Rule 52.Effective Date. Application to Pending Actions.
Last amended April 5, 1982 · Last verified June 30, 2026
Full Text of Rule 52
Plain-English Summary
This rule answers a single question: once the Supreme Court adopts or amends a rule, when does it start to operate? If the Court names an effective date, that date controls.
If the Court gives no date, the rule takes effect on the first July 1 or January 1 that comes after the thirtieth day following adoption, whichever arrives first. The thirty-day floor gives the bench and bar a short runway before a change binds them.
Unless the Court says otherwise, a new or amended rule applies to actions that are already pending on its effective date, not just to cases filed afterward.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does a rule take effect if the Supreme Court gives no date?
It takes effect on the next July 1 or January 1 that falls at least thirty days after the rule was adopted, whichever comes first.
Does a new rule apply to my pending case?
Generally yes. Unless the Supreme Court directs otherwise, a rule or amendment applies to actions pending on its effective date, not only to newly filed cases.
Amendment History
The provisions of this Rule 52 amended through April 5, 1982, effective July 1, 1982, 12 Pa.B. 1225. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (40012) and (65222).