Rule 51.Title and Citation of Rules.
Adopted May 1, 1939 · Last amended June 10, 2021 · Last verified June 30, 2026
Full Text of Rule 51
Plain-English Summary
This is the rule that gives the whole set its name and its citation form. The rules are titled the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure and are cited as “Pa.R.Civ.P.” followed by the rule number.
The Supreme Court adopted the current “Pa.R.Civ.P.” abbreviation effective October 1, 2021. Before that, the rules were cited as “Pa.R.C.P. No.” A citation in the older form still points to the right rule and remains valid.
These rules govern civil actions in the courts of common pleas. They do not govern the magisterial district courts, which follow a separate set of rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I cite a Pennsylvania Rule of Civil Procedure?
Cite it as “Pa.R.Civ.P.” followed by the rule number — for example, Pa.R.Civ.P. 1035.2. The Supreme Court adopted this abbreviation effective October 1, 2021.
Is the old “Pa.R.C.P. No.” citation still good?
Yes. A reference in the former “Pa.R.C.P. No.” form still identifies the rule and does not invalidate the citation. The numbering did not change — only the abbreviation did.
Do these rules apply in magisterial district court?
No. The Rules of Civil Procedure govern the courts of common pleas. Civil cases before magisterial district judges run on a separate rule set.
Official Note
Comment. The previous use of ‘‘Pa.R.C.P. No.’’ to cite the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure may not serve as a basis to invalidate a reference to that authority. The rules of civil procedure are not applicable in the magisterial district courts. Civil actions and proceedings in magisterial district courts are governed by the Rules of Civil Procedure Governing Actions and Proceedings Before Magisterial District Judges, Pa.R.Civ.P.M.D.J. 201 et seq.
Amendment History
The provisions of this Rule 51 adopted May 1, 1939, effective November 6, 1939; amended March 28, 1973, effective July 1, 1973; amended June 23, 1975, effective immediately, 5 Pa.B. 1819; amended November 14, 1978, effective December 2, 1978, 8 Pa.B. 3410; amended July 8, 2005, effective September 1, 2005, 35 Pa.B. 4087; amended June 10, 2021, effective October 1, 2021, 51 Pa.B. 3442. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (313121).