As used in this chapter ‘‘action’’ means any civil action or proceeding brought in or appealed to any court of record which is subject to these rules.
Rule 2001.Definitions.
Adopted February 14, 1939 · Last amended December 16, 2003 · Last verified June 30, 2026
In one sentenceRule 2001 defines the terms used in the chapter on parties, including what counts as an 'action.'
Full Text of Rule 2001
Plain-English Summary
This chapter sets the ground rules for who may sue and be sued. The opening rule defines its terms — chiefly that an 'action' means any civil action or proceeding in a court of record subject to these rules — framing the party rules that follow on real parties in interest, unknown defendants, and transfers of interest.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the parties chapter define?
Its key terms, including that an 'action' means any civil action or proceeding in a court of record subject to these rules.
Amendment History
The provisions of this Rule 2001 adopted February 14, 1939, effective September 4, 1939; amended January 4, 1952, effective July 1, 1952; amended April 18, 1975, effective immediately, 5 Pa.B. 1820; amended December 16, 2003, effective July 1, 2004, 34 Pa.B. 9. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (255291).
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: parties definitionsaction definitionparty rules scope