An action shall be commenced by filing a complaint with the prothonotary.
Rule 1920.3.Commencement of Action.
Last verified June 30, 2026
In one sentenceRule 1920.3 provides that a divorce action begins with the filing of a complaint with the prothonotary.
Full Text of Rule 1920.3
Plain-English Summary
A divorce opens with a single step: file a complaint with the prothonotary. The complaint states the ground for divorce and any ancillary claims, starting the case.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is a divorce started?
By filing a complaint with the prothonotary.
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: commence divorcefile divorce complaintstart divorce action