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 2226.Definitions.
Adopted June 7, 1940 · Last amended December 16, 2003 · Last verified June 30, 2026
In one sentenceRule 2226 defines the terms used in the chapter on joinder of parties, including what counts as an 'action.'
Full Text of Rule 2226
Plain-English Summary
This chapter governs when and how multiple plaintiffs or defendants are brought into one action. The opening rule defines its terms — chiefly that an 'action' means any civil action or proceeding subject to these rules — framing the compulsory and permissive joinder rules that follow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the joinder 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 2226 adopted June 7, 1940, effective February 5, 1941; amended Janu- ary 4, 1952, effective July 1, 1952; amended December 16, 2003, effective July 1, 2004, 34 Pa.B. 9. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (282137).
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: joinder of parties definitionsjoinder actionparty joinder definition