Rule 412.Actions for Custody, Partial Custody and Visitation. Actions for Divorce or Annulment of Marriage.
Adopted July 5, 1985 · Not amended since adoption · Last verified June 30, 2026
Full Text of Rule 412
Plain-English Summary
This rule adds a mail option for starting family cases. In an action for custody, partial custody, or visitation, or one for divorce or annulment, original process may be served within the Commonwealth by mail in the manner the service-by-mail rule prescribes, on top of the ordinary personal-service method.
Family litigants can be hard to reach in person, so allowing service by mail makes it more practical to get these cases properly commenced while still giving the defendant notice. The mail route applies within Pennsylvania; service outside the state follows the other service rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is a divorce or custody complaint served in Pennsylvania?
By the personal-service methods of Rule 402(a) and, in addition, by mail under Rule 403.
Amendment History
The provisions of this Rule 412 adopted July 5, 1985, effective January 1, 1986, 15 Pa.B. 2452; rescinded June 14, 1999, effective September 1, 1999, 29 Pa.B. 3191. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (256957) to (256958). (Editor’s Note: The Supreme Court of Pennsylvania suspended its order of June 14, 1999, published at 29 Pa.B. 3191 (June 26, 1999). See 29 Pa.B. 4859 (September 18, 1999).)