Rule 230.Voluntary Nonsuit.
Last amended October 3, 2002 · Last verified June 30, 2026
Full Text of Rule 230
Plain-English Summary
This rule is the trial-stage counterpart to discontinuance. Once trial has begun, a voluntary nonsuit is the only way the plaintiff may voluntarily terminate the action, in whole or in part.
It is not freely available. The plaintiff may not take a voluntary nonsuit without leave of court on good cause shown, and cannot take one at all after the close of all the evidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a plaintiff withdraw a case during trial?
Only by a voluntary nonsuit, which requires leave of court on good cause shown and is unavailable after the close of all the evidence.
Official Note
Official Note: A plaintiff who asserts a cause of action ex contractu and joins as defendants persons liable to the plaintiff in different capacities may not obtain a voluntary nonsuit as to a defendant primarily liable without obtaining a voluntary nonsuit as to all defendants secondarily liable. Rule 2231(e).
Amendment History
The provisions of this Rule 230 amended April 4, 1990, effective July 1, 1990, 20 Pa.B. 2279; amended March 11, 1991, effective July 1, 1991, 21 Pa.B. 1274; amended April 12, 1999, effective July 1, 1999, 29 Pa.B. 2266; amended October 3, 2002, effective January 1, 2003, 32 Pa.B. 5175. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (280399).