attached thereto the affidavit of noninvolvement.
(c) Any party opposing the motion may file a response.
(d) Upon reviewing the motion and any response thereto and determining the existence of a prima facie case for dismissal of the action as to a party, the court shall enter an order
(1) allowing any party opposing the motion
(i) to conduct limited discovery directed solely to the issue of involvement of any party seeking dismissal and
(ii) prior to the disposition of the motion, to file affidavits, depositions and such other evidentiary materials as would permit a jury to find that any party seeking dismissal was involved in any activities upon which the claim is based, and
(2) scheduling an argument to decide the motion.
(e) The argument shall be limited to the sole issue of whether any party opposing the motion has produced evidence which, when considered in a light most favorable to that party, would require the issue of the involvement of any party seeking dismissal to be submitted to a jury.
The provisions of this Rule 1036 adopted December 11, 2000, effective January 1, 2001, 30 Pa.B. 6544; amended Aopril 2, 2003, effective June 1, 2003, 33 Pa.B. 1926. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (272399) to (272400).
Rule 1036.1. Reinstatement of Claim Dismissed Upon Affidavit of Noninvolvement.
(a) As used in this rule, action shall have the meaning as provided in Rule 1036(a).
(b) If a party has been dismissed from an action upon an affidavit of noninvolvement pursuant to Rule 1036, any other party may file a motion to reinstate the dismissed party setting forth facts showing that statements made in the affidavit of noninvolvement were false or inaccurate.
(c) Any party may file a response.
(d) Upon reviewing the motion and any response thereto and determining the existence of a prima facie case of involvement of the dismissed party, the court shall enter an order
(1) allowing any party
(i) to conduct limited discovery directed solely to the issue of the involvement of the party which was dismissed.
(ii) prior to the disposition of the motion, to file affidavits, depositions and such other evidentiary materials as would permit a jury to find that any party which was dismissed was involved in any activities upon which the claim is based, and
(e) The argument shall be limited to the sole issue of whether the moving party has produced evidence which, when considered in a light most favorable to that party, would require the issue of the involvement of any party which was dismissed to be submitted to a jury.
The provisions of this Rule 1036.1 adopted January 22, 2009, effective March 1, 2009, 39 Pa.B. 676.
(a) Except as otherwise provided in this rule, the trial of an action by a judge sitting without a jury shall be conducted as nearly as may be as a trial by jury is conducted and the parties shall have like rights and privileges, including the right to move for nonsuit.
(b) The decision of the trial judge may consist only of general findings as to all parties but shall dispose of all claims for relief. The trial judge may include as part of the decision specific findings of fact and conclusions of law with appropriate discussion.
(c) The decision may be made orally in open court at the end of the trial, and in that event shall be forthwith transcribed and filed in the office of the prothonotary, or it may be made thereafter in writing and filed forthwith. In either event the prothonotary shall notify all parties or their attorneys of the date of filing. The trial judge shall render a decision within seven days after the conclusion of the trial except in protracted cases or cases of extraordinary complexity.
A decision includes what were formerly known as a decree nisi and an adjudication. A decision is not a final decree, also known as a judgment.
For post-trial relief following a trial without jury, see Rule 227.1.
For entry of judgment upon praecipe of a party, see Rule 227.4
The provisions of this Rule 1038 adopted June 27, 1969, effective September 1, 1969; amended through December 16, 1983, effective July 1, 1984, 13 Pa.B. 3999; amended April 12, 1999, effective July 12, 1999, 29 Pa.B. 2266; amended December 16, 2003, effective July 1, 2004, 34 Pa.B. 9. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (296717) and (295847).
Rule 1038.1. Case Submitted on Stipulated Facts.
A case may be submitted on stipulated facts for decision by a judge without a jury. The practice and procedure as far as practicable shall be in accordance with the rules governing a trial without jury.
See Rules 1038 governing trial without jury and 227.1 et seq. governing post-trial practice.
The provisions of this Rule 1038.1 adopted August 9, 1996, effective January 1, 1997, 26 Pa.B. 4216.
Rule 1038.2. Abolition of Case Stated.
The common law procedure of a case stated is abolished.
The common law procedure of a case stated is no longer required in view of the practice of submitting a case on stipulated facts for decision by a judge without a jury. See Rule 1038.1.
The provisions of this Rule 1038.2 adopted August 9, 1996, effective January 1, 1997, 26 Pa.B. 4216.
Rule 1038.3. Equitable Relief. Advisory Verdict by Jury.
In any case in which there is a claim for equitable relief, the court on its own motion or upon the petition of any party may submit to trial by jury any or all issues of fact arising from that claim. The advisory verdict of the jury shall be in the form of answers to specific questions and shall not be binding upon the court.
Rule 1038.3 does not confer a right to trial by jury if the right did not exist prior to the consolidation of the action in equity with the civil action.
The rule preserves the practice under former Equity Rule 1513 of allowing a court in its discretion to submit such claims to trial by jury for an advisory verdict.
The provisions of this Rule 1038.3 adopted December 16, 2003, effective July 1, 2004, 34 Pa.B. 9.
Rule 1039. Entry of Judgment Upon Praecipe of a Party.
For entry of judgment upon praecipe of a party, see Rule 227.4.
The provisions of this Rule 1039 rescinded October 19, 1983, effective January 1, 1984, 13 Pa.B. 3629. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (83220), (31810) and (15675) to (15676).
Rule 1040. Suspension of Acts of Assembly.
All Acts of Assembly inconsistent with these rules are suspended to the extent of such inconsistency.
The provisions of this Rule 1040 adopted December 16, 1983, effective July 1, 1984, 13 Pa.B. 3999.