Rule 2201.Definitions.

The chapter’s key definition splits its rules by the source of law. For Rules 2202, 2203 and 2206, an “action for wrongful death” means one arising under the laws of Pennsylvania. For Rules 2204 and 2205, it means one arising under the laws of Pennsylvania or any other jurisdiction.

The split has practical effect. Every wrongful-death complaint filed here, whatever law creates the claim, must state the plaintiff’s relationship to the decedent and identify everyone entitled to damages under Rule 2204, and the plaintiff must notify them under Rule 2205. But the rules on who may sue (Rule 2202), on removing the plaintiff (Rule 2203), and on court approval and distribution (Rule 2206) reach only claims under Pennsylvania law. A claim arising elsewhere is brought by the person the foreign law authorizes, under Rule 2207.

A “personal representative” is the executor or administrator of the decedent’s estate, duly qualified by law to bring actions within Pennsylvania. “Action” means any civil action or proceeding brought in or appealed to a court of record and subject to these rules.