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Rule 2970.Conformity. Scope.

Last amended April 1, 1996 · Last verified June 30, 2026

In one sentenceRule 2970 opens the chapter on confessed judgments for possession of real property: it applies the money-judgment rules unless this chapter says otherwise, and it excludes any residential lease executed by a natural person.

Full Text of Rule 2970

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Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, the procedure in an action to enter a judgment in ejectment for possession of real property by confession pursuant to an instrument, other than a residential lease executed by a natural person, authorizing such confession shall be in accordance with the rules relating to confession of judgment for money.
End

Plain-English Summary

Some instruments authorize a confessed judgment in ejectment, which awards possession of real property. This rule governs that action. Unless the possession chapter provides otherwise, it follows the rules on confession of judgment for money, the chapter that begins at Rule 2950.

The key limit is in the scope. The rule does not reach a residential lease executed by a natural person, and the Official Note states that confession of judgment in ejectment is abolished for such a lease. The procedure remains available for other instruments that authorize a confessed judgment for possession.

The possession chapter then adds its own complaint contents (Rule 2971), confession form (Rule 2974) and notice-before-execution steps (Rules 2973.1 to 2973.4).

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this chapter cover?
Entry of a confessed judgment in ejectment for possession of real property under an instrument that authorizes it, other than a residential lease executed by a natural person.
How does it relate to the money-judgment chapter?
It conforms to that procedure except where this chapter provides otherwise for possession cases.

Official Note

Official Note: Confession of judgment in ejectment is abolished with respect to a residential lease executed by a natural person.

Amendment History

The provisions of this Rule 2970 amended April 4, 1990, effective July 1, 1990, 20 Pa.B. 2279; amended April 1, 1996, effective July 1, 1996, 26 Pa.B. 1814. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (146747).

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: conformity scope possession confessionconfession of judgment for possession