When a party to an action, a minor shall be represented by a guardian who shall supervise and control the conduct of the action in behalf of the minor.
Rule 2027.Guardian to Represent Minor.
Adopted February 14, 1939 · Last amended April 12, 1999 · Last verified June 30, 2026
In one sentenceRule 2027 requires a minor who is a party to an action to be represented by a guardian, who supervises and controls the conduct of the case for the minor.
Full Text of Rule 2027
Plain-English Summary
A child cannot litigate alone, so the law provides a stand-in. This rule requires a minor who is a party to be represented by a guardian, who supervises and controls the conduct of the action in the minor's interest. The guardian makes the litigation decisions a child cannot, ensuring the minor's claim or defense is properly pursued.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a child be a party to a lawsuit on their own?
No. A minor must be represented by a guardian who supervises and controls the case.
Amendment History
The provisions of this Rule 2027 adopted February 14, 1939, effective September 4, 1939; amended April 18, 1975, effective immediately, 5 Pa.B. 1820; amended April 12, 1999, effective July 1, 1999, 29 Pa.B. 2274. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (220899) to (220900).
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: guardian for minorminor representation lawsuitguardian conduct of action