Rule 2177.Actions by and against a corporation or similar entity.

A corporation or similar entity litigates as itself. An action is prosecuted by or against it in its corporate name. Unlike a partnership, which sues through its partners under Rule 2127, or an unincorporated association, which sues through trustees ad litem under Rule 2152, the entity appears as the named party.

The corporate name is broad. Rule 2176 defines it as any name, real or fictitious, under which the entity was organized or conducts business, whether or not the name has been filed or registered. The same rule defines the entities covered, from public and private corporations to limited liability companies, joint stock companies and business trusts.

According to its Official Note, the rule was adopted November 26, 1943, effective August 1, 1944, and amended April 18, 1975. Rule 2178 governs suits between the entity and its members, and Rule 2179 sets venue.