Except as provided in Rule 3250, a judgment shall be enforced by a writ of execution substantially in the form provided by Rule 3252.
Rule 3102.Writ of execution.
Last amended April 20, 1998 · Last verified June 30, 2026
In one sentenceA money judgment is enforced by a writ of execution in the form the rules prescribe — the document that sets the sheriff to seizing and selling the debtor’s property.
Full Text of Rule 3102
Plain-English Summary
This short rule names the instrument of enforcement. Except for the narrow case the rules reserve, a money judgment is enforced by a writ of execution substantially in the prescribed form.
The writ is what authorizes the sheriff to levy on and sell the debtor’s property to satisfy the judgment. The Official Note records that civil arrest has been abolished except in a limited statutory situation, so the writ — not the body of the debtor — is the ordinary route to collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a writ of execution?
A court order directing the sheriff to levy on or attach the debtor's property to satisfy a money judgment.
Is there one writ or several?
One writ of execution serves for real and personal property, with directions for levy, attachment, or both.
Official Note
Official Note: Adopted March 30, 1960, effective November 1, 1960. Civil arrest has been abolished except as provided by Section 5108(b) of the Judicial Code, 42 Pa.C.S. § 5108(b). Writs of fieri facias, attachment execution, vendex, liberari facias and all other forms of execution writs on money judgments against property of the defendant are supplanted by the writ of execution provided by these rules. Exemption and immunity of property from execution remain as heretofore. For limitations as to execution against partners or association members on judgments against partnerships or unin- corporated associations, see Rules 2132 and 2155.
Amendment History
The provisions of this Rule 3102 amended April 20, 1998, effective July 1, 1998, 28 Pa.B. 2026. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (213398).
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: writ of execution