Except as provided by Rule 2974.1 governing execution upon a judgment in ejectment entered by confession, the praecipe for a writ of possession shall be substantially in the following form: [Caption] PRAECIPE FOR WRIT OF POSSESSION ‘‘To the Prothonotary: ‘‘Issue writ of possession in the above matter. ‘‘ Attorney for ’’
Rule 3254.Praecipe for writ of possession.
Last amended April 1, 1996 · Last verified June 30, 2026
In one sentenceThis rule supplies the form of the praecipe a party files to obtain a writ of possession when enforcing a judgment for possession, such as in ejectment.
Full Text of Rule 3254
Plain-English Summary
This rule prints the praecipe used to start execution on a judgment for possession. Except where a possession judgment entered by confession calls for a different form, the praecipe directs the prothonotary to issue a writ of possession on the judgment.
The writ of possession is what puts the prevailing party back in possession of the property, so the praecipe is the first step in carrying out an ejectment or similar possession judgment. A standard form keeps the request uniform and ensures the writ issues on the right judgment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is a writ of possession requested?
By filing this praecipe with the prothonotary, directing that a writ of possession issue on the judgment.
When is it used?
To enforce a judgment for possession, such as in ejectment.
Official Note
Official Note: Adopted March 30, 1960, effective November 1, 1960.
Amendment History
The provisions of this Rule 3254 amended April 1, 1996, effective July 1, 1996, 26 Pa.B. 1814. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (136974).
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: praecipe writ of possession