As used in this chapter: ‘‘action’’ means any civil action or proceeding brought in or appealed to any court which is subject to these rules.
Rule 2101.Definition.
Adopted June 25, 1946 · Last amended December 16, 2003 · Last verified June 30, 2026
In one sentenceRule 2101 defines the terms used in the chapter on the Commonwealth and political subdivisions as parties.
Full Text of Rule 2101
Plain-English Summary
This chapter governs how the Commonwealth and its political subdivisions sue and are sued. The opening rule defines its terms — chiefly that an 'action' means any civil action or proceeding subject to these rules — framing the rules that follow on the style of such actions and venue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Commonwealth-as-party chapter define?
Its key terms, including that an 'action' means any civil action or proceeding subject to these rules.
Amendment History
The provisions of this Rule 2101 adopted June 25, 1946, effective January 1, 1947; amended December 16, 2003, effective July 1, 2004, 34 Pa.B. 9. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (276611).
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: commonwealth as party definitionpolitical subdivision partygovernment litigant definition