Last amended November 14, 2007 · Last verified June 30, 2026
In one sentenceThe complaint must contain specified items, including the parties’ addresses, the instrument or a copy, the basis of any default, and an itemized computation of the amount due.
(1)the names and last known addresses of the parties;
(2)the original or a photostatic copy or like reproduction of the instrument showing the defendant’s signature; if the original is not attached, an averment that the copy attached is a true and correct reproduction of the original; if nei- ther the original nor a reproduction can be attached, an explanation why they are not available;
(3)An averment that judgment is not being entered by confession against a natural person in connection with a consumer credit transaction;
(4)a statement of any assignment of the instrument;
(5)either a statement that judgment has not been entered on the instrument in any jurisdiction or if it has been entered an identification of the proceedings;
(6)if the judgment may be entered only after a default or the occurrence of a condition precedent, an averment of the default or of the occurrence of the condition precedent;
(7)an itemized computation of the amount then due, based on matters out- side the instrument if necessary, which may include interest and attorneys’ fees authorized by the instrument;
(8)a demand for judgment as authorized by the warrant;
(9)if the instrument is more than twenty years old, or if the original or a photostatic copy or like reproduction of the instrument showing the defendant’s signature is not attached to the complaint, an application for a court order granting leave to enter judgment after notice;
(10)signature and verification in accordance with the rules relating to a civil action;
(b)The complaint shall neither contain a notice to defend nor be endorsed with a notice to plead, and no responsive pleading shall be required whether or not the complaint contains a notice to defend or is endorsed with a notice to plead.
Plain-English Summary
This rule lists what the confession-of-judgment complaint must show. Among the required items are the names and last known addresses of the parties, the original instrument or a copy, a statement of any default or occurrence that triggers the right to judgment, and an itemized computation of the amount claimed. The detail lets the prothonotary and the court see the foundation for the judgment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What must the complaint include?
Items such as the parties’ addresses, the original or a copy of the instrument, the facts of any default, and an itemized computation of the amount due.
Why such specific contents?
Because judgment can be entered without the usual contest, the rule requires a complete record so the entry rests on a clear, documented basis.
Official Note
Official Note: These rules change prior practice by not requiring a separate certification of address.
Official Note: If the original instrument is not attached to the complaint, a method of securing inspection thereof is provided by Discovery Rule 4009.1 et seq. If the complaint is to be filed in a judicial district which has implemented electronic filing, an electronic copy of the instrument should be attached to the complaint. Should an issue arise concerning the instrument, any party at any time may request the production of the original instrument for inspection pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. No. 205.4(b)(5).
Official Note: Whether a prior entry of judgment has exhausted the warrant is a matter of substantive law.
Official Note: If the instrument authorizes confession for a penal sum judgment may be entered in that amount.
Official Note: The procedure for notice and hearing will be in accordance with local prac- tice.
Official Note: Added June 27, 1969. Effective January 1, 1970. Amended January 20, 1970. Effective February 15, 1970. Amended October 4, 1973. Effective December 1, 1973. Neither Rule 1018.1 nor Rule 1361 applies to a complaint in confession of judgment.
Amendment History
The provisions of this Rule 2952 amended through December 16, 1983, effective July 1, 1984, 13 Pa.B. 3999; amended April 1, 1996, effective July 1, 1996, 26 Pa.B. 1806; amended November 14, 2007, effective December 14, 2007, 37 Pa.B. 6258. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (213355) to (213356).
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:complaint contents confessionwhat confession complaint must contain