(a) Except as provided in subdivision (b), an action shall be commenced by filing with the prothonotary a petition alleging the need for protection from the defendant with respect to sexual violence or intimidation. The petition shall be identical in content to the form set forth in Pa.R.C.P. No. 1959(b) and shall have the Notice of Hearing and Order set forth in Pa.R.C.P. No. 1959(a) as the first page(s).
Rule 1953.Commencement of Action.
Last amended June 1, 2018 · Last verified June 30, 2026
In one sentenceRule 1953 has a sexual-violence-or-intimidation protection action commenced by filing a petition with the prothonotary alleging the need for protection.
Full Text of Rule 1953
(b) If an emergency order has been entered pursuant to 42 Pa.C.S. § 62A09, an action shall be commenced by filing with the prothonotary the certified emer- gency order and any documentation in support.
(c) Any fees associated with this action shall not be charged to the plaintiff.
Plain-English Summary
The case begins with the victim's petition. This rule has the action commenced by filing with the prothonotary a petition alleging the need for protection from sexual violence or intimidation, in the prescribed form. The petition is the basis on which the court can grant a temporary and, after a hearing, a final protection order.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you start a sexual-violence protection case?
By filing a petition with the prothonotary alleging the need for protection.
Official Note
Official Note: See Pa.R.C.P. No. 1930.1(b). This rule may require attorneys or unrepre- sented parties to file confidential documents and documents containing confidential information that are subject to the Case Records Public Access Policy of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania.
Amendment History
The provisions of this Rule 1953 amended January 5, 2018, effective January 6, 2018, 48 Pa.B. 477; amended June 1, 2018, effective July 1, 2018, 48 Pa.B. 3520. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (390158).
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 PSVI actionsexual violence protection petitionfile for protection sexual violence