Adopted June 30, 1977 · Last amended May 11, 2012 · Last verified June 30, 2026
In one sentenceRule 1701 opens the class-action chapter, defining a class action as one brought by or against parties as representatives of a class until the court refuses or revokes certification, and defining related terms.
(a)As used in this chapter ‘‘Class action’’ means any action brought by or against parties as representa-tives of a class until the court by order refuses to certify it as such or revokes a prior certification under these rules. ‘‘Residual funds’’ are funds that remain after the payment of all approved class member claims, expenses, litigation costs, attorney’s fees, and other court approved disbursements to implement relief granted.
(b)Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, the procedure in a class action shall be in accordance with the rules governing the form of action in which relief is sought.
End
Plain-English Summary
A class action lets a few representatives litigate on behalf of a large group. This rule begins the chapter, defining a class action as one brought by or against parties as representatives of a class, treated as such until the court refuses to certify it or revokes a prior certification. It also defines related terms used throughout the chapter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a class action?
An action brought by or against parties as representatives of a larger class of similarly situated people.
Amendment History
The provisions of this Rule 1701 adopted June 30, 1977, effective September 1, 1977, 7 Pa.B. 1956; amended May 11, 2012, effective July 1, 2012, 42 Pa.B. 2954. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (326661).
Source & verification. Rule text, the Official Note, and the amendment
history are reproduced verbatim from the Pennsylvania Code, Title 231, the official compilation
of rules adopted by the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania. Last verified June 30, 2026. ·
Official text
Also known as:class action definitionrepresentative partiesclass action scope